Hi everyone—I’m back with another edition of Renovation Diaries. Changing up my delivery time as I periodically do to an evening edition. I know it’s been a little while, but truthfully, there hasn’t been much to report—until this past week:) We had some exciting progress, and I thought it was the perfect time to share an update.
First, our windows and French doors were delivered—and yes, it felt a little like Christmas morning. Even more thrilling? Our beautiful slate roof has arrived too. Right now, the team is busy installing the windows in the new section of the house, and once that’s done, they’ll start working on the original structure. At the same time, the old roof will come off, and the new slate roof installation will begin across the entire house. That’s when I think things will really start picking up speed….
These below are for the cupola
And we got some put in the family room!
In the master we are going into the attic to create a vaulted ceiling and love that we will get to finally see that exquisite antique window! They have not finished removing the beams in case you are wondering)
Slate roof arrived and will begin once all window are installed-
Back stair hall-
French doors-
In the meantime, I had a surprise of my own this week… the plumber asked me for the bathroom fixture specs—and I was completely caught off guard. I genuinely thought we were months away from having to make those decisions! So off I called our local plumbing supply house for an appt which we will go to tomorrow. In the meantime started looking around and my taste really has not changed at all. Good or bad, that’s the way it is. It’s fun, exciting, and definitely a bit overwhelming to suddenly have to think about making many plumbing choices on the spot for many areas. Some of what I am leaning towards below-
The only thing that made it easier? Knowing my taste. I’m nothing if not consistent, and I always lean toward classic, timeless styles. Love polished nickel, understated elegance, pieces that feel like they could’ve been here 50 years ago and still look just as good 50 years from now.
That said, I did shake things up a bit—I’m am considering doing unlacquered brass in one of the powder rooms and in one guest room, just for a touch of something different. I’m sharing a few of the pieces I am considering below—not earth-shattering, but definitely in line with what I love.
There’s still more to finalize, but we will be off to a solid start starting tomorrow. As for kitchen faucets, I haven’t landed on one yet, but I’m exploring some pieces from Waterstone—they have such beautifully designed options, many with a traditional twist that I really love.
One unexpected design dilemma? Kitchen island sink—or no sink? I’ve always had one, and it’s certainly practical, but I also love the clean, uninterrupted look of a wide, open island. I’m torn. Would love to know your thoughts—are you Team Island Sink or Team Open Counter? For context the island will be large about 11 ft long.
With sink
No sink
You may remember from a past renovation post, that I already have a clear vision for the kitchen overall, so now we’re shifting into logistics—meeting with cabinet makers, exploring tile orders (definitely using delft, no question!), and starting to consider the pantry design. I’m leaning toward doing a soft, pale blue in the pantry—something fresh and serene that complements the white cabinetry and echoes the water views nearby.
I’d love your input on one last design decision. In my bathroom, we’ve carved out space for a vanity with a step-down makeup table. I’ve always loved the idea—especially as I get older, having a dedicated spot to sit and get ready feels like a little luxury. But I’d love to hear from anyone who has this kind of setup. Do you actually use it? Or is it one of those things that looks great on paper but ends up being underutilized? The other option is just doing a long vanity straight across.
Here are options- one makeup table in the middle with two small vanities on either side, then a makeup table to the far side (which my architect said if I go with a makeup table makes the most sense for the space) or no makeup table at all. For context the “vanity wall” is about 9 running feet.
One vanity no makeup table
With vanity and small makeup table at end
With center makeup table
And because creating mood boards is one of my most favorite things during the design process, just for fun- I also started playing around with powder room ideas. We will have one powder room off the foyer and another off the kitchen/family room. For the more formal powder room, i love to create a jewel box feeling and this is what I have come up with. Highly unlikely I will waver much as this look has been in my head for quite a while. The hard part will be deciding which of these Gracie beauties I will decide upon. I love all three!
The elements I love are the chinoiserie murals, a marble console sink and a Venetian mirror. I will do something simple on the floor as there are many showstoppers in this small powder room.
Well that’s plenty to think about for now. I think going forward. the fun and exciting part is soon to get started. As always, I love hearing your thoughts—thank you for following along on this journey! Can’t wait to share more soon. If you have questions regarding the reno feel free to ask them in the comments section, that is where I will answer them. Until next time….
For many years, I had a designated vanity space in my bathroom. A couple of years ago, I put an antique vanity in front of a very large window overlooking the yard and the marsh beyond. It is the best lighting for putting on your makeup! I have a makeup mirror for the evenings or very dreary days.
I do not understand why designers like to place an island kitchen sink right in front of or opposite of the cooktop/ range/ ovens. Trying to open the oven door or even working on the cooktop/range when someone is working at the island kitchen sink is very awkward and seems like poor functionality. Any thoughts?
I think it’s important to have a mag mirror at eye height for vanity
Sink in island or not depends on your view from there….
Pedestal sink in powder room not my favorite no room for storage
Who has time to sit down and put on makeup in the morning, maybe at night as you seem to be very social. That being because you are tired before going out.
Hi Tina, Early on you mentioned that you would share a floorplan. Iteould be very interesting to see what’s going location wise and where with construction. Is it possible to get a glimpse? Just a simple one at that.
Re: sink in the island I think it depends on what you’re overlooking while standing there. I face my great room with a huge fireplace with a tv above and plenty of cozy seating. I spend so much time at the sink that I would have my back to it all if it was elsewhere. Just MHO!
One of my favorite colors is Borrowed Light by Farrow and Ball. Depending on the amount of light in the room, it is the palest of blues in daylight, but becomes slightly deeper (more dramatic!) as the sun goes down.
My husband painted the laundry room/scullery in that color and we love it.
So many beautiful options. I voted for the vanity at the end, but I would only do it if I had a large bathroom because you do lose some storage space. I love the idea of sitting down while I apply my makeup but in reality, it doesn’t take all that long.
You are going to use polished nickel in the master bath, correct?
Someone made a good point in that something to consider is what the island faces. Make sure to install disposal if you do an island sink. A friend had a second sink in her island but was particular about what it was used for because it did not have a disposal.
Regarding the island sink question, will you have a back-kitchen with a second sink? If not, a second sink in the island can be a lifesaver when the main sink has had a problem (clog!)
We have been in our home now 7 years …… just where did the time go ? On one side of the bathroom is my sink & drop down vanity / seat. It looks lovely ……. But never once have I sat at it to do makeup !!!! The BEST thing ever is that on my side I have my own toilet. Hubbies is on his side. So forget vanities & install his & her toilets. !!! Cannot recommend them highly enough. !!!
Definitely 2 sinks with makeup vanity in middle but I would have doors that open instead of drawers. I can store better than drawers only. I would put sink in island but not in the way of working at stove.
I very specifically built a make-up table into my vanity in our last house. I loved sitting down to do my make-up and hair. I also have arthritis so it makes it easier on my old body! Ha. We recently moved and I don’t have a make-up vanity and boy do I miss it. We will be renovating the bath and adding one but probably not for a year or two. May have to buy a vanity table for the bedroom.
I have built 7 houses and each one always had a vanity built in.
Never used it for makeup but to sit on to see the back of my hair close up.
This latest house no vanity and love the spare clean look
Hi I also have a 11” island and I do not have a sink on the island. I put lovely vases and seasonal decor. I have bought the beautiful blue and white vases from you! I love it!! My sink faces the window to the side of the house that is Nicely landscaped.
In my bathroom I have the make-up space at the end. of the counter. I have plenty of storage. . I love to use my makeup table everyday. It is easier for me to sit and apply makeup or creams. I also left room at the end of my vanity for a set of drawers to store my makeup.
Hi, your renovated home is going to be FABULOUS! I moved into our dream custom home 2 years ago and wrestled with the same 2 questions – sink in island and make up vanity. My personal experience is no to sink in island. It’s so easy to cook and prep with no sink! We’ve had family visit and there can be 6 people prepping at our island and that visual makes my heart happy. What i did was put a second sink next to the stovetop. This has been a game changer. I skipped the pot filler and easily fill the pots at the sink by the stove using a pull out faucet and the ability to drain the pots in this sink has saved my neck and wrists!! I highly recommend considering this. As for make up vanity, I always stood and did my make up. A lighting designer urged me to add a make up vanity. I was 58 and she was in her 70’s. She said I’d thank her for insisting. I had the space so I did put in a make up vanity and i LOVE it. Use it for blow drying, make up and tweezing those menopause chin hairs. I hope you find my perspective and experience helpful.
No sink in the island, but do you have room for another somewhere else? (Agree with Laura G.) Also
like a long vanity, with a makeup area on another wall either stand-alone furniture piece or cabinet. Can’t wait to see it and look at more choices. Wrote down the paint suggested by Sabina.
Hi Tina, I love following your posts and your Renovation Diaries. It’s amazing what similar design taste that we have, as I have several of your design options in my own home. Here are a few thoughts for your consideration:
Bathroom Fixtures
– Have you looked at Sherle Wagner for luxury fixtures and hardware for your bathrooms? They have fabulous faucets in multiple finishes and you might like their Classic or Heritage Collections. I have several styles in the 14k gold plate finish and they’re beautiful.
– Waterstone faucets
I have the same kitchen faucet from Waterstone (except mine is a single handle), in polished brass. It is beautiful, very durable and they have great customer service.
– Gracie Wallpaper
I have the same fabulous blue “Carolina Street” handpainted wallpaper in our foyer. It is breathtaking and would be stunning in your powder room, or any room. It looks great with gold finishes.
Island sink
– I vote for “no sink”, as I love the vast open counter for prep, hosting, buffets and display.
Vanity/Makeup Table
– Is there room for a separate makeup table in your space? I have a separate built-in makeup table away from our vanity. I’ve found a makeup area incorporated into my vanity to be cumbersome. It takes up needed vanity space and the chair/stool disrupts the walkway path. I have a 3-way mirror above mine and it’s great for makeup and hair. A lighted magnifying mirror is a great idea too. You might consider an foldout style that’s concealed in a mirrored cabinet.
Tina, I have a sink by my kitchen window (view of the Delaware River and Canal) and also have one in our island. We absolutely use them both, equally. The one in my island is across from my cooktop – no conflict with oven doors. The sink is handy for spilling out hot pasta water among other things. My island is long and wide, so plenty of room for other things on there when needed. . As far as the step down makeup area – Yes!! You will use it. I have it and use it every day. Really, who wants to stand and do their makeup if they don’t have to. The long run of marble is pretty, but the step down is not unattractive. Yes, go for it!
Hi Tina, love following all your renovation adventures and renovating any space is an adventure! I really enjoy all your products and have many in my home! One piece of advice I’d like to share is my recommendation for choosing facets that have levers instead of turning handles. Since you shared this will be your forever home, as we age and dexterity can be an issue, the levers will be much easier! Your style selections would be the same as mine, just beautiful! But go with levers!
Amazing progress is taking hold. How exciting, such a regal and elegant home. Cannot wait to follow along; For kticen sink will you have 2 sinks like in your old kitchen if so I would skip the island sink and do a pot filler above range. If you are only having one then I would. do a smaller sink on island.
For the vanity/makeup table, I think its really nice and convenient to have a table to sit at and apply your makeup. I would opt for one vanity and the makeup table at the end. Its a cleaner look IMO. We have built several homes and both pieces of this advice I have followed for each (per our designer). I am sure whatever you decide will be beautiful.
Love the powder room options- all are so gorgeous. You could close your eyes and pick one and it will be spectacular! Look forward to following along.
Hey Tina! I’ve had vanity drop downs in 3 homes and finally had one installed under a window (total game changer) in my Master dressing room. The window helps on days when I don’t want my makeup having make me look like a clown for daytime outings! I like sitting down for makeup, but also have a magnifying glass where I can stand up, too. Added an island in the dressing room, drawers for accessories like sunglasses, gloves, scarves, jewelry, undies and small purses and feel so more organized. Having a room for dressing is great because I can close the door when I make a mess.
Having a sink the kitchen island is a must for me. That way the people helping me prep have their own space and we are not trying to use just the one sink. And yes, do the disposal in it as some suggested. Mine is not across from the stove, but way on the end so I still have room for seasonal decorating the kitchen, too. Mine is a white apron sink with brass fixtures and a disposal.
Beautiful!!!!!!
As you age in place, you may want to have backer board installed between the studs for future handrails in showers and toilet areas. It extra support and when you do need to screw them in, you don’t have to worry about finding studs, especially if the area is tiled.
As far as your selections for faucets, I would look for selection that doesn’t have the wheel with the little spokes. As you age in place, these may be difficult for you to turn off an on if you develop arthritis in your hands.
I know you entertain a lot. Did you plan a scullery between the kitchen and your entertainment space and the exterior grounds?
It looks amazing. Love following your blog.
We moved to our current home a few years ago and I have a sit-down vanity for the first time in my life. I love it! I have a lighted magnifying makeup mirror without which I would likely look like a horror-haha! I would not want to be sandwiched between two sinks since that would feel like my husband was hovering over me (and likely dripping or splashing on me) if we were both getting ready at the same time. My vanity is actually separate from the sink vanity, but my 2nd choice would be a vanity at one end.
I’ve been an interior designer for many years. We’re working through a personal renovation and addition now. In the kitchen, we will have a work table somewhat like the dairy table from deVol with no sink – under cabinet seating on one side and drawers on the other. This is a table with drawers rather than an island. There will be two principle bathrooms: 1. One vanity with legs with a Robern “medicine cabinet” and beautiful sconces. Robern is fabulous. Placed in a niche will be a separate dressing table with a Venetian mirror. 2. Two separate vanities with lighted mirrors. One vanity will have the dressing area at one end and a higher “chair” will be placed underneath. The vanity will all be one height. Sconce on adjacent wall of each vanity.
Lots of great comments. Love Sherle Wagner! Had a makeup vanity and never once used it. Like the clean sweep of one same height counter. Don’t be afraid of brass or gold…although with light blue nickel might look better. Regarding sink or no sink….I think it depends on your layout and the size of the island. No sink always looks cleaner and more formal if you’re setting up any food or casual buffet. A sink in another area of the kitchen would be my preference without knowing your specifics…
Loved your old French house that you built and I must admit I miss it. I don’t think it is possible to top that one, but I will keep an open mind!
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Hi everyone—I’m back with another edition of Renovation Diaries. Changing up my delivery time as I periodically do to an evening edition. I know it’s been a little while, but truthfully, there hasn’t been much to report—until this past week:) We had some exciting progress, and I thought it was the perfect time to share an update.
First, our windows and French doors were delivered—and yes, it felt a little like Christmas morning. Even more thrilling? Our beautiful slate roof has arrived too. Right now, the team is busy installing the windows in the new section of the house, and once that’s done, they’ll start working on the original structure. At the same time, the old roof will come off, and the new slate roof installation will begin across the entire house. That’s when I think things will really start picking up speed….
These below are for the cupola
And we got some put in the family room!
In the master we are going into the attic to create a vaulted ceiling and love that we will get to finally see that exquisite antique window! They have not finished removing the beams in case you are wondering)
Slate roof arrived and will begin once all window are installed-
Back stair hall-
French doors-
In the meantime, I had a surprise of my own this week… the plumber asked me for the bathroom fixture specs—and I was completely caught off guard. I genuinely thought we were months away from having to make those decisions! So off I called our local plumbing supply house for an appt which we will go to tomorrow. In the meantime started looking around and my taste really has not changed at all. Good or bad, that’s the way it is. It’s fun, exciting, and definitely a bit overwhelming to suddenly have to think about making many plumbing choices on the spot for many areas. Some of what I am leaning towards below-
The only thing that made it easier? Knowing my taste. I’m nothing if not consistent, and I always lean toward classic, timeless styles. Love polished nickel, understated elegance, pieces that feel like they could’ve been here 50 years ago and still look just as good 50 years from now.
That said, I did shake things up a bit—I’m am considering doing unlacquered brass in one of the powder rooms and in one guest room, just for a touch of something different. I’m sharing a few of the pieces I am considering below—not earth-shattering, but definitely in line with what I love.
There’s still more to finalize, but we will be off to a solid start starting tomorrow. As for kitchen faucets, I haven’t landed on one yet, but I’m exploring some pieces from Waterstone—they have such beautifully designed options, many with a traditional twist that I really love.
One unexpected design dilemma? Kitchen island sink—or no sink? I’ve always had one, and it’s certainly practical, but I also love the clean, uninterrupted look of a wide, open island. I’m torn. Would love to know your thoughts—are you Team Island Sink or Team Open Counter? For context the island will be large about 11 ft long.
With sink
No sink
You may remember from a past renovation post, that I already have a clear vision for the kitchen overall, so now we’re shifting into logistics—meeting with cabinet makers, exploring tile orders (definitely using delft, no question!), and starting to consider the pantry design. I’m leaning toward doing a soft, pale blue in the pantry—something fresh and serene that complements the white cabinetry and echoes the water views nearby.
I’d love your input on one last design decision. In my bathroom, we’ve carved out space for a vanity with a step-down makeup table. I’ve always loved the idea—especially as I get older, having a dedicated spot to sit and get ready feels like a little luxury. But I’d love to hear from anyone who has this kind of setup. Do you actually use it? Or is it one of those things that looks great on paper but ends up being underutilized? The other option is just doing a long vanity straight across.
Here are options- one makeup table in the middle with two small vanities on either side, then a makeup table to the far side (which my architect said if I go with a makeup table makes the most sense for the space) or no makeup table at all. For context the “vanity wall” is about 9 running feet.
One vanity no makeup table
With vanity and small makeup table at end
With center makeup table
And because creating mood boards is one of my most favorite things during the design process, just for fun- I also started playing around with powder room ideas. We will have one powder room off the foyer and another off the kitchen/family room. For the more formal powder room, i love to create a jewel box feeling and this is what I have come up with. Highly unlikely I will waver much as this look has been in my head for quite a while. The hard part will be deciding which of these Gracie beauties I will decide upon. I love all three!
The elements I love are the chinoiserie murals, a marble console sink and a Venetian mirror. I will do something simple on the floor as there are many showstoppers in this small powder room.
Well that’s plenty to think about for now. I think going forward. the fun and exciting part is soon to get started. As always, I love hearing your thoughts—thank you for following along on this journey! Can’t wait to share more soon. If you have questions regarding the reno feel free to ask them in the comments section, that is where I will answer them. Until next time….
It seems when you announced your move it was because you didn’t need that much house but this house is surely much larger!
For many years, I had a designated vanity space in my bathroom. A couple of years ago, I put an antique vanity in front of a very large window overlooking the yard and the marsh beyond. It is the best lighting for putting on your makeup! I have a makeup mirror for the evenings or very dreary days.
Be careful with Brass in the Bathrooms. I got tired of it very fast. I got caught up in the trends.
I do not understand why designers like to place an island kitchen sink right in front of or opposite of the cooktop/ range/ ovens. Trying to open the oven door or even working on the cooktop/range when someone is working at the island kitchen sink is very awkward and seems like poor functionality. Any thoughts?
I agree. There has to be room to move freely for 2 to 3 people in that space.
I think it’s important to have a mag mirror at eye height for vanity
Sink in island or not depends on your view from there….
Pedestal sink in powder room not my favorite no room for storage
Who has time to sit down and put on makeup in the morning, maybe at night as you seem to be very social. That being because you are tired before going out.
Hi Tina, Early on you mentioned that you would share a floorplan. Iteould be very interesting to see what’s going location wise and where with construction. Is it possible to get a glimpse? Just a simple one at that.
Thanks!
Re: sink in the island I think it depends on what you’re overlooking while standing there. I face my great room with a huge fireplace with a tv above and plenty of cozy seating. I spend so much time at the sink that I would have my back to it all if it was elsewhere. Just MHO!
Further to Cher’s comment I have a wall oven kitty corner to the island and a large cooktop across from it. So no worries about opening oven doors!
One of my favorite colors is Borrowed Light by Farrow and Ball. Depending on the amount of light in the room, it is the palest of blues in daylight, but becomes slightly deeper (more dramatic!) as the sun goes down.
My husband painted the laundry room/scullery in that color and we love it.
So many beautiful options. I voted for the vanity at the end, but I would only do it if I had a large bathroom because you do lose some storage space. I love the idea of sitting down while I apply my makeup but in reality, it doesn’t take all that long.
You are going to use polished nickel in the master bath, correct?
Someone made a good point in that something to consider is what the island faces. Make sure to install disposal if you do an island sink. A friend had a second sink in her island but was particular about what it was used for because it did not have a disposal.
Regarding the island sink question, will you have a back-kitchen with a second sink? If not, a second sink in the island can be a lifesaver when the main sink has had a problem (clog!)
We have been in our home now 7 years …… just where did the time go ? On one side of the bathroom is my sink & drop down vanity / seat. It looks lovely ……. But never once have I sat at it to do makeup !!!! The BEST thing ever is that on my side I have my own toilet. Hubbies is on his side. So forget vanities & install his & her toilets. !!! Cannot recommend them highly enough. !!!
Definitely 2 sinks with makeup vanity in middle but I would have doors that open instead of drawers. I can store better than drawers only. I would put sink in island but not in the way of working at stove.
I very specifically built a make-up table into my vanity in our last house. I loved sitting down to do my make-up and hair. I also have arthritis so it makes it easier on my old body! Ha. We recently moved and I don’t have a make-up vanity and boy do I miss it. We will be renovating the bath and adding one but probably not for a year or two. May have to buy a vanity table for the bedroom.
I have built 7 houses and each one always had a vanity built in.
Never used it for makeup but to sit on to see the back of my hair close up.
This latest house no vanity and love the spare clean look
Can we all come and tour your house? Girls trip! Everything you create is beautiful. And, I will bring your amazing Mediterranean/Greek salad.
Hi I also have a 11” island and I do not have a sink on the island. I put lovely vases and seasonal decor. I have bought the beautiful blue and white vases from you! I love it!! My sink faces the window to the side of the house that is Nicely landscaped.
In my bathroom I have the make-up space at the end. of the counter. I have plenty of storage. . I love to use my makeup table everyday. It is easier for me to sit and apply makeup or creams. I also left room at the end of my vanity for a set of drawers to store my makeup.
Hi, your renovated home is going to be FABULOUS! I moved into our dream custom home 2 years ago and wrestled with the same 2 questions – sink in island and make up vanity. My personal experience is no to sink in island. It’s so easy to cook and prep with no sink! We’ve had family visit and there can be 6 people prepping at our island and that visual makes my heart happy. What i did was put a second sink next to the stovetop. This has been a game changer. I skipped the pot filler and easily fill the pots at the sink by the stove using a pull out faucet and the ability to drain the pots in this sink has saved my neck and wrists!! I highly recommend considering this. As for make up vanity, I always stood and did my make up. A lighting designer urged me to add a make up vanity. I was 58 and she was in her 70’s. She said I’d thank her for insisting. I had the space so I did put in a make up vanity and i LOVE it. Use it for blow drying, make up and tweezing those menopause chin hairs. I hope you find my perspective and experience helpful.
No sink in the island, but do you have room for another somewhere else? (Agree with Laura G.) Also
like a long vanity, with a makeup area on another wall either stand-alone furniture piece or cabinet. Can’t wait to see it and look at more choices. Wrote down the paint suggested by Sabina.
I usually prefer plumbing that doesn’t have a lot of unnecessary lengths and parts about it. Easier to manage in the long haul.
Hi Tina, I love following your posts and your Renovation Diaries. It’s amazing what similar design taste that we have, as I have several of your design options in my own home. Here are a few thoughts for your consideration:
Bathroom Fixtures
– Have you looked at Sherle Wagner for luxury fixtures and hardware for your bathrooms? They have fabulous faucets in multiple finishes and you might like their Classic or Heritage Collections. I have several styles in the 14k gold plate finish and they’re beautiful.
– Waterstone faucets
I have the same kitchen faucet from Waterstone (except mine is a single handle), in polished brass. It is beautiful, very durable and they have great customer service.
– Gracie Wallpaper
I have the same fabulous blue “Carolina Street” handpainted wallpaper in our foyer. It is breathtaking and would be stunning in your powder room, or any room. It looks great with gold finishes.
Island sink
– I vote for “no sink”, as I love the vast open counter for prep, hosting, buffets and display.
Vanity/Makeup Table
– Is there room for a separate makeup table in your space? I have a separate built-in makeup table away from our vanity. I’ve found a makeup area incorporated into my vanity to be cumbersome. It takes up needed vanity space and the chair/stool disrupts the walkway path. I have a 3-way mirror above mine and it’s great for makeup and hair. A lighted magnifying mirror is a great idea too. You might consider an foldout style that’s concealed in a mirrored cabinet.
All my best,
Deb
Tina, I have a sink by my kitchen window (view of the Delaware River and Canal) and also have one in our island. We absolutely use them both, equally. The one in my island is across from my cooktop – no conflict with oven doors. The sink is handy for spilling out hot pasta water among other things. My island is long and wide, so plenty of room for other things on there when needed. . As far as the step down makeup area – Yes!! You will use it. I have it and use it every day. Really, who wants to stand and do their makeup if they don’t have to. The long run of marble is pretty, but the step down is not unattractive. Yes, go for it!
Hi Tina, love following all your renovation adventures and renovating any space is an adventure! I really enjoy all your products and have many in my home! One piece of advice I’d like to share is my recommendation for choosing facets that have levers instead of turning handles. Since you shared this will be your forever home, as we age and dexterity can be an issue, the levers will be much easier! Your style selections would be the same as mine, just beautiful! But go with levers!
Amazing progress is taking hold. How exciting, such a regal and elegant home. Cannot wait to follow along; For kticen sink will you have 2 sinks like in your old kitchen if so I would skip the island sink and do a pot filler above range. If you are only having one then I would. do a smaller sink on island.
For the vanity/makeup table, I think its really nice and convenient to have a table to sit at and apply your makeup. I would opt for one vanity and the makeup table at the end. Its a cleaner look IMO. We have built several homes and both pieces of this advice I have followed for each (per our designer). I am sure whatever you decide will be beautiful.
Love the powder room options- all are so gorgeous. You could close your eyes and pick one and it will be spectacular! Look forward to following along.
Hey Tina! I’ve had vanity drop downs in 3 homes and finally had one installed under a window (total game changer) in my Master dressing room. The window helps on days when I don’t want my makeup having make me look like a clown for daytime outings! I like sitting down for makeup, but also have a magnifying glass where I can stand up, too. Added an island in the dressing room, drawers for accessories like sunglasses, gloves, scarves, jewelry, undies and small purses and feel so more organized. Having a room for dressing is great because I can close the door when I make a mess.
Having a sink the kitchen island is a must for me. That way the people helping me prep have their own space and we are not trying to use just the one sink. And yes, do the disposal in it as some suggested. Mine is not across from the stove, but way on the end so I still have room for seasonal decorating the kitchen, too. Mine is a white apron sink with brass fixtures and a disposal.
Beautiful!!!!!!
As you age in place, you may want to have backer board installed between the studs for future handrails in showers and toilet areas. It extra support and when you do need to screw them in, you don’t have to worry about finding studs, especially if the area is tiled.
As far as your selections for faucets, I would look for selection that doesn’t have the wheel with the little spokes. As you age in place, these may be difficult for you to turn off an on if you develop arthritis in your hands.
I know you entertain a lot. Did you plan a scullery between the kitchen and your entertainment space and the exterior grounds?
It looks amazing. Love following your blog.
We moved to our current home a few years ago and I have a sit-down vanity for the first time in my life. I love it! I have a lighted magnifying makeup mirror without which I would likely look like a horror-haha! I would not want to be sandwiched between two sinks since that would feel like my husband was hovering over me (and likely dripping or splashing on me) if we were both getting ready at the same time. My vanity is actually separate from the sink vanity, but my 2nd choice would be a vanity at one end.
I’ve been an interior designer for many years. We’re working through a personal renovation and addition now. In the kitchen, we will have a work table somewhat like the dairy table from deVol with no sink – under cabinet seating on one side and drawers on the other. This is a table with drawers rather than an island. There will be two principle bathrooms: 1. One vanity with legs with a Robern “medicine cabinet” and beautiful sconces. Robern is fabulous. Placed in a niche will be a separate dressing table with a Venetian mirror. 2. Two separate vanities with lighted mirrors. One vanity will have the dressing area at one end and a higher “chair” will be placed underneath. The vanity will all be one height. Sconce on adjacent wall of each vanity.
Lots of great comments. Love Sherle Wagner! Had a makeup vanity and never once used it. Like the clean sweep of one same height counter. Don’t be afraid of brass or gold…although with light blue nickel might look better. Regarding sink or no sink….I think it depends on your layout and the size of the island. No sink always looks cleaner and more formal if you’re setting up any food or casual buffet. A sink in another area of the kitchen would be my preference without knowing your specifics…
Loved your old French house that you built and I must admit I miss it. I don’t think it is possible to top that one, but I will keep an open mind!