Category: Design & Details

A Versatile Focal Point

Homeowners often juggle between design and practicality when it comes to finishing touches such as railings. Railings have the tendency to be a detail that is easily overlooked, but ultimately completes the space.  A design that remains sleek and inviting while also practical is cable railing. Cable railing offers an impressive visual impact but is much more than just an aesthetic benefit.

A challenge one may face while designing interior and exterior spaces is encompassing the view. Cable railing offers unobstructed views which in return makes the room feel larger and more inviting as your viewpoint goes beyond just the railing. This allows for natural light to shine through and creates a streamline design that is not usually considered a focal point in a home, but without effort, catches anyone’s eye. If you are viewing the space from a distance, the thin lines simply vanish, and the architectural details and/or breath-taking views become center of attention. 

Thanks to the design of cable railing, they are effortless to maintain, and their durability brings forth tremendous value to your home. Cable railing serves a variety as they pair well with traditional but also contemporary styled homes, blending well to every taste of design. They allow a homeowner to showcase their personality and the overall beauty of a space, inside or out.

The Showcase of Style & Function

One factor in home design that is here to stay is the concept of space and functionality. Floating shelving serves as a versatile way to add personal touches to your home all while keeping the ease of functionality a top priority.

Whether your functional needs stem from a well-organized pantry, convenient coffee bar, or a showcase of style - function is key. 

Apart of creating a functional space that remains functional is following the mantra "Anything that takes up physical space takes up mental space". Meaning, it's important to identify the "must-haves" to create a purposeful space. Floating shelving allows for endless opportunities to change up design if desired - This is one factor that you are limited to with full cabinetry. Let's face it, seasons change and so does nature of design!

It's also perfect for those "Odd" spaces. Floating shelving is easily customizable and can be a great way to make that awkward space functionable and used.

Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths General Manager, Jill Muldoon, touches upon how floating shelving can be a great contrast in any space.
 “I love adding a pop of color that will serve as a contrast in an otherwise ‘all white’ kitchen. Floating shelves in a natural wood, such as Walnut are a great way to achieve a subtle contrast. They can create a sense of warmth, give the space some character, and provide an opportunity to add personal style.”                             
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            In many ways, floating shelves can uplift a home and create a statement that serves as a functional part of our everyday lives.
Private Residence

Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths| A Collaboration of Style & Convenience

With lots of strategic planning and a great vision came a beautifully designed showroom and new Kitchen and Bath division.

Thorson Welcomes Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths | A collaboration of style and convenience.

The Thorson team could not be more thrilled to share this extension of our company with our clients & family.

Blue Harbor Kitchens + Baths was a vision many had and hoped for – especially BHKB General Manager, Jill Muldoon. Jill has been in the kitchen and bath design/construction industry for over eighteen years. Specializing in high-end residential projects and top-notch customer service.

Get to know Jill Muldoon!

Our showroom serves as an opportunity for clients to be able to work closely with Thorson to plan their next home improvement project/new build and also work in-house to review and select design finishes. We hope to see many familiar and new faces at our Blue Harbor Kitchen + Bath showroom and trust the convenience + style of this “one stop shop” allows for a memorable and seamless experience.

The Perfect Pantry

Nowadays, we are seeing the celebration of the pantry (and adaptations of it) and it is finally getting the accolades it deserves. With soapstone or marble shelving, beautiful soft-closing drawers, great lighting, and plenty of space to stock your spices, canned or dry goods, it is a highlight of many new or renovated homes.

Aging Gracefully

Being in this business, we see a lot of different trends and “looks”; some aren’t able to hang around too long (remember shag carpets?) but others are deserving of the spotlight and should be given their due attention.  One of them is “living finishes” or “organic finishes”, for plumbing fixtures.

After hearing about faucets of this type a couple of times from clients, I wanted to know more about this product. What I’ve learned is that sinks or faucets with this finish are beautiful, wear well and add a lot of character to your space.

Unlike traditional plumbing fixtures, pieces with living finishes are un-sealed or un-lacquered and are allowed to change over the years and with use, allowing a gorgeous patina to be revealed (in other words, oxidation). When talking about these fixtures, it is referring to any metal, usually copper, brass, bronze or nickel silver (nickel is sometimes considered non-living but will actually patina over time). Stainless steel is typically considered non-living as well, though the surfaces can dull or change over time depending on how they are cared for.

So, what’s actually happening to the metal? Well, over time, the original layers of metal will show through, depending on the application and environment that it’s being used in. Everyday things like humidity, cleaning solutions, water hardness, salt air, etc can bring out the patina to your sink and faucet and really bring out its beauty over time. And since it’s “living”, it will continue to change through the years, bringing you different shades of patina and lots of character over its lifetime.

To care for a living finish is actually pretty simple: soap and water – a good scrubbing here and there will keep it looking great and will allow the patina process to continue. If you are finding that you aren’t crazy about the changes and you have a sink that is copper or brass, you can find a cleaner for those materials and revert the patina right back to its original state. Of course, you’ll need to do this every few months to fight the oxidation process.

Next time you are in the market for plumbing fixtures, give these a glance. Think of them like you see yourself, aging gracefully and only getting better over the years!

Kitchens: Form follows function

Design & Detail Spotlight

Kitchens: Form follows function

Louis Sullivan a 19th Century Chicago based Architect held the belief that “form follows function”, in essence saying that the shape and design of a building should be directly related to or even dictated by it’s intended function. This axiom has become a cornerstone of many design & architectural firms principles.

A kitchen designer often takes this same approach to designing your kitchen, creating a space that functions as well as it looks and is catered to the way the space will be used.  After all what good is a beautifully designed space if it doesn’t function well? From the overall layout,  inserts and unique cabinet modules to varying operation of cabinet doors and drawers, all of the so-called bells and whistles contribute to the increased functionality of a new kitchen.

Deep drawers instead of cabinet doors.

The full extension soft close drawers allow for easy access to all of its contents without having to open a door bend down and reach in.

Dual Islands

The old kitchen work triangle concept dictated that you should keep your fridge, sink and cooktop in close proximity to each other, but not everyone uses their kitchen the same way and with kitchens becoming larger and more of a social gathering spot homeowners are breaking the rules.  This client from our Plymouth Summer Retreat project opted for two islands, one with seating and storage (the gathering spot LEFT) and the other a more utilitarian application with the cooktop, prep sink beverage center and ice maker door (RIGHT). This keeps the prep and cooking mess away from the island seating area.

Fridge Drawers & Microwave Garages

This Fridge (below left) has a main upper door and two lower drawers that are individually temperature controlled, great for storing items you use often and want quick access to or to allow younger members of the family to be able to help themselves to healthy snacks.  Also pictured are some handy appliance garages, in this case to house the microwave but really these top closing “garages” could be used to hide any appliance you’d prefer not to look at on a daily basis. They keep them out of sight but still readily accessible when needed.

        

Food Storage & Paper Towel Dispensers

Storing your potatoes & onions and paper towels are not what most think of when creating their dream kitchen, in fact these details can often be overlooked. Good design however will factor in even the little things that can add to the overall functionality of the space. The client from our Lincoln Kitchen & Interior  project preferred not to have her counter cluttered with a paper towel dispenser and this handy dispensing drawer located just beside the sink solved the dilemma. You can even store additional rolls behind the main dispenser for easy change out to a new roll!

The metal mesh drawers & cabinet doors allow for storage of items like potatoes & onions that would benefit from some additional ventilation but the feature also adds a unique decorative element.

 

Want to incorporate some of these clever solutions into your next project? Contact us and we will pair you with one of our trusted Kitchen design partners to get started in planning your dream kitchen!

Linear Drains & Curbless Showers

Linear Drain From our “Bay Shore Bathrooms” Project

What is a Linear Drain you ask? Well they go by many other names including trough drain, channel drain & slot drain all of which are correct and simply refer to the shape of the grate & drain body. Instead of a round or square drain grate in a central location  where all areas of the shower floor are pitched toward the drain;  a “linear” drain is linear in shape and the attached drain body is a trough that channels water to one central exit port using a slope in only one direction. Linear drains can be installed in various locations in a shower but the most common is at either an outside wall or at the shower entry point. Drains of this type have been used in commercial applications and overseas for decades but have emerged more prominently on the US residential market in the last decade or so.

We’ve noticed that requests for linear drains are on the rise and they have been incorporated into many of our recent projects.  Curbless showers are also gaining in popularity whether it be for better access as a homeowner ages in place or to fit a more modern and streamlined aesthetic. These two features are often combined although it is possible to have one without the other; you can opt for the look of a linear drain but still want the peace of mind that a shower curb brings in terms of containing water in the showering area.  There are also alternative “curbless” or “level entry” drain systems that employ a standard center drain but are installed recessed into a subfloor to be able to eliminate the curb. Depending on the reasons for wanting either a linear drain or curbless shower entry a number of factors need to be considered to determine if they’re right for your home & project.

Many homeowners main objective in selecting a linear drain is to achieve a “look”. They perhaps saw one featured in a home design magazine or website and fell in love with the sleek modern feel. Some though, have more practical objectives like handicap accessibility or reducing tripping hazards. Whatever the end goal; there are pros and cons to consider.

 

Pros

  • Option for Curbless Shower entry

    Although linear drains don’t need to be installed in a level entry application, they do allow for this. Do note however that not all linear drains are recommended to be installed at a level entry point, check with your drain supplier & manufacturer for recommended applications of your specific drain.

 

  • Option for multiple drain exit ports
    Linear drains also allow for additional drain ports within the same drain body. Some states require additional drains by code if the gallon per minute rate of water flowing from multiple fixtures exceeds a predetermined amount. When a shower has multiple heads & body sprays etc. a second drain outlet is usually required. Having two standard drains is typically undesirable but the trough design of a linear drain allows for multiple exit points to be installed in line with the same main trunk, creating the look of only one linear style drain.
  • Nicer on the feet
    Because linear drains are typically installed at the edge of the shower floor it allows for a clear footpath at the showering area and makes it so the person doesn’t have to continually step on the drain underfoot.

 

  • Design Flexibility
    In a standard shower the floor tile is usually required to be smaller to be able to contour to a floor that pitches in multiple directions toward a central drain. With a linear drain the floor need only pitch in one direction, this allows for a larger format tile to be installed on the shower floor if desired. In some cases even continuing the main bathroom floor right into the shower if installed without a curb. No longer limited by the shower slope you can choose a tile floor of any size and shape meaning the design possibilities are endless! A variety of drain grates are also available on the market today in multiple patterns and finishes to suit any style.

Linear Drain from our “Lincoln Kitchen & Interior” Project

Cons

  • Higher Cost
    While a standard drain is pretty nominal in cost, a linear drain or any level entry drain system can multiply that cost significantly in some cases reaching in to the thousands when all material & labor costs are factored in. The product itself is more expensive and typically the installation, prep work & coordination is bit higher as well.

 

  • Installation Limitations
    Because of the size and requirements to install a linear drain you may be limited on where it can be installed. When working within an existing structure for a renovation the sub floor material, depth of the joists and path for running a drain line all factor into the feasibility of such drains. This style of  drain in general is much more difficult to incorporate into an existing structure as a retrofit. Even in a new construction the placement and planning will require much forethought, sometimes well before the engineering and framing phases commence. 

 

  • Longer lead times & added planning time
    Because of all of the additional planning involved and the custom nature of some linear drains or level entry drain systems the coordination time is longer and products are often custom ordered with longer lead times to arrive in. Be sure to notify your building professionals far enough in advance so all details can be worked out and products ordered in time for the rough plumbing phase of your project.

 

  • Reduced Water Retention
    when installing a curbless or level entry drain of any type there is an increased risk of water escaping the showering area. Simply put, water doesn’t always flow where you want it, splashing is inevitable and drains sometimes get clogged. A shower with a curb would at least retain any backup but a curbless shower would not,  causing water to migrate to other areas of the bathroom.

Whatever your reason for considering a curbless or linear drain there’s much to research & discuss before pulling the trigger. Every project is different and although one bathroom in a home may be a good candidate for a linear drain , another in the same home may not, so speak with your qualified building or remodeling professional well in advance to discuss your options and allow ample time to plan for a proper installation.

 

 

The indoor/outdoor bathroom

Design & Detail Spotlight

Living in a coastal community as we do here in the Northeast means that many design details in a home are catered to the coastal lifestyle. Whether you are planning for your main residence or a summer home, any home in proximity to a beach is often going to have (or want) an outdoor shower. It’s a matter of practicality really; the comings and goings from the beach can get messy and having a space to rinse off before entering the home means less of that sand and grit make it into your living space.  Plus taking a shower out in the open air with a view of the sky & stars is just plain AWESOME. If you’ve never had the opportunity to do it then you’re missing out, but back to the topic at hand. When planning for an outdoor shower why not take it a step further and amp up that functionality ten-fold with an indoor/outdoor bathroom.

While not a new idea this one is definitely one we don’t see too often. This design detail was incorporated into one of our Plymouth Whole House Renovation projects that architect Jennifer Drain of Archiplicity worked with the homeowner to develop the layout that essentially combines an outdoor shower with an adjacent half bath accessible from the showering area on the exterior. I have to admit that it’s not too often you see an exterior door that leads directly into a bathroom but in this case it’s just pure genius.  Let’s face it when you are gearing up for a shower there are inevitably other areas of the bathroom that are needed.

This particular home has the toilet and sink portion of the bath on the interior and the mahogany enclosed shower & changing area on the exterior. The frosted glass door allows light to flow to the interior while still providing a measure of privacy to the showering area. Another bonus is the ability to have direct access to a bathroom from the exterior.  Perhaps the kids are having fun in the mud and you ask them to come in and get cleaned up for dinner. Instead of trailing that mud through the house they rinse their feet off in the shower and hands in the sink and are cleaned up and ready for dinner before even setting foot in the main living space.

Keep in mind though that an outdoor shower will require a bit more maintenance than the indoor variety especially if you live in the Northeast or any other cool weather climates. The piping will have to be winterized to prevent freezing so the outdoor portion of the bathroom will be out of commission during freezing temperatures. Even with limited use in the winter months we feel an indoor/outdoor bathroom should be on most coastal New England homeowner’s wish lists.

If an indoor/outdoor bathroom is on your wish list, contact us to get the planning process started and let’s make that wish list a reality!

 

Featured Builder of the Month

Featured Builder of the Month!

Builder + Architect Magazine


We’re proud to announce that we have been selected as the featured Builder of the Month in Builder+Architect Magazine. This business and lifestyle publication which has been in production since 1937 has chronicled some of the most successful builders and remodelers in the Nation.

The August 2018 issue features not only several of our projects but chronicles how Eric built a loyal list of clientele through insight, dedication, fortitude and trust. The photos beautifully represent a sampling of our latest work to build, renovate & restore some of the finest homes on the New England coastline. We’d like to thank all of our loyal clients, suppliers & trade partners who helped make this feature possible!

Read the Entire Article Here!

Accent lighting

Design & Detail Spotlight

Accent Lighting

Lighting or lack thereof can really make or break a space.  Many people think of lighting in terms of what is appropriate for performing specific tasks but strategically placed accent lighting can create drama & increase the impact of a specific design element.

From our projects…

The custom mahogany floating shelves pictured here from our Jerusalem Kitchen & Interior were outfitted with recessed LED lights that illuminate and highlight the glassware & decorative accessories but they are very low profile allowing the shelves and their contents to be the star.
The directional recessed lighting in the custom bookshelf photo from one of our latest basement renovations (bottom left) really brings a sense of drama to the bookshelf architecture. The  backlit bathroom vanity mirror (bottom center) creates a soft ambient glow and makes the mirror appear to float off of the wall.
Accent lighting can also be it’s own design element creating visual interest and even focal points within a room, as is the case with the crystal chandelier(bottom right).

Planning is key…

Be sure to make lighting a part of your planning process. If working with an architect or designer, have them draw up an electrical or lighting plan that outlines the specific locations and different types of lighting fixtures you want in your finished space. Planning for lighting in advance will help you to consider the overall design and how light impacts each area.

Nickel Gap Shiplap

Design Trends

Nickel Gap Shiplap

Even though the popular HGTV show “Fixer Upper” has come to an end the shiplap craze it created is still going strong. Shiplap comes in many different varieties but nickel gap shiplap seems to be the clear winner in popularity amongst our projects lately.  Nickel gap is a tongue & groove product that has a distinct gap between the horizontal boards; admittedly a bit larger than a nickel but with the same crisp squared edge.

From our projects…

Nickel gap bench & wainscoting

White painted Nickel gap shiplap was paired with a custom natural walnut seat to create this unique built-in bench from our Lincoln Kitchen Remodel. The Nickel gap spills over from the bench onto wainscoting that carries around the rest of the eat-in portion of this kitchen.

    

Nickel gap fireplace surround

White oak nickel gap with a rubio oil finish was used to surround this Hingham Master suitefireplace, creating a clean modern feel. Although a less common application, the nickel gap in the natural finish becomes the focal point in this master bedroom.

Classic Nickel gap wall paneling

In the most classic applications nickel gap is used as a horizontal wall paneling in one of our recent Century Lane kitchen Remodel & Addition projects. This mudroom gets a clean fresh feel taking the shiplap from floor to ceiling.

Arched Doorways

Design & Detail Spotlight

Arched Doorways

   

Arches have been used in classic architecture for Centuries. Dating back to Roman times arches were used as a means to span large distances and create structural integrity that was hard to achieve before the use of modern steel & engineered lumber were available.

Today arches are still used but typically more for decorative purposes. The Elliptical arched doorway has become a popular choice in many of the projects we complete. This classic detail can add depth & drama to an entryway as shown above or be a decorative transitional element between two spaces.

The execution of the detail is not quite as simple as you might think however. Most building materials don’t naturally bend to conform to a curved or arched shape. With a little know how, some precise math and a whole lot of glue & clamps the Thorson Team is able to create this beautiful & timeless finish detail at many of our projects.

Want to incorporate an arched detail into your next project?

Contact us to start planning!

 

Wallpaper makes a comeback

Although wallpaper has been around for decades, it’s popularity waned for a while with paint being the preferred choice for creating classic (easy to change) statements in a home.

Industry wide there seems to have been a resurgence in the use of wallpaper and we are certainly seeing this trend reflected in many of our recent projects and also in some articles on Houzz.com.

Although most homeowners are still hesitant to commit to a wallpaper in a large great room they are willing to take the risk in smaller areas like powder rooms, entries, halls and even bedrooms. In many cases these smaller spaces are being used to make a design statement. With the wide range of new modern patterns and graphic print papers to choose from, there truly is a paper for every style.

Custom options are also becoming popular with hand printed patterns, full scale mural installations and even design your own options that are fully customizable!

Get inspired by Houzz’s 20 wallpapers that make the room