NEWS Archives - Page 2 of 6 - Specialty Hardware and Plumbing

COCOON, DESIGNER DOORWARE, ESS EASY DRAIN, NEWS

Hottest Luxury Bathroom Trends for 2023

With the new year just a few weeks away, we have our eye on the hottest luxury bathroom trends for 2023.

That’s right — today we’re talking about spa-like bathrooms with free-standing tubs, marble, concrete tubs and basins, elevated hardware and more. Let’s dive in.

Marble, Marble, Marble

Most luxury bathrooms have one thing in common: marble (and usually, lots of it!). Why? Marble represents luxury, glamor, and did we mention it never goes out of style?

Let’s take a look at a few of our favorite marble pieces.

The PB Bath by COCOON

Designed to be a free-standing bath, each piece is unique and carved from a single block of marble (or natural stone, if you prefer). Piet Boon’s signature shape, the KEKKE, is recognizable by its rounded corners.

Homeowners have the artistic freedom to specify their own custom bath from 10 different stones from COCOON. Learn more about the PB Bath by COCOON here.

The COCOON PB Cabinet 120

We’re proud to present this Chalk White Wall Mount Vanity, by COCOON. The PB-Cabinet-120-20-Chalk-White is made from premium materials, this Wall Mount Vanity offers great function and value for your home. This fixture is part of COCOON’s Piet Boon Cabinet Collection, so make sure to check out other fixtures to accessorize your room.

Shop it here.

Free-Standing Tubs

A free-standing tub can make a bathroom feel like a spa experience. No luxury bathroom is complete without the perfect tub.

At Specialty Hardware and Plumbing, we are big fans of concrete tubs. Why? Concrete tubs are:

Resistant to humidity
Versatile
Able to be paired with a range of accessories and fixtures
Long-lasting and incredibly durable

Learn more about COCOON concrete tubs, here.

We adore the Natural Stone Free Standing Soaking Tub from the John Pawson COCOON Collection (shown above). The tub, shown in Pietra Griggio above, is available in many shades, such as natural sand, for those who may love the tub but prefer a lighter finish.

Concrete Basins and Sinks

Just like concrete tubs, concrete basins and sinks have become increasingly popular amongst designers. They have several positive characteristics, including:

Each concrete basin is unique: there will never be a solid block of the same finish color, due to the variables within this specialized concrete mix. If you are looking to achieve a more smooth surface, there is an option of “Polished Concrete,” which gives the treatment an extra polish to smooth out the surface area.
Style and textural flow lines: the concrete mix is liquid when being poured into the mold, so textured flow lines are expected and can add to the unique look of the piece.
Strength and durability: Each concrete sink is pre-sealed before it is brought into the home. Users can expect the sink to last for decades –likely over 50 years, in fact – with the correct care and maintenance.

Let’s talk Elevated Fixtures

From bath fillers to drains to basin mixers, the details can make a significant difference in the design of a luxury bathroom. We recommend taking the time to find elevated fixtures that complement each other while allowing attention to the eye-catching pieces in the space: the vanities, tubs, and showers, for example.

Let’s discuss a few of our favorite fixtures.

The Piet Boon 10 Spout

The Piet Boon 10 Spout (PB10) is a simple, yet elegant wall mounted tap, faucet or tub filler for your bathroom, kitchen, or even outdoor spaces. The PB10 offers the flexibility of pairing it with any of the Piet Boon mixers and now comes in different lengths for your design needs: PB13 – 130mm; PB18 – 180mm and PB10 – 220mm.

The COCOON John Pawson Floor Mounted Bath Filler

From the award-winning John Pawson by COCOON Collection, this piece combines elegance and minimalism. Check it out, here.

White Fixtures and Hardware

Vola carries white faucets in two finishes: White 18 (a polished white) and White 28 (matte white).

What is special about these pieces? Take it from Vola:

“The key elements of bathing are surfaces, taps, spouts and water. Water defines the experience but surfaces, taps and spouts can shape and steer the experience. Touch can transform everyday moments into quietly satisfying rituals that enhance the user’s relationship with the natural world and ease the complexities and stresses of contemporary life.”

Designing a Luxury Bathroom?

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing can assist with pricing, design options, and finish match recommendations. For samples and more – stop by our Beverly Hills showroom or send us an email for more information.

December 12, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

DESIGNER DOORWARE, NEWS

December Brand Feature: Designer Doorware

Designer Doorware provides high quality, innovative designs in hardware. After over two decades in business, Designer Doorware remains on the forefront of industry trends while also offering holistic end-to-end services, such as design advice in finish, product, specs and value engineering.

Read on to learn more about this innovative brand, view their new collections and check out a few of our favorite pieces. Let’s dive in.

All About Designer Doorware: Who Are They?

Since 1996, Designer Doorware has been launching innovative designs in hardware for architects and designers. This brand focuses on offering an original sustainable, high-quality product.

Designer Doorware recently joined Forte Brands Group. Forte sources the world in search of the best and most desirable hardware brands.

The full product line can be selected by use, including: sliding/pocket/barn door hardware; external door hardware; interior door hardware; kitchen hardware; bathroom hardware; show door hardware. Let Specialty Hardware + Plumbing help guide you through the selection process from beginning to end of your project.

Let’s take a look at some of our favorite pieces and take a peek at their new collections.

The Designer Doorware Bull Pull

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing is proud to present this Chrome Unlacquered Door Pull, a popular piece by Designer Doorware. The FP600-40-SBU is made from premium materials, this Door Pull offers great function and value for your home. This fixture is part of Designer Doorware’s Collection, so make sure to check out other fixtures to accessorize your room.

Bullet + Stone Concrete Collection

The Bullet + Stone collection by Designer Doorware introduces three fresh designs of concrete door hardware. The three door designs, including the Concrete Club Lever, Concrete Niki Knob and Concrete Quad Lever, come in 18+ special finishes.

The versatility of concrete gives architects and designers a new realm to explore when it comes to adding a contrasting aesthetic to projects.

The Bullet + Stone Collection was designed by Designer Doorware and manufactured in Australia. The collection can be personalized for any contemporary and modern interior or exterior design.

Concrete Luna Grey

The concrete appearance for the Bullet + Stone Concrete Collection will have variations of shade and color patterns. The finish is called “Luna Gray.” Custom finishes are also available upon request.

The Monte Timber Collection

The Monte Timber collection by Designer Doorware combines a touch of American white oak or American black walnut hardwood with a solid brass mount.

The Club Bathware Collection

We adore this Powder Coated Colour Passage Door Lever by Designer Doorware. The CL-R50-I-RH-PCC is made from premium materials, this Passage Door Lever offers great function and value for your home.

Shou Sugi Ban: Charred Finish Door Hardware

Shou Sugi Ban is an ancient Japanese exterior siding technique that preserves wood by charring it with fire. Sugi, Japanese red cedar, was traditionally used in the process. The wood charring process is an environmentally conscious way of preserving timber and making it fire resistant.

Japanese design has influenced international design over the last few centuries.

Learn more about this collection and Shou Sugi Ban, here.

Designer Doorware: Special Finishes

Antique Brass Medium (ABM)
Antique Brass Dark (ABD)
Black Chrome (BC)
Satin Black Chrome (SBC)
Florentine Bronze Medium (FBM)
Florentine Bronze Dark (FBD)
Oil Rubbed Bronze (ORB)
Polished Brass Unlacquered (PBU)
Satin Brass Unlacquered (SBU)
Weathered Brass Light (WBL)
Weathered Brass Medium (WBM)
Polished Nickel (PN)
Satin Nickel (SN)
Powder Coated Color (PCC)
Powder Coated Color Satin White
Powder Coated Color Black Ace
Vapour Black
Black Satin (VBS)
Timber: American White Oak Raw
Timber: American White Oak Oiled
Timber: American Black Walnut Raw
Timber: American Black Walnut Oiled

Visit Our Showroom to Learn More About Designer Doorware

As the exclusive distributor for the greater Los Angeles area for Designer Doorware, our Specialty Hardware + Plumbing showroom in Beverly Hills carries the largest selection of their door hardware, cabinet knobs, pulls, levers, accessories and locks in the United States. We work closely with the Australian headquarters to provide the highest quality product and customer service.

Our expertise lies in our experience creating the most impeccable designs for the highest quality homes and establishments. Send us an email for more information.

Read on to learn how to make your client’s house goals become a reality.

December 10, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

COCOON, NEWS

Marble: A Classic Architectural Beauty

Marble or natural stone has been used in classic architectural design for centuries and the use of this prized material has continued into modern architecture. Known for its beauty as well as its durability, marble has stood the test of time and tradition.

What is Marble, or more commonly referred to as Natural Stone?

Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms naturally when limestone is subjected to immense heat and pressure for long periods of time. The result of this natural rock formation process is a beautiful, translucent stone that allows light to enter and produce a soft “glow”. A pure marble would be nearly completely white or very light in color. The presence of mineral deposits (or impurities) during the transformation of the limestone to marble bring about different marble colors and the unique veining of each slab.

Marble in History, Art & Architecture

The material of choice for Greek and Roman sculptors and architects, marble became a cultural symbol of art, class, luxury and elegance. This was not only because of its natural beauty, but also because of the technical skill required to carefully extract and work with natural stone. This still holds true to this day, making natural stone a timeless architectural feat.

One of the earliest marble statues is the statue of a kouros (youth), which was carved in Attica, Greece approximately in 590-580 B.C., more than 2600 years ago. The oldest standing marble building in Rome is the Temple of Hercules Victor, was built around 120 B.C – that’s more than 21 centuries ago. And the reason why we know this is because they still exist to this day.

Marble’s Beautiful Range of Colors:

Marble comes in a variety of colors depending on its origins and the natural process it has undergone. Marble would be one solid color were it not for the presence of mineral deposits during the natural transformation process. It is these “impurities” that bring out the distinct character, luxurious color and beautiful patterns. And, because of this, no two slabs of stone will ever be exactly the same.

What is the difference between honed and polished marble finishes?

Honed marble has a matte, unpolished finish and will have a more natural look. Because of its rougher surface, honed marble is not prone to visible scratches. However, because the surface is more porous, it can be prone to staining. Polished marble has a smooth, bright, reflective surface. It might be more prone to visible scratches because of its shiny surface, however, it is more effective at repelling liquids and stains. Each stone is still sealed using a water repellant product made to protect the surface.

COCOON Custom Natural Stone Products:

COCOON offers luxury, bespoke baths, basins, and vanities from the Piet Boon, John Pawson, and COCOON Lab collections in minimalist yet luxurious designs. Versatile and sustainable, they are fabricated in Spain using the world’s best natural materials and one-of-a-kind natural stones. Each custom order from COCOON is a piece of art, fabricated by skilled masons in Spain to last a lifetime.

Premier Marble Stone by COCOON:

Carrara Supreme – cool white stone with thin, feathery veins
Griggio Amsterdam – beautiful watercolor grey and beige with branching white veins
COCOON Bianco – classic, veined white marble
COCOON Beige – a creamy beige marble with various shades and soft white veining
Pietra Griggio – a muted charcoal grey and black toned natural stone with bold white veining
Nero Marquina – a strong black natural stone with bold white veins

Primary Stone or Limestone by COCOON:

Natural Sand – a neutral tone that resembles soft, smooth grains of sand in color, appearance and texture
Natural Beige – a smooth stone with soft beige tones and subtle mineral deposits all throughout
Natural Light Grey – a smooth, warm grey resembling natural rock in color, appearance and texture. Offers a nearly consistent shade of natural light grey color and pattern.
Natural Grey – a smooth dark grey stone, speckled with various minerals and subtle swirls of a lighter grey.

How-to Care for your COCOON Stone Bath Products

Do you already own a COCOON Stone Bath Product? Are you hesitant about purchasing from the COCOON natural stone collection because they seem “high maintenance”?

Marble or natural stone products are actually relatively easy to maintain following these simple guidelines. Properly caring for your COCOON Stone Bath Products will ensure that you enjoy your basin, bath, or vanity for a lifetime.

Here are some easy guidelines to remember:

Avoid using any acidic, corrosive, or abrasive cleaning materials on or near your COCOON stone.

Immediately clean and wipe away any substances or stains on the surface
Do not leave wet objects directly on the surface for a prolonged period of time. Use a coaster if needed
Do not place hot objects, such as hair irons, on the stone
Do not use your stone product as a cutting surface to preserve its smooth finish and water repellant properties

To clean your COCOON stone products, simply use a clean, soft cloth with warm water. You may also mix in a gentle liquid soap and wipe away any dust or dirt. Then, using a clean, dry cloth, wipe down your stone product to dry it.

To maintain its water repellant seal, you should have your stone product re-sealed by your local stone mason once a year.

Find out more about COCOON’s bespoke luxury stone products

As the premier dealer and distributor for COCOON in the United States, Specialty Hardware + Plumbing has worked on hundreds of design projects to specify COCOON basins, vanities, baths and bath accessories. We are well-versed with U.S. plumbing standards, and can work with homeowners and their designers and contractors to customize their requests.

We also invite you to visit our COCOON Beverly Hills showroom located at 205 S Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90211. Experience the COCOON collection in person and explore our complete stone samples portfolio.

We’re here to help make your luxurious bathroom design dreams a reality.

Contact us at BeverlyHills@byCOCOON.com or 310 935 3229 to set an appointment, request for samples, or just ask any questions.

November 28, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

NEWS

Modern Bathroom Design: White is the New Black

From walls to cabinets to countertops to exteriors, interior designers can’t help but notice that many modern homes are dripping in white. Why? This bright finish can bring a bright, luxurious feel to any space.

With the rising popularity of minimalist design, we’re seeing white go beyond walls and cabinets with accessories such as faucets, shower sets and more.

Today, we’ll be looking at some of our favorite white faucets, showers and hardware. Let’s get started.

Let’s Talk White Faucets

Vogue / Via youtube.com

Do white faucets sound familiar? You might have already seen white faucets gracing the Instagram of many celebrities, such as minimalist-luxury-design-devotee, Kim Kardashian. You can spot one in her family kitchen in the photo above!

Let’s take a look at some white faucets from a few of our favorite brands.

Vola

Vola carries white faucets in two finishes: White 18 (a polished white) and White 28 (matte white).

What is special about these pieces? Take it from Vola:

“The key elements of bathing are surfaces, taps, spouts and water. Water defines the experience but surfaces, taps and spouts can shape and steer the experience. Touch can transform everyday moments into quietly satisfying rituals that enhance the user’s relationship with the natural world and ease the complexities and stresses of contemporary life.”

Let’s take a look at more of this collection.

Pictured above is the Vola 520 one-handle mixer with ceramic disc technology in white.

Interested in learning more about these pieces?

Our expertise lies in our experience creating the most impeccable designs for the highest quality homes and establishments. Send us an email for more information.

Dornbracht

Above: The Dornbracht Tara Single Hole Lavatory Mixer is available in matte white (shown) and black.

Check out similar pieces, here.

GRAFF

The GRAFF designs powder-coated collection includes the above finish: Architectural White.

According to GRAFF, “Powder Coat finishes provide resistance to humidity and ultraviolet light and have a long lifespan.”

GRAFF’s Powder Coat finishes are also available in: Architectural Black™ (BK), Matte Black (MBK), Steelnox® Satin Nickel (SN), and Olive Bronze (OB). GRAFF’s Vintage Brushed Brass (VBB) finish is a liquid epoxy coating with properties similar to Powder Coat.

Check out our favorite GRAFF collection in the architectural white finish, here.

California Faucets

Shown above is the 8″ Widespread Lavatory Faucet – High Spout from Cal Faucets.

Cal Faucets have two white finishes: standard (glossy) and matte white.

Cal Faucets states “Noted as one of the top trends of the year by Decorator’s Wisdom, among others, white faucet finishes offer a clean and updated look while blending beautifully into contemporary, classic, and transitional décor styles.”

The powder coat finishes are protected with a clear powder coating designed to allow the underlying color to show through and provide a layer of protection.

Zucchetti

Our favorite is the Zucchetti Pan collection, which comes with a white finish.

Visit Our Showroom for Unmatched Modern Bathroom Design Inspiration

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing is proud to be your resource for timeless, minimalist, luxurious design. Our expertise lies in our experience creating the most impeccable designs for the highest quality homes and establishments.

For samples and more, stop by our Los Angeles showroom.

White Showers

Phylrich

We adore this white outdoor shower by Phylrich. This piece comes in four other finishes as well, including: stainless steel, polished chrome, matte black and polished brass.

Finish the Look with White Hardware

Designer Doorware offers finishes that can complete any modern bathroom design. For a simple, mono-tone statement effect, Satin White Powder Coated Colour accentuates your application with bright, clean lines.

Designing a Luxury Bathroom?

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing can assist with pricing, design options, and finish match recommendations. For samples and more – stop by our Beverly Hills showroom or send us an email for more information.

November 28, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

COCOON, NEWS

Accessories to Complement COCOON Products

Bathroom accessories are essential in determining the mood, style and overall look of your space. By selecting pieces to complement your COCOON products, you can elevate the space and make the bathroom chic, luxurious and cozy.

Since COCOON embodies a timeless, minimalist, and luxurious design, we suggest seeking accessories that align with those same elements. Not sure where to start? That’s okay – we’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite accessories to compliment your COCOON products.

Let’s Talk Towel Rails

When looking for accessories to complement your COCOON products, towel rails should be an important consideration. Why? Towel rails or racks can easily overpower or contradict a minimalist design.

Additionally, towel rails contribute to the functionality of a luxurious bathroom design; owners should have a clean, easily accessible place to put their towels after using their COCOON shower or tub.

So, how do designers balance the need for functionality and minimalism when selecting towel rails for a bathroom space? We recommend the John Pawson towel rails.

John Pawson Towel Rails

The JP Towel Rail is available in different sizes and combines perfectly with the rest of the John Pawson COCOON collection. The photo above shows the product in the brushed inox finish, but it is also available in brushed gold and dark gray.

Check out these JP towel rails, here.

Can’t Overlook Clothing Hooks

Similarly to towel rails, clothing hooks contribute to the functionality of a bathroom space. Let’s take a look at some hooks that complement your favorite COCOON products.

John Pawson Clothing Hook

The JP Clothes Hook Dark Gray is made from premium materials and comes in two other finishes: brushed gold and brushed inox.

Or, Consider the COCOON Clothing Hook “Short”

This clothing hook is available in a variety of finishes, including:

Black
Brushed inox
Copper
Gold
Gray

Check out these other finishes, here.

Or Maybe COCOON Clothing Hook “Long” Is More Your Style

Like the short hook, the COCOON Clothing Hook “Long” is available in the following finishes:

Brushed inox
Copper
Gold
Gray

Find more information about the COCOON clothing hook, here.

Don’t Forget Flush Plates

If you’re interested in minimalist designs for bathroom spaces, you’ve likely come across wall-hung WCs and concealed cisterns. However, you may have overlooked an essential piece of completing the design for functional and aesthetic minimalist bathrooms: a flush plate!

Flush plates are mounted on the wall and allow users to operate mechanisms with the touch of a button. These plates can come with a range of built-in smart features, such as sensor-activated flushing and a night light to guide you in the dark. Let’s take a look at our favorite flush plate by COCOON.

COCOON Flush Plate

The COCOON Flush Plate (shown above in brushed inox finish) is made from premium materials and offers great function and value for your home. This fixture is part of COCOON’s Mono Collection, so make sure to check out other fixtures to accessorize your room.

This flush plate is also available in the following finishes:

Black
Brushed Inox
Copper
Gold
Gray

Check out the COCOON flush plate, here.

Think About Toilet Paper Holders

Toilet paper holders may seem trivial and, we admit, aren’t often the subject of most conversations about interior design. These holders can, however, make a significant impact in the design of a luxury bathroom space. Let’s review some of our favorite minimalist options.

John Pawson Toilet Paper Holders

These JP toilet paper holders are available in brushed gold, brushed inox and dark gray.

Need a little help selecting the best fixtures for your products? Check out our guide, here.

Easy Drain Tile-able Toilet Paper Holders

These holders by Easy Drain are installed inside walls and therefore allow users to save more space in their bathrooms – no need for a support bar! They are available in various finishes and have an optional tileable or stainless steel front.

The Off White Toilet Paper Holder, by Easy Drain USA

Like the above holder, the Off White Toilet Paper Holder, by Easy Drain USA is also designed to be installed into walls in order to preserve space. This design also considers room for a toilet brush and holder, which can be easily tucked inside and covered by the door. This product allows for functionality and convenience without compromising the minimalist design of a luxury bathroom space.

Users can also purchase a version with two doors – one door covering the toilet paper and one covering the brush set – for the ultimate minimalist look. Check out the two-door option, here.

The Details Are in the Drains

Drains are an important detail in any bathroom space. Not sure where to start when picking out drains for your minimalist bathroom? We’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at some options, whether you are choosing one for your COCOON tub or shower.

The COCOON Pop-Up Waste Drain/Bath Drain

Available in 12 finishes, this drain allows the focus to remain on the main attraction: that beautiful COCOON tub.

For Showers: Easy Drain USA Modula Trim Stone Flex

This drain by Easy Drain USA is a unique custom length shower drain that is developed for natural stone flooring of any thickness. This linear shower drain is installed from wall-to-wall and has an invisible appearance thanks to its frameless design.

Working with Specialty Hardware + Plumbing for COCOON Bathrooms & COCOON Accessories

As the premier dealer and distributor for COCOON in the United States, Specialty Hardware + Plumbing has worked on hundreds of design projects to specify COCOON taps and their matching accessories. We understand the U.S. plumbing standards, and can work with clients to customize their requests. We are here to help make your luxurious bathroom design dreams a reality.

Need finish samples, price quotes or have general questions? Please reach out to us: email – beverlyhills@byCOCOON.com

Download: COCOON Sample Finish Guide

November 13, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

COCOON, NEWS

Discover the New Piet Boon Bath Products by COCOON

COCOON once again brings international award-winning designer, Piet Boon, and his exclusive designs to the luxury bath space. Piet Boon’s newest bath products continue to follow his design ethic of creating the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. He is most known for his iconic KEKKE design element as well as his distinct mixers with sleek levers and smooth 2-axis operation.

With a passion for innovation, Piet Boon has created a line of new products as the perfect design solution for those who wish or need to work with smaller spaces, whether for a home, or a shared space.

This items, designed by Studio Piet Boon for the COCOON collection, epitomize the minimalist charm and effortless architectural style Piet Boon is known for.

Ready to view these highly anticipated and newly released pieces? Let’s take a look.

The Piet Boon 10 Spout

The Piet Boon 10 Spout (PB10) is a simple, yet elegant wall mounted tap, faucet or tub filler for your bathroom, kitchen, or even outdoor spaces. The PB10 offers the flexibility of pairing it with any of the Piet Boon mixers and now comes in different lengths for your design needs: PB13 – 130mm; PB18 – 180mm and PB10 – 220mm.

The Piet Boon 08 Single Hole Basin Mixer

The Piet Boon 08 single hole basin mixer (PB08) is everything you need in a bathroom faucet in a refined form. Its clean control mechanism is intuitive to use with its 2-axis design in a single lever, minimizing its footprint on your sink.

The Piet Boon 11 Set Micro 2-hole Basin Mixer Set

The Piet Boon 11 Set Micro 2-hole basin mixer set (PBSET11 Micro) is a minimized version of Piet Boon’s best-selling, stunning PBSET 11 basin mixer. Perfect for when you want to achieve the same look with a smaller space.

The Piet Boon 40 Floor Mounted Bath Mixer with Hand Shower

The Piet Boon 40 floor mounted bath mixer with hand shower (PB40) streamlines the tub filler and hand shower into a single design. Intuitive and sleek, The PB40 integrates the essentials into one beautiful product.

Each COCOON trim is carefully crafted in AIS316L marine grade stainless steel and comes in a brushed finish PVD coating in Gunmetal Black, Raw Copper, or Brushed Gold, ensuring a high-quality lifetime finish.

The Piet Boon MicroBasin 37

And last but not the least, the Piet Boon Micro Basin 37 is a minimized version of COCOON’s best-selling luxurious PB Basins. Measuring only 14.6 x 8.7 x 7.9 inches, it is the basin designed for small spaces without compromising luxury or functionality. Custom-made and handcrafted, the PB Micro Basin 37 is available in several natural stone or solid surface options.

Execute the perfect minimal space by starting with a beautiful PB Micro Basin 37 in your desired material. Then complement it with the luxury tap of your choice in terms of style and finish: a PB10 Spout and a mixer, a PB08 basin mixer or a PBSet11 Micro. Effortlessly complete your minimalist bathroom look with an elegant PB40 tub filler.

With COCOON by Studio Piet Boon’s new bath products, achieve that sophisticated, minimalist luxe look for your dream project, no matter how small – all without compromise.

Discover Piet Boon’s new luxury bath products at COCOON Beverly Hills. Visit our showroom to see our COCOON collection of luxury bath products or contact us for more details.

BeverlyHills@byCOCOON.com

310 935 3229

November 4, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

NEWS

What Are PVD Finishes and Why Are They Trending?

PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes involve a highly technical process which creates a hard surface coating. But why are these finishes trending? PVD finishes have amazing aesthetic properties and technical characteristics; not only are they beautiful, they are exceptionally durable, sustainable and resistant to corrosion (but more on this later!).

Say goodbye to rusting hardware and say hello to looks that last a lifetime.

Let’s take a look at what PVD finishes are, how they work, and some examples of how brands are using these innovative finishes to ensure their products last the test of time. Let’s dive in.

First, What is a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Finish?

In technical terms, the PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finish is created through a process in which hardware is subjected to a high voltage charge in order to attract that vaporized metal and deposit it on the surface. This creates a super hard coating.

This coating covers hardware and protects it against the elements – it won’t come off unless it is damaged, chiseled or hammered.

Let’s take a look at how it works.

Hardware Without a PVD Finish May Look Like This…

If a designer or project manager selects the wrong finish for a project -such as a beachfront property, for example- the hardware can quickly begin to show surface wear and corrosion.

Hardware With a PVD Finish May Look Like…

This COCOON Piet Boon Wall Mount Rain Head will maintain the same look and feel without showing wear as a result of its durable PVD finish.

What Settings Are Best Suited for PVD Finishes?

PVD finishes are commonly used in kitchen and bathroom spaces. As these areas are used on a daily basis and the hardware is frequently exposed to water, hardware -a faucet with a gold finish, for instance- would lose its finish, whereas a PVD finish product will not fade, scratch or tarnish.

Additionally, while these finishes can be an excellent addition to any space, they are perfect for any setting that exposes hardware to the elements. For instance, spaces that are exposed to:

Salt water and/or salty air, such as coastal properties
High humidity
Strong winds

These elements are a recipe for rust, corrosion and damage. PVD treated hardware is designed specifically to mitigate these challenges.

What Are the Advantages of a PVD Finish?

This coating provides a range of benefits, making it a popular choice amongst interior designers and architects. These benefits include:

Corrosion-resistance: PVD finishes are designed to combat challenges such as UV rays, rain, salty air, and humidity.
Improved durability: PVD finishes can help to extend the lifespan of a piece by making the material extremely hard and resistant to scratches.
Environmentally sustainable: other coating processes are more damaging to the environment and require the use of chemicals, such as powder coating involving cyanides and toxic cleaning solvents.
Easy to maintain and clean
Available in a wide range of tapware, accessories and sinks

What Brands Offer PVD Finishes?

Wondering how to get your hands on some pieces with this popular type of finish? COCOON offers PVD finishes on their entire line. Let’s take a look at an example.

COCOON’s PVD Finishes

We adore this dark gray bathroom sink faucet by COCOON. The JP36 Dark Gray is made from premium materials, this Bathroom Sink Faucet offers great function and value for your home. This fixture is part of COCOON’s John Pawson Collection, so make sure to check out other fixtures to accessorize your room.

For more examples of PVD finishes, check out our article about what’s new at COCOON.

How Do You Maintain PVD Finishes?

While these finishes are incredibly durable, they are not indestructible. Therefore, owners should be cleaning hardware, especially any pieces that are exposed to salt or wind-driven grit. We recommend wiping with a soft, dry cloth. Additionally, owners can clean hardware pieces with a polish to maintain the finish.

Working with Specialty Hardware + Plumbing for COCOON Bathrooms & COCOON Accessories

As the premier dealer and distributor for COCOON in the United States, Specialty Hardware + Plumbing has worked on hundreds of design projects to specify COCOON taps and their matching accessories. We understand the U.S. plumbing standards, and can work with clients to customize their requests. We are here to help make your luxurious bathroom design dreams a reality.

Need finish samples, price quotes or have general questions? Please reach out to us: email – beverlyhills@byCOCOON.com

Download: COCOON Sample Finish Guide

October 30, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

COCOON, NEWS

Top Trends for Beverly Hills Bathrooms

This year, top trends for Beverly Hills bathrooms transform functional spaces into a soothing spa-like environment. Many of these trends, based on minimalism, strive to create a relaxing experience through natural, high-quality materials and timeless, purposeful pieces.

In this article, we focus on the trends of PVD finishes as well as concrete tubs and basins. Let’s dive in.

PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Finishes

Shown above: the John Pawson Complete Thermostatic Rain Shower Set

What is a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Finish?

In technical terms, the PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finish is created through a process in which hardware is subjected to a high voltage charge in order to attract that vaporized metal and deposit it on the surface. This creates a super hard coating.

Advantages of a PVD Finish

This coating provides a range of benefits, making it a popular choice amongst interior designers and architects.

Corrosion-Resistance: PVD finishes are designed to combat challenges such as UV rays, rain, salty air, and humidity.
Improves Durability: PVD finishes can help to extend the lifespan of a piece by making the material extremely hard and resistant to scratches.
Environmentally Sustainable: other coating processes are more damaging to the environment and require the use of chemicals, such as powder coating involving cyanides and toxic cleaning solvents.

Due to these advantages, PVD finishes are popular for designs incorporating elements such as outdoor showers or near an ocean.

COCOON Offers PVD Finishes

Wondering how to get your hands on some pieces with this popular type of finish? COCOON offers PVD finishes on their entire line. Let’s take a look at an example.

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing is proud to present this Dark Grey Bathroom Sink Faucet, by COCOON. The JP36 Dark Grey is made from premium materials, this Bathroom Sink Faucet offers great function and value for your home. This fixture is part of COCOON’s John Pawson Collection, so make sure to check out other fixtures to accessorize your room.

For more examples of PVD finishes, check out our article about what’s new at COCOON.

Concrete Tubs

Concrete tubs have become a significant trend in 2022, especially in Beverly Hills, for several reasons. For instance, concrete tubs are:

Resistant to humidity
Versatile
Able to be paired with a range of accessories and fixtures
Long-lasting and incredibly durable

COCOON concrete tubs and sinks carry additional advantages as well:

Up to 80% lighter and more flexible than traditional concrete tubs
Little maintenance, as no wax or oil is needed to seal the tub after usage
Heat-resistant
Will not crack
Built to last a lifetime

According to the COCOON Lab Concrete Material Guide, their concrete finishes are made from a special, natural mixture and hand polished. Each tub has its own unique look, with a visual patina and variation in color.

Learn more about COCOON concrete tubs, here.

Concrete Basins and Sinks

Concrete basins and sinks have become increasingly popular amongst designers in Beverly Hills. They have several positive characteristics, including:

Each concrete basin is unique: there will never be a solid block of the same finish color, due to the variables within this specialized concrete mix. If you are looking to achieve a more smooth surface, there is an option of “Polished Concrete,” which gives the treatment an extra polish to smooth out the surface area.
Style and textural flow lines: the concrete mix is liquid when being poured into the mold, so textured flow lines are expected and can add to the unique look of the piece.
Strength and durability: Each concrete sink is pre-sealed before it is brought into the home. Users can expect the sink to last for decades –likely over 50 years, in fact – with the correct care and maintenance.

Designing a Luxury Bathroom?

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing can assist with pricing, design options, and finish match recommendations. For samples and more – stop by our Beverly Hills showroom or send us an email for more information.

October 16, 2022/by Amanda Rogers

COCOON, NEWS

COCOON John Pawson Accessories (New)

In 2022, top trends for Beverly Hills bathrooms transform functional spaces into a soothing spa-like environment. Many of these trends, based on minimalism, strive to create a relaxing experience through natural, high-quality materials and timeless, purposeful pieces.

How to Combine Modern Luxury with Comfort

luxury and comfort living room with gray details and minimalistic style

For interior designers, combining modern luxury with comfort is essential… But not always an easy feat.

The combination of luxury and comfort allows individuals to imagine themselves in the home; for example, relaxing on the couch beneath a lush blanket, taking a bath in the spa-like bathroom, and cooking their favorite meal in a top-of-the-line kitchen.

However, designers may find it difficult to balance the sophisticated elements they want into a space while still making the home feel warm and inviting.

That’s why we’ve compiled a quick list of tips to help designers accomplish the perfect mix of elevated design, comfort, and functionality (and some brands that epitomize these ideas, but more on that later!)

How to Make a Modern Luxury Interior Design Comfortable and Functional

Let’s Talk Texture: Incorporate High-Quality, Cozy Textiles

Rich fabrics complete a luxurious interior design. By including a variety of high-quality textures, a space can feel cozy without sacrificing sophistication. For some interior designers, texture may take the form of a curated collection of throw pillows and blankets on the couch or in a relaxing reading nook.

Is minimalism more your style? That doesn’t mean you have to give up cozy textiles in your design. We are partial to minimalist luxury interior design—such as pictured above—by designers such as John Pawson and Piet Boon. The above photo includes designs from Piet Boon and perfectly mixes luxurious comfort with a minimalist touch. Learn more about Piet Boon.

Consider Natural Materials and Colors

Genuine high-quality materials, such as solid wood and natural stone, create sophisticated, warm atmospheres. For example, the Free Standing Soaking Tub by COCOON, pictured above, is made from premium materials and offers great function and value for a luxury home. The Concrete-05 finish is shown above, but the finishes Concrete 01-10 are also available, ranging from lighter to darker shades.

Or, the JP Bath

We also adore the Natural Stone Free Standing Soaking Tub from the John Pawson COCOON Collection. The tub, shown above in Pietra Grigio, is available in many shades, such as natural sand, for those who may love the tub but prefer a lighter finish.

Read on to learn how to make a modern home feel like a luxury hotel.

Make the Bathroom Feel like a Spa

Spa-like bathrooms evoke a sense of luxury and comfort. After all, what could be more comfortable than a bubble bath with lit candles and a chilled glass of white (or red!) wine?

The good news for interior designers: You don’t have to have a large bathroom space to create a sophisticated yet functional spa bathroom. Instead, designers can opt for elements such as:

Rich colors
Natural materials
Customized organization

Learn more about the advantages of bespoke bathroom design.

Invite Nature Inside

A hint of nature can add life and charm to any space. This touch can be as simple as a vase of flowers on the table, a larger plant (such as birds of paradise) in the corner of the room, or even eucalyptus in the spa.

Other elements may include stones, pieces of driftwood or weathered wood, and sand.

Interested in similar designs for inspiration? Check out our Pinterest.

Maximize Space

Space is a luxury in itself. Interior designers can make a home feel sophisticated through careful consideration of scale.

Without purposeful use of the space, a home can feel overcrowded.

Brands That Perfectly Mix Modern Luxury with Comfort

COCOON

COCOON embodies bespoke, minimalist, luxurious design. The products are versatile, sustainable, and built with the world’s best materials: Unique natural stone, solid surface, and concrete.

Interested in learning more about COCOON? Download our 2022 Lookbook.

In this lookbook, we walk you through the different options from the collections of Piet Boon and John Pawson, to the COCOON Lab, including the bathtubs, basins, taps, and accessories.

Mr. Steam

The Mr. Steam product line is a perfect match for interior designers who want to “think outside the tub” and provide a luxurious spa experience without compromising functionality.

Mr. Steam offers contemporary, technologically advanced products such as steam generators, soothing aromatherapy, and chromatherapy.

Specialty Hardware + Plumbing is honored to be the premier U.S. distributor of Mr. Steam, with a flagship showroom located in Beverly Hills, California. It is conveniently located in Los Angeles, just a couple of hours from San Diego, Orange County, and the Santa Barbara area.

Shop the Mr. Steam collection.

Zucchetti

Zucchetti is one of the oldest Italian kitchen and bath fittings designer companies. In fact, Zuccheti is still in operation in Italy.

The company designs and manufactures uniquely styled faucets in Italy’s Piedmont area using components made either in-house or purchased from European sources.

Shop Zucchetti.

Crosswater London

Crosswater London is the leading supplier of premium products for the bathroom in Europe. Their legacy expands as they bring products with superior quality and unrivaled performance to the U.S.

Shop Crosswater London.

Let’s Talk Modern Luxury Interior Design, Shall We?

Stop by our showroom in the Los Angeles area! We’re proud to be your resource for timeless, minimalist, luxurious design.

Our expertise lies in our experience creating the most impeccable designs for the highest quality homes and establishments. Send us an email for more information.

Read on to learn how to make your client’s house goals become a reality.

October 9, 2022/by Amanda Rogers