Check out these innovations for the home.
Classic cast iron
Kohler has introduced a new line of cast iron kitchen sinks that complement both traditional and contemporary décor. The Iron/Tones line includes a 9-inch-deep single-basin kitchen sink and a nifty 6-inch deep “trough” sink for preparation areas. Either self-rimming or under-mount, the sinks are available in a variety of colors, including an ethereal Vapour Green. Basic white basins start at $500. Available locally at Ferguson J.D. Daddario in Mashpee and Supply New England in Hyannis and Falmouth.
Dew drop out
Moisture-related damage is a common problem for houses in coastal New England. So homeowners may be interested to learn that GreenGuard has introduced a housewrap with moisture channels that lead water downward, allowing the wall to dry out. GreenGuard’s RainDrop housewrap promotes speedier drainage than typical spun-bonded housewraps by incorporating strong filaments that don’t crush or flatten. When siding is installed over RainDrop, channels remain for water to drain away from the surface. RainDrop also breathes, allowing moisture vapor to escape from the wall cavity. For more information, see www.green-guard.com. Available locally through Shepley.
Floor Flecks
Get the look of spatter painting with less stress and mess by using Muralo’s new Decorative Floor Flecks. Just sprinkle them over the appropriate enamel paint for instant charm and improved slip resistance. The flecks are especially good for garage and basement floors. Decorative Floor Flecks come in emerald, ruby and aqua. Priced at $9.99. Available at Orleans Paint & Wallpaper.
H2O to go
Once confined to professional kitchens, pot fillers installed over cooktops are now available to home chefs. ShowHouse by Moen has introduced a pot filler, designed to be mounted on the wall behind the cooktop or range. Folding against the wall when not in use, the faucet extends 24 inches on a swing arm to deliver hot or cold water to heavy pots—great for that lobster boil. The pot filler features dual shutoffs: at the base of the filler and at the spout. Prices start at $710. Available locally at Snow & Jones in South Yarmouth.
Shutter to think
Atlantic Shutters of Massachusetts, an Edgartown-based maker of historically accurate vinyl shutters, now offers a complete line of traditional shutters that are hurricane rated by the International Building Code. These shutters use a patented “storm bar” system that can be engaged from inside the home, eliminating the need for impact-rated window glass. The shutters come in four styles: raised, board and batten, louvered and Bahama. See www.atlantic-shutters.com.
Clearly contemporary
General Electric recently unveiled a glass-canopy range hood, designed for today’s open kitchens. The new Monogram Glass Canopy hood features a stylish bowed-glass canopy with stainless steel seams. Halogen lighting illuminates the work area. A four-speed fan removes odors. Available in wall- and island-mount configurations, the hood offers an optional recirculation kit when outside venting is impossible or undesirable. Prices start at $1,299. Available at Mid-Cape Home Centers and other appliance dealers.
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