ASKED AND ANSWERED DESIGNER ADVICE
EMBRACING VISUAL TEXTURE
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ON THE COVER This kitchen includes both Brizo Litze faucets and a Delta glass washer and cover. 8 RAW MATERIALS Is your home designed with a place for everything? 14 SILVER FOXY Suggestions to add some shine in a variety of spaces. 24 IN SIGHT Stimulating combinations that enrich a home’s visual texture. 31 MOTHER EARTH What to remember about sustainability for your next refresh. 33 BETTER KNOW NY Head north of the city for history. 34 SPECIAL LOCATION A new GPS with a significant history. 35 MEET THE DESIGNERS Which sensations say “fall” for Chris? 36 ASK AND RECEIVE A designer poses the right questions to establish project priorities. GPS Justin Freedman PRESIDENT, GPS Brian Maffia DIRECTOR OF SHOWROOMS, GPS Sarah Barton MARKETING DIRECTOR, GPS Rebecca Jean Cortés VISUAL DESIGN & WEB DEVELOPMENT, GPS Isaiah Dismuke DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR, GPS Christian Cunningham SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR, GPS
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ASPIRE ONE COMMUNICATIONS PRESIDENT
All rights reserved. GPS LIVING MAGAZINE is a production of Aspire ONE Communications, copyright ©2025. Any reproduction or re-use of the articles, images and content without the express written consent of Aspire ONE Communications, LLC. is strictly prohibited. Aspire ONE Communications, 246 Main Street, Cornwall, NY 12518 ©2025 All Rights Reserved
ART DIRECTOR Gregory Cullen WRITER Stewart Keller PROJECT MANAGER Digital Workflow Solutions
Steven Mandel EDITOR IN CHIEF Paul Hagen
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Banbury™ Bath Collection The Banbury collection highlights a timeless nostalgia for traditional versatility and sets a tone that is both classical and sensible. This subtle design is elegant and, with its round bell accents, reflects the sophisticated values of traditional homeowners.
www.moen.com
Bathroom & Kitchen Checklist ✓
BATHROOM
▫ Bath Exhaust Fans ▫ Bath Faucets
▫ Mirrors ▫ Shower Heads and Body Sprays ▫ Steam Shower Systems ▫ Tile ▫ Toilets ▫ Towel Warmers ▫ Vanities
▫ Countertops ▫ Faucets ▫ Garbage Disposals ▫ Instant-Hot Dispenser ▫ Kitchen Cabinetry ▫ Kitchen Sinks ▫ Water Filtration Whole House or Point of Use ▫ Bathtubs, Whirlpools and Air Baths ▫ Custom Shower Door Enclosures ▫ Heated Shower or Bathroom Mats ▫ Lighting ▫ Medicine Cabinets
KITCHEN
NOTES
ACCESSORY
▫ Cabinet Hardware ▫ Grab Bars ▫ Soap Holder ▫ Soap/Lotion Dispenser ▫ Toilet Paper Holder ▫ Towel Bars/Rings ▫ Sauna ▫ Cold Plunge
What to bring to an appointment so that we can better serve you: • Pictures, drawings and measurements of the room • Inspiration photos • Possible design or room restrictions • Project timeline • Contact info for contractor or trade pros handling the build/remodel
An impressive collection of lighting, fixtures, faucets and cabinetry.
CALL 1-800-CALL-GPS SHOPGPS.COM
GPS SHOWROOMS BAYONNE BERGENFIELD EDISON FLEMINGTON GREEN BROOK HAWTHORNE LAKEWOOD MORRIS PLAINS MOUNT VERNON ORANGE KOHLER SIGNATURE STORES EATONTOWN MANHASSET PARAMUS SUMMIT
For additional locations please visit shopgps.com
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The Delta Clarifi re- duces chlorine and sediment for bet- ter showers. Learn more about Clarifi on page 12 and turn to page 14 for more ways to brighten a home with a splash of something shiny.
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A reflection of you.
With hundreds of innovative KraftMaid® products, you can build a room that fits your life. We’ll help you decide.
kraftmaid.com
RAW MATERIALS
Its wireless power source allows Mr. Steam TempoFlex added flexibility of placement.
EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE T E X T STEWART KELLER
With an Extra Wide Vanity light from Sonnemann , homeowners may find one fixture gets the job done.
KraftMaid allows a mix of Breslin cabinet doors with open shelves.
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A SMARTER CHOICE IN HOME COMFORT.
Luxaire ® is a premier line of high performance heating and air conditioning equipment, continually setting the standard in features and innovation. Since 1954, Luxaire has stood for uncompromising quality and unmistakable attention to detail. The latest advancements in quiet technology, energy efficiency and lasting dependability make Luxai re an intelligent choice that delivers optimal comfort and exceptional value. luxairesmart.com
RAW MATERIALS
The lighted perimeter frame of the Madeli Illusion Mirrored Cabinet Collection allows doors to operate independently while still providing consistent light.
The Delta Clarif i Shower Filter
Attachment provides an
instant upgrade for skin and hair.
Image Plus shower sliders from Easco offer glass options, including Clear, Rain, or Satin Mist.
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RAW MATERIALS
Delta offers under-sink water filtration via a six-stage reverse osmosis system.
THOUSANDS HAVE LIVED WITHOUT LOVE, NOT ONE WITHOUT WATER
An Elkay Liv water dispenser may be the perfect addition for the home gym.
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NEW MEZZO bathtub | MAGNA LED Mirror | STAK TRIO Vanity
G RIND FEARLESS. NEXT GENERATION GARBAGE DISPOSALS FOR THE PRO
SoundSeal ® Technology
MultiGrind ® Technology
EZ Connect Disposals
Explore Now
Dura-Drive ® Induction Motor
Invented, designed, and assembled in the USA
AD177
®/TM © 2025 InSinkErator. All rights reserved.
The cool curves of this Maricela tub from MTI are perfectly complemented by the shining finish of its filler.
SILVER FOXY WHITE METALS, BRIGHT IDEAS
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T E X T STEWART KELLER
W hile the old adage about how “every cloud has a silver lining” is meant to be a reminder that hope still exists even in the most uncertain circumstanc- es, the expression is also not a bad piece of design advice. Cloud colors—of both the light-and-fluffy and dark-and-stormy variety—tend to look terrific when paired with the shine of silvery accents. For example, the coming pages feature white-metal fixtures looking equally at home blended into a bath swathed in whites and creams as they do in an earth-tone clad kitchen. Meanwhile, white metals can also makes a terrific complement for wood—whether juxtaposed against the floor (as shown above) or incorporated into the fixture, as in the Frank Lloyd Wright Kitchen Collection from Brizo. Read on for more ways to add some silver foxy energy to your space. ■
This Kichler chandelier is from the appropriately named Silvarious Collection.
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Feel Good Inc.
STEAM SAUNA WELLBEING
Introducing the TempoTouch Steam control - with a touch a finger.
Introducing the Aroma SteamHead Available in 13 designer finishes.
Introducing the TempoFlex Wireless steam control with RF connectivity
Introducing the SteamPod The stand-alone personal steam room.
www.mrsteam.com Let steam inspire you.
SILVER FOXY
In this silver fixture accented bath from Fleurco , a transparent film is bonded to the shower door for added protection from breakage.
The Belle Epoque–style fixtures for this black-and-white bath are AXOR Montreaux in Chrome.
In the right context, white pieces, like metallics, can be used to brighten a room. This Amba Sirio towel warmer could be radiant in a dark or color- saturated bathing space.
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Proudly Representing Decorative & Heavy Commercial Manufacturers Since 1947 www.altherm.com
EASCO Shower Doors has been exceeding expectations since 1960 by creating and installing custom glass shower doors for the most demanding tastes. Using the latest technology combined with Old World craftsmanship our talented engineers can design a shower door for virtually any array of hardwar e finishes and glass types to complete the look of your bath. application. We offer a vast
easco-shower.com
SILVER FOXY
An InSinkErator Instant Hot Water dispenser brings the heat while still looking cool in a Satin Nickel finish.
The warm tones of this creamy Wellborn cabinetry look surprisingly stunning with stainless steel appliances.
Wood insets heighten the brilliance of this
SmartTouch faucet from Brizo’s Frank Lloyd Wright Kitchen Collection.
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Quiet Luxury. Pure Comfort.
Experience whisper-quiet ventilation (<0.3 sones) that turns every shower into a serene escape. Perfect for spaces up to 110 sq. ft., with elegant options—LED light,nightlight, or hands- free condensation sensor—all in a sleek, easy-install design.
iaq.na.panasonic.com
SILVER FOXY
V Panels pendants from Sonnemann in polished chrome bring a jolt of energy to this otherwise soft-gray space.
This Stainless AquaSuite high arc bar faucet by Moen delivers both filtered water and high style.
A patterned linear drain from QuickDrain provides a flash of interest to shake up a simple shower.
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Heating and Cooling Solutions
Big comfort for big spaces.
Samsung offers the perfect solution to accommodate a wider variety of needs from single room to whole home efficient solutions.
Learn more at SamsungHVAC.com
Product Registration Required Conditions Apply
Select models are Energy Star® labeled. Proper sizing and installation of equipment is critical to achieve performance. Split system air conditioners and heat pumps (excluding ductless systems) must be matched with appropriate coil components to meet ENERGY STAR® criteria. Ask your contractor for details or visit www.energystar.gov. Available for download on the Google™ Play store and App Store®. A network connection is required. Samsung application account is necessary. © 2021 Samsung HVAC
SILVER FOXY
When it comes to the Serenity 5-light linear pendant from Golden Lighting , both pewter and pieces of hammered water glass serve shine.
The Delta PivotPro 3-in-1 Combination Shower in Chrome delivers sparkle from several angles.
Rohl Acqui fixtures in Satin Nickel pair smartly with an Egerton sink by Shaws .
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The ring pulls on this Hayden 290 vanity from Furniture Guild catch the light.
Franke Workcenter
sinks maximize efficiency while looking stunning in stainless steel.
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IN SIGHT
IN SIGHT
EXPLORING VISUAL TEXTURE
The Defined Lines kitchen from KraftMaid showcases dynamic intersections of horizontals and verticals.
T E X T STEWART KELLER
V isual texture: It’s something you can feel from all the way across the room. Sometimes this is a sensation created by one’s impressions of a space’s actual textures—the sturdiness of stone, the stillness of porcelain. In other instances, it is all about creating an illusion: the surface that looks like marble without the vulnerability, the wallcovering that could be mistaken for stucco, anything new that has been treated to present the appearance of an antique. The juxtaposition of contrasting elements is a way to make almost any space feel rich with visual texture. Find it where the warmth of wood grain meets a cool white tub, where dense pattern shares a border with solid color, or even where the stillness of a clean line cedes the spotlight to allow a fussier decorative flourish to shine. We have gathered spaces that show all of this happening and more— in the hopes that they way their designers have tackled texture will inspire you to make your next project all that much more touching. ■
Kichler’s Farum Wall Sconce excites the eye with a bold
combination of Black and Champagne Bronze.
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Constellation chandeliers from Sonnemann give a ceiling some night-sky sparkle that keeps guests looking up.
This cheerful nook featuring Wellborn Bel-Air storage shows that even small spaces can feel suffused with sunshine.
Luxuriant layers of light and dark deliver added radiance thanks to Southbank fixtures from Perrin & Rowe .
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IN SIGHT
The clean lines of hansgrohe Metris
fixtures at the sink pair perfectly with the punch of this vibrant shower- wall panel.
The rich, dark stain on this NY Vanity Lexington Vanity and Mirror stands out against pale walls and white subway tile.
Wood grain on Alki vanities from Strasser —set against a grid of small, impactful tiles—means this bath is packed with pattern.
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IN SIGHT
The calm visual texture of this bath allows pieces like the Horizon In-line Fleurco shower door with Matte White finish to draw the eye..
This rich wall treatment with the look of parchment is an ideal contrast backdrop for Brizo Allaria fixtures in Brilliance Black Onyx.
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Artistically Crafted Bathtubs and Shower Bases
americh.com
LESS CLUTTER, MORE WORKSPACE Elkay Quartz Luxe kitchen and prep/bar sinks are exceptionally durable and silky smooth, with an easy-clean surface. And our new workstations have new exclusive features: the SurePrep™ accessory ledge makes sure the cutting board won’t budge, and an accessory shelf and ledge that keeps clutter out of view. Quartz Luxe ® Workstations
See the portfolio. elkay.com/quartz-luxe
330-095
IN SIGHT
The delicate profile of Delta’s Altado fixture make it a match for bath designs from the busy to the bucolic.
Note the way these tiles and this Watermark Elan Vital faucet appear touched by time.
You can feel the contrast between the grain of the flooring and this smooth Owen tub from MTI .
Exposed brick seems especially rustic when paired with this Woodpro two- bowl table vanity.
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Hansgrohe Planet Edition XtraStoris are made with 95% recycled materials.
T E X T PAUL HAGEN T here are big-picture reasons to care about sustainability: conserving resources, reducing pollution, mitigating envi- ronmental consequences. But sustainability can also offer practical advantages, such as lowering long-term opera- tional costs, raising property values, and even potentially improving health for homeowners. GPS helps customers who value sustainability by stocking brands like Kohler, Rohl and Hansgrohe that have made their own extraordinary commitments to sustain- ability goals. And GPS staff can help clients plan more sustainable projects that include recycled or reclaimed materials, prioritize durability, and produce less waste. ■ MOTHER EARTH EXAMINING SUSTAINABILITY
Riobel’s sustainability efforts include designing water-saving faucets like this Solstice.
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Perrin & Rowe Edwardian fixtures are built to last, which helps reduce waste.
Vox sinks from Kohler WasteLAB are made with 70% recycled materials.
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BETTER KNOW NY
BETTER KNOW NJ
Once referred to as “Paulding’s Folly,” Lyndhurst Mansion is now an inspiration.
Finding design inspiration in spectacular homes of yesteryear. Living Graciously
T E X T STEWART KELLER S topping by GPS Mount Vernon? There is plenty in the area to make a day of it—especially for lovers of historic architecture and natural splendor. Completed in 1749, Van Cortlandt House Museum is one of the area’s best preserved examples of Georgian style. During the Revolution- ary War, it hosted historical figures—
that program, Lyndhurst Mansion is a sumptuous feast for the eyes. It was architecturally eccentric from the start—
dotted with flourishes like fanciful turrets that caused some critics to call it a folly— and that was before the second owner doubled its size. Today, the estate hosts an extraordinary cal- endar of events for lovers of theater, music, crafts, and more. And though many visitors come to appreciate the mansion’s beauty, a lucky few will also get to call it the place where they got married. lyndhurst.org Meanwhile, the Greenburgh Na- ture Center is dedicated to preserving nature and inspiring environmental
including George Washington—and served as a family home for 140 years before being reimagined as a muse- um in 1897. Today, the staff welcomes visitors to step into history via its halls and also offers a varied schedule of talks, tours, and festivals. vchm.org
George Washington slept here: Van Cortlandt House was contested during the Revolution.
Designed 89 years later, the Lyndhurst Mansion offers a look at gracious living from another era. It was called home by the likes of railroad tycoon Jay Gould—one of the inspirations for the elite of HBO’s The Gilded Ag e. And like
stewardship. Its 33 acres of natural beauty include open spaces, forested trails, a Native American Replica village, a barnyard, and demonstration gardens. The center also offers classes for kids. naturecentergb.org ■
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SPECIAL LOCATION
A new GPS location strives to continue serving a loyal group of customers. Fresh Face
This location never closed
its doors—even as its look was being refreshed.
T E X T PAUL HAGEN A recent addition to the General Plumbing Sup- ply family is GPS Mount Vernon. But it has already been serving the area for years as Consolidated Plumbing Supply. Patrons appreciated that much of the staff continued on at the reenvisioned location, includ- ing designer and showroom manager Chris Brandt. “As with any business transition, there is always a bit of anxiety as well as excitement,” he says, “but once it was complete, ev- eryone was able to see the benefits.”
Justin Freedman, president of GPS, notes that because CPS was also a longtime family-owned distributor with a strong showroom presence, the enterprise was a natural fit for GPS. “They have a strong team of experienced salespeople, warehouse employees, drivers, and admins that mesh well with our team,” he says. “We felt that if we took their strong reputation in the local Westchester, NY, market and provided them the scale and resources of our larger company, we would be able to better serve all their customers.”
Brandt notes the new displays draw attention.
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Though the change included a significant refresh of the premises, the business never closed. “It was difficult, but the team worked hard to ensure our clients felt minimal impact among all the changes,” Brandt explains. Visitors appreciated the new look. “We’ve had good suc- cess with the new Kallista and Rohl displays, specifically,” Brandt notes. “The overhauled counter is more inviting and welcoming as well.” The change also brought resources that have enhanced the experience for customers and employees alike. “Doing business with GPS should allow the former Consolidat- ed customers access to one of the strongest suppliers of Kohler, Moen, Delta, AO Smith water heaters, and many boiler and HVAC lines that they did not have prior,” notes Freedman. Brandt theorizes that GPS Mount Vernon’s success will hinge upon maintaining lasting connections with the people they serve. “We always strive to connect with our custom- ers on a personal level,” he says. “This was important to Consolidated as it was a family business started in 1928 and was a true staple in Mount Vernon. We’ve been able to con- tinue that connection with our customers—old and new—as GPS has similar values and is also a family business. Many of the current GPS employees had been with Consolidated for many years and that continuity helps with our close and long-standing customer relationships.” ■ MEET THE DESIGNERS How would you describe your per- sonal design style?
CPS had been connecting designers and homeowners with beautiful Kohler products even before its transformation.
How about a finish—which one would be the match for you? If I had to choose a fixture finish, it would be polished nickel—it’s warm, neutral, and timeless. How do you unwind when you’re feeling stressed out? Spending time with family and—when possible—getting to the beach. Is there a design upgrade you’d love to make in your own home? We would love to one day update our kitchen to be more modern—since currently everything is original to the house. What is something you’ve seen trending recently in the world of design that fascinates you? Curbless walk-in showers. Is there an iconic building or space where you’d like to try living—even if it wasn’t originally designed as a living space? I think lighthouses are such cool spaces. If I could, I’d love to live in the Lighthouse of Alexandria—which is no
I always choose my design based on the surroundings, but if I had to pick, it would be industrial. Could you describe a memorable de- sign project that you’ve worked on? I designed a coastal modern villa in the Dominican Republic with 15 bath- rooms and four kitchens—both indoor and outdoor. I had to work with the clients to ensure all the fixtures fit the space and the elements. Who do you see making TV or film with design that is worth noticing? I would say Wes Anderson. It’s not necessarily my personal style, but it’s surprising and different. He utilizes bright colors and the sets are ex- tremely detailed and quirky. It’s enter- taining to watch and definitely gives ideas for when people are looking to “push the envelope.” If you were a color, what color would you be and why? I love the color blue. It reminds me of the water; it’s both cool and calming.
CHRIS BRANDT MOUNT VERNON
longer standing—with its 360-degree views. It was one of the tallest man- made structures at the time. What do you hope clients have thought about when you begin working with them? Realistic budgets and time frames— ha! Is there a sensation that you associ- ate with autumn? I always think of the smell of fallen leaves and apples. We love to go apple picking with the boys each year and then enjoy all the different ways to cook with and eat them.
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ASK AND RECEIVE
HOW ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS LED A DESIGNER TO FOCUS ON WHAT HER HOMEOWNERS LOVE
This expansive kitchen— featuring Brizo fixtures, a Franke sink, a Delta glass washer, and Caesarstone countertops—leans toward black and white with metallic accents in gold and steel.
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Butterflies crown this powder room, hovering above Brizo at the sink and a vanity from Furniture Guild .
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W hen these clients approached Melissa Fenigstein of New Age Interiors, they had purchased a custom home in Muttontown, NY, that required some freshen- ing. “It started out as most of the home, and once we got started, honestly, they were such a pleasure to work for, and so incredibly enthusiastic about the project,” Fenigstein recalls. “They just kept going.” Fenigstein did some careful question-asking to strategize, such as: “If you’re standing prepping a salad, do you want to be interacting with the peo- ple in the family room or do you want to be staring out the window?” This helped shape work areas that allow for maximum interaction with guests. PHOTOS RIC MARDUR IMAGERY
T E X T PAUL HAGEN
Fenigstein also channeled one of the owners’ love of butterflies through decorative flourishes in the powder room and dining area. She also maxi- mized the interaction with nature—whether under glass in the solarium or in a well-equipped outdoor kitchen and entertaining spaces. Both Fenigstein and the homeowners were thrilled with the results. And the designer has some advice for those hoping to achieve a similarly impactful outcome: “Get help. Hiring a designer doesn’t mean you’re not doing it yourself. It means you have the appropriate support that will do research for you, expose you to things you didn’t know existed, didn’t know you wanted, or didn’t know you needed,” she says. “That’s our job.” ■
The owners enjoy the sound in this serene solarium when it rains.
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The basement hangout space has an edgy, industrial vibe—including this cool bar with faucet by Brizo .
BRING THE EYE UP SO THAT YOU’RE BASICALLY IN THE TREES
For the outdoor kitchen, Fenigstein found a Dekton design to match a natural palette of browns and grays
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In this dining area, seating upholstered in a Christian Lacroix butterfly print circles a handblown glass chandelier.
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