The Queen of Baths

White Plains resident Kymberly Weiner heralded the third generation of her family at the helm of Best Plumbing Tile & Stone when she joined the firm in 2006. The oldest grandchild of Mel and Adele Weiner, who founded Best in 1960, Weiner is now marketing and showroom-merchandising manager for the company’s multiple locations in Westchester and Fairfield Counties. Here, she discusses some of the latest trends in bathroom cabinetry, fixtures, tile, and technology.

When it comes to bathroom cabinetry colors, what’s new for 2017?

Stained wood used to be very popular, but the trend over the past few years has been toward painted finishes. They are sleeker, cleaner and allow the style of the cabinetry to shine through. Bertch has two fabulous new Sherwin-Williams colors. One is called Morel; it’s a beige that has a bit of a gray undertone. I like it because it’s fresh; it’s new; and it’s not that yellowy, mustard-beige of yesterday. The other is called Lighthouse, a light, warm gray. 

Can you tell us a little about the new faucetry trends?

This season, unlacquered brass is really hot. It’s not that green brass of the ’80s; it has a much warmer hue to it, more of a gold. And it’s a living finish, so it changes over time. My favorite is a faucet from Kallista called Pinna Paletta, which has a beautiful textural pattern on the handle. Going in the opposite direction are finishes like Kohler’s Titanium, a striking gunmetal color.

What about wall tile and flooring?

What’s in high demand right now is large-format, solid white wall tile, in both glossy and matte finishes. The tile has a texture that’s tactile — it’s relief or 3-D. As far as flooring, we’re seeing a lot of wood-grain porcelains. They look like wood floors, but they’re actually tile. 

Is there anything new in countertops?

There are two trends we’re seeing. One is a quartz countertop, which is man-made but looks just like marble. For example, Zodiaq, a DuPont brand, has a fantastic new color called Calacatta Natura, a crisp white with gray and taupe veins. It’s great because there’s no maintenance, no staining, and the material is very consistent. Another trend is the integral top and bowl, or ITB, which is basically a sink and countertop as one piece. Kohler has one called Ceramic/Impressions; the most popular is white with a little crackle in it. 

Zodiac Calacatta Natura by Dupont, Price Available Upon Request The Best Plumbing Tile & Stone, 1019 Central Park Ave Scarsdale (914)723-2002; www.bestplgscarsdale.com

If someone wants to incorporate the latest technology and luxury, what would it be?

I’d say “intelligent toilets.” Kohler’s top of the line is called the Numi, which is a one-piece toilet that’s “electrified” and has a touch-screen remote. It has automatic flushing, a heated seat, foot warmer, nightlight and plays music via Bluetooth technology. In addition, there’s full bidet functionality and even a blow-dryer for your tush. 

What are some less expensive bathroom updates?

Changing your hardware — the knobs on your vanity — is a simple swap that you could do for well under $100. Top Knobs has beautiful products in crystal and bronze that really make a statement. Also, changing out your full wall mirror for a framed mirror or medicine cabinet will do a lot to update the look of your space.