Premium Plumbing Fixtures for Our Historic Home Restoration
Intro: Blending Modern Comfort with Historic Character
When restoring a 114-year-old home, every choice matters — especially when it comes to plumbing fixtures that balance performance, comfort, and timeless style. From the kitchen sink to the master shower and even outdoor hose bibs, each fixture in this restoration was chosen for a reason. In this post, we walk through the premium plumbing features that make this home as functional as it is beautiful.
TL;DR
-
Kitchen: Stainless under-mount sink, matte black magnetic faucet, and an advanced RO (reverse osmosis) faucet for purified water.
-
Garbage Disposal: Heavy-duty ¾-horsepower motor for quiet, reliable grinding.
-
Bathroom: Single-piece toilet with a Moen 5-Series electronic bidet — heated, self-cleaning, and remote-controlled.
-
Shower: Custom 3-way diverter system with rain head, wall head, and handheld wand.
-
Outdoor Fixtures: Dual hose bibs for hot and cold water, plus a self-draining farm spigot for freeze protection.
The under-mount stainless sink and matte black magnetic faucet complement the granite countertops beautifully. The Kitchen: Practical Luxury Meets Performance
Stainless Under-Mount Sink
For a seamless countertop look, a built-in stainless under-mount sink was included with the granite installation. This sleek design keeps the kitchen modern while maintaining easy cleaning — a subtle nod to both durability and design integrity.
Matte Black Magnetic Faucet
To complement the granite’s dark tones, a black magnetic-head faucet was installed. The magnetic feature ensures the sprayer snaps securely into place after use — a small detail that makes a big difference in daily convenience.
Electronic RO Faucet
Clean, filtered water is essential in every kitchen. The reverse osmosis (RO) faucet is fully electronic, touch-activated, and designed for effortless operation. This system connects to a dedicated RO filtration system, delivering crystal-clear, great-tasting water on demand. (Learn more in our Water Quality Guide).
Power in the Details: The Garbage Disposal
A ¾-horsepower disposal ensures quiet and powerful operation for heavy kitchen use. Often overlooked, the garbage disposal plays a key role in a functional kitchen. Here, a ¾-horsepower model was chosen for its strength and quiet operation. Inspired by “Tim the Tool Man Taylor” levels of power, this disposal can handle heavy kitchen use while staying whisper-quiet — perfect for a busy family or home chefs.
The Bathroom: Clean Design and Everyday Luxury
Single-Piece Toilet with Moen 5-Series Bidet
Ease of cleaning and daily comfort drove the bathroom fixture choices. The one-piece toilet eliminates crevices for a simpler, cleaner surface. The attached Moen 5-Series electronic bidet brings five-star comfort home: a heated seat, pulsating and oscillating cleansing jets, UV self-cleaning, and a wall-mounted remote for full control.
“My little sister said she didn’t know she needed a heated toilet seat until she tried it.”
It’s a reminder that even small upgrades — like a quality bidet — can elevate your daily experience in lasting ways.
Double Vanity & Faucets
The vanity features a 3-hole Moen faucet, chosen for compatibility and design consistency. Although the initial Wolverine Brass fixtures didn’t fit, the Moen alternative provided both beauty and reliability, ensuring the space feels cohesive and modern.
The Shower: Designed for Tall Comfort and Total Control
For anyone over six feet tall, shower height can make or break the experience. This shower was custom-built with comfort in mind:
-
3-Way Diverter Valve: Controls three outputs — rain head, wall head, and handheld wand — individually.
-
Oversized Rain Head: Provides a spa-like experience, mimicking gentle rainfall.
-
Handheld Wand: Ideal for targeted cleaning or convenience while shaving.
Although the rain and wall heads cannot run simultaneously, the setup still delivers a premium, customizable shower experience that rivals a luxury spa.
Outdoor Plumbing: Functionality Year-Round
On the back of the home, two hose bibs were installed — one for filtered cold water and one for hot. This setup is ideal for washing vehicles, rinsing pets, or performing outdoor chores during cooler months.
An original self-draining farm spigot was preserved as a nod to the property’s history. It automatically drains when turned off, preventing freezing and eliminating the need for seasonal winterization.
Key Takeaway
Restoring an older home doesn’t mean sacrificing modern convenience. By investing in quality plumbing fixtures — from a high-powered garbage disposal to a luxury bidet — homeowners can create a living space that feels both timeless and technologically advanced. The result? A 114-year-old home ready for another century of comfort.
References
-
At Your Service Pros – Utah HVAC and Plumbing Experts
By Healthy Water and Air, October 16, 2025.
-
