#OVAL COPPER SINKS

[rusticahouse]

To complete the transformation, incorporate iron lamps and traditional Mexican decor elements into your bathroom. Iron lamps, whether wall-mounted or as iron pendant lights, bring a touch of old-world charm and durability. Their intricate designs and warm lighting complement the vibrant colors and textures of the Talavera tiles and copper fixtures. Additionally, consider adding Mexican decor pieces such as handwoven textiles, pottery, and rustic wooden accents. Woven baskets, colorful rugs, and ornate mirrors can further enhance the cultural ambiance, making your bathroom a delightful retreat that reflects the soul and artistry of Mexico. By thoughtfully combining these elements, you create a unique and inviting space that not only pays homage to Mexican heritage but also provides a luxurious and serene experience.

[made-to-order]

For a truly immersive Mexican-inspired bathroom, consider using ceramic Talavera tiles for your walls and counters. These vibrant, hand-painted tiles are a hallmark of Mexican design, featuring bold colors and intricate patterns that can transform any space. The versatility of Talavera tiles allows you to get creative, whether you want a full wall of tiles or a more subtle border. Incorporating Mexican border tiles around your vanity or as an accent on your countertops adds a distinctive flair, framing the space and pulling together the various design elements. The combination of ceramic Talavera tiles with copper sinks, iron mirrors, and copper appliances creates a cohesive look that is both elegant and culturally rich, making your bathroom a true reflection of artisanal beauty and craftsmanship. By blending these key elements—copper oval sinks, Mexican copper appliances, handmade iron mirrors, and Talavera tiles—you can create a bathroom vanity that is not only functional but also a stunning showcase of Mexican-inspired design. This approach to bathroom decor offers a unique, luxurious, and timeless style that will make your space feel like a beautifully curated sanctuary.

[mycustomcopper]

Adding a copper bathroom sink is more than just a design choice; it’s a commitment to sustainability. Copper is a durable and recyclable material, making it a perfect choice for eco-conscious homeowners looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Unlike many mass-produced sinks that rely on non-renewable resources, a Mexican copper sink is crafted with sustainability in mind. Each piece is forged using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations, ensuring not only a lower environmental impact but also a sink that will last for years to come. The natural patina that develops over time adds to its charm, giving your bathroom an evolving aesthetic that ages gracefully. Infusing your bathroom with a touch of Mexican flair can be effortlessly achieved with the addition of a handmade copper sink. These sinks are often created by skilled artisans in Mexico, who draw upon centuries of tradition to produce stunning, functional pieces. The rich, warm tones of the copper bring an earthy, rustic charm that complements various design styles, from traditional to modern. Pair your oval copper sink with colorful Talavera tiles, wrought iron fixtures, and vibrant textiles to complete the look. Not only will you enjoy a beautiful and functional bathroom, but you'll also celebrate and support the artistry and heritage of Mexican craftsmanship.

[hometoursandotherstuff]

Wow, this is 1931 home in Winnetka, Wisconsin is impressive. 9bds, 9ba, $8.9M.

Wow, look at the carved wood walls. There's an original tile floor in the foyer, too, and a leaded glass inner door.

You know, I like the white carpet on the stairs. I wouldn't want to clean it, but it looks beautiful. This home has those bas relief ceilings, too.

Is it the way they're photographing the room to get the ceiling in, or are the ceilings low? The large sitting room has wood paneled walls to match the entrance hall, plus the same ceiling and a beautiful fireplace.

Very classy guest powder room. Black marble floor with white veining, and the marble counter on top of an antique dresser has a sink ringed in gold. The gold wallpaper ties it all in.

Comfy home office. The rounded desk looks art deco and is nestled perfectly in a triad of framed windows.

The library shelving is gorgeous. Oblong octagonal cutouts in carved shelves, and that gorgeous fireplace in the middle has a pediment with a pineapple and a black & white marble surround.

I like this light dining room. Cream and pale blue bas relief ceiling is so soft and stunning.

These cheery bright dining spaces are so pleasing. This is a breakfast room in creamy white and it gets a lot of sun from the windows to the garden.

The kitchen is a professional chef's kitchen. It begins with a large pantry done in the same cream color with large glass paned doors on the cabinets so you can see the dishware. The kitchen cabinetry looks maple and has a cute corner fireplace, black countertops and copper pots hanging over the double island.

At the top of the stairs on the 2nd level is a magnificent oval leaded glass skylight. The glass panes are opalescent. And, there's a large sitting room up here, too.

They've made a walkway between 2 area rugs in the huge primary bedroom. On one side is a lovely mahogany canopy bed that contrasts well against the white room and the other side is a sitting room.

There is a huge home office up hear with a pretty French Provincial desk and a chaise lounge.

The bath is nice, there's a separate room for the toilet, and a lovely vintage marble counter on the sink. Love the rust-colored marble on the floor.

What a lovely guest room. It's so large, there's a huge picture window between 2 full-sized canopy beds.

Down in the large basement is a rec room that looks like the ultimate man cave. Rich dark wood furniture, a red pool table with an unusual pool lamp- it's not the usual stained glass, this fixture has foxes in red waistcoats holding up electric candles - love that.

Wow, man cave indeed. That fireplace is the size of a room. You can definitely walk in there. And, look at the life-sized butler statue in the corner. Is he creepy?

The home gym looks commercial. Mirrored walls and a black ceiling make it look industrial.

Outside, the iron gate makes it look like a secret garden.

The hedges are cut in patterns.

It must cost a fortune to maintain these gardens. The property is 3.25 acres.

Is it me, or does the pool look like a fidget spinner.

I love conservatories and this one is lovely. The plants and wicker furniture really bring the outdoors in.

This is the prettiest tennis court with the trees and latticed fencing.

An elaborate play set for the children looks like it conveys.

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/44-Locust-Rd-Winnetka-IL-60093/70453195_zpid/

[haytham-loves-chocolate]

Enola Rossingol’s Journal Entry 8

Warning: a bit of foul language, mentions of blood, mentions of fighting

9th of July, 1755

Any way the wind blows

I cannot say what happened last night, but all seemed to turn on me in a flash. This aching feeling in my stomach, the loneliness I felt without someone beside me. Haytham insisted on camping elsewhere on his own, and it took all my mental strength not to show my true ways, but to reach out and touch his hand, begging him to stay. 

I feel blue, I see the blue sky above me. When it comes time to handle the situation, I slowly rise from where I slept, and I catch sight of a cloud slowly moving through the sky. Then, I felt the hand of someone familiar to me, with copper-like skin, the man I met with Ziio, Amias. 

“Your friend is already in the eyes of the enemy. The others have gone to help him.” His voice whispers to me, our faces close to each other, close enough to feel his breath close to mine. 

It would make any other lucky lady blush, but I am so focused on the mission I have to turn my head to look at the setting before me. 

All the beautiful trees, the beauty of nature. I wish I dared to leave. The bombardment, the sinking ships, the Natives that wish only for peace. I wish I dared to go. 

I turn my head back towards Amias, seeing his intriguing features in perfect detail. The light brown color of his eyes reminds me of chocolate, sweet like he was when we first met. The size of his nose is a cute tale to tell, with his high cheekbones giving much for his oval-shaped head. The nose, as I’m trying to explain to myself, may have been a bit crooked, but it is cutely small. From the side of his face, there is a small black line of warpaint, it looks a bit like eyeshadow. Or did he not get enough sleep last night? Whatever that case may be, I cannot help but describe his lips. Full, thick, glossy like lips. That chin, though, my god, diamonds could be his worst enemy if they ever touch that. He is of muscular build as I have said in my earlier entries, and hasn’t changed it since then.

A gunshot rings out from kilometers away, giving me the warning that I should make my way towards the others. Amias’s rough hands took mine before I could turn from him, and as I looked down at our hands, I saw he had taken the risk, to intertwine our fingers together. The blush on my face was apparent, even thinking about it now gives me goosebumps. It took a few seconds to think I should let go of his grip, which I proceeded to do. 

The first thing on my mind is running again, but I hesitate in which direction. From the corner of my eye, I see a gorgeous brown horse with a unique white spot around its left eye with other white spots close to the saddle. Without another word exchanged between us, I ran towards the horse. I quickly hopped up on the saddle and grabbed the reins. I use the heel of my boot to tap the flank of its body, and I get the reaction I wanted. The horse’s movements go from trotting to galloping, moving through the battle ensuing. 

I see Haytham’s redcoat outfit and know how he looks very well. The athletic build, the way the hat fits, and obviously, the red ribbon that flows with the wind to keep his hair tied together. I see that man on the ground; what was his name again? Ah yes, George Washington, that man. The Native woman, Ziio, has him down to the ground and her hand on a knife that she uses to best him. I dart my eyes over to the ensuing soldiers on the British side and the French side, shooting and stabbing each other with their bayonets. The other Natives try to help, but with what they have, it feels hopeless. 

I leave Haytham to finish his job, to assassinate the bastard bitch named Edward Braddock. I join Pitcairn, Hickey, Church, Lee, and Johnson in attacking the French, but I also attack some of the British soldiers who think it is right to attack me who is helping them. The practice helps, parrying, thrusting, and rolling over various people just to stab the person next to them. 

After a few more minutes of fighting, I glance up from the tops of my eyelids to see Haytham reunite with Ziio. From this moment, I noticed my vision turning black, but in a transparent way. It seems like time has stopped just for a moment as I look around to see the damage, the bodies, and my friends. Behind me, I see time play forward, showing me a British soldier with his gun out, his mouth open in a fit of rage, about to stab me with a bayonet. I snap my head back to where I was looking, at the two. Time seems to play normally, and I use this to my amusement. 

As I hear the soldier’s yells, I touch the tip of the bayonet with my bare hands, bending backward so the bayonet stabs another British soldier, and I do not hesitate in making the bayonet share its target. I bend the gun back as quickly as I move my hand close to the bottom of the musket rifle. I pull the trigger, making sure the target of the mini cannonball is his neck. It succeeds, and I quickly escape from the battle, securing my hiding spot behind some bushes as I take a closer look at where Haytham and Ziio are.

They seem to be in a short but deep conversation, and in Ziio’s hands is the amulet that was once around Haytham’s neck. I saw Ziio give the amulet back to him, and the amulet was back around his neck, which surprised me as I simply told the future out loud. 

I leave my hiding spot when I see Lee and the others getting closer to my location. My feet start to move in the direction of Haytham, being as quiet as I possibly can. But, I suddenly stop in my tracks as I see Haytham leaving with Ziio. I feel my heart crack open just a little more than it did last night, and I hate that feeling, the feeling of his leaving me. I feel my eyes dilate, I feel my pulse race. I feel… fear. This fear that he has left forever, that he is hers and I will never be in his line of thought, his line of sight. This jealousy will be the death and the beginning of me.

I feel the wind in my hair, I gaze out towards the blue sky, towards the tall forest of trees. I feel a couple of stares, while I feel the presence of Haytham and Ziio slipping away. 

I feel blue, oh so blue. I’m stuck back where I once was, following the Master like a small puppy, begging for attention. I am pleading for it again, and he’s abandoned me. He’s out of my league, yet I keep running to him. Love is a shit-mouthed whore.

Tonight, I go back to the aftermath of the battle, not caring I am the only one around. I sit under a willow tree, and I write to the Grand Master how many have died, I write to both the British and French soldiers of how many men they have lost. I write another letter to Amias, telling him of how many Natives became heroes, that this war will turn for the better. All I write is a total lie, but it makes me happy to know this will lift his spirits just a little.

The night sky casts an eerie light on the fallen, and I feel a sudden change of scenery. I will need to be prepared for what comes at me. 

[vancouverkitchenrenovation]

Small Bathroom Sink Ideas

Whether you’re looking for a small bathroom sink or sinks for a small bathroom, there are some great options out there. There are corner mount sinks, undermount sinks, artistic wash basins, and pedestal sinks, among others.

Pedestal sinks

Using pedestal sinks is a great way to save space in a small bathroom. They can also make a statement in a larger bathroom.

Pedestal sinks can be purchased in many different styles, materials, and designs. Some of the more popular designs are the Victorian and the modern.

Pedestal sinks also come in other sizes, such as the corner pedestal sink. This style conserves space while promoting a sleek look.

There are also pedestal sinks with hidden plumbing. These designs are great for smaller bathrooms because they don’t require a huge vanity.

Using a pedestal sink is also an affordable option. It is more functional than a conventional vanity and can save counter space.

Pedestal sinks are also easy to install. You will need to connect the sink to plumbing, but it’s a relatively straightforward process.

Undermount sinks

Using small bathroom sink ideas is a great way to give your bathroom a fresh look. There are a wide variety of styles and shapes, and you can find sinks to match any decor. Some of the most popular choices include undermount sinks and wall-mounted sinks.

Undermount sinks offer a sleek look and hide plumbing connections. They also provide a seamless counter surface, making cleaning easier. These sinks are made from a variety of materials, including copper, porcelain, and stainless steel. These sinks are also available in a variety of colors. They are easy to clean and can make your bathroom look beautiful.

Undermount sinks are available in several different shapes, including oval, round, and square. Undermount sinks are ideal for small bathrooms because they don’t take up counter space. These sinks are also less expensive than other sinks.

Corner mount sinks

Having a corner mount sink is a good way to save some floor space. These small, narrow pieces are generally less expensive and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. While they may not be able to hold the water for an overflow, they do offer some great space saving features.

They can be mounted on top of a vanity or directly to the wall. The design of these sinks can be minimalist or a little more elaborate. They’re generally made of ceramic, which is a versatile material. They are also easy to clean and match other elements of the bathroom.

One of the main benefits of a corner sink is that they provide a place for additional storage. They’re also a good option for bathrooms that don’t have a lot of countertop space. They also come in a variety of shapes and colors.

Side-mounted faucets

Using side-mounted faucets for small bathroom sink ideas is one way to save counter space. This is especially true when you have a shallow counter. It is also easier to clean.

A side-mounted faucet can provide a clean, modern look to your bathroom. They are also available in a variety of finishes, including stainless steel, matte black, and brass.

They are also easier to clean than deck-mounted faucets. However, they are more expensive. You’ll pay about 30 percent more for a wall-mounted faucet than a deck-mounted one.

If you want to save space, you may consider using a wall-mounted faucet. These are generally installed in the interior wall of your bathroom. They offer an upscale look that will complement your decor. However, they can be tricky to install. You may have to open the wall to access the pipes, and you will also need to repair the wall after installation.

Artistic wash basins

Creating a bathroom with Artistic wash basins is a great way to add personality and elegance. They are made from the finest materials and provide a rich, surprising and cosmopolitan look. They are a must have in every home.

Artistic wash basins come in a wide variety of designs. Some are made of glass, stone, or ceramic. They are available in undermount and above-counter styles. These basins are easy to clean and provide a beautiful look. They are also a great way to keep pets clean. They are also useful for washing make-up brushes and baby bathing accessories.

Some artistic basins are made of high-gloss ceramic. This coating makes the surface resistant to bacteria and alkaline substances. They also have a glossy finish, which makes cleaning the basin easy.

The bathroom is often the last room people consider renovating, which makes sense since it’s usually the smallest space in the house. With Vancouver Kitchen Renovation, you can expect a spa-like bathroom that feels luxurious and is built to last. We’ll create a custom bathroom design based on your preferences and budget and handle everything from demolition to installation.

We understand that to be successful is to stay ahead of the curve. That means staying current with the latest technology and design trends. We always want to improve our products or services without breaking the bank. That’s why we stay connected to the latest technologies of NKBA, National Kitchen and Bath Association. In addition, at Vancouver Kitchen renovation, our primary focus is providing sustainable bathroom design and renovation packages, and we believe in sustainable living. Sustainable living is a way of life in harmony with nature. It is a lifestyle which focuses on the preservation of our environment. Sustainable living is a philosophy emphasizing respect for the environment and concern for its well-being. This means we should take care of the planet and treat it as if it were our home. We should try to preserve what we have and protect it from destruction. If we do this, we will enjoy the benefits of the earth’s resources for many generations. Whether you’re planning a major remodel or adding finishing touches to your current bathroom, we’d love to discuss your project. Book your showroom consultation online.

Main Areas of Service in British Columbia:

Vancouver

North Vancouver

West Vancouver

Burnaby

Coquitlam

Squamish

Whistler

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost for a shower to be replaced?

A complete shower re/re in Vancouver, British Columbia, can cost up to $10,000. This is for an entire project that would include the following:

Shower base (including drain)

Floor and wall tiles

Glass shower door or shower curtain

Fixtures (shower head, taps, soap dish, etc.)

Plumbing work

Waterproofing, tiling, and other work

Ventilation

Permits

What trends are expected for bathrooms in 2023

The bathroom industry is evolving rapidly because consumers are demanding better quality products at lower prices.

The next generation of bathroom design is going to be focused on safe and sustainable materials.

This includes waterless urinals, low-flow toilets, dual flush technology, and smart home systems.

This trend will also emphasize health and wellbeing by offering shower heads and other devices that promote better hygiene.

What is the most costly part of a bathroom remodeling project?

The most costly part of bathroom remodeling is labor. Professional labour can be expensive depending on the scope and size of your project. Expect to pay between $10,000 and $15,000 depending upon its complexity. This does not include the cost for materials. The price of materials can vary widely depending upon the type of fixtures or finishes that you choose.

Statistics

2023 bathroom design trends: Heated floors were favoured by a substantial 75% of those who responded to the survey.(https://nkba.org)

According to the EPA, a conventional toilet uses 1.6 gallons per flush, but that old pink one could use between 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush. (elemental.green)

With this technology, whether you take a 5-minute or a 50-minute shower, you’ll use the same amount of water, reducing your use up to 90 percent! (elemental.green)

2023 bathroom design trends: Digital showering allows users to program their preferred flow rate, and the temperature was a 23% preference. 44% wanted the ability to start their showers with their phones. (https://nkba.org)

2023 bathroom design trends: Large format tiles were favoured by 59% of those surveyed.mSlab surfaces were favoured by 40% of those surveyed. (https://nkba.org)

2023 bathroom design trends: 82% of those surveyed preferred low-maintenance, nonporous surfaces for their bathroom. (https://nkba.org)

WaterSense-labeled bathroom sink faucets use a maximum of 1.5 gallons per minute, reducing water use by 30 percent or more from the standard flow of 2.2 gallons per minute – without sacrificing performance. (elemental.green)

Other sustainability instruments developed by Noken include an ‘Eco cartridge’ (its two-position switch makes it possible to use 50% less water and energy), and a water ‘flow rate limiter’ (that uses jets and air to reduce water consumption). (decoist.com)

This article will reveal more about AntiBac surfaces and how Villeroy and Boch products have 99.9% fewer bacteria. (superbath.co.uk)

2023 bathroom design trends: Chromotherapy, which uses coloured lights to stimulate relaxation, was chosen by 25%. Preset lighting schemes for different times during the day were favoured by 29%. (https://nkba.org)

According to a 2019 remodelling report from the National Association of Realtors, 70 percent of consumers “have a greater desire to be home” after a bathroom renovation, so read on and soak up the secrets. (housebeautiful.com)

Glass tile is one of the greenest bathroom flooring options because it can be 100% recycled. (caddetailsblog.com)

External Links

houzz.com

2020 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study

Houzz

bhg.com

How to Paint Bathroom Cabinets for an Easy Vanity Upgrade

How To

How to design a beautiful bathroom yourself

Choose a color scheme that matches your home Be sure to consider how your chosen colour scheme will match the rest of your house before you make a decision. For example, if you live in an older home, you may want to avoid bright colours such as red, orange, yellow, and green. Instead, choose soft colours like blue, grays, white, or cream.

You have more options when it comes to bathroom colors if you live in a newly constructed home. Brighter colors are possible, but they should be used sparingly. A brightly-coloured towel rack or accent wall might be enough to give your space some personality.

You should ensure that there is plenty of storage space

Your bathroom should have ample storage. This means that you need to leave enough space for your towels, hand soap, makeup brushes and other bathroom items.

If space is tight, you might consider floating shelves or medicine cabinets. These shelves will provide extra storage space, but not take up too much space.

Consider adding mirrors

Mirrors make an excellent addition to any bathroom. Mirrors allow you to see yourself from the bathroom without having to leave the powder room. Mirrors come with a variety of sizes and shapes. There are many shapes and sizes of mirrors. You can even find mirrors that are shaped like animals or flowers.

Get the best lighting

Lighting is important and deserves special attention. Lighting your bathroom is a complex task that requires careful consideration.

The first thing you need to think about is what type of light bulbs you want to use. There are many options available, including fluorescent, halogen and LED.

Next, you need to decide where your light fixtures will be located. The ceiling, walls or ceilings are all options. But it’s best to also consider natural lighting. Your bathroom must have sufficient windows to let in natural lighting. A skylight may be an option if you don’t have enough windows.

Your personal preference will determine which type of lighting is best for you. You should make sure the fixtures are suitable for bathroom use. This will ensure that they can withstand moisture and humidity.

Choose the Right Flooring

Choose slip-resistant and easy-to-clean flooring. There are many options for bathroom flooring: luxury vinyl, porcelain tiles and natural stone.

Avoid dark-coloured flooring in small bathrooms. This will make the space appear smaller and more cramped. Instead, choose lighter colours such white, cream and beige.

Be Careful in Your Layout

It is just as important to plan the layout of your bathroom as the colors and fixtures that you choose. Think about how you will use your bathroom space when planning the layout.

A small bathroom might be an example of this. This will let you move more freely.

In a larger bathroom, you might want to install a second sink. This will give you more countertop space and make it easier so that two people can get ready at the same time.

Once you understand how you want to use the space, you can start planning your layout. Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of your room. You can then sketch out several layout options on graph paper.

After you’ve seen a few layouts and decided on the one that works best in your space.

Remember to ventilate

Proper ventilation is necessary to keep mildew and mould from growing in bathrooms. This is especially true if you live somewhere humid.

Before you install the fan, be sure to carefully read the instructions provided by your manufacturer. Make sure that the fan vents to the outside of the home.

Use high-quality materials

Choose high-quality materials when remodeling your bathroom. The durability and resistance to damage of high-quality materials is better. While they may cost more initially, these materials will be cheaper in the long-term.

Ask for help from professionals

Remodeling your bathroom doesn’t have to take too much time. Hire professionals to do the job right. The different aspects that go into building projects are handled by professional contractors. They can install heating/cooling systems and plumbing wiring. You will save time and avoid headaches by hiring professionals. Additionally, they are experts at each stage of the project.

Enjoy Your New bathroom

Now it’s time for you to finally enjoy your bathroom. You can finish the bathroom with some finishing touches like scented candles, fluffy towels and a plant. These small touches will make your bathroom feel homelier.

It’s now time to get started on your bathroom remodel. These are some tips to help you design the bathroom of your dreams.

The post Small Bathroom Sink Ideas first appeared on Vancouver Kitchen Renovation.

source https://vancouverkitchenrenovation.com/bathrooms/small-bathroom-sink-ideas/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=small-bathroom-sink-ideas

[tecasakitchen]

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink in 2023

Different Features of Kitchen Sink

When it comes to designing your kitchen, choosing the right sink can make a big difference in both functionality and aesthetics. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which kitchen sink is the best fit for your needs. That's why understanding the features and benefits of different sink types and materials is essential. In this article, we will discuss the various features of kitchen sinks and how to choose the right one for your kitchen.

Kitchen Sink Features:

Single or Double Bowls:

When choosing a kitchen sink, the number of bowls is an important factor to consider. Single-bowl sinks are great for those who need a lot of space for washing large pots and pans. Double bowl sinks are ideal for those who prefer to have one side for washing and another for rinsing.

Ledge or No Ledge:

Ledge sinks offer additional counter space, which is perfect for those who need extra room to prep or dry dishes. No ledge sinks have a more streamlined appearance and are easier to clean.

Sound Dampening Technology:

Some sinks come with sound dampening technology to reduce the noise of water and dishes clanging in the sink. This is a great option for those who have open kitchen layouts or who want a quieter sink experience.

Accessories:

Kitchen sinks can come with various accessories, such as cutting boards, colanders, and drying racks, to increase their functionality.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink:

Shape:

The shape of your kitchen sink can impact both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Square or rectangular sinks offer a modern look and more usable space, while rounded or oval sinks provide a more traditional look and take up less counter space.

Quality of Materials:

Kitchen sinks are available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, copper, granite, fireclay, and cast iron. Stainless steel is durable and affordable, while porcelain offers a classic look. Copper sinks have a warm, rustic appeal, and granite sinks are durable and low maintenance. Fireclay and cast iron sinks are both strong and long-lasting.

Installation Requirements:

Consider the installation requirements for the sink you choose, including the type of mounting and whether or not you need a garbage disposal.

Measurement:

It's important to measure the space where you plan to install the sink to ensure that the size and shape are a good fit.

Consider Your Kitchen Space:

Choose a sink that fits your kitchen space and complements your kitchen's overall style.

Consider Your Budget:

Kitchen sinks are available at a variety of price points, so it's important to choose one that fits your budget.

Consider Your Needs:

Think about your specific needs, such as the size of your family, your cooking habits, and your cleaning preferences.

Frequently Asked Question:

What is the difference between a single bowl and a double bowl sink?

A single bowl sink has one large basin, while a double bowl sink has two separate basins. Double bowl sinks are more convenient for multi-tasking in the kitchen, while single bowl sinks are better for washing larger items.

How do I clean my kitchen sink?

To clean your kitchen sink, use a mild soap or cleaner and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface of the sink. Rinse the sink thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean towel.

How often should I replace my kitchen sink?

The lifespan of a kitchen sink depends on the material and how well it is maintained. A high-quality sink that is properly cared for can last for decades. However, if your sink is damaged or showing signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace it.

Can I install a kitchen sink myself?

It is possible to install a kitchen sink yourself if you have the necessary skills and tools. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is best to hire a professional plumber to ensure that the installation is done correctly.

How do I choose the right faucet for my kitchen sink?

When choosing a faucet for your kitchen sink, consider the style, finish, and features that you need. Look for a faucet that complements the design of your kitchen and has the functionality that you require, such as a pull-out sprayer or a high-arc spout.

At Tecasa, we understand the importance of selecting the perfect kitchen sink for your space. By taking into account the different factors and features discussed in this article, you can find a sink that suits both your practical requirements and aesthetic preferences. Whether you are looking for a single or double bowl sink, a contemporary or classic design, or a material that is easy to maintain or more high-end, we offer a wide range of options to choose from. Here at Tecasa, we offer a range of features to choose from, and the right choice depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. We are committed to helping you make informed decisions and designing the perfect kitchen for you. Let us help you find the ideal kitchen sink to enhance your home. 

The post How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink in 2023 appeared first on Tecasa Kitchen. 

Source: https://tecasakitchen.com/blogs/articles/choosing-the-feature-and-the-right-kitchen-sink

at April 24, 2023  

[mariellewritesalot]

Field Notes on Walking

(Boungainvillea at someone’s house I found breathtaking)

I’ve been on my feet a lot since you left.

The first few days, I started wandering around the neighborhood I grew up in, admiring the way the sky changed color as the sun came down. I think about how I’ve lived here for 23 years, and I’m about to move away soon without truly knowing the place. I would pause to take photos of plants I found interesting, take mental notes of houses with designs that made me wish I lived in them---or at the very least, be capable of creating something that aspired permanence. I soon found out that the one plant that grew like vines in my camera roll was called Bougainvillea, often big and pink with the sunlight peeking through its leaves. The perfect contrast to the sky blue and white. I looked up a lot, comforted by the idea that we are smaller than we think we are, in the grand scheme of things. I listened to folklore and evermore by Taylor Swift on these walks. I felt heavy, like I carried around rocks in my pockets. If I was in the water as often as you are, I would sink.

I think of Taylor singing, “If my wishes came true, it would have been you,” I reject the idea of pining, the concept of missing someone who was never there. 

The ground is always there for me. It’s solid, it makes me feel real. I could go through bumps or roads that could use fixing, but at least I know of its consistency. After a loss, we all cling onto something constant to keep ourselves grounded. I might have taken it too literally. 

I started running a little bit after those first few days of just walking. So much so that two of my old rubber shoes broke down, an indication that I’ve been moving around a lot more than I was and I didn’t wear them enough back then that they just gave up. My parents, not alarmed at all about this old/new hobby, got me a new pair. New Balance. I’ve been using it almost every day. I would go for 10,000 steps or more, obsessed with the numbers on my step tracker, and always wanting to one-up myself. I wear my black puffer jacket and a headband, my shockingly pink Aquaflask in hand. I went from walking for thirty minutes until sundown, running in the dark after five, to a person who goes for a walk and then runs 3km-5km all before eight in the morning. I went to the beat up track and field oval near my house so much that the guards recognize me every morning, and we greet each other like friends. Sometimes I arrived as I normally do, and the oval would be closed for an event or two for a few days. At one point, they got my number so they could let me know, and I could ask them if I needed to. Even when I miss a couple of days, I find myself still coming back.

I discovered other pains, like chafing and muscle aches. I have a little jar of petroleum jelly, now as important to me as sunscreen. By the end of February, my hair was back to copper. I got a job. I learned to ride jeepneys again. I breathe a lot better. I wake up around six in the morning unprompted.

(El Cato! Sleeping on the grass!)

A middle-aged woman named Rebecca complimented me one morning, noticing that I’ve been around, and that in her eyes I lost weight. We briefly say hi to each other when we’re there at the same time now. At one point, for fun, I joined the regular morning Zumba before I ran around the oval because an old man from that community invited me to try it. I befriended a cat, let my Instagram followers name it “El Cato,” and even after finding out she was a girl, stuck to the bit. I used to be afraid of touching cats in fear of getting scratched. Now we take photos and I speak Spanish to her. I’m relieved whenever I see her sleeping on the grass, and worried when she’s nowhere to be seen. I try and take the feeling of missing you and putting it towards her, a worthy opponent for my affection.

One morning, my friend Mon joined me for a jog around the academic oval in UP, and we’ve started looking into doing this at least once a week. In these runs with him, I forgo my earphones. We talk the entire time, even when the jog sometimes leaves me out of breath, and he matches my pace when I go slow. We pass my water bottle back and forth. We sit at Sunken Garden and eat taho, I told him I will miss that sweet soy and tapioca with syrup delight the most when I move to Spain in September. I get my stuff from Ate Beth and we buy kiosk snacks from her, usually kwek kwek and cheese sticks. Some days, I join him and his girlfriend, Gia, for lunch. 

On my runs alone, I listen to music and internalize everything I feel. I think about the life I’ll live in Spain, and the one I’m living now in the Philippines where I try to be as present as possible because it’s also the only one I know. On runs with a friend, I learn to verbalize these without dissolving into a puddle of tears. I admit to things I don’t want to believe. I worry out loud about the vast future, the one I’ve been working towards--so near that it terrifies me. Truth be told, a lot of things have been going well for me. I’ve been moving forward, as I should. Like I promised you, because really, what else is there left to do?

(A beautiful pink sky at the oval I jog in)

When I think about admitting to you on the last time we spoke that I think I was in love with you, I sometimes wish I never said anything that vulnerable it makes me want to throw up. I hate that you knew me like that. I hate that I could never hate you. I hate that it was true and I can no longer take it back. It makes me think of Rory Gilmore in Season 3 of Gilmore girls, receiving that silent phone call during her graduation from Chilton with Jess Mariano on the other line, where she tearfully admits, “I think I may have loved you, but I just need to let it go. So, that’s it, I guess. I hope you’re good, I want you to be good.”

Sometimes I run until I feel like if I don’t stop, I’ll cough my lungs out. In one of those articles I found on the internet, I read that sometimes it helps to not listen to music during my time with nature. To be mindful, I need to be present. I focus on my breath, the feeling of sweat rolling down from my forehead, and the noise around me. I look up a lot. The Acacia trees around the oval at UP are so beautiful it hurts. There are days when I wish I could have taken you there, when I wish we had more time. Sometimes I feel like you’re the only person who would get it, whatever it was I wanted to talk about.

On other days, I’m relieved that we’re an ocean apart. It’s like that Michael Ondaatje quote from The English Patient, “Half my days I cannot bear not to touch you. The rest of my time I feel like it doesn’t matter if I will ever see you again. It isn’t the morality, it’s how much you can bear.”

Nowadays, if I can walk to a place, I walk. Three kilometers is beginning to feel too easy. The heat is unbearable in the summer, though. Sometimes, my left shin starts hurting, and I have to shake my leg out--only slightly paranoid that I pulled a muscle. When I’m at the gym, I do the 3-12-30 method on the treadmill, which is essentially walking uphill at 12 incline and the speed on 3 for 30 minutes before or after weights. I still do yoga, though not as consistently as I’d like. From exclusively listening to sad songs, I’ve been listening to songs that make me feel good. I resist the urge to dance around or sing out loud when I take the jeep so I could make it to work in time. I go out on Friday nights, for a drink or dinner, and maybe soon, a date. I imagine you’d laugh, in a way that isn’t cruel, but in that way where it’s like a private joke between us.

(Clouds in one of my late afternoon walks)

So, no, I am not sitting around at home feeling sorry for myself. I’ve been through heartbreak so many times that I know how to care for myself the way I need to be taken care of. I make it a point to always bounce back. On our accidental first date, we asked each other: “For what in your life do you feel most grateful?” You smiled at me when I said, “My grit. Before, if something didn’t work out or a guy broke my heart, I would be inconsolable--”

“Inconsolable?!” You repeated teasingly.

I laughed, “Yeah! But now I just know that it’s going to work out for me, anyway. God has a better plan, something like that. I just try to be better.”

I swear I’m trying so hard. We were playing 36 Questions. We only got until the 15th question because we were talking so much. The next set of questions, we played the last time we saw each other. Maybe we shouldn’t have played it, knowing how much it revealed to us that night, but I couldn’t resist getting to know you. You couldn’t resist it either, that pull. No matter how much we insist that we don’t know each other that well, one thing I’m sure of is that no two people have connected as easily as we have. At least there is that.

So I’ll keep walking. I’ll run harder if I have to. I’ll drive myself crazy keeping track of the steps I take every day. I’ll keep counting down the days, feel a little ache every time it’s the fourth of every month. I’ll move to a continent where the time zone is eight hours behind yours as opposed to just three. I’ll keep praying for you. I’ll keep telling myself, “Know it’s for the better,” like Phoebe Bridgers sang in Waiting Room, when I feel like it never will be. I’ll wonder if we could truly ever be just friends, in the purest sense of the word, if we could ever forget how it felt. I’ll wonder if I would ever see you again. 

I guess one thing I can stand firm on is acknowledging that it was real for me. Whatever it was. I hope it was for you, too. I wouldn’t want to know.

[whatwwwwwww]

same text just not in italics

[I have the skirt on later as I stand at my kitchen stove, fixing supper. You come up behind me, run your hands down the fluid material and back over my hips. You slip your hands forward and grip my thighs, pull me back as you grind your pelvis and cunt hard into my ass, a pulse of fucking. I bend forward slightly, sink my hips into you, shove my hands for leverage against the stove's steel edge. I smile as I feel your hands discover nothing but skin underneath my skirt. You pull me down, and the white suns flare out on the blue around me. 

Walking fast up Broadway in noon heat, on my way to meet you in the city, I'm enjoying the cool swish of my skirt, the small oval of shade cast by my straw hat. I've missed my body's sensuality I dared not show, afraid to be seen as too much of a woman in public. Now I've decided to dress as I please. Last night I'd wished for my hat when I was walking a side street and a van pulled up beside me. The driver was someone who thought one glance at a skirt allowed him to own what's under it. He cruised by slowly, making kissing sounds. This happens sometimes even when I wear my wide-brimmed hat, but I hold my head up higher, and in the crown is stuck my grandmother's tortoiseshell hatpin, with its six-inch shaft. Men might look at me and the the hat, but they don't usually slow down. Today, under my summer hat, I walk in the space I create around me. I move down the street inside the wind of my skirt. I pass through hundreds and hundreds of people, and then, at 34th Street, I see a young white woman standing on the corner, punked out in a steel-studded leather jacket, spreading the blades of a black lace fan. She has pulled her hair back in a french braid and threaded it, not with ribbons, but with copper wires. Blue rose tattoos run up her muscular forearms, and her stockings are roses woven into black lace. Steel-spiked bracelets are her thorns. On the crowded corner, she slowly, slowly, unfolds her fan, under the glaring sun.]

remind me to transcribe this one

[rusticahouse]

Copper has been used for centuries due to its timeless beauty and warm, inviting hue. It brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to any bathroom, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both sustainability and aesthetics. Whether your bathroom has a modern, traditional, or rustic design, bathroom copper appliances such as copper oval or vessel sinks effortlessly complement any style and can serve as a focal point that enhances the overall ambiance. This is a strong argument that gives this metal extra points when you are choosing between different materials. Its warmth hue goes very well with rustic interior decor but also works quite well as a juxtaposition in very modern interiors.

[made-to-order]

Indulge in the ultimate luxury with copper freestanding tubs. Crafted from high-quality copper, these tubs exude elegance and sophistication, transforming your bathroom into a lavish spa retreat. With their sleek lines and timeless appeal, copper freestanding tubs are the epitome of luxury and comfort, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate in style. Now that you've gathered inspiration from the beauty of Mexican design, it's time to bring your vision to life. Start by selecting key elements such as copper oval sinks, Talavera vessel sinks, and a copper freestanding tub to serve as the focal points of your spa-inspired bathroom. Complement these fixtures with soft lighting, plush towels, and aromatic candles to create a serene ambiance that invites relaxation and renewal. Transforming your bathroom into a Mexican-inspired spa retreat is a journey of exploration and creativity. By incorporating elements such as copper oval sinks, Talavera vessel sinks, and copper freestanding tubs, you can create a space that not only reflects your style but also nurtures your body, mind, and spirit. 

[mycustomcopper]

Now, let’s move on to the bathroom—the ultimate sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Upgrade your ordinary sink to a stunning copper oval sink, adding a touch of rustic charm to your bathroom vanity. Paired with a custom-made copper bathtub, you create a spa-like oasis that beckons potential buyers to unwind and indulge in luxury. And let’s not forget the finishing touches—a copper mirror frame that adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to your bathroom decor. Reflecting light and adding depth, a copper mirror enhances the overall ambiance of the space, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, copper is also a durable and eco-friendly choice for your home. Its longevity ensures that your investment will continue to shine for years to come, while its recyclability makes it a sustainable option for environmentally-conscious buyers. Incorporating copper accents into your home is more than just a design choice—it’s a statement of style and sophistication that sets your property apart from the rest. So, if you’re looking to attract potential buyers and command top dollar for your home, consider updating your space with the timeless allure of copper. It’s the secret ingredient for a successful sale that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

[dontpetmeibite]

"A few different things," Soundwave says, looking over the assembled ingredients. "If I use thin slices of foamed metal as the base for gel pastilles, they'll make the energon go further, and if this experiment works, I might be able to make something for the whole crew soon--for instance, if we rescue someone, or there's a conjunction, or somebody kindles a newspark--it's risky and we try to prevent it but a new life is still worth celebrating."

He examines the cubes. "Wicked," he says, when he sees the blue one; they'd mined it from a gas giant recently. "Surprised you managed to save some of this. This will be perfect with copper foam--"

The sheets of copper foam look deceptively soft. They only compress a little. Soundwave cuts them into heart shapes. "Ravi?"

Ravage reaches into the smaller cool-box and removes several bottles of coolant. She hands one to Megatron. This at least they have plenty of. No one has ever confused her with a scientist, and even she knows how to synthesise sweet glycols--at least in theory. She drinks half of the second one herself then puts a long straw into it for Laserbeak, who has no desire to leave Megatron's shoulder.

Soundwave is reducing the energon into a thicker, pastier substance. The blue energon takes on the heart shape of the copper foam, and he dots it with pale pink mineral chips while Ravage shakes the third bottle of coolant until it comes out as a lather that sinks into the surface of the blue energon paste until it puffs and softens.

There's also a silvery metal foam, and the lather of coolant sinks into it and swells up so that Soundwave can take the pink gelled energon and pinch it into a soft oval that he tucks into the empty space in the centre--then he sprinkles it with mineral dusts that thread and marble through the pink energon gel.

Finally he turns to Ravage, who nods and fetches what looks like a handful of organic plant material--tiny, heavily scented, thin petals, which he scatters over the tops of the treats.

"We have to let them set," Ravage informs Megatron and Laserbeak, as Soundwave puts the treats into the larger cool-box.

dontpetmeibite​:

“And we love you, as does everyone aboard.” Ravage smiles; it’s a little less practised, this time.

“I’m sorry, I got another love-note from Deadlock-that-was. He has absolutely no idea where we are, but he wants us to think that he does so we’ll show ourselves and try to rescue him again. I didn’t want to tell you, but apparently I am only slightly better at keeping anything from you than I am at keeping it from my Sir.”

She sighs. She wants an end to the war as much as anyone does. But she also wants to be a mother to her own children as well as the domesticated and cassettified people her conjunx is always taking in and finding homes for, and she knows she can’t until there’s reason to believe that they will grow up safe and free.

“The next time ‘Lock shows his face, I am going to put him out of his misery…and our own.”

Megatron rumbles again, and then this time he’s putting his arm around Ravage, half shelter, half offered comfort. “I’m assuming Sir Soundwave already knows?” he asks, gently, but his broad wings cant their unease. “And that I would not enjoy the words he speaks– but I will listen, if you need me to.” the big white triple changer assures, firmly. 

“… You know wherever he is, the one who tore him away from us is not far behind.” he adds, after a moment. 

“I… cannot let you stand alone against him, if he finds us, or the next time we encounter him. I will not risk your life or safety needlessly.” Megatron looks faintly troubled. “The Autobots have taken enough from us.” 

[twofrontteethstillcrooked]

Destiel Month, 7 Nov.: Decorate

"You're welcome," Dean said. Entirely too easy to smile at Cas these days. He kept catching himself doing it.

It kept…not feeling weird.

deancas ust, s9 au + human cas

Shout out and thank you to @clenster for a specific character beat in this one :)

Dean heaved his giant sack from Bullseye onto Cas's bed and grinned. "Check it out – we hit up the clearance aisle and found some good bargains." He felt like Santa bestowing gifts upon orphans as he started to unload his finds, the first of which were three green and white striped beach towels big enough even for his behemoth of a brother.

Cas said, "But those don't match." 

"Don't match what?"

"The other towels." Cas's face was a masterpiece of confusion. "The other towels are pale yellow."

"So?" 

"The other towels match the shower curtain."

"So?" Dean repeated as he sat down on the bed and snatched back the towel Cas was unfolding with such disdain.

"I thought the colors were all supposed to match." Cas sat too, looking contrite.

Now Dean's stomach cramped with the distinct feeling he'd just kicked a puppy for no good reason. "Who told you that stuff has to match?" he asked, attempting a non-threatening tone of voice.

"There were several magazines about home goods and interiors at the doctor's office last week." Cas began to take more things out of the giant sack. "The nurse who gave vaccines was running late, so I had time to read multiple articles. The houses in them were very, hmm, well coordinated."

"Well, yeah, but those houses are staged. Most people don't live like that – especially when it comes to bath towels, for pity's sake. Folks just buy whatever's on sale. Plus, we're hard on clothes and linens 'round here, so we're probably burning through towels more quickly than some would." Dean helped him unfurl a washable rag rug. "And look: this has all the colors in it. Matches everything."

"For the bathroom?"

"For in here, if you want it. These concrete floors are cold as fuck." Off of the return of Cas's confused eyebrows, Dean shook out the rug onto the floor up by his bedside table. "So when you first put your feet on the floor in the mornings, they don't freeze up completely while you're putting on socks or whatever."

"Oh." Cas toed the rug's fringed edge and smiled at him. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Dean said. Entirely too easy to smile at Cas these days. He kept catching himself doing it.

It kept…not feeling weird.

He looked at the rest of the items he'd bought while Sam had, arguably more responsibly, bought the bulk of the groceries and toilet paper. The clearance aisle had indeed been magnificent; the holidays were coming, and the store was apparently offloading anything that wasn't covered in holly berries or jingle bells. Dean wasn't an after-season kind of shopper under normal circumstances, or even an any time of year shopper most days of the week, but he'd been slightly like a man possessed in front of so many bins of discounted doodads and widgets.

Note to self, he thought: Investigate whether big box stores employ witchcraft to trick customers into buying more crap than they actually need.

Except – maybe he didn't need a five dollar lamp or a mirror with a classy fake copper frame for the low, low price of $9.99 or two dollars and nineteen cents' worth of tea lights that smelled like apple pie, but there was someone in the bunker who might, or who at least might like having them, need or not.

"Hey, so." Dean pushed the things into a pile. "This stuff was not expensive, and you don't have to take any of it if you don't want to, but um. You're welcome to any or all of it. The lamp would work over by the bed or on top of the chest of drawers. We could replace that plain old mirror over the sink with this oval one – it'd be a little nicer to look at, anyway." He walked over to hold the new mirror overtop the one on the wall in demonstration. "Fancy, huh?"

Cas looked almost shy when he asked, "You're not going to use these?" 

"Nope. Yours for the taking." 

"Well, I'll pay you back as soon as I can." Cas picked up the lamp and admired the turquoise glass of the base. 

"Nah, don't worry about it. And we should see about picking you up a few more things. You could make a list. Lots of comforters and knicknacks out there to be had." Dean bounced a little on the balls of his feet. 

"I'd like that." Cas glanced between the lamp and the mirror and the rug on the floor. "You did very well matching these for someone who wasn't even trying to."

Dean snorted, but weirdly, Cas was right. "It's probably 'cause I naturally have impeccable taste."

"Or maybe you were lucky." Cas's words had a bite his expression otherwise didn't, and once more Dean was smiling back before he could stop himself. "Thank you again."

"Sure." Dean started taking the tags off of the towels. "What else did you learn from those articles about decorating?"

He realized after about eight seconds that he didn't care that much about the answer; he just wanted to talk to his best friend in his best friend's bedroom in the home they shared.

Maybe tomorrow they could go shopping.

[hometoursandotherstuff]

This new home in Texas has an old European feel, but it also has some funky modern surprises.  It might be situated in one of the biggest cities in the U.S but you'd easily mistake this home for a historic French property, nestled in the fields of Provence.

The entry flows into a more formal living room, with the same limestone checkerboard floors to link the two spaces. The overall feel of this space is one of antiquity, but once the eye has focused, you can see it's actually an eclectic blend of styles. That contemporary aubergine velvet sofa!

A bold abstract expressionist painting contrasts a carved stone side table. There are so many layers going on here, and yet all the pieces fit together.

The kitchen blends a kind of French rustic charm with something more modern and industrial. It's a style that's hard to pinpoint, with the mix of metal-clad cabinets and their exposed hardware, and the copper pot collection, but like all the rooms in this home, the mix works.

The white marble worktops give all the natural materials a modern, more glamorous twist and lifts the dark steely blue of the cabinetry.

The limestone flooring adds even more texture to the space.

A custom-made oval dining table with an oversized sculptural chandelier mirroring the oval shape. Far from the more traditional designs, this is made from antiqued steel and was designed to be the sole focal point.

Near the dining room is the dramatic black marble bar. The wooden cabinets soften the look but it still remains a very sleek, sophisticated space.

One of the main features of the family room is the reclaimed beams. The antique screen is from the 40s. This space also has that same quirky mix of old and new.

Behind a solid custom reclaimed oak door is the downstairs powder room. Limestone floors, plaster walls, marble countertop, raw stone sink, antiqued glass, all work together to turn the smallest room in the house into one of the most stunning.

In the master bedroom a custom parquet walnut floor adds warmth. To counteract the vaulted ceiling, and make the room feel more intimate, a matching walnut screen surrounds the custom-made bed frame.

Antique reclaimed marble floor in the master bathroom.

Circular freestanding tub, Italian giltwood mirror in Rococo style and an antique milking stool.

The guest bedroom has a distinctively more contemporary, Mediterranean feel with the gauzy canopy around the simple black iron bedframe.

The guest bathroom has the same contemporary feel – a sleek white tub and modern light fixtures. The rustic oak stool and vintage rug add texture and a slightly rustic touch.

https://www.livingetc.com/features/new-build-home-in-texas-with-european-style

[nosferatvpussy]

distorted lullabies [chapter XVIII]

Word count: 4,365

Warnings: reader is still at Dracula’s *shrug*

Pairing: Dracula x reader

AO3 link | masterlist

A/N: 1. I'm not posting the chapters as consistently as I'd like to because work has been really time consuming lately and when I do get time to write I'm too exhausted to think up of anything coherent. Holidays are approacing and my workload has only increased so I don't know if I'll be able to post chpt 19 in December. I'll try but I can't guarantee anything. If that doesn't happen, then I wish all of you happy holidays.  [edit: I slipped, and accidentally uploaded a version where the reader has a name (she does in my doc). Apologies, everybody. It’s fixed now.]

 __________________________________________

Dracula carried me to the bathroom. I stifled a giggle as soon as we crossed the threshold. It was either the biggest bathroom I had ever seen or I was shrinking. The walls were black marble with white and grey veins. Heavy curtains like the ones in the dining room covered a wall. Light peeked from under it. I supposed there was a big window there so that one could admire London’s skyline from inside the oval bathtub placed near it. Across from the sink countertop and a large mirror, stood the shower separated from the rest of the room by  blurred glass.

He lowered me near the bathtub, murmuring for me to open the faucets. Keeping one arm around his neck, I reached and opened them. As the bathtub filled, Dracula held me under his shower to let the water wash off the blood. He stripped me of the rest of my clothes. When I swayed on my feet, he enveloped me in a hug to keep me steady. Drowsy, I buried my head on his chest and closed my eyes. 

Hot water embraced my whole body and I opened my eyes with a start as I was carefully lowered into the bathtub with him. His fingers kneaded my scalp and tugged softly on my hair as he washed it. The contours of my body were touched with the sole intent of cleaning it. After so much of moving me around, of raising my limbs and tender touches, I fell still, lying on him with my cheek on the crook of his neck. 

Submerged in water and in deep silence, I was suspended in a veil of sleep and wakefulness, threading between the two. For a moment I wondered if I was not dreaming. If perhaps I fell asleep at some point on the tube from Covent Garden to Knightsbridge and dreaming of peace in the arms of Count Dracula was the illusory result. As a test, I squeezed him lightly. He squeezed back. 

Not a dream. 

This was real. Everything that had just happened was real. There was no bond. My will was my own. I had a bite on my neck. Mallory had one and so did Diana. I was his. He said he was mine. 

Was this peace?

I shivered. 

“Are you cold?” I heard his voice deep inside his chest, the rumble it made inside his ribcage. It was quiet in there, except when he spoke. 

“No.”

“You’re shivering.”

“Maybe the water is getting cold,” I mumbled, pressing my eyes closed. This was peace. Peace, I insisted.

“The water is still hot,” he said. He pushed the hair that clung to my neck and I flinched at the slight soreness there but relaxed as he stroked the skin gently. “I may have taken too much.” 

He moved beneath me. I opened my eyes with a sigh as he sat up and leaned his back against the tub. His legs parted my own and he pulled me up to straddle him. I felt his length grazing my inner thigh. I was briefly distracted as I remembered his size stretching me but Dracula made a brusque movement with his hand that pulled my mind away from that. A dark carmine line appeared above his collarbone. 

“Drink,” he beckoned.

I spared the blood a glance before fixing my eyes on his face.

“You’ve already given it to me.”

“You need more.” He held my cheek, drawing me closer. “You’re weak. It’ll help.”

I shook my head. Blood started sliding down the hairs on his chest. It glimmered. My mouth watered.

“I’ll be fine,” I insisted, forcing myself to look up. 

“Y/N,” he hissed my name, and like some sort of spell it wrapped around me and tightened, “you’re pale and shivering.” Dracula knitted his eyebrows as he evaluated me. The hand he had on my cheek coiled behind my head. “Drink it.”

My stomach fluttered. I gazed at the carmine sliver. Watched as it reached the bathwater and blossomed like red tendrils until it faded into pink hue. 

“Later, perhaps,” I said. I covered the cut on his neck with my hand. He frowned. “I haven’t eaten anything in hours. Food will make me feel better.” He continued staring at me, as if he was waiting for me to give in under the weight of his gaze. I dipped my hand underwater and pulled the drain stopper. The water gurgled as it started draining. “Help me out of the tub? I don’t think I can stand up on my own just yet.”

He nodded, the crease between his brows deepening. He pulled my arms around him and tied my legs around his waist before standing up. Water sloshed in the bathtub and dripped from our bodies in a sudden cascade of sound. I shivered again and held him tighter, seeking some warmth from the stark change of temperature. I flinched instinctively when he went to sit me down on the sink countertop, expecting the marble to feel cold but it was the furthest thing from it, and I relaxed. 

“There's a heating system in the entire bathroom,” he explained as he reached beneath the countertop and retrieved a pile of white towels. “The floors are heated, too.”

Sitting atop the block of solid marble, I matched his height and had no need to bend my head to look into his eyes, which was a relief with my sore neck. The cut he had opened above his collarbone was gone. 

I took two towels from him; one for my hair and another to dry myself off. He smiled faintly as he tied a towel around his waist. Carefully so as to not pull at the wound on my neck, I wrapped a towel around my body as if it was a cape. I eyed the second towel next to the copper sink. Dracula took it and started drying off my hair. “Thank you,” I said in a relieved smile that he seemed to understand without my needing to ask for help. 

Taking strands of my hair with the towel, he pressed them to soak up the water. At times he rubbed the towel on my scalp. His own hair looked black instead of dark brown as droplets of water dripped down to his nose. One drop landed on his lip. It hung from his cupid bow, undisturbed. The drop grew fat as tiny particles of water coalesced around it. Even so, it sat still on the curve of his mouth. I glanced up at his eyes. He was too absorbed in drying my hair to pay it any mind. I leaned closer, intent on catching the drop before it fell, but strands of my hair fell like a curtain in front of my eyes when he used the towel to rub my head again and I huffed inwardly. 

I blew the hair away from my face. It fell over my eyes again.

“No fussing,” he said, as he swiped the hair away with a flick of his hand in the towel. 

As if the drop on the curve of his mouth had grown heavy, he pressed his lips together and licked it. Apparently satisfied, he tossed the towel to the side and picked up a small comb from under the sink. 

“That won’t detangle my hair,” I told him. “I have a brush on my purse that I use.” 

He nodded and left the bathroom, leaving a trail of wet footprints in his wake. I adjusted the towel on my shoulders and turned to have a look in the mirror behind me. I pressed my lips together and bit them lightly to bring some colour back to them. They remained pale. I tipped my chin to try and have a look on my new bite when Dracula returned, my hairbrush in one hand, and a chair from his dining table in the other. 

“Sit and I’ll brush your hair for you,” he said as he placed the chair in front of the sink. He extended a hand for me, but I ignored it and set my feet on the ground to make sure my legs could keep me up. They wobbled but did not bend. Dracula watched me with a raised eyebrow, hand still extended in case my knees failed me but made no other movement to help as I took a step towards the chair and sat down. 

Hugging the towel close to me, I stared at Dracula through the mirror as he started brushing my hair from the tips. He held a strand close to my roots as he got rid of a knot. He didn’t tug on my hair once.

“You’ve done this before,” I said as he swiped the brush through a detangled strand. 

“Brushed a woman’s hair?” He asked, without raising his gaze to our reflection. I nodded. “My late wife enjoyed having her hair brushed, and she enjoyed brushing mine. I wore my hair long back then.”

“And Lucy?” The name left an acid taste on my tongue. Dracula continued brushing, unbothered. “Do you brush her hair, too?”

I held my breath. I’d asked the question on impulse but I was glad I had. 

“No. She didn’t like having her hair touched by anyone other than herself.”

“Didn’t? Past tense?” 

He regarded me with amused eyes. 

“I grew tired of Lucy.” He moved to my right to brush that side. “I won’t be seeing her anymore.” 

I tried smiling but it took effort to pull my cheeks up. The smile looked more like a wince. The news that I was the only one now should have made me happy.

He was mine forever, as I was his. He’d said so. 

Our deal was over. There was nothing left to wonder about. But wonder I did. Wondered about red silks, sharp teeth and iron in my mouth; about crazed eyes and red becoming pink. 

I drank my own blood and delighted in it; drank his blood and salivated at the thought. I lived a world of cravings in that dining room and satiated them all at once. And they were my cravings, all mine, not his, not a bond. Without a bond to shield me, I was peeled.

Was this myself? 

“What’s on your mind?,” he questioned, fingers working carefully to untangle a mass of hair that not even the brush managed to work through. The feeling of those same fingers in my mouth invaded my thoughts and my tongue rubbed the roof of my mouth in remembrance. “Are you having regrets?” I stared at his face in the mirror, trying to capture his eyes and read his thoughts on them, but he kept his gaze locked on his task. “About giving in to me? A little horrified at your choices? I did bite your friends, and nearly killed a few of them, perhaps now you’re questioning yourself. How is Mallory, by the way? I trust that she’s making a steady recovery.”  I kept silent. “I’ll take that as a confirmation. If you are having regrets, Y/N, and wondering if you can get away, I’ll discourage those thoughts right now. I will hunt you down, especially after we–”

“No.”

He stopped brushing at my answer and met my eyes.

“No?”

“I’m not regretting anything.”

“Really?” His eyebrows went up, as if he didn’t believe me.

“Stop needling me.”

“Then explain why you didn’t drink my blood.”

“I did drink–”

“When I offered you not less than 10 minutes ago,” he interrupted. His lips were thin with impatience. “I would like to understand why.” He swooped my hair to the side, exposing the bite on my neck. “Are you scared?”

I wished that we were on the bathtub again, in silence and in peace. But the peace was a mere illusion. I knew we would come to this. He would question me and test me. He always did. 

“Yes, actually,” I said through the knot on my throat. His jaw clenched. “I am scared. But not of you. I fell in love with you, despite–” he opened his mouth to say something “– no, let me speak. Despite what you’ve done and all that you’re capable of, I fell in love with you and I don’t regret it. But I’m scared of myself and what I can become.” He narrowed his eyes. “I’m human. A normal one, I always thought. I shouldn’t enjoy the taste of blood. I shouldn’t enjoy being covered in it. But I did, I do.” My lip trembled. “What does that make me?”

He grinned.

“Perfect.”

“I’m serious, Dracula.”

“So am I.”

“Please, make an effort to help. I’m this much away” –I measured with my thumb and forefinger– “from losing it.” He laughed. “I want to be with you  but I’m not sure what being a vampire means.”

“You proposed a deal to find out.”

“Yes, but I wasted it, didn’t I? Between being confused about you and then the Foundation… There’s not much I know.”

“Then ask.”

He resumed brushing my hair as he waited for a response. 

The face staring back at me in the mirror was my own. Would I have recognised myself covered in blood? Would I think it was a pretty image as Dracula thought? 

I imagined fangs in place of my incisors and canines, and screams of horror as I bore down on some pretty girl who begged for her life. My own laughter ringing in my ears. Death on my skin. And hunger, so much hunger. 

I blinked several times to clear my head. This is my face now. Clean, human. My teeth blunt, chewing on my cheeks. 

“Will I have to kill people?” I asked, unable to take my eyes away from the stranger in the mirror.

“You’ll want to.”

“How do you know?”

“Believe it or not, I am over five hundred years old and have had incredible amounts of practice in this matter,” he said, smiling at every word. “You’ll want to kill, and you’ll dream about it.”

“You were a killer long before you became a vampire. I won’t take your word so quickly when it comes to killing.”

“That is true. I’m very good at killing, always have been. However, I maintain my word. There is an urge for death that comes with the thirst for blood. It’s inevitable. I’ve seen it with all my little experiments.”

“But do I have to?”

“No, darling.” He gave me a reluctant smile. “You don’t have to. You can keep pets, if you like.” The way he raised one eyebrow told me we weren’t talking about the fluffy kind of pets. 

“Like you did with Renfield?”

“Renfield wasn’t a pet. Lucy, perhaps,” he shrugged, as he brushed through every strand of my hair to make sure they were completely detangled. “I’ve only drank Renfield once, you see, so he doesn’t qualify. Pets are good for when you need to be discreet–”

“Which you aren’t,” I quipped.

“– but it is fun.” He concluded, chuckling at my cheeky smile. “You can keep them alive for as long as you need them. Keeping more than one at a time is key for variety and to not tire them out, but it gets old fast. Eventually you’ll wonder how it feels to have a pulse slowing down between your teeth, to consume life and watch death take its place.”

“I may wonder, but I won’t act on it,” I muttered. Dracula raised his eyebrows, eyes sparking. “I won’t,” I repeated more strongly this time.

“Of course, darling,” he said, running the brush on my hair a few more times. “Done.” He rounded the chair and placed the hairbrush on the sink countertop. Standing in front of me, I noticed that the tips of his hair, pointing everywhere, were already drying. It was charming seeing him like this. He was always extremely composed every time I saw him. His chest hair was almost completely dry but the trail of dark hair leading to his belly button still had some beads of water. Earlier, he hadn’t allowed me to touch him and between ripping my clothes off and biting me, I hadn’t gotten a good look at him. “I'll order you food and if you still feel weak afterwards, you’ll drink my blood.” 

I looked up at that, blinking as my brain worked to process what he said.

“Maybe you should reword that and add a question mark at the end of that sentence.”

“It wasn’t a question.” He grinned. He scooped me up in his arms as if I was child. My protests were choked back in a yelp at the suddenness of the movement. The world glassed over for a second. I laced my hands around his neck, glaring at him. “If I have to hold your mouth open and make you swallow, I will. I can’t have you strutting around weakened.”

“You were asleep for the past century but it’s time you know that we have advanced in many ways and now we have something called  iron supplements ,” I told him as we left the bathroom. “You see, it comes in a tiny little pill and I take it 2 or 3 times a day–”

“My blood will have the same effect, if not better.”

“A while back you told me too much of your blood could affect me,”  I prodded, gaze locked attentively on his face. I wasn’t taking notice of where he was taking me, so when he suddenly sat down, cradling me in his arms, I found myself grabbing onto his neck in fear of falling off. Turning my head, I saw large, fluffy pillows in a dark grey bedding. His bedroom. Decor kept the same palette as the rest of the penthouse. The only light on came from behind the black headboard. “How?”

He moved me so that I could completely lean my weight on the arm he had on my back and my behind fit nicely on his lap. My towel slipped up near my knee, exposing one of my thighs. I tried crossing my legs to emulate some sense of decency but Dracula’s arm tucked under my knees had me in a steel grip. Again, I tried moving my legs, subtly nudging his arm, but he didn’t let go.

“To be quite honest–” he began slowly, catching me in his gaze “–I’m not entirely sure what the effects can be on someone willing.” He released one of my legs and as I tried adjusting myself on his lap, I felt his hand on my thigh, caressing up and down. A lazy caress, almost absent. “My brides were rather limited on that front.”

“Tell me about them.” I asked. “When we broke into the Painted Hall, you mentioned  you weren’t very successful with most of them. That they were nothing but shadows.”

“Must we reminisce?” He squeezed my thigh at the question.

“We must, yes. I need to know, and I need some assurances that I won’t become like them.” 

“You won’t.” His lips thinned, and I touched them with the tips of my fingers. They softened. 

“You can’t be sure,” I said, tracing his cupid’s bow and glancing up at those black eyes. I felt his lips stretching in a smile and I let my hand drop to his chest.

“I can.” He watched as his hand disappeared under the towel in his incessant caress. For a moment his hand slipped to my inner thigh and my breath hitched. His hand reappeared from underneath the towel and continued caressing me, apparently oblivious to my arousal. “None of them gave me their consent. Or loved me.”

“And those things make a difference?” I asked, a little breathlessly.

He followed the contours of my leg until my knee then again to my inner thigh. Up. Closer to where I was growing wet. His hand lingered between my thighs for a moment. A pulse started down low. He retreated a third time, and I choked back a whine. 

“Oh, yes, of course they do,” he said in a solemn tone, brows furrowed. “If you keep a flower caged, but give it water and light, do you think it’ll thrive as a wild flower does?”

“No.” The word was barely audible, and I shook my head to the sides to add to it.

“Correct.” His hand traveled up, and this time nudged my thighs to open. My fingers on the nape of his neck flexed. My heart beat at my center. At my throat it tried to break free, and gush as blood does. “I will not keep you caged, and everything you need I’ll give and you’ll take.” He frowned. “ In love.  What a stunning concept.” I felt the warmth of his fingers hovering, a near touch, almost ghostly. I arched my back in invitation and rose my hips to find an ending to this teasing. “Stay still. I’m trying to have a conversation.”

“Are you?” It came out in a smirk.

“Yes. You wanted answers, I’ll give them to you.” Air left my lungs in a shaky breath as his fingers finally touched me. Probing me, as in an examination. Fingertips slid over my entrance, soaked as it was, gathering some of the slickness to continue his exploration. “My last experiments were my better ones,” he continued in a conversational tone. “They weren’t obedient to me. Always ruled by hunger and desire to kill, they lost themselves, but they kept their appearance. Their body didn’t die but their minds did. They never consented or asked for immortality, and they fought me, oh how they fought me at first.” As he talked, his fingers never stopped moving but they were just exploring, seeking to perhaps memorise its details, lingering in a spot he thought interesting as he observed me, serious as ever. “But they soon learned I was their only source of food. I fed them bite sized meals–” he smiled, and dipped a finger in. Fearful that he would stop, I managed to keep my body still. A gasp escaped anyway but it didn’t seem to discourage him as a second finger joined with ease and I closed my eyes at the feeling. His fingers were much thicker than mine, and longer. He hooked his fingers up, and kept them there, simply putting pressure. If I rocked my hips in just the right way they would pump that precious spot. But I didn’t. I wouldn’t bear it if he stopped. “... but the effects faded quickly. Are you listening?” 

I nodded, my lip quivering. He started withdrawing his fingers, so I hurried on, “Y-yes.” 

“Darling,” he murmured, dipping in again and this time pumping up, “what did I just say?” A moan was my reply. I looked up at him, hoping that he would leave it be, but the twinkle in his eyes told me he wouldn’t. He was having too much fun. “Answer me.” Suddenly, his fingers were gone and he gave me a light slap on my dripping folds. My hips jerked in surprise. The second slap was less delicate than the first, making me yelp, and left a stinging pain. He soothed it by rubbing my clit, which felt all the more sensitive after being mistreated. “Let me know you were paying attention or I’ll stop.”

“Y-your blood, you gave it to them sometimes.” I said through my teeth, shutting my eyes with my all strength to try and concentrate. Another light slap. “They begged for more than scraps, more than–” I couldn’t utter the word ‘babies’. “Your blood made them more coherent and–” two of his fingers entered me again. A reward for speaking, I guessed. I needed more, and I forced myself to continue. “–and stronger. But it didn’t w-work for long.” 

“You listened. Good,” he praised. At some point I had put my hands in fists to try and remain unmoving, but as those fingers hooked up and the palm of his hand pressed up against my clit, I grabbed onto his shoulders to keep myself steady. Wetness spread down my thighs and buttocks as obscene sounds filled my ears. Pressure built as he rocked his hand. “It didn’t work because they were failures from the start, but, you are perfect. Look at me.” I opened my eyes, and saw myself reflected in the darkness of his. “You’re mine. My bride, my lover.” His fingers inside me beckoned me to come to him. I resisted, and by doing so I started shaking. “My blood is yours to drink. You will become more of what you already are by drinking it, that’s all. Now, move with me.” 

Striving for breath betweens moans, I buried my face in his chest as I arched my back and moved my hips to meet his upward thrusts. His palm pressed harshly as I fought to accompany each rub. My body seized, losing the delightful cadence that Dracula and I were making, but even as my hips bucked and my legs contorted and quaked, he continued moving his hand to press and rub until I felt lightheaded. Pleasure uncoiled, and snapped like a whip, tearing gasps out of me, and then surged in a wave of torpor. 

I collapsed in his lap and, withdrawing his fingers, he gathered me up in a near hug. I watched as he raised his hand, embarrassingly soaked, and put two fingers in his mouth. I was still breathless, but I forced my body to straighten up and grabbed his face, burying myself in his lips and tongue to savour my own taste.

“Greedy,” he chuckled when I pulled back with my chest heaving. “I’m well fed, for now. But you’re not.” He rose where we were perched and laid me on the bed. “I’ll order something for you to eat. Sleep in the meanwhile.”

My eyes shut of their own will as the pillow cradled my head. I felt Dracula taking the towel off of my body and covering me with a blanket. As I drifted to sleep, I heard myself saying, “I’ll drink you.” 

There was no response. 

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