By Nigel F. Maynard
For most consumers, it’s hard to resist a deal–whether it’s on tires, groceries or a used car. But saving money on products or materials for your new build or a renovation is another matter. Sure, it’s cool to keep more money in your bank account, but you still need to find options that don’t skimp on the swank.
Unfortunately, there is no cheat code for finding cool building products on a budget. It takes a lot of web surfing, hours on Pinterest or a good architect/designer who knows the ropes. Fortunately for you, we did the legwork and compiled a list of 10 that we found. You’re welcome!
1. 36-inch Belgian Floating Vanity, $1,099
If you do a search online to find a floating vanity, the prices will shock you. Filter your search down to vanities made from wood instead of less durable medium density fiberboard (otherwise known as MDF), and you will be shocked all over again. Los Angeles-based online retailer O&N Floating Vanity has you covered. The Belgian white oak wood wall-hung vanity features dovetail drawer joints, soft close doors and drawers and a 2-inch-thick engineered composite countertop with integrated sink.
Bonus: Free shipping.
2. Emma LED Pendant Light, $70
Lighting, if you don’t already know, can get pretty pricey, especially when you’re looking for one to stand out. The Emma Led pendant is, at once, contemporary but with enough curves to soften its lines. Measuring 7.25 inches wide and 10.75 inches tall, it features a clear, teardrop-shaped glass shade surrounding a smooth metal socket, suspended by elegant side pins. Adjustable down rods and a finely detailed circular canopy complete the look of the polished nickel unit. The pendant comes with one Williamsburg Mini 5-watt LED bulb from the company’s Brooklyn Bulb collection.
Two finishes are available.
3. 2-series Electronic Cleansing Toilet, $1,250
Once only popular in Asia and Europe, smart toilets are stateside and growing in popularity. They’re even (relatively) affordable, available for as little as $600 but from brands that may be unknown to most people. With so much at stake, it might be better to stick with brands you know. This 2-Series unit is loaded with all the regular features: bidet function, automatic and remote flush options, heated seats, soft-close lid, warm air dryer with temperature control and much more. It’s ADA-compliant and meets EPA WaterSense criteria to conserve water.
4. Apollo bath faucet, $160
Some architects and designers are of the opinion that the kitchens and the powder rooms are the spaces that can do with a statement faucet–nothing too flashy, just…different. This sleek, single-hole Apollo unit has a slightly elevated elegance that doesn’t try too hard. It has a diamond knurling that adds texture, a high-arc spout and a simple push-button activation. The brass unit features a ceramic disc valve and measures 7½ inches with a 5-inch projection. Four finishes are available.
5. Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator, $1,619
Built in refrigerators give kitchens a sleek, up-market appearance, but they will set you back at least $6,000. The next best thing is a counter-depth, freestanding unit that gets you really close. Even if it’s not counter depth, close will do. This bottom-mount unit has full-width drawers, LED lighting, a temperature-controlled drawer, edge-to-edge glass shelves, clear door shelves and fingerprint resistant stainless.
6. Hazel Flat Bar lever, $20
Simply put, lever door handles are better than traditional round versions. They are easier for everyone, including the elderly or people with limited dexterity, and users can open doors with their elbows. This Hazel unit, part of Shop Miseno’s Exclusive Build with Ferguson Collections, features all metal construction and comes in three finishes.
7. Deco II wood stove, $1,200
Wood stoves are awesome. Unlike a traditional fireplace, they are able to provide efficient heat to a house without polluting the interior. An EPA-certified wood stove produces almost no smoke, minimal ash and requires less firewood. Problem is, many wood stoves are dowdy looking and sleek modern units from Scandinavia are pricey. This Deco II unit offers seven hours of burn time, will heat up to 1,800 feet square and has wood storage under the appliance. Made in Canada, it includes a pedestal with ash drawer, top air deflector, ceramic glass, ash lip and air damper.
8. Twist-N-Lite Color Select Mini Ceiling, $36.95 to $44.95,
This Twist-N-Lite Mini Ceiling / Wall Light is a tiny light with a big design impact when used correctly. The LED light passes through a dual-layer clear and white acrylic diffuser, providing a soft, even glow, the company says. Plus, it’s just cool looking.
Bonus: Color temperature can be adjusted to 2700K, 3000K, 3500K, 4000K, or 5000K using a switch in the fixture. It comes on black, brushed nickel and white.
9. Everbilt Floating House Numbers, $9.64
Sure, there are cheaper numbers, but do they look this cool? This zinc/alloy version measures 5 inches and can be mounted flush or mounted using the supplied hardware. It comes in four finishes.