Stepping into the bathrooms at The Meredith House is like being whisked back to an era of refined elegance and classic style. Unaltered since their installation in the late 1930s, the Crane fixtures and fittings speak volumes of the house’s storied past and the enduring quality of the designs. These spaces, with their art deco tiles and robust porcelain, reveal a historical tapestry of design and function that has weathered the decades gracefully.

It was in 2009 when the Normans first crossed the threshold of Meredith House, encountering the art deco elegance of its tiled bathrooms which suggested a 1950s ambiance rather than the 1930s. It was believed that previous renovations by the second owners, the McLoughlins, in the 1950s had modernized the space. However, discussions with residents connected to the McLoughlin era unveiled a surprising revelation: the bathrooms had remained remarkably faithful to their original Crane configurations.

Bottom Sun Tan sink

India Ivory sink stamp

The Crane fixtures in the home are a testament to the brand’s reputation for enduring quality. Founded in 1855, Crane Co. has been a purveyor of fine fixtures for the discerning homeowner. Their commitment to excellence is exemplified in the Meredith House’s bathrooms, where the original Crane fittings continue to function seamlessly – from the sturdy shower doors to the elegant sinks. The etchings on the shower door frame “Lehman” and “1936” are further evidence of the primary bathroom’s historic charm.

Shower door

dated 1936

Every detail, from the porcelain towel racks to the intricately designed shower heads, is a nod to an era when craftsmanship was paramount. The gleaming chrome and porcelain elements resonate with the tales of those who’ve enjoyed these rooms across the years. The bright yellow tiles, still vibrant and uncracked, echo with the meticulous care instilled by Crane’s designers and the homeowners who have cherished them.

The Meredith House proudly preserves these Crane fixtures not just as functional elements but as pieces of living history. They stand as a tribute to the enduring allure of quality and design, inviting residents and guests alike to step back in time with every use. For those who appreciate the intersection of history, art, and domestic life, a visit to these bathrooms is a journey worth taking.

Integrating the photographs of these iconic spaces into the article offers a visual stroll through this historical narrative. They capture the timeless quality of the Crane fixtures and the subtle patina of care and use that only adds to their charm. In viewing them, one can almost hear the echoes of past conversations, the turning of faucets, and the rustle of towels from a bygone era.

At The Meredith House, history doesn’t just reside in books or on plaques; it is lived and breathed in spaces like these, where every corner, tile, and fixture has a story to tell. Through careful preservation and respect for the past, this historical home continues to offer a unique, tangible connection to the craftsmanship and elegance of the 1930s.