Porcelain as a material has been used in homes all over the world for centuries. We see it in installed fixtures as well as decorative elements and kitchenware.
I love the retro look of a porcelain switch cover or a porcelain doorknob in a modern home, or the heritage appeal of a true cast iron tub or sink with porcelain enamel.
Porcelain originated in China during the Han Dynasty (202BC -220AD) so while it can appear quite modern, it has a long history in world design. The material is made from a mixture of kaolin (also known as china clay) and feldspar (a group of rock forming minerals).
Feldspar is also used in the clear glaze used to finish porcelain and when fired at high temperatures they bond intimately together.
The hard surface makes porcelain a natural choice for bathroom fixtures such as toilets, sinks and bathtubs, as well as a natural choice for decorative items in wet rooms such as sconces, soap dishes and vanity shelves. While wood or metal might degrade over time in a wet room, porcelain endures.
Porcelain can typically be identified by its bright white color, and fine grained body. Compared to earthenware, porcelain is very durable and non-porous. Like crystal, porcelain is resonant when struck (in other words, porcelain "sings.")
Shop our collection of vintage porcelain fixtures to add a little history and soul to your bath >
