Doug De Paris is a specialist in vintage British bathroom sanitaryware, bringing extensive knowledge of bathroom design and manufacturing throughout the 20th century to Sanitary Salvage. He can identify vintage toilets, sinks and bidets from the 1950s through to the 1990s, including the period, manufacturer, style and original colourways. This specific historical knowledge brings a unique understanding of the popularity, rarity and desirability of particular models, colours and styles from each decade.
Doug is not only able to identify the origin and decade of a product, but uses this knowledge to inform the careful sourcing of vintage products and the assessment of authenticity, condition and suitability for use across Sanitary Salvage’s catalogue. Doug has a keen understanding of vintage sanitaryware condition, distinguishing authentic signs of age and character from damage that may affect a piece’s functionality or usability.
Areas of Expertise:
- Vintage sanitaryware identification: toilets, sinks and bidets
- Rarity and desirability of vintage bathroom suites
- 20th-century bathroom colours, styles and manufacturers
- Authentic vintage and reclaimed sanitaryware sourcing
- Period, manufacturer, style and colour matching
Professional Experience & Achievements:
Doug’s work has included supplying historic Sand Manor near Sidmouth in Devon with vintage sanitaryware, as well as sourcing toilets and sinks for established interior designers including Rachel Chudley and Nina & Co. His knowledge of vintage sanitaryware has also supported creative and photographic projects, including providing props for London-based still life photographer Marius W. Hansen’s personal project, Whanzine.
Doug has also contributed to the supply of vintage toilets for film and television productions, including projects for Netflix, where authentic period sanitaryware is required for visual accuracy and production design.