Meet Anton Smeets | Managing Partner – Watrline

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anton Smeets and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anton, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Growing up in a family of creatives, plumbers, and bathroom fixture wholesalers naturally instilled in me a deep passion for design and beautifully crafted plumbing fixtures. It wasn’t a single moment that pushed me towards entrepreneurship; it was a lifelong journey shaped by my family’s legacy and a mission for bringing wellness spaces back to the outdoors. We saw the rise of outdoor living as more than just a trend—it was a lifestyle transformation. People are longing to bring the luxury and comfort of their indoor spaces, including bathrooms, to the great outdoors. But there simply weren’t any high-quality plumbing products durable enough to make that dream a reality. Seeing this gap, we felt inspired and passionate about stepping in. It became our mission to create beautiful, durable outdoor showers and fixtures that would elevate any outdoor space, blending functionality with stunning design. With Watrline, the idea of helping people enjoy the best of outdoor living and reconnect with nature, without compromising on quality or style, felt like a natural extension of who I am.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Watrline is all about bringing the luxury and functionality of indoor plumbing to the great outdoors. We specialize in creating high-quality, beautiful outdoor showers and bathroom fixtures that are built to withstand the elements without compromising on style or durability.

What sets us apart is our commitment to blending stunning design with superior craftsmanship. We saw the growing trend of outdoor living and realized there was a gap in the market for durable, stylish outdoor plumbing products. Our products aren’t just functional; they’re designed to elevate any outdoor space and reconnect people with nature in a luxurious way.

Getting to where we are today hasn’t been easy. It’s been a journey filled with challenges and learning experiences. One of the biggest hurdles was carving out a niche in a relatively new market. Outdoor showers and wellness spaces were novel concepts when we started, and it took a lot of effort to educate and inspire our customers and partners about the possibilities. We overcame these challenges by staying true to our vision, focusing on quality, and building strong relationships with architects and designers who share our passion.

I am most proud of the relationships we’ve built and the projects we’ve been a part of. Seeing our products installed in beautiful outdoor spaces around the world is incredibly rewarding.

Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of patience, perseverance, and staying adaptable. Challenges are inevitable, but they often lead to growth and new opportunities. Listening to feedback, continually improving, and not being afraid to take risks have been key lessons in our journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Miami is a vibrant city that’s hard to sum up in a few words. It’s a lively blend of different dynamics and cultures, making it an exciting place to live and explore. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, so it often feels like you’re visiting several cities at once. There’s so much to see and do, but here are some of my favorite restaurants and activities you don’t want to miss!

Start your day with a nice breakfast at Front Porch Café on Ocean Drive, then take a stroll through the Art Deco District to admire the architecture. Afterward, soak up the sun at South Pointe Beach.

In Wynwood, check out the colorful street murals and enjoy some delicious tacos at Bartaco. For good music, great drinks, and even better vibes, stop by Dante’s HiFi, Miami’s first vinyl listening room.

Explore downtown Miami in Brickell, where you can shop at Brickell City Centre and visit some of Miami’s liveliest bars in Mary Brickell Village. If you love rooftops, be sure to check out Sugar for some of the most stunning views of the city. For a dining experience that screams Miami, head to Marion for an energetic yet elegant meal.

If you need an escape from the bustling city, head to Crandon Park Beach in Key Biscayne. If you’re into scuba diving, don’t miss Emerald Reef, one of Miami’s most beautiful coral reefs located just a mile off the coast.

Across the bay lies Coconut Grove, one of my favorite neighborhoods. Visit the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens and have lunch at Greenstreet Café, which serves some of the best burgers in town. Take a relaxing walk through the Grove and CocoWalk, then stop by Regatta Grove for happy hour cocktails. Located right on the water, it offers beautiful views of Biscayne Bay and is a perfect golden hour hotspot.

Whether you’re drawn to its beaches, nightlife, or cultural hotspots, Miami has something for everyone. With its diverse neighborhoods and endless activities, you’ll always find new experiences to enjoy. So dive in, explore, and make the most of everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Many people are at the heart of my journey, always pushing me forward and keeping me grounded. My family, friends, business partners, and clients have all played huge roles in my life and growth. But if I had to single out one person, it would be my grandfather. He taught me the true meaning of hard work and the importance of discipline and intent in every action. He’s an old-school “If you’re gonna do it, do it right” kind of guy. He showed me how to use tools, revealing the beauty in craftsmanship and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. But the most important lesson he taught me was to celebrate and appreciate each milestone, both in life and business. He reminded me to let loose sometimes and enjoy the journey. His wisdom and guidance have shaped who I am today, and I am incredibly grateful for his influence.

Website: https://watrline.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watrline

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonsmeets/