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Walker Woodworking

Life, Styled

Interior Design Project Common Questions and Answers

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Many elements make up a beautiful kitchen, but without a doubt, the countertop and backsplash are the focal points. These materials have become more than just practical tools in the kitchen. They are now works of art and an opportunity for homeowners to add a touch of themselves to the design. Of course, there must be a balance between the two, where they work together to create a cohesive design. Multiple ways exist to create both beautiful and functional looks in the kitchen. Here we answer some common questions surrounding the topic.

What Is The Purpose Of Backsplash?

Some will ask why it is even necessary to have a backsplash, but it does serve an essential purpose in the kitchen. A lot of stirring, mixing, and serving occurs on the countertop, leading to accidents or, at a minimum, some splattering. Dry ingredients and even water are relatively easy to wipe up, but tomato sauces and grease are entirely different. Backsplash adds another layer of protection to your space. It prevents stains from setting, which preserves the look of your kitchen, especially if you are interested in reselling at some point. The backsplash is more than just a little jewelry for your kitchen. It has a purpose that pays for itself.

A dry beverage center with a small refrigerator with cans and drinks inside it
Walker Woodworking

Should Your Backsplash Match Your Countertop?

This is a common question among homeowners. Using the same material for both creates a very unified and clean look, making it an excellent fit for those seeking a minimalist style. However, design trends are constantly evolving, meaning other options are available to create a beautiful design without relying on matching materials or colors. Some other choices include matching one element of the countertop or backsplash to the other, such as a color. Another variation would be to use completely different elements. Everyone has a distinct style and expression of color, so there is freedom in choosing something unique. It is, however, vital that they not fight but complement each other by highlighting the other. If both are bright and eye-catching, it can create difficulty for the eye to find rest. Colors, patterns, and designs impact this decision.

a kitchen with blue cabinets and marble counter tops
Walker Woodworking

Which Comes First, Backsplash Or Countertop?

It is recommended that you choose your countertop first, as it is the primary work surface in the kitchen. They are also often what is matched to the cabinets first, with the backsplash serving as the flair or pop of color needed. We always encourage our clients to start with their countertops and work their way up to the backsplash, as more selections of color, patterns, and styles are available to reflect their personality in the design.

a kitchen with a sink and a sink
Walker Woodworking

Current Trends In Backsplash and Countertops

The world of design is ever-evolving, and designers continually adapt to changing needs and current styles. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but here are a few trends that designers have observed.

  • Less polish: High-gloss surfaces are replaced with a softer feel, similar to a leather texture, that gives the surface a natural appearance and depth.
  • Durability: Homeowners are increasingly seeking materials that will last and require less maintenance, such as quartz.
  • Style: Backsplashes with fun shapes and unique finishes are gaining popularity over the standard subway tile that has been used for years.

Again, the final choice is up to you, so be sure to discuss your preferences and the styles you had in mind with your designer. They can always assist you in finding exactly what will match you.

a kitchen with white cabinets and white counter tops
Walker Woodworking

Ready To Be Paired Up?

We have partnered with multiple dealers to offer you a wide selection of countertops and backsplashes. These elements should reflect you and add the perfect touch to your space. Visit our showroom, where you can browse multiple displays, as we believe it’s essential to feel and see what you want to purchase. With over 20 years of experience helping clients find the perfect fit, we are well-equipped to assist you on your renovation journey. We proudly serve 16 counties and counting, including Mecklenburg, Buncombe, Greenville, SC, Hendersonville, and York, SC.

Visit ADCO Stone & Interiors Guide to Choosing a Countertop Backsplash for more information.

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Walker Woodworking Noir lighting Orion Pendent matte black finish

New Year, New Trends, New Lights: Home Lighting Trends for 2022

Design Notes

Since the invention of the light bulb, we have been able to brighten up our homes at any time of day. It has been great to eliminate shadows in areas where there are limited windows or even none at all, and allowed us to achieve more in a 24-hour period. Light fixtures have also developed from being just a practical tool into works of art, giving homeowners the chance to express themselves and add a touch of elegance to any room. Changing out a light fixture can completely alter or transform a room, and with so many sizes and styles, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. As we approach the close of another year, new home lighting trends for 2022 could provide helpful information for selecting your next light fixture that will perfectly illuminate your home.

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November 1, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-Noir-lighting-Orion-Pendent-matte-black-finish.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-11-01 13:39:402025-07-29 13:40:19New Year, New Trends, New Lights: Home Lighting Trends for 2022
a dining room with a table and artwork on the wallGreenbrook Design

A Place At The Table: Dining Room Design Tips

Life, Styled

Every area of the home has a purpose, a specific role to play in running a house smoothly, whether that is the living room where we relax or the bathroom where we get ready for the day. The kitchen is a place of preparation, the space where we go to cook for our family, but it is the dining room where it is served and enjoyed. This is the space within the home that gives families a designated area to gather around and dine together, as well as for activities like homework, bills, and fun things like family game night. It is a multifunctional space, which means it deserves some extra attention when selecting decor pieces. Let’s talk about the many elements you can use to give the dining room the love and beauty it deserves.

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October 28, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-dean-chandelier-live-edge-dining-room-table-dovetail-furniture.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-10-28 14:16:232025-07-29 14:16:48A Place At The Table: Dining Room Design Tips
a group of ceramic bowls and vases on a table live edge tableGreenbrook Design

Choose What You Love: What is Mixology Interior Design?

Design Notes

The world of interior design has run the full gamut of trends, from minimal to over-the-top and back again. Your home is meant to be your happy place, and a good design can affect the atmosphere. There are multiple styles to choose from, including modern, traditional, farmhouse, and transitional. Each possesses characteristics that make them unique in their own way, but sometimes what is offered is not enough, which is where the term mixology comes in, and no, we are not referring to the mixing of cocktails. There is a beauty when mixing and matching design styles, cabinets, and furnishings to create a space that perfectly reflects you. For a long time, designers were taught that things needed to remain within a certain realm of style in order for them to look good, but over the past few years, those boundaries have been broken down to make way for homeowners to express themselves in their own way. Out of this, there have been some new terms used to describe the shift in styles, such as grand millennial. If you like a few elements from multiple styles, then mixology may be your new best friend.

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October 21, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-custom-dining-room-table-pottery-pieces.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-10-21 14:20:222025-07-29 14:20:51Choose What You Love: What is Mixology Interior Design?
A kitchen with a double faucet sink and shelves and a large windowWalker Woodworking

Nature Inspired: What is Biophilia Design?

Life, Styled

Is Biophilia Design For You? We love the looks nature inspires, which is why we have multiple products available for you to browse inside our showroom. From unique artwork to furniture pieces, we invite you to visit us and spend time browsing our 5,000 square foot showroom located in charming Uptown Shelby and find the inspiration you’ve been looking for to create the perfect environment in your home.

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October 14, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-Grothouse-butcherblock-Belwith-Keeler-hardware-metal-shelf-inset-cabinets-walnut.jpg?fit=1536%2C1152&ssl=1 1152 1536 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-10-14 14:26:382025-07-29 14:27:05Nature Inspired: What is Biophilia Design?
Walker Woodworking custom cabinets dog bath room beverage cooler top knobs hardware tomato red cabinets frameless cabinets

Make A Statement: Contrasting Colors in Design

Design Notes

The world of design draws on multiple elements to create the perfect space for homeowners, a place that represents them and their particular style. Color plays a vital role in the design process, and its effects go beyond just adding a splash to the room. Color can affect our mood, communicate a message, lessen eye strain, and even play a part in remembering certain events. It also has the ability to influence the size of a room with certain colors, causing the area to feel larger, while other shades create a more intimate feel. Color selection can be a fun and rewarding process, plus it provides you with a great way to tell your story. More homeowners are discovering the beauty of contrasting colors, and this choice is gaining popularity in the design world. From two-toned kitchens to opposites in cabinets and tile, contrasting colors can spice up your design and make a stunning statement. Let’s explore more about what contrasting colors are and how they can help you tell your story.

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October 7, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-dog-bath-room-beverage-cooler-top-knobs-hardware-tomato-red-cabinets-frameless-cabinets.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-10-07 14:31:492025-07-29 14:44:14Make A Statement: Contrasting Colors in Design
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Vendors require an appointment. Please contact: Jan@greenbrookdesign.com

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