Design Notes
Home is made up of a variety of details, each working and blending with the others to create a beautiful result. Tile is one detail that not only adds texture and character but is functional too. It can be used throughout the home and is quite versatile, from flooring to backsplash, the possibilities are endless. Designers enjoy weaving tile into multiple areas of their client’s project, especially since manufacturers are producing such diverse patterns and textures. Several variables are involved in selecting the perfect tile, including material, pattern, and color, as well as factors that influence style and placement. Tile is also a versatile and durable design element, making it a suitable option for frequently used areas. Let’s explore how you can incorporate tile in the home.
Tile materials
Many homeowners are opting for more eco-friendly materials in the products they use, including design elements such as countertops, flooring, and tile. While not all of them are, tile tends to be among the top material choices for eco-friendliness due to its non-toxic nature and the fact that there are multiple recycling options. Broken pieces of old tile and even glass can be reused and transformed into stunning new pieces that can add elegance and character to the home. Ceramic tile is another top choice, as it is eco-friendly from start to finish, and comes in beautiful colors and patterns that are suitable for any design style. Tile is a versatile material that can be incorporated into multiple areas of the home, allowing you to have eco-friendly options available. Other tile materials that are also popular with homeowners include:
- Glass
- Concrete
- Porcelain
- Natural stone
Each comes with its own lists of pros and cons, which you can read about in this article from The Spruce. They will also vary in price points, color options, durability, and maintenance. It is essential to review your options with your designer and discuss which option best suits the needs of each space in your home before making a final decision.
Pattern
Patterns are trending this year as designers explore the fun and texture they can bring to a space, and this includes tile. There is now much more available as manufacturers combine various colors and patterns to create stunning tiles that can be used in multiple areas of the home, such as backsplashes, showers, and flooring. A tile pattern is not just influenced by the choice of color or design, but also by how it is installed. There are several layouts, such as offset or running bond, which is nicknamed brickwork as it resembles the way bricks are laid. Subway tiles tend to favor this install layout and, when paired with a lighter or darker grout, produce a stunning contrast. Herringbone is another popular tile layout that instantly creates a visual statement, even when using the same color tile. However, it can be elevated to another level if you use a tile with a slight pattern. Within these layouts, you can create an extra layer of diversity by placing a section of softer or stronger colors in a line or by incorporating a complementary second pattern. Don’t be afraid to play around with several options and explore the possibilities you can achieve with a pattern.
Color
Color plays a significant role in design, and it can also impact our mood. Tile is a beautiful way to incorporate color into your home. From bold to subtle, there are many ways to achieve a stunning design in your home by using tile. The kitchen backsplash tends to be one of the traditional methods as it provides the perfect canvas to “paint” with, especially since there are so many options available. Take time to browse places like Pinterest and Houzz to see what other designers have done, and consider whether that’s something you can envision in your own space, or at least use as a source for your creative spark. If you have lighter cabinets, a darker tile can complement them really well, or vice versa. In the bathroom, a walk-in shower tends to steal the show, as tile creates a wow factor or a calm, spa-like vibe. You can opt for the same color or blend a few colors from the same palette, or even incorporate a couple of contrasting colors for a bolder effect. Whether you want a calming atmosphere or one of more contrast, color is a great way to make a space come alive.
Travel influence
Inspiration and influence in the world of design can come from many different sources, including travel. Two places in particular have recently made their mark in the tile world, Tuscan and Mediterranean. While both have a few similarities, Tuscan draws inspiration from Italy, whereas the Mediterranean has a broader range, encompassing Spanish, Moroccan, and Greek influences. Tuscan tile boasts a lovely color spectrum, but it often appears in more subtle earth tones, which work well in areas like the kitchen. Mediterranean tile is bright and vibrant, featuring intricate and splendid patterns. There is a richness in color that adds another layer of depth to the home. Both of these inspired tile styles also work well in outdoor spaces and can make you feel as if you are there in this beautiful culture. You can incorporate it into your outdoor kitchen space as a countertop or covering for the island. They will also make a splash in your outdoor pool. If you enjoy a touch of international culture in your home design, consider incorporating it with tile. Flooring, backsplash, and even counters can benefit from the beauty and charm these two countries can bring to you.
Make a statement
Tile is a wonderful way to make a statement in your space, and we have already touched on this subject; however, we wanted to highlight some of the ways you can achieve this. Visual interest is something that designers strive to achieve in every area of the home; it is a feature that draws the eye while blending seamlessly with the other elements. Various tile sizes can be used to achieve different statements. Small tiles form intricate patterns while larger pieces allow smooth, flowing patterns to enchant you. Some homeowners prefer larger tile sizes for their backsplashes or flooring options because they are easier to keep clean, as there are fewer grout lines. Color, pattern, and texture come together to help make a statement, and a skilled designer can help you know how to combine them in a way that is balanced.
Walker Woodworking There are some that have remained constant, while others have had their brief moment to shine, but does color really matter? Is there a reason behind the colors we choose, and can they really have an influence on the home? The answer is yes, color is one of the most powerful design tools, which is why designers are taught color psychology in school. To better help you understand its importance, we thought it would be helpful to share some of this information with you.
Kitchen layouts are a critical part of the design process because they can help you maximize the use of your space. There are certain layouts that are better suited to a particular home, such as an apartment or a large open area, making it essential to understand the function and benefits of each. Selecting the right kitchen layout for your new home is crucial, as it is one of the most frequently used rooms in the house and must be tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Let’s discuss what each layout is, which one works best for different home designs, and the benefits it can provide.
Greenbrook Design Window treatments are often the last element considered when decorating a house, but they play a crucial part in the overall look of the home. They are often considered the finishing touch to any space and can influence the feel as well. The fabric choice, the style, and even the function can bring several benefits to your home. Window treatments offer protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, shading you and your furniture from fading, while also lowering your electricity bill. Selecting a fabric that complements your particular design style or creates a beautiful statement in your home can make all the difference in any room. Window treatments also serve a functional purpose, as they can block the sun’s glare and provide you and your family with privacy.
Walker Woodworking Home trends and styles change every year as designers track the elements that seem to be gaining popularity and why. While it is not recommended to follow the latest trend simply because it seems like the ideal choice, there are reasons why some trends become popular, eventually becoming a staple in design. 2022 brought several trends in home decor, some of which have been around for a while but are now gaining traction for good reasons. Let’s explore some of the top options on the list so you can understand the benefits they offer and determine if they are a good fit for your home.
Walker Woodworking We know that at the end of the day, it is the details that make a space feel like home. The functional kitchen space is great, and the multipurpose bathroom vanity is a must, but the little things enable every area to reflect you and your personality. There are literally hundreds of ways to utilize accent pieces throughout your home, but one that has been trending for some time is the use of plants, both in your indoor and outdoor spaces. Traditionally, when we think of plants, our minds think of real but faux greenery, and florals have also become popular. Dried is another option that has found its way into the design world.
Greenbrook Design