Here is a recent kitchen we've been working on. It showcases the epitome of the look we are seeing more and more of. I love the idea of taking a simple tile and changing the look with a custom install. It gives a human touch, an artesan quality. For a while with backsplash, it was considered the jewelry for your kitchen: the more bling the better. That's just not the case now. We are seeing more and more large format, minimalistic looks, simple non-distracting colors, textures and finishes. Simple tiles with skilled installations. That said every space is different and there is a space for every tile we sell. This is just a look we are seeing emerge.
Wool Wins
We have been working hard to seek out naturally sourced, traditionally inspired, timeless floor coverings. A carpet rep recently told me that the average consumer changes their flooring every 5-7 years. As easy as we can make the process of renovations, it's not easy. Yes, you can buy something trendy and cheap now and replace it when you hate it in 5 years: but its a hassle. Unless you love moving furniture, painting and having a crew of people in and out of your house for days. That is a whole bunch of fun "Hey Honey, let's do this again in 5-7 years". Luckily there are other options.
Wool is one of the oldest best options for floor coverings. No you can't dump bleach on it (like SmartStrand, or solution dyed poly carpets), its not scotch guarded, its not treated with silver antibacterial treatments, or odour neutralizers. BECAUSE YOU DON"T NEED THEM. Wool is more expensive, but its the best. Trust me. Most of these things are natural features of wool. For years the big manufacturers have been working with chemicals to mimic the natural softness, strength and features of wool.
Wool is naturally flame retardant, naturally the MOST crush resistant material, it improves indoor air quality, it is sustainably sourced, the longest lasting fibre, sound deadening, insulating, super soft and available in some of the most classic visuals available. We are excited to be bringing in Godfrey Hirst and Karastan wools to our showroom. Its responsible, beautiful and timeless.
https://www.godfreyhirst.com/na/carpet/carpet-explained/wool-carpet-about
So. Much. Marble.
As anticipated, we have been seeing a lot of marble this year. Surprisingly there has been a big demand for the real thing. Technology in imaging has improved exponentially and porcelain alternatives are popping up everywhere on the supplier side of the market. The patterns have become more realistic, more varied and unpredictable; the tiles themselves have become stronger, more stable, straighter, bigger; the suppliers have become quicker to respond to trends and better at making product available. EVEN with all that, people have a fetish for the feel and look of the real thing.
Nothing can compete with the providence and history of marble. It makes your home feel like it shares a piece of history. With marble you can share decor tastes with ancient Athenians, palaces, homes of conquerors. Marble is the choice of the greatest empires in history. Its pretty cool to have your home be a part of that tradition. Today, your home is the space for commerce, for socializing; your home is the space for ruling your kingdom from. Whether its a bachelor suite or a river front mansion, your house is your castle. Marble sends that message.