color

Mediterranean Tile

/ Heather Helms / Leave a comment

I was contacted by a local publication, St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles, to weigh in on their Classic vs. Craze section for an upcoming issue. The subject – “Mediterranean Tile in the Bathroom.” Do you see it as a timeless element or will it fade as quickly as it became a trend? For me it is definitely a “Classic”.

A BRIEF HISTORY

Mediterranean, or encaustic, tiles have been produced and used since the late 19th century throughout urbanized areas of the Mediterranean, using the same techniques invented by the Arabs over ten centuries ago. These tiles have truly stood the test of time. With today’s interiors trending towards white and grays I can certainly see why these tiles are making their way into our kitchens and baths.

Today’s Popularity

We are currently surrounded in white. White cabinets, white countertops, white shiplap, white trim….. Don’t get me wrong, I think that look is beautiful but not many of us live a lifestyle that affords us the time or energy to maintain that pristine look you saw on the cover of your favorite magazine. Using a tile with color and pattern make these spaces feel more inviting and livable. In kitchens and bathrooms in particular, we as designers are faced with the unique challenge of incorporating essentially all hard surfaces making the need for textural interest even more important.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Even a classic element can be a trend! If you are considering these tiles due to the current exposure they are receiving on your favorite TV show or magazine, you may want to sit this one out. It is also important when selecting your tile that you are sticking with the style and architecture of the space you are using it in. If you decide to embrace this timeless element the possibilities are endless and the impact is undeniable.brightly colored and patterned Mediterranean tile hand-painted Mediterranean tile

Have you used this type of tile in any of your spaces? We would love to see your photos!

2017 Color of the Year Forecasts

/ Heather Helms / Leave a comment

What a difference a year makes! Every year the leading paint companies release their color trend predictions for the upcoming year. Last year we saw a white from both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams, a blush pink and purple from Pantone and an aloe green from PPG. While none were exactly the same they all had a light fresh quality about them. This year, all bets are off!

PANTONE’S COLOR OF THE YEAR

REFRESHING. REVITALIZING. NEW BEGINNINGSlight shining through trees

Greenery is described as “a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew.”

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS COLOR OF THE YEAR

MODERN. CLASSIC. NEUTRALwood bark on a tree

Poised Taupe is an earthen brown combined with conservative grey and the result is a weathered, woodsy and complex neutral that celebrates the imperfections and authenticity of a well-lived life.

BENJAMIN MOORE COLOR OF THE YEAR

MYSTERIOUS. PASSIONATE. ALLUSIVE.purple ink

Benjamin Moore Creative Director, Ellen O’Neill, described Shadow as sophisticated, provocative and poetic, it can bring energy to a space or harmony and a moment of respite.

PPG COLOR OF THE YEAR

DEPTH. LUXURY. PAMPERING.evening sunset

Violet Verbena is a moody purple with a chameleon-like presence that adapts to surrounding environments and complements a variety of design aesthetics, from playful rooms to tranquil spaces.

We would love to know you thoughts on the 2017 color forecasts. Which do you love? How will you use it?

For inspiration on how to incorporate these colors in your interiors check out our 2017 Color Trends Board on Pinterest.