Tag: feature

Expert advice: How, when and why to use feature tiles in a bathroom

Post author By Lauren Ellis
Post date October 31, 2016
4 Comments on Expert advice: How, when and why to use feature tiles in a bathroom

Whether or not to include a feature tile in a bathroom is something I debate all the time. From a patterned floor to a feature shower niche, it’s not simply about a feature wall anymore as I think that’s a little dated and 90s. Furthermore, I believe that if you’re using a feature tile it needs to have a practical purpose.

Optical illusion

Feature tiles are your secret weapon when it comes to making a bathroom feel more spacious. If I’m designing a bathroom that is wider than it is long from the door, I will sometimes run the floor tile (or a derivative of it) from the floor up the back of the wall opposite. This will elongate or lengthen the room and is a great trick for small spaces.

Accentuate the positive

Another reason to use a tiled feature wall might be to highlight an architectural feature – you might not have plain, straight walls and have nooks or cut-outs instead. Adorning them with a feature tile can be a good option – in fact, using a feature tile in a bathroom niche is very popular at the moment.

Zoning

Just as a rug can help zone a living space, a feature tile can serve the same purpose. For example, if your bathroom has been designed with a ‘wet room’ concept, where it’s very open, you may want to use tiles to carve up the space. You could change the tone, texture or shape (just one by the way!) of your tiles on the floor or wall to help define the bathroom’s zones.

Subtle texture

Your feature tile doesn’t have to be highly contrasting. In fact, if your bathroom is on the smaller side it is preferable to use the same tile in a different size or shape as busy tiles can be overwhelming. In a small bathroom I would use a 300mm x 300mm floor tile with the same tile in a different format on the wall – the tile might come in a hexagonal shape or you could lay a subway tile in a herringbone format. This technique is great for creating subtle textures and interest.

A word of warning

I would rarely put a coloured or beautiful feature tile behind a toilet as the toilet is not something I ever want to highlight. Also, if you’ve spent a lot of money on a feature tile, you need to consider how much of it you will be covering up. For instance, if you’re putting them behind your vanity you should consider that you’re going to be mounting a mirror on top of them. A cheaper tile is probably a better solution for that area and you can use your feature tile elsewhere. Basically, don’t ever use a feature tile in a space where you won’t be able to see and enjoy most of it!

Less is more

While feature tiles can be super effective, if you’re using one, let it be your bathroom’s hero and don’t overdo it by adding feature tapware, lighting, basins or a feature bath too. Like most matters of design, simple is often best.

–Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging.

Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, design, feature, feature tiles, naomi findlay, renovation, tiles

Design RENO ADDICT Styling

How to: Select a colour scheme for your home

Post author By Lauren Ellis
Post date October 26, 2016
No Comments on How to: Select a colour scheme for your home

By Kerena Berry

If there’s one element of interior design that we agonise over, it’s colour. How many movies have you seen that feature a scene where a couple are debating the colour of a nursery? It’s become an old trope in film comedy.

But there are good reasons for careful consideration. Colours are like musical notes or chords for the eyes, and can be incredibly subjective, hence the common decision to go with neutrals. Let’s take a look at the options so you can decide whether to be daring or conservative with your colour palette.

Build off an existing pattern in your space

If you have patterned upholstery, a multi-coloured rug, or a striking piece of art, pull colours from this element to create your base colour palette. For a neutral base, focus on the whites, beige and grey tones. For a more striking, moody room, look to the deeper tones.

Focus on one room and let that define your scheme for the home

Working on your main living room’s colours first, and perfecting them, sets the tone for the entire home. For example, if you go for a neutral palette with deep blue textile accents, and rustic wood furniture in your living area, draw on those elements for your other spaces. Take that deep blue tone, go a little darker and paint your walls in the den, creating a cosy inviting space. Accent with white and mid blue textiles to help balance the palette. In your library try rustic, timber built-in furniture, again tying your design elements from the main living area but in a varied proportion. Use similar tones but various degrees and intensities.

Work on a dark to light philosophy

An old trick of the trade is to work dark to light, vertically. Use dark colours on the floor, mid tones on the walls, and light values on the ceiling. The floor can be any hue; just ensure it is the darkest in the space. Simple but very effective.

Follow the ratios 60-30- 10

Think of your space in three sections. Your highest percentage 60%, which is your walls and your dominant colour, 30% is your secondary colour for your main furnishings and fittings. Lastly 10% is your accent colour for your finishing touches and accessories. A Martha Stewart classic!

Trust the old Colour Wheel

Going back to basics is often the key to creating a sensitive palette. An analogue palette is one where the colours sit next to each other on the colour wheel like red and orange. Remember that this can be any tone, light through to deep. This is a slightly less daring take on a monochromatic room (focusing on one key colour in a space is a strong trend at the moment) but no less impressive!

White’s not always right

Don’t assume white is best to give small spaces that larger, brighter feel. Instead use darker or wow colours to bring punch or warmth for a room that envelops you. Embrace a space for what it is and resist the urge to go against the grain.

Grey is the way!

It’s certainly become the neutral flavour over the last few years. Paint colourist have responded with breathtaking options within their collections, making it hard to move past grey’s appeal. Grey’s also have this unique ability, similar to white, to absorb and reflect surrounding colours, becoming a chameleon of sorts.

Set the mood

Colours invoke a mood. Be mindful of this when working in areas that require a definite vibe. Let’s say that in a casual living area, you want a vibrant, fun feel. In that case, opt for warm, contrasting or vivid colours. For a more relaxed and calming space, use neutrals, deeper blues and dirty greens—nature’s primary palette.

Hot flushes and cool currents

Blend warm and cool tones to bring an exciting tug of war into your space; it will keep the senses guessing and the mind curious. A warm caramel tone against a cool winter grey is calming yet interesting; a good option when a compromise is needed between butting personalities.

Black & white – is it right?

People will always debate whether these are actually colours (technically), yet they still prove to be a match made in heaven in the design world. From Modern, to Country spaces, this combination has a home. One could say they are a timeless combination; a safe yet powerful one!

There were three in the bed…

If you are yet to find your match then work to the rule of three. Use only three colours within your space and this should erode confusion, headaches, or debates. It’s almost fool proof.

Like what you like

There are a million design philosophies, principles and thoughts on how to select colours and why. But when you whittle it down, all you need to do is surround yourself with colours that bring you happiness, patterns and textures that support and encourage your lifestyle (even if it’s a little quirky) and a home that says ‘You’.

Kerena Berry is an interior designer and Co-founder of Designbx, Australia’s online interior design solution.

Tags bright, colour, designbx, feature, neutral, paint, trends

Bathrooms Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT Shopping Styling

How to: Create an impressive backdrop with tiles

Post author By Lauren Ellis
Post date September 7, 2016
No Comments on How to: Create an impressive backdrop with tiles

There’s a sure fire way to make a huge statement in a home without taking too many design risks and making costly mistakes – and that’s to create an impressive backdrop. Whether it’s a kitchen splash back, an entrance portico or a stunning bathroom back wall, a backdrop as the design focus frees you up to play with your décor as the seasons change or every few years.

According to Christie Wood from Beaumont Tiles, a fundamental rule of design is to create a dominating feature: a colour, a massive chandelier or pendant light, a painting, a piece of furniture or rug, or a display area.

“With a first impression you want to make an instant impact. A backdrop that carries visual weight is not only a scene stealer, it sets the scene for building your design story,” Christie said.

“Great design brings personality, flair and character to a space. An impressive backdrop using pattern, texture or a shaped tile is a fabulous accent option for those who can’t decide on a dominating focal point.”

Tips and tricks to create a tiled backdrop that sings

Repeat a pattern. It’s a design trick that can encapsulate a colour, texture or a shape. For example, create a backdrop using hexagonal tiles. Repeat the pattern throughout the room in printed cushions, a rug, a lamp base or a vase.
Think 3D. The earth is not flat and neither is one of the fastest growing trends in tiles: 3D shapes. Christie explains: “3D is a visual feast unmatched by any other material. A 3D backdrop is gorgeous but dominant so pair back colour and styling through the rest of the room.”
Mix up your materials. Texture profoundly changes a room’s ambience and a brilliant plan B for people who don’t want to invest in strong colours. Mix bricks, tiles and stone and continue different mixed surfaces across the room. Laid back luxury!
Think big. Scale and proportion in itself creates impact. A massive floral arrangement or oversized pendant light draws the eye. A large scale, floor to ceiling backdrop, will leave visitors gasping. Contrast with a bright coloured chair.
Light it up. Just like art galleries light up precious portraits, do the same with your impressive backdrop to create shadow play, depth and drama.
For novices. Start with a splash back, or a wall that’s not always in full view. “By allocating one small space for your play area means you can update it every few years without the expense of a total redo,” Christie said.

Understated beauty for beginners

An impressive backdrop can support other design elements. Even low key backdrops provide a beautiful design effect. Low contrast neutral colours are unleashed by using a repeating geometric pattern.

Tremendously tactile

With the new 3D genre you can use a lot or just a few to add a powerful dimension to a room. Patterns that literally project towards the viewer make a strong impact. Shapes curves or shapes can then be repeated.

Packs a punch

Creating pattern with contrasting hues can be the most impacting backdrop. You will need to make sure it is not overwhelming by supporting it with subdued elements.

Oh! To be so brave

Go all out with tiles and tiles combinations that are completely unexpected like digital print graffiti styles.

Find out more here.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, Beaumont, feature, interiors, kitchen, kitchen design, statement, styling, tiles