Why Interior Designers Can't Wait To Ditch Black Grout In 2022

The selection process for materials in home renovation projects often leads to decision fatigue due to the overwhelming number of choices available, especially concerning backsplash tiles. To address this, 13 designers were consulted to identify the tiles they are most enthusiastic about incorporating into their upcoming kitchen remodels in 2025, aiming to streamline the selection process for homeowners. Among the featured selections, Danielle Fennoy of Revamp Interior Design expressed her fascination with Palet tiles, which are handcrafted in the Netherlands. These tiles are characterized by their bold colors and intricate patterns, appealing to Fennoy's preference for unique and colorful designs. Abbie Naber, owner and principal designer of a. Naber Design, highlighted her interest in the Gambit pattern by Zia Tile. She envisions centering a kitchen cabinet color scheme around this specific backsplash, suggesting that its distinctiveness would complement a colorful cabinet front. Molly Kidd, founder of Molly Kidd Studio, shared her eagerness to utilize classic Delft tiles in future kitchen designs. She appreciates their ability to infuse Old World charm and character, making a kitchen feel more established and lived-in. Kerith Flynn, principal and founder of Margali & Flynn Designs, recommended the Westwind Lilac Waterjet Mosaic from Artistic Tile. She noted its beautiful blend of colors, which offers numerous options for coordinating cabinet paint colors. Tara Lenney, founder of Tara Lenney Design, drew inspiration from a visually striking restaurant in Dublin and expressed her desire to use Nabi Fishscale tiles from TileBar. These tiles evoke an Art Deco aesthetic, featuring greens, golds, pinks, and botanical motifs. Elle Cantrell, owner and lead designer of Elle Du Monde, favored a high-contrast black-and-white terrazzo tile. She emphasized terrazzo’s durability and versatility for both kitchen floors and backsplashes, highlighting its modern interpretations. Tiffany Glasco, founder of Nahla Madison Home, was drawn to the glossy Crocodile Ceramic Tiles in Black Ceramic from Nella Vetrina. She values their bold, sophisticated appearance, unique pattern, durability, ease of cleaning, and their potential to create a timeless focal point. Audrey Frances Doty, founder of Audrey Frances Design, suggested the blush-toned Dolce Vita Terrazzo tile. She believes this modern and fun tile could transform bathrooms or kitchen backsplashes into stylish and inspiring spaces. Susan Petrie, founder of Petrie Interior Designs, recalled her experience meeting the owners of Popham Design in Morocco and subsequently fell in love with their Zellige line of hand-cut and glazed ceramic tiles. She praised their vibrant colors when illuminated and their pronounced texture. Brittany Farinas, founder and creative director at House of One, indicated a preference for jewel-toned tiles, such as deep berry or royal blue, for backsplashes or floors. She believes these colors add warmth, sophistication, and a fresh, contemporary feel, enhancing the kitchen's vibrancy through their interaction with light. Amber Guyton, founder of Blessed Little Bungalow, expressed her admiration for colorful cement tiles, particularly the Marrakech Design x Martin Bergström collection. She specifically mentioned a neutral option with terracotta and cool gray hues that would be well-suited for any kitchen. Shauna Jones, founder of Shauna Glenn Design, was enthusiastic about Zia Tile's new marble line, especially the Carrara Rosso Alicante color. She described its warmth and beauty, suggesting it would be ideal for a herringbone patterned backsplash. Antonio Matres, founder of Antonio Matres Design, plans to combine LG2 Jade Manganese-Olive #3 and G16.2 Jade Manganese tiles from Heath Ceramics. He intends to use them vertically and in different formats, highlighting the outstanding quality and the interplay between color depth and texture as creating a work of art. #KitchenDesign #TileTrends2025 #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BacksplashIdeas #DesignerPicks #KitchenRemodel #TileInspiration #MaterialSelection

The article discusses the emerging interior design trend of 'groutless' tiling for 2025, which emphasizes a seamless, textural aesthetic by minimizing visible grout lines. This trend focuses on the tiles themselves, creating an uninterrupted surface that is gaining popularity in modern home decor. While appearing groutless, the technique actually involves applying grout behind the tiles, ensuring a smooth finish without any visible lines that might disrupt the visual flow. Design experts attribute the rising demand for groutless tiles to their clean and timeless appeal. Louisa Alice, Creative Director at Mosaic Factory, highlights the desire for a uniform and streamlined look. Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca' Pietra, elaborates on how this aesthetic provides a sense of continuity and makes a significant visual impact, particularly in spaces like wet rooms or open-plan areas where a flowing design is crucial. She also notes its synergy with current trends like 'tile and stone drenching,' which aim to create immersive, monochromatic surfaces. Achieving the groutless look requires careful material selection and precise installation. Zellige tiles are recommended as an ideal choice for this style due to their handmade irregularities, which naturally result in minimal joints even when grouted. For an even more seamless effect, zellige tiles can be left completely ungrouted, though this approach necessitates consideration of the tile type, surface, and setting to prevent chipping or damage from movement and expansion. The unique character of zellige tiles, when laid in this manner, can create a striking feature wall that adds texture and visual interest to a space, as demonstrated in a featured bathroom design. Beyond aesthetics, the groutless trend offers practical advantages, notably easier maintenance. The absence of visible grout lines means fewer crevices for dirt and grime to accumulate, simplifying cleaning and upkeep, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. This functional benefit, combined with its sophisticated appearance, makes the groutless tile trend a compelling choice for homeowners seeking both style and practicality. The article concludes by emphasizing that with the right materials and meticulous attention to detail, this trending look can be recreated to achieve a timeless and impactful design. #GroutlessTile #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ZelligeTiles #ModernDesign #SeamlessAesthetic #TexturalEffect #HomeImprovement

As 2025 draws to a close, interior design experts are forecasting a significant shift in home decor trends for 2026, marking an evolution from the grey aesthetics prevalent in previous years. The article highlights that the popular concept of accent walls is becoming outdated. Instead, a new technique called "colour capping" is predicted to dominate the interior design landscape. Colour capping involves using various tones from the same color family across walls and ceilings to create a cohesive and sophisticated look. This approach differs from "colour drenching," which traditionally applies a single shade uniformly. The key benefit of colour capping is its ability to introduce balance and redefine the proportions of a space, making rooms appear larger and more luxurious. Experts from Benjamin Moore Paint emphasize that integrating the ceiling—often referred to as the "fifth wall"—into the color scheme provides a polished and considered aesthetic. This method not only elevates the perceived value of a room but also creates an illusion of increased height. Charlotte Broadribb, a color consultant and co-founder of Yinteriors, notes that colour capping effectively utilizes color psychology by balancing proportions and enhancing the sense of height. Homeowners can choose between neutral shades for a subtle effect or bolder hues like deep burgundies and rich blues for more dramatic visual impact. To further enhance visual interest, incorporating different paint finishes for walls and ceilings is recommended. Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing for Benjamin Moore Paint, suggests that using a higher sheen level on the ceiling can draw the eye upwards and integrate this often-overlooked surface into the overall design. Another emerging trend mentioned is "double drenching," a more audacious painting technique that involves coating all available surfaces—including walls, ceilings, radiators, and woodwork—with two or more colors from the same palette. While double drenching focuses on contrast and saturation, colour capping offers a softer, more refined aesthetic, prioritizing tonal harmony and balance within the space. The article also touches upon design trends that interior designers advise against, such as yellow paint in bedrooms, the use of "Live, Laugh, Love" signs, and the overuse of grey interiors, which is now considered a dated and overdone aesthetic. Overall, the emphasis for 2026 is on thoughtful color application that creates depth, sophistication, and a harmonious environment. #HomeTransformations #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorTrends #ColourCapping #AccentWalls #PaintTechniques #DesignTips #LuxuryInteriors

The article explores upcoming exterior home design trends for 2023, drawing on predictions from ten designers regarding materials, paint colors, and other elements that will influence curb appeal. The overarching theme is a move towards more creative and personalized exterior designs, building on the increased focus on home exteriors seen in the previous two years. One significant trend identified is the continued popularity of steel doors and windows, valued for the abundant light they allow into homes. However, designers like Zoe Feldman and Katelyn Pascavis suggest a softening of this industrial look. Instead of harsh black frames, they predict a shift towards creamy and parchment-white painted frames, offering a minimalist and modern aesthetic with a romantic touch. Regarding paint colors, there is a forecast for a move away from true blacks, which have been a popular choice for dark-colored homes. Kirsten Blazek of A 1000 X Better notes that while dark houses remain in vogue, character homes will increasingly feature almost-black or dark olive green hues. Kele Dobrinski from Colossus Mfg. reinforces this, predicting that moody greens, blues, and browns will become more prevalent on home exteriors in 2023, indicating a desire for more nuanced and natural dark shades. Another key trend is the emphasis on local climate considerations in exterior design. Jessica Hansen of Tandem Design stresses the importance of selecting materials suitable for the regional weather conditions. For instance, smooth trowel stucco is not recommended for wet and cold climates, nor is wood siding for tropical environments. Instead, she suggests incorporating statement brick or stone, which can be versatile, and pairing it with vertical siding in colder regions or smooth trowel in warmer ones. There's also an anticipated embrace of materials that develop a natural patina over time. Molly Sedlacek of Orca Living highlights a shift towards warmer, rugged materials such as darker woods, red clay, and galvanized steel. She envisions a departure from blond oaks and a greater adoption of clay brick pavers, noting their matte gray appearance and how beautifully they integrate with plant material. Sedlacek also suggests combining these elements with oxidized brass and copper for an enhanced aesthetic. Window placement is also evolving, with Liz Hoekzema of KLH Custom Homes foreseeing a move away from traditional stacked square windows. The trend leans towards more unique and varied window sizes and placements, as exemplified by a French home featuring an extra-large window next to the front door and a standalone window on the overhang, indicating a desire for more architectural interest and light distribution. Front doors are expected to become more of a statement piece. Young Huh predicts an increase in daring colors for doors and unique hardware, akin to the detailed and vibrant finishes often found on kitchen cabinets. This suggests that front doors will be treated as focal points, reflecting personal style and enhancing curb appeal. Finally, custom play structures that can adapt to a family's evolving needs are emerging as a trend. Architect Anand Sheth, in collaboration with landscape architect Anooshey Rahim of Dune Hai, is developing play structures designed to grow with children and simultaneously offer enjoyable hangout spots for adults. This highlights a desire for outdoor spaces that are both functional and long-lasting, catering to all family members. #ExteriorHomeDesign #PaintColors #DesignTrends2023 #SteelDoors #WindowPlacement #SustainableMaterials #FrontDoorDesign #OutdoorLiving #CurbAppeal

The selection of tile colors significantly influences a room's ambiance and its ability to remain timeless, making it crucial to understand which colors are fading in popularity for 2025. Interior designers emphasize that tile color is not merely an aesthetic choice but also contributes to the architectural memory, setting the tone, scale, and mood of a space. Whether handmade or precision-cut, tiles should harmoniously serve the living environment. This article, featuring insights from experts like Rachel Blindauer, Elana Mendelson, Kym Terranova, and Jo Rich, identifies five tile colors that are officially becoming outdated in 2025, offering guidance for those undertaking bathroom remodels or other tiling projects who aim for a contemporary yet enduring design. Cool gray tiles, once a popular choice, are now considered sterile and overdone. The design landscape is shifting towards warmer, more inviting tones. Interior designers suggest that warmer neutrals such as greige or taupe offer softer and more welcoming alternatives to cool gray. Natural terracotta or unglazed clay tiles are also recommended for those seeking neutral options with a cozier feel, reflecting a broader trend away from stark, cool palettes. Glossy white tiles, historically favored for their clean appearance and ability to visually expand a room, are also losing their appeal. They are increasingly perceived as sterile and uninviting, akin to the dated cool gray. Designers propose replacing these with tiles that possess more character, such as soft beige options. Large format matte porcelain tiles in a soft dove gray are highlighted as a superior alternative, as their matte finish eliminates the sheen and glare that can make a room feel clinical, thus adding depth and sophistication. Traditional white marble, despite its long-standing popularity, is beginning to take a backseat in 2025. While elegant, it is now often viewed as overused and too blank. Homeowners and designers are gravitating towards warmer natural stones like travertine or limestone, which offer comparable elegance but with enhanced texture and character. The concern is not with marble itself, but with the specific type that lacks warmth and depth. The article suggests exploring other marble variations, such as those with seaspray greens or amiable soft yellows, browns, and blues, to create a more inviting atmosphere. Navy tiles, previously admired for their timelessness in various design contexts like modern farmhouse and coastal styles, are also on the decline. Designers note that navy, being a dominant color, can limit a room's longevity and adaptability with changing trends in metal finishes or wood tones. For individuals passionate about incorporating blue, the recommendation is to opt for more versatile shades such as blue-greens, French gray-blues, or moody indigos with earthy undertones, ensuring better integration and a more enduring aesthetic. Finally, brown-beige tiles, reminiscent of the late 1990s and early 2000s, are expected to see a significant decrease in use. Once considered earthy and versatile, they are now often viewed as drab and overly dark. The trend is moving towards lighter taupes that offer a fresher and more contemporary feel. A simple shift in hue, perhaps complemented by houseplants, can transform a once-uninspiring space into a thoughtfully tiled and vibrant oasis, illustrating how subtle changes in tile color can dramatically impact a home's overall feel. #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ColorTrends #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign #OutdatedColors #ModernInteriors #DesignAdvice

The increasing popularity of earthy decor in 2023 reflects a growing desire to integrate the calming and health-benefiting aspects of nature into indoor living spaces. This trend is driven by a subtle shift in focus towards well-being and a stronger connection with the natural world. Kelly Simpson, Senior Director of Design and Innovation at Budget Blinds, highlights that incorporating earthy colors such as muted tans, greens, and browns fosters a sense of calm and a connection to nature, which is particularly relevant for the rising number of people working from home. This color palette extends beyond aesthetics, contributing to reduced stress, lower blood pressure and heart rates, and increased productivity and creativity, aligning with research on the positive impact of nature on health. The ease of integrating these tranquil colors and textures into home environments makes this a widely accessible design choice. Beyond their aesthetic and wellness benefits, earthy decor elements are also favored for their inherent eco-friendly qualities. Simpson notes a heightened awareness of sustainability due to recent climate disasters, leading consumers to seek out earth-friendly products. Examples include woven woods and textured roller shades, which are becoming popular window treatments due to their natural materials and ability to introduce organic elements indoors. Wood and faux wood blinds and shutters also contribute to a modern yet rustic and cozy style, reflecting a current design preference. Irregular textured fabrics like linen further enhance this rustic charm, offering comfort and a homely vibe through their unique slubby textures. Effortlessly adding an organic style involves designing spaces that embrace natural light and openness, promoting a sense of health and airiness. Mental health remains a critical focus in 2023, and surrounding oneself with nature indoors, through elements like living greenery, is a simple way to achieve this. Simpson suggests integrating various outdoor elements, such as plants, into home decor. Botanical motifs, including flowers and leaves, can be incorporated through accent pieces like pillows and rugs, utilizing shades of green that evoke foliage or earth tones reminiscent of natural landscapes. The careful selection of natural materials, soft organic patterns, colors, and textures can induce feelings of tranquility, aligning with biophilic design principles. Bringing the outside in also involves optimizing views and managing environmental factors through windows. Simpson emphasizes the benefit of incorporating earthy tones through window views featuring plants, water features, or simply natural light, which contribute to well-being. To enhance these views while addressing practical concerns, she recommends solutions like clear window film with UV protection to control glare and reject solar heat. Solar shades can further block harmful UV rays and increase privacy. These solutions are particularly timely given economic uncertainties, as energy-efficient window treatments help lower cooling costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from air conditioners, aligning with environmental concerns. By following these suggestions, homeowners can effectively bring the beauty and calming effects of earthy decor into their living spaces. #EarthyDecor #BiophilicDesign #HomeDesignTrends #NaturalMaterials #SustainableDecor #WellnessInDesign #InteriorDesign #EcoFriendlyHome #HomeImprovement

The dynamic nature of home decor trends means that what is considered stylish today can quickly become outdated. This article highlights several home decor trends that designers are ready to leave behind in 2022, signaling a shift towards new aesthetics and functional considerations. One significant trend facing obsolescence is farmhouse decor. Characterized by rustic art, whitewashed woods, white walls, light woods, and neutral rugs and textiles, this style, while capable of creating a peaceful space, is now seen as potentially boring due to a lack of visual interest. Designers suggest moving beyond this aesthetic by incorporating statement paintings, brightly colored pillows, or area rugs with captivating patterns to inject more vibrancy and personality into living spaces. The appeal of farmhouse style for its peaceful simplicity is acknowledged, but the call is for more engaging and diverse design elements. Another trend that designers are eager to bid farewell to is open-concept spaces, particularly open kitchen shelving. While open shelving might appear aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain, its practical application often falls short. The reality involves considerable effort to keep items on display organized and constantly dusted, making it less convenient than it seems. The pandemic, which led to increased time spent at home, also influenced a desire for more defined and sophisticated spaces, moving away from the uninterrupted flow of open-concept floor plans. Minimalism, with its emphasis on harsh lines and empty spaces, is also on its way out. The design world is shifting towards more organic shapes and bolder statement pieces. This evolution includes a preference for tables without sharp corners, opulent mirrors, and curved furniture, which contribute to a softer and more inviting atmosphere. Furthermore, there is a noticeable inclination towards richer, more dramatic color palettes, such as deep greens and blues, to add depth and character to interiors. This move away from stark minimalism indicates a desire for more warmth, comfort, and expressiveness in home design, reflecting changing lifestyles and aesthetic preferences. #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #FarmhouseDecor #OpenConcept #Minimalism #DesignTrends2022 #HomeRefresh #InteriorStyling

Textured tiles are emerging as a dominant trend in home renovation for 2022, offering a unique blend of visual interest and sculptural quality. This style is exemplified by artist Ben Medansky's collaboration with designer Kelly Wearstler for the Downtown Proper hotel, where Medansky created a one-of-a-kind wall installation featuring tiles that resemble museum-worthy sculptures. Unlike traditional smooth tiles, these textured ceramics catch light in distinctive ways, adding depth and character to any space. Medansky's approach to the hotel project was highly artistic and individualized; he treated each tile as its own canvas, avoiding repetitive patterns. His inspiration for the designs came from his road trips between Los Angeles and Arizona during the pandemic, incorporating abstract motifs derived from tire treads, traffic signs, and cacti. This method resulted in a monochrome yet dynamic piece where the narrative is conveyed through form and texture. While a custom art installation may be beyond the scope of a typical home renovation budget, the article highlights that the tactile tile trend is accessible through various brands. Companies such as Granada, Ann Sacks, and the Portuguese firm Viúva Lamego are producing a range of relief tiles that allow homeowners to integrate this sculptural aesthetic into their interiors. These tiles are versatile and can be used in diverse applications, from shower enclosures to kitchen backsplashes, enabling homeowners to personalize their spaces significantly. The placement of these tiles can be highly customized, making it an ultra-personal project that reflects individual style. The article also showcases several examples of these textured tiles from different manufacturers, including various collections from Ann Sacks like Apex Field Tile and Robert Kuo Chinois Field Tile. Viúva Lamego's handcrafted tiles, such as the Bela Silva Salsa Verde and Ondas Amarelo, are presented as options for those seeking unique designs. Heath Ceramics offers the Stan Bitters Collection, known for its distinctive textures, while Granada Tile provides relief options like Walvis and Railay. Tilebar contributes with polished ceramic options like Vector Reverb Azul and Nabi Argyle Glacier Ceramic Tile. Additionally, Fornace Brioni + Cristina Celestino for Clé are featured for their terracotta tiles, such as Mantegna Cotto Bianco Triangle and Labirinto Acanti Cotto Rosato Square. Ultimately, the prediction emphasizes a shift towards more expressive and visually engaging surfaces in home design. Textured tiles provide an opportunity to create spaces that feel more artistic and personalized, moving away from purely functional tiling towards elements that contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic and tactile experience of a room. This trend encourages creativity in material selection and application, promising to make a substantial impact on renovation projects in the coming year. #TileTrends #HomeRenovation #TexturedSurfaces #InteriorDesign #CeramicTiles #SculpturalDesign #KellyWearstler #BenMedansky #DesignInspiration

As 2023 begins, it's an opportune time for homeowners to refresh their living spaces by retiring outdated home decor trends from 2022. This involves a thoughtful evaluation of current aesthetics and an embrace of emerging styles. Several key trends are on their way out, making room for new approaches to interior design. Firstly, the pervasive 1970s aesthetic, characterized by macramé and earth-toned palettes, is receding. In its place, the mid-century charm of the 1950s, with its playful prints and vibrant pastels, is making a resurgence. Additionally, the bold geometric patterns and reflective surfaces reminiscent of the 1980s are also gaining traction, offering a nostalgic yet fresh perspective on home decor. The era of mass-produced decorative items is also fading. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique, handcrafted pieces that reflect personal style and artistry. This shift emphasizes individuality and supports local artisans, moving away from generic, factory-made knickknacks. Artisanal vases, custom furniture, and bespoke decorative elements are now preferred over identical, widely available items. The ubiquitous buffalo check pattern, a staple in country-style decor, is also being phased out. While not a complete abandonment of plaid, the trend is moving towards more varied textures and patterns. Chunky woven fabrics, intricate embroidered appliqués, and innovative uses of earth tones are becoming popular alternatives, providing a cozy yet refined aesthetic without relying on overused motifs. Barbie pink, a color that saw a surge in popularity during the pandemic, is giving way to a more subdued and sophisticated color palette. While warm shades like Viva Magenta (Pantone's 2023 Color of the Year) remain relevant, the bright, bubblegum pink is being replaced by cooler, calmer hues such as sage green, emerald, lavender, and cobalt blue. These colors are chosen for their ability to create serene and lush environments, offering a sense of tranquility and elegance. A surprising shift is occurring in dining ware, with traditional dinner plates being supplanted by "plate bowls" or shallow dinner bowls. These items, favored for their practicality and versatility, cater to a more informal and functional dining experience. This trend reflects a broader move away from rigid dining traditions towards an eclectic approach that prioritizes convenience and contemporary living. Matte-black hardware, a dominant trend in recent years, is also being superseded by a return to shiny metallic finishes. Brass, silver, and copper hardware are making a comeback, often mixed and matched to create dynamic and layered aesthetics. This allows for greater flexibility and personal expression in hardware choices, moving beyond the monochromatic dominance of matte black. Finally, caged light fixtures, particularly those featuring Edison bulbs, are losing their appeal. This industrial-inspired look, once popular alongside the modern farmhouse aesthetic, is being replaced by lighting options with softer lines and more integrated designs. Fixtures with curved forms, made from wood or metal, and equipped with LED light sources, are now preferred for their modern elegance and energy efficiency. This encourages homeowners to select lighting that enhances the overall ambiance with a refined touch. #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #2023Trends #VintageRevival #HandcraftedDecor #ColorPalettes #DiningWare #HardwareFinishes #LightingDesign

This article explores the growing design trend of utilizing colored grout to enhance tiled surfaces in various residential settings. It presents several case studies showcasing how different colors and materials of grout can dramatically alter the aesthetic of a space, moving beyond traditional white or gray options. The first example features a bathhouse in central Victoria, Australia, where Partners Hill used slip-glazed clay bricks with contrasting mortar to match the raw clay color of the other sides, creating a cohesive and earthy look within a greenhouse-like environment. This design choice contributes to a rural enclave that also hosts a cooking school and reception venue. Another instance highlights a London Victorian terrace renovated by Office S&M, where a strict no-gray policy led to a vibrant and bold interior. The ground-floor bathroom incorporates marbled countertops made from recycled materials by Smile Plastics, paired with cheerful yellow grout outlining white tiles on both floors and walls. The kitchen in the same residence features pink square Domus tiles with turquoise blue Mapei grout, which complements the pale blue pantry and teal cabinetry, demonstrating a playful and harmonious color scheme. In Seattle, architect Michelle Linden's renovation of her 1920s home involved opening up the space to light and color. For the living room's new fireplace surround, she opted for Cava Tile and custom-mixed salmon pink grout, highlighting the potential for personalized color choices to achieve a specific aesthetic vision. The article also touches upon an Australian home designed by State of Kin, where the choice of materials and colors was inspired by the Western Australian landscape. In the wet areas, terra-cotta grout was used to offset simple white Sugie tiles, grounding the design in local influences. An L.A. home owned by art collectors, renovated by Síol Studios, features dark terra-cotta floor tiles that extend to the terrace. A subtle yet impactful detail is the brass inlay in the grout line where the kitchen flooring meets the island's brass backsplash, designed to catch the evening light and illuminate the line. A London couple's renovation of an 1890s Victorian terrace included a first-floor bathroom with herringbone wall tiles from Topps Tiles set off by an earthy-hued grout, complementing copper fixtures crafted by the homeowners. The article further details a minimalist black-and-white kitchen in an Upper West Side brownstone apartment, where elongated black tiles are contrasted with lighter gray grout, creating a sleek and modern look. A tiny 355-square-foot apartment in Taipei, renovated by Phoebe Sayswow Architects, adopts a Muji-like minimalist aesthetic with white walls, birch plywood, and glazed white tiles, strikingly accented with cherry-pink grout. This pink grout continues into the bathroom, tying the spaces together and adding a playful element to the minimalist design. Finally, a guest bath in a vacation home in Crested Butte, Colorado, designed by Gina D'Amore Bauerle, features gray glass herringbone tiles with lime-green glitter grout, showcasing a bold and unexpected color choice. In Singapore, a flat renovated by Open Studio uses terra-cotta tiles with matching grout to introduce a youthful dimension to bedrooms and bathrooms, balancing the moody social areas. Another example from Madrid highlights an apartment by elii, where blue grout is used in the bathroom to introduce bright color, contrasting with yellow drawers and hardware. These diverse projects collectively illustrate that grout, often overlooked, can be a powerful design element capable of introducing color, texture, and personality into a space, creating unexpected visual interest and contributing significantly to the overall design narrative. #GroutDesign #TintedGrout #TileDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernInteriors #ColorInDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #DesignTrends

The interior design landscape for 2025 in Cleveland is shaped by evolving consumer movements and a blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics, drawing inspiration from global trends identified by High Point Furniture Market and Fashion Snoops. These movements, namely “Fresh Coast” (minimalist design), “Outlands” (rustic charm), “Sanct” (heritage craftsmanship), and “Equilibrium” (simplicity and luxury), reflect broader cultural shifts. Nancy Kraig, an assistant professor of interior design at Cuyahoga Community College, provides insights into six key trends expected to influence home interiors. A significant trend is the 'Warming Trends' in color palettes. While gray remains a staple, especially through greige, there is a notable shift towards warmer hues. Wood tones are becoming more prevalent, accompanied by shades of latte, ivory, and beige on walls. Saturated greens and navies are adorning cabinetry, and retro colors like rust and goldenrod are making a comeback, along with burgundy, creating an overall grounded color scheme. This trend is also manifested in furnishings and accessories, with a resurgence of curved forms in elements such as arched windows, picture frames, and mirrors. Another emerging style is 'Go Grandmillennial,' which reinterprets classic, comfortable elements reminiscent of a grandmother's home with a modern twist. This involves integrating traditional prints, throwback patterns, and textiles like chintz and sheers. Old-school upholstery details such as trim and tassels are also making a return. Beyond soft furnishings, architectural details like textured ceilings, chair rails, crown molding, and beadboard are being incorporated to add interest and character to walls, offering a cost-effective way to update living spaces. The 'Calm Down' trend emphasizes decluttering and minimalism, focusing on creating serene and fresh environments. This includes the strategic use of houseplants to enhance vitality and promote health. Sustainability plays a crucial role, with a move away from 'fast furniture' towards investing in durable, long-lasting pieces. Traditional neutral furnishings in creams, browns, and taupes are favored for their timeless appeal, with color introduced through changeable elements like throws and pillows. 'Statement Floors' are gaining prominence, particularly with advancements in luxury vinyl plank (LVP) technology. Modern LVP options overcome previous limitations, offering the aesthetic appeal of real wood with enhanced durability and water resistance. Designers are now experimenting with LVP dimensions and patterns, such as herringbone layouts and wider formats, to create visually impactful floors. Porcelain tiles with wood-grain finishes are also popular for kitchens and bathrooms due to their wear resistance. Additionally, there's a growing interest in sustainable flooring materials like cork and bamboo, signaling a broader movement towards natural products. 'Tipping Tiles' highlights a reinterpretation of classic tile applications. While subway tiles remain a kitchen backsplash favorite, their dimensions and orientation are changing. Vertical placement of longer subway tiles is becoming a popular choice, offering a distinct aesthetic. Color palettes for tiles are also deepening, with a return to jewel tones and rich hues like navies, greens, cinnamon, and gold-yellows, reflecting broader trends in paint colors. Finally, 'Color Drenching' is a bold approach to monochromatic design, where an entire room, including walls, ceilings, doors, baseboards, and trim, is saturated with the same color or closely related tones. This technique aims to create a unified, impactful, yet calming environment. Different sheens, such as an eggshell finish for walls and a semi-gloss for molding and trim, are used to add subtle depth and variation within the single-color scheme. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ClevelandTrends #2025Trends #ColorPalettes #GrandmillennialStyle #SustainableDesign #FlooringTrends #TileDesign

In 2025, interior designers are shifting away from certain bathroom colors, opting for warmer or bolder hues to maximize the appeal of these often-small spaces. While light neutrals have historically been popular for creating a bright and airy feel, experts suggest exploring other options for a more stylish and design-led approach. Several specific color trends are identified as becoming outdated. Icy blues and cool-toned blues, including gray-toned blues, are considered to be fading out of style in bathrooms. Designers note that these shades can make a bathroom feel cold, sterile, and uninspiring, and may appear harsh under certain lighting. Instead, the recommendation is to introduce texture through elements like grasscloth wallpaper, or to embrace bold, playful patterns such as florals or geometric prints to add dynamism. Alternatively, rich, enveloping shades like oxblood, claret (deep reds), and luxurious dark greens are emerging as preferred choices. These colors bring depth, mood, and personality, contributing to a stylish and timeless aesthetic. The concept of "material drenching," where the same tone is applied across both tiles and walls, is highlighted as an effective way to achieve a cohesive and impactful look with these richer hues. "Safe" neutrals, which have long been a go-to for bathrooms, are also being re-evaluated. While versatile, these traditional neutrals can sometimes lack design appeal and fail to create the cozy, design-led atmosphere that bolder, moodier colors can provide. Color experts are advocating for a move towards smoky mid-tones and darker hues, such as Benjamin Moore's Black Satin, Smoked Oyster, and Antique Pewter. These colors are chosen for their ability to introduce drama, sophistication, or a soothing quality, often infused with gray or brown undertones. The aim is to transform the bathroom into a more decorative and creative space, moving away from cold, generic, and stark white or light neutral schemes. Examples include using deep greens like Mid Azure Green, combined with vibrant Deep Space Blue and indigo-hued Dock Blue in a "double drenching" scheme, to create a balanced palette that is both lively and calming. Gray, in particular, is noted as feeling outdated in bathrooms, aligning with a broader industry shift from cool to warm color schemes. Cool grays are criticized for making spaces feel industrial, stark, and cold, and for being difficult to match with tiles, often pulling blue, purple, or green undertones. Designers suggest replacing cool grays with warmer neutrals such as Benjamin Moore's Balboa Mist or Collingwood. For those who still prefer a neutral aesthetic, warmer, earthy tones, like muted terra cotta, are recommended to create a more welcoming and on-trend bathroom environment. Finally, cool whites are identified as another bathroom color going out of style. While white remains a classic choice, stark, cold whites, especially when paired with glossy finishes, can appear sterile and outdated. The all-white spa aesthetic is giving way to moodier, more soulful spaces. Icy neutrals, like Farrow & Ball's Wevet, are also considered dated, as they can make a bathroom feel stark when reflecting light from porcelain fixtures. Instead, designers advise using warm white paints, such as Benjamin Moore's Cloud White, to achieve a soft, light, and airy look without the clinical feel. Other options include incorporating creamy accents and warm stained woods, or exploring warm whites with subtle undertones of blush and lavender, like Portola Paints' Full Circle, for a sophisticated and welcoming master bath. The overall message is to embrace bolder, richer colors or warmer, nuanced neutrals to create contemporary and inviting bathroom designs. #BathroomColors #InteriorDesignTrends #PaintChoices #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology #NeutralPalette #WarmTones #CoolTones #DesignTips

Interior design trends, particularly paint colors, are often cyclical, yet some styles transcend fleeting fads to become enduring choices. While 2025 is expected to see a resurgence of bright and playful paint colors, a significant and persistent trend is the continued popularity of dark, earthy tones. This palette, encompassing deep oranges, blues, browns, and greens, is celebrated for its ability to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a timeless selection for design enthusiasts. The appeal of these colors lies in their dual characteristics: they are both dark and deeply rooted in natural hues, often featuring subtle brown undertones. While vibrant earthy shades are appreciated, it is the rich, moody, and snug sensation offered by darker tones that resonates strongly with design experts. To enhance the homey feel, opting for warm color temperatures within this dark, earthy spectrum, such as chocolate brown or burnt orange, is recommended. Deep blues and greens also remain popular, providing a vibrant yet grounded pop of color that integrates well with neutral schemes. Incorporating these deep earthy paint colors into a home can seem daunting, but there are various effective strategies. One straightforward approach is to paint the walls in a favorite dark, earthy hue, which instantly imparts a sophisticated and cozy ambiance. This effect can be intensified through 'color drenching,' a technique where the ceiling, trim, and built-ins are painted in the same shade as the walls, creating a cocoon-like sensation ideal for relaxing spaces like bedrooms or living rooms. Dark shades inherently carry a sophisticated vibe, making them excellent companions for natural stone materials such as granite, marble, and slate. This compatibility allows these paint trends to be successfully implemented in functional areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. For those hesitant to commit to an entire room in a bold color like hunter green or navy blue, an accent wall offers a less imposing alternative. An accent wall painted in a dark, earthy tone can become a striking focal point, elevating the room's overall aesthetic. creative applications include using a single burnt orange shade, combining different dark hues, or developing engaging patterns like stripes. To prevent the design from becoming excessively dark, balancing the space with lighter furniture and decor is crucial. Incorporating organic materials such as bamboo, cotton, linen, terracotta, and stone not only complements the natural essence of the trending palette but also adds texture and depth to the room. Furthermore, hardware and metallic elements can significantly contribute to a luxurious yet comforting look when paired with these deep shades. Even a simple detail like painting window trim, doors, and baseboards in a light color can introduce contrast and visual interest, brightening the area without diminishing the inherent coziness of the dark hues. #InteriorPaintTrends #EarthyColors #HomeDecor #CozyAtmosphere #ColorDrenching #AccentWall #DesignTips #InteriorDesign #PaintColors2025

In 2024, the home design landscape is evolving, with several previously popular trends now considered outdated. Designers across the West Coast have highlighted specific styles and elements that homeowners should move away from to ensure their interiors remain fresh and contemporary. One prominent trend that has reached its saturation point is the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Characterized by black trim and white paint, this style has become ubiquitous, leading to what designers term “fatigue.” The emphasis is shifting towards honoring the existing architectural style of a home rather than imposing a generic modern farmhouse look. This signals a move towards more individualized and context-sensitive design choices. Another trend seeing a decline is the widespread use of heavily veined marble and zellige tiles. While these materials have been popular for their luxurious and artisanal qualities, designers anticipate a waning enthusiasm for heavily veined marble, although it may not disappear entirely. Zellige tiles, despite their charm, are also believed to be reaching a tipping point due due to their prolonged popularity, suggesting a market ready for new textures and finishes. The concept of "vanilla design"—large, bland, white spaces—is also on its way out. The design community is advocating for spaces with distinct personalities, incorporating vibrant stripes, checkerboard patterns, and bold colors. This extends to kitchen cabinetry, with white cabinets giving way to lacquered options in soft grays, greens, and blues, often paired with medium and dark wood tones and sophisticated stone countertops. The practice of using accent tiles with borders above stoves is also identified as dated, with designers recommending its removal to update kitchen aesthetics. Furthermore, an extreme form of minimalism, characterized by overly clean lines and sparse decor, is losing its appeal. The shift is towards a more maximalist approach, embracing bold patterns, vibrant colors, and curated collections that reflect personal style. This move away from bare minimalism also includes a reintroduction of decorative architectural features. After a period where minimalist moldings were common, 2024 will see a resurgence of wainscoting, intricate trim molds, detailed baseboards, and ornate crown molding. Plain ceilings are being replaced by statement ceilings, whether coffered, wallpapered, or otherwise embellished. Painted shelves, while potentially beautiful, are becoming too common and are also noted for their functional drawbacks, as paint can scrape easily. The preference is now for wood shelves and casework with warm stains, highlighting the natural beauty and resilience of wood. The color gray, despite its recent popularity, is also on its way out, with a Houzz study noting its decline in bathroom trends. Designers suggest that people are seeking more depth and color in their living spaces, moving beyond monochromatic gray palettes. Generic, mass-produced furniture is also becoming less influential, as clients increasingly prefer personalized, custom-made pieces and artisanal craftsmanship that express their individuality. Finally, sliding barn doors are deemed impractical, especially for private spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms due to their lack of privacy and sound insulation. Conventional or traditional pocket doors are suggested as more functional and aesthetically pleasing alternatives. Even perfectly-preserved mid-century kitchens are starting to look less chic and more like time capsules, indicating a desire to update classic styles with fresher interpretations of clean lines and organic materials rather than strict adherence to historical replication. #OutdatedDesignTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ModernFarmhouse #Minimalism #ColorTrends #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign

As the New Year approaches, homeowners often consider refreshing their living spaces. While designing a home sustainably without annual redecoration is encouraged, keeping an eye on trends can help maintain a stylish and contemporary feel. This article identifies several interior trends from 2023 that experts suggest moving away from in the coming year, distinguishing between enduring styles and fleeting fads. The aim is to guide homeowners in making informed design choices that stand the test of time. One trend highlighted for re-evaluation is wall panelling, specifically the grid-style square panelling. While panelling generally adds character, Sophie Clemson, co-founder of The Living House, notes that grid panelling can appear overly busy and fussy, overwhelming a room and creating a checkerboard effect. This design choice can also complicate the placement of artwork and other geometric elements like rugs and cushions. Interior designer Tara Rodrigues further suggests a shift from wall panelling to furniture panelling, anticipating a rise in fluted wood designs on bespoke furniture, kitchen cabinetry, side tables, and storage units. Another significant trend to be left behind, albeit controversially, is the widespread use of grey in home interiors, along with extreme minimalism. Victoria Walker, Product Manager and Trend Expert at Hillarys, argues that grey, despite its past popularity, no longer offers the same appeal, especially compared to emerging pastel shades like baby blue and peach. She advocates for earthier tones that promote a sense of calm and wellness. Similarly, Steve Hird, director of Edward Thomas Interiors, believes the 'unlived-in' minimalist aesthetic of 2023 is becoming outdated. He advocates for homes that reflect personality, life, and self-expression, encouraging homeowners to display collections from travels or incorporate deliberately mismatched furniture that brings joy. The 'Barbiecore' decor trend, which saw a surge in hot pink interiors following the Barbie film's release, is also identified as a fleeting fad. Sarah Lloyd, paint and interiors expert from Valspar Paint, advises against heavily investing in hot pinks for a timeless design. She suggests that while occasional hot pink items might work in artistic maximalism, they generally don't integrate well into a typical home. Instead, she recommends opting for muted, saturated, and soft pinks, aligning with the 'ballet core' trend, which are visually appealing in spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. The article references Pantone’s 2024 Color of the Year as an example of these softer hues. Novelty accessories, particularly body-shaped vases and candles, are predicted to decline in popularity. Sophie suggests that while these items were trendy in 2023, there is a growing emphasis on investing in timeless pieces that will be cherished for many years. She draws a parallel to the fleeting popularity of line face drawings, anticipating that 'bum vases' and similar items will also disappear from trend cycles in 2024. Finally, the resurgence of open-plan living, influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on home usage, is another trend poised for a reversal. Tara Rodrigues suggests a return to closed living spaces in 2024. While open-plan layouts offer spaciousness, closed rooms provide the flexibility to create dedicated, niche areas for specific activities, allowing for greater practicality and personalized use by family members. Despite these expert opinions, the article concludes by emphasizing that the ultimate goal of home design is to create a space that the homeowner loves, regardless of current trends. #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #DesignRevamp #WallPanelling #Minimalism #Barbiecore #NoveltyAccessories #OpenPlanLiving #HomeStyling #ExpertAdvice

The design landscape has seen a progression of hardware trends, from the classic elegance of stainless steel to the warmth of antiqued brass, culminating in the widespread popularity of matte black for knobs, handles, and pulls across various styles, including Scandinavian and modern farmhouse. While matte black offers a streamlined aesthetic that remains broadly appealing, the cyclical nature of design trends suggests an evolution. To anticipate the next significant shift in hardware, insights from four design professionals were gathered. One emerging perspective suggests a move towards the elimination of hardware altogether. Advances in soft-close mechanisms for both drawers and doors are increasingly enabling designers and consumers to opt for handle-less cabinetry. This approach shifts the visual focus away from hardware, instead highlighting the inherent details, materials, and colors of the furniture itself, thereby making a distinct and minimalist statement within a space. Another prediction points to a resurgence of silvery tones. Designers are observing a growing weariness of brass finishes, leading to an exploration of alternatives such as pewter. Nickel, in both brushed and chrome variations, is being utilized in kitchen and bathroom projects. This material is lauded for its timeless and classic qualities, offering an elegant contrast when paired with bold tiles or darker-toned stone and cabinetry, allowing the hardware to stand out. Finally, gunmetal finishes are gaining traction as a sophisticated alternative. This material is appreciated for its unique depth, bridging the chromatic gap between black and bronze. Its inherent warmth makes it particularly effective when juxtaposed with raw material backdrops, such as cast-iron panels, creating a refined and textured aesthetic in contemporary interior designs. These predictions indicate a future for hardware that emphasizes either its subtle integration or a return to enduring, versatile metallic finishes. #DesignTrends #HardwareDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #HomeDecor #MetallicFinishes #MinimalistDesign