A Q&A with Ole Avenue Project Tile Artisan Sarah Swan-Kloos ’21

The collaboration between Annie Selke and The Tile Shop introduces a comprehensive collection of over 200 tiles, aiming to translate the distinct aesthetics of Annie Selke's popular textiles and prints into durable and versatile tile formats. This collection leverages advanced technology to faithfully replicate the tactile qualities found in fabrics, such as the texture of rugs and the subtle sheen of metallic materials. The design inspiration for this collaboration spans a broad spectrum, encompassing both delicate, feminine motifs and more robust, bold patterns. The collection is designed with a strong emphasis on versatility and cohesion, encouraging users to mix and match various tiles within the range to achieve a unified aesthetic across different spaces and rooms. This flexibility allows for personalized design solutions, whether for a single room renovation or a whole-house design project. The integration of textile-inspired patterns and textures into tile form offers a novel approach to interior surfacing, providing designers and homeowners with new avenues for creative expression. Key offerings within the collection include the Annie Selke Artisanal series, available in various colors such as White, White Lace, Ice Blue, and Sage Green. This series is complemented by coordinating elements like Artisanal Moldura and Artisanal Pencil tiles, designed to provide finishing touches and enhance the overall design. Other notable designs in the collection are the Annie Selke Farmhouse Hex in White and Sage Green, which brings a rustic yet refined geometric element; the Smoke Grey Barn Board, offering a wood-like appearance with the durability of tile; and the Argento series in Orchid, which introduces a vibrant metallic-inspired finish. The collection also features the Aster series in White and its full color range, along with Watercolor Lines in Pearl Grey, providing softer, more artistic options. For bolder statements, the Ikat Black and Glam Glass in Grey tiles offer strong visual impact. Additionally, the Aylin series, available in Blue and Black, alongside the Velluto series in Orchid and its full color range, further expand the collection's stylistic breadth. Decorative elements like the Goldleaf Speckle and Tulip Mosaic add intricate details and a touch of luxury. The Gwendolyn in White and Sketch in Sky provide additional patterned options, while Lattice in Sky and Crosshatch in Sky and White offer graphic uniformity. This extensive range of tiles allows for diverse applications, from flooring and wall coverings to backsplashes, enabling seamless transitions and harmonious designs throughout a home. The collection not only expands the aesthetic possibilities for tile but also makes sophisticated, textile-inspired designs accessible for various interior design projects. #AnnieSelke #TheTileShop #TileCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TextileInspiredTiles #HomeRenovation #SurfaceMaterials #DesignCollaboration

The online tile retailer clé has unveiled its new Artist Cement Collection, a series of handmade encaustic cement tiles. This collection is a collaborative effort, featuring designs from eleven artist studios spanning Europe, South America, and the United States. The curated group of artists, architects, designers, and sculptors includes ALT for Living, Boris Aldridge, Coletivo Muda, Deborah Osburn, Erica Tanov, Gachot Studios, John Whitmarsh, Michelle Weinberg, Ruan Hoffmann, Sarah & Ruby, and Smink Things. The Artist Cement Collection showcases a diverse range of aesthetic styles, moving from bold, graphic geometric patterns to motifs inspired by nature, and even incorporating typography. Each tile is available in 8-inch by 8-inch square and hexagonal formats, offering flexibility in design application. A key feature of these tiles is their pre-polished and pre-sealed finish, which enhances their durability and versatility. This treatment makes them suitable for a wide array of applications, both indoors and outdoors, and for installation on either walls or floors, expanding their potential use in various architectural and interior design projects. Among the featured designs, Coletivo Muda contributes the 'Lagoa' tile, which appears multiple times in the illustrations, highlighting its distinct appeal. Michelle Weinberg's contributions include 'Pattern 1' and 'Pattern 2,' demonstrating a varied artistic approach. Smink Things presents several designs that bear its studio name, indicating a unique and recognizable style. Ruan Hoffmann offers a selection of patterns, including 'Amsterdam Express,' 'Arrow Dynamic,' and 'Bio Circuit,' each bringing a different visual narrative to the collection. Deborah Osburn's 'Manuscript Letters' introduces a textual element, adding another dimension to the tile offerings. Boris Aldridge provides 'Pattern 4' and 'Pattern 5,' showcasing his design philosophy. Gachot Studios also features 'Pattern 4,' suggesting a potentially different interpretation or variation from Aldridge's similarly named pattern. Erica Tanov presents 'Baccio' and 'Jacobson,' contributing unique artistic expressions. Finally, Sarah and Ruby's 'Pattern 5' completes the selection of artists and their designs, ensuring a rich and diverse collection for consumers and designers. The collection emphasizes both artistic expression and practical application. The use of cement as a medium for these artistic designs provides a tactile and durable surface, while the handcrafted nature of the tiles ensures uniqueness in each piece. The curated selection of artists from various global locations brings a wide spectrum of cultural and artistic influences to the collection, allowing for a broad appeal across different design preferences and styles. The collection aims to provide distinctive and high-quality options for residential and commercial spaces, allowing for personalization and artistic flair in surface design. #CementTiles #ArtistDesigned #EncausticTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileCollection #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HandmadeTiles #GlobalArtists

British artist Sophie Smallhorn, whose work explores the relationships between color, volume, and proportion, grew up immersed in a creative environment. Her parents were industrial and textile designers, and her Montessori education, with its use of brightly colored, precisely shaped wooden objects, fostered an early understanding of color, form, and dimension. This upbringing shaped her artistic approach, which is characterized by sophisticated geometric solids and a focus on color dynamics. Initially, Smallhorn pursued a degree in Wood, Metal, Ceramics, and Plastics at the University of Brighton, where she crafted sculptural furniture pieces that, despite their limited functionality, were primarily driven by color. She began creating assemblages from leftover materials for personal enjoyment, eventually selling them informally. Her acceptance of her work as fine art came only after a gallery explicitly presented it as sculpture, reflecting her background in design and making. Early career milestones included significant commissions from the avant-garde fashion brand Comme des Garçons, which provided opportunities for large-scale installations at its Tokyo flagship. These projects broadened her scope, leading to collaborations such as developing a 56-color palette for the London 2012 Olympic Stadium with Populous Architects, where exterior canvas banners in various hues marked spectator entrances. More recently, Smallhorn has ventured into textile design with Designtex, creating an upholstery pattern named Ribbon. This marks her first formal foray into textiles, a field her mother worked in, and one Smallhorn initially resisted due to her discomfort with digital design processes and the overwhelming possibilities of digital printing. However, a clear vision from Designtex's executive design director, Sara Balderi, during their renewed collaboration post-COVID, made the digital process manageable and even a revelation. The inspiration for the Ribbon motif originated from an enameled snuff box with an undulating ribbon, which Smallhorn encountered at the Victoria and Albert Museum. She developed the idea by physically manipulating collage and colored acetates, twisting and folding them, before translating these physical experiments into a digital layout for pattern repeat, palette, and scale. The initial design, which started smaller, evolved into a bold, graphic, and dynamic pattern with a theatrical quality, largely influenced by Designtex. The ribbon on the fabric is not solid but composed of parallel lines, a deliberate choice by Smallhorn to achieve an effect similar to screen printing, where overlapping transparent colors create a third hue, adding a playful and energizing graphic element. A solid version of this pattern, called Flat Ribbon, is available as a customizable wallcovering through Designtex’s Digital Studio website. Smallhorn notes a significant crossover between her two-dimensional prints and her three-dimensional sculptures and installations, as both involve compositions of hard-edged formal shapes. Screen printing serves as a rapid and playful method for developing ideas, allowing for serendipitous color scenarios that often inform her sculptural pieces. While her three-dimensional work does not allow for layering transparent colors, the print table mimics sketching, providing inspiration for new color combinations. She uses the same acrylic paint for both prints and assemblages, viewing the latter as vehicles for exploring and holding a palette. Smallhorn emphasizes the intuitive nature of her color decisions, often repainting pieces multiple times to achieve a desired equilibrium among what she describes as 'easy' and 'less easy' or 'awkward' and 'less awkward' colors, without relying on a predefined system. Her collaborations with brands like Comme des Garçons and COS exemplify her ability to bridge fine art and commercial design. For COS, she created window displays for five global stores, featuring large, overgrown stacks of shapes designed to complement product displays. This dual engagement with both artistic and commercial realms is a comfortable space for Smallhorn, who appreciates working with brands that share a similar sensibility toward color and design. Her career demonstrates a consistent exploration of color, form, and proportion across various mediums, continually seeking synergistic relationships in her chromatic work. #SophieSmallhorn #ArtistInterview #ColorDesign #Sculpture #TextileDesign #InteriorArt #DesigntexCollaboration #GeometricForms #CreativeProcess

Tile can significantly enhance the aesthetic of any space, whether used as a subtle accent or a comprehensive design element. This article showcases seven versatile tile styles suitable for diverse interiors, ranging from compact areas to expansive floor-to-ceiling installations. Each featured design offers unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal, making them adaptable for various design projects. First, the Keys Pink Lady Mosaic Tile from Artistic Tile is presented. This hand-cut glass tile features a glossy pink finish and can be installed both vertically and horizontally, allowing for creative, clean-lined patterns. Its versatility makes it suitable for adding a touch of color and sophistication to any room. Next, the Godai Glazed Concave Hex Tile by Heritage Tile is highlighted. These tiles are recognized as individual art pieces, characterized by their evocative oceanic hues of blue and green. The design draws inspiration from traditional Japanese tile work, providing a unique blend of craftsmanship and natural color palettes that can bring a serene yet vibrant quality to a space. New Ravenna's Starlight Mosaic Tile, designed by Paul Schatz, is also featured. This mosaic combines hand-cut and water-jet cut elements, creating an intricate pattern with polished Blue Macauba and Spring Green. Despite its detailed nature, the design maintains a serene quality while offering enough visual interest to serve as a focal point on any wall. For a terrazzo-inspired aesthetic, The Tile Shop’s Terrazzo Bianco Macro Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile is introduced. This matte tile incorporates thousands of small, pastel-toned porcelain fragments. It offers flexibility with options for black or white backgrounds and varying sizes of stone shards, enabling designers to achieve different visual effects based on project requirements. Artistic Tile reappears with its Norwegian Rose Marble Mosaic Honed Stone Broken Joint Tile. This design introduces a striking pink element to any surface. Available in various marble and onyx options, its asymmetrical details evoke traditional hand-placed mosaics, imbuing spaces with an old-world elegance. Heritage Tile's Subway Mosaics Tile collection encourages artistic expression. These unglazed porcelain tiles are offered in a wide range of colors, including Lemon and Light Yellow, providing ample opportunities for designers to create diverse and innovative configurations. Their adaptability allows for personalized and unique design solutions. Finally, the Sitges Mosaic Tile by Paul Schatz for New Ravenna is presented. This white-on-white design, crafted from Venetian-honed Thassos, initially appears simple. However, the precise and detailed cuts of the stones reveal a sophisticated texture and visual depth, ensuring the tile is anything but ordinary. It offers a subtle yet refined option for spaces seeking understated elegance. These seven tile designs, sourced from Business of Home’s Collections vertical, represent contemporary product debuts from leading brands in the industry. They offer designers a range of choices to create distinct and timeless interiors, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and practical application in various home design contexts. #TimelessTileDesigns #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileInspiration #ArtisticTile #HeritageTile #NewRavenna #TheTileShop #PaulSchatz

Susan Alexandra, known for its vibrant and beaded accessories, has opened a new store in New York City's Lower East Side, offering a colorful and whimsical retail experience. The store's design, spearheaded by founder Susan Korn in collaboration with Lula Galeano of Studio Galeon and Levi Shaw-Faber of Wiggle Room, transforms the space into a 'pigmented oasis' that draws inspiration from playful, retro aesthetics like '80s roller rinks, watermelons, and bananas. This design ethos extends beyond a mere shopping destination, providing a source of innovative and bold home decor inspiration that can be adapted for various personal styles. The store's exterior immediately captures attention with its bright yellow facade, setting the tone for the interior's vibrant color palette and unique architectural elements. One notable feature is the beaded banana door handle, a whimsical detail that exemplifies the brand's playful approach. Inside, the design incorporates several distinct elements that can be translated into residential settings. For instance, colored-glass bricks are used to create custom archways, room partitions, and corner tables, introducing a burst of color and a disco-like ambiance while minimizing the need for traditional wall hangings. This approach suggests an alternative to conventional wall decor, using structural elements to infuse color and light into a space. Another design technique highlighted in the store is color-blocking the ceiling and the top quarter of the walls, a concept referred to as 'Accent Wall 2.0.' This method creates a dynamic feel in any room and can be further enhanced by painting accent shelves and cubby spaces to match, integrating storage with the overall color scheme. The use of mosaics, described as a supersized version of Susan Alexandra's beaded bags, is prevalent throughout the store. Multicolored tiles in various shapes and sizes are employed to craft custom images and patterns, effectively embedding visuals directly into the walls, offering a creative alternative to wallpaper or paint for personalization. Lighting also plays a significant role in the store's design, featuring bespoke elements such as giant fruit sconces and intricate beaded chandeliers. While these are custom creations, the article suggests that antique and modern lighting fixtures can serve a similar purpose in residential interiors, introducing interesting colors and silhouettes that act as bold decorative choices. An example provided is the Matin wall sconce from Hay, illustrating how specific lighting pieces can contribute to a space's overall aesthetic. These design choices collectively offer a blueprint for homeowners looking to incorporate vivid colors, unique textures, and playful elements into their living spaces, moving away from neutral palettes toward more expressive and personalized interiors. #StoreDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorBlocking #MosaicTiles #LightingDesign #RetailSpace #SusanAlexandra #NewYorkCity

The Dwell on Design show consistently highlights innovative concepts in home design and architecture. This year, despite tiles being an ancient material with a history spanning approximately 5,000 years, the exhibition showcased a plethora of fresh approaches, new materials, and advanced technologies in tile design. The convention provided extensive inspiration for various home surfaces, including floors, walls, and backsplashes. Several notable products and designs were featured. Bedrosians, a California-based importer, presented a 4-inch-wide Japanese tile named “Shinzen,” available in multiple colors and a herringbone design, retailing at $17 per square foot. Another offering from Bedrosians was the “Panache” hexagonal mosaic, a new market entry combining Chinese glass tiles with Brazilian stone, priced at $44 per square foot. Eos Surfaces showcased a non-porous, stain-resistant material made from recycled glass shards integrated into a resin base. This material boasts durability and smoothness comparable to quartz. Another variation from Eos Surfaces, also featuring glass-embedded resin, was priced between $60 and $70 per square foot, offering a favorable alternative to traditional concrete tiles with broken glass. Classic Tile & Mosaic displayed custom carved stone designs. Their bespoke mosaic pattern strikingly combined “Antique Brush” and “Fine Adze” limestone finishes, priced around $32 per square foot. They also featured volcanic basalt sourced from Indonesia or Mongolia, a more economical stone, with individual bespoke finishes costing approximately $12 per square foot. Tesselle reintroduced encaustic cement tiles, a process originating in Catalonia in the 1850s and popular in Latin America. These handmade tiles, produced near Mexico City, ranged from $15 to $18 per square foot. The cement tiles are not fired or glazed; instead, mineral pigments are hydraulically pressed into the cement surface, resulting in slight imperfections that add to their character. Their precise dimensions allow for finer grout lines. Tesselle, based in Riverside, California, offers about 30 different designs and custom work, though these tiles are best suited for mild climates as they are not resistant to freezing temperatures. Pasadena Craftsman Tile, led by artist-architect Cha-Rie Tang, presented gloriously imperfect handcrafted tiles in the Craftsman style. These unique field tiles start at $24 per square foot, with no two pieces being identical. The studio also creates custom murals, ideal for fireplace settings, ranging from $250 to $450 per square foot. Pental Quartz showcased a hexagonal porcelain tile called “Material,” featuring a 3-D mosaic design that creates an M.C. Escher effect. Available in four colors, this tile retailed at $11 per square foot. Island Stone introduced “Paragons,” a seductive stone cladding consisting of interlocking rhomboids with a deeply tapering, angled relief. This tile was expected to be available in October 2015, priced in the “high 20s” per square foot. DENY Designs, based in Denver, presented a unique approach using plywood printed with proprietary processes. The company offers over 9,000 designs, priced at $12 per square foot, and emphasizes durability. An example shown was the “Collins Ave” design by Australian artist Three of the Possessed. Overall, the Dwell on Design show highlighted a vibrant evolution in tile design, combining historical techniques with modern materials and artistic innovation to offer diverse and inspiring options for contemporary homes. #TileDesign #HomeDecor #DwellOnDesign #SurfaceMaterials #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalTrends #Bedrosians #EosSurfaces #Tesselle #PasadenaCraftsmanTile

In 2018, José Noé Suro, a prominent figure from Cerámica Suro, a leading ceramics workshop based in Mexico, visited New York. During his visit, he encountered a line of people outside a factory building, which led him to a pottery sale. At this event, he met Helen Levi, a ceramicist and photographer. This serendipitous meeting sparked initial discussions about a potential collaboration between the Guadalajara-based artisan and the Queens-based New York native. These discussions eventually materialized into a joint project. The collaboration resulted in a distinctive satin-glazed earthenware series, which is comprised of two distinct tile groupings. The first group, known as Color Field, features hand-painted tiles that measure 3 ½ square inches. These tiles are designed to evoke the appearance of miniature abstract art canvases, showcasing a blend of artistic expression and ceramic craftsmanship. The second group is named Corduroy, offered in two sizes: 3 ½-square inches and 4 ½-square inches. These solid-colored tiles are notable for their textured surface, which is intended to resemble the characteristic ridges of corduroy fabric, providing a tactile dimension to the collection. The desirability and practical application of these newly developed tiles are further underscored by their recent installation in a commercial setting. Specifically, peach-toned Color Fields tiles have been chosen and installed at the newest location of Talea Beer Co. in Williamsburg. Talea Beer Co. is recognized as a woman-owned brewery, and their selection of these tiles for their latest outpost highlights the aesthetic appeal and market relevance of the collaborative ceramic series. This installation serves as a tangible example of how the tiles can be integrated into modern interior design, contributing to the ambiance of a contemporary space. The collaboration between José Noé Suro and Helen Levi merges traditional ceramic techniques with a contemporary design sensibility. Cerámica Suro, with its established reputation in Mexico, brings extensive expertise in ceramic production and a rich heritage of craftsmanship. Helen Levi, based in New York, contributes her artistic vision and photographic background, influencing the aesthetic and conceptual development of the tiles. The satin-glazed finish of the earthenware adds a refined tactile quality, enhancing the visual depth of both the abstract Color Field designs and the textile-inspired Corduroy patterns. The choice of earthenware as the material base provides a durable yet aesthetically pleasing surface suitable for various applications. The Color Field tiles, with their hand-painted abstract designs, represent an intersection of fine art and functional design. Each 3 ½-square-inch tile functions as an individual artistic piece, allowing for diverse arrangements and patterns when installed. The inherent variability in hand-painted ceramics means that each tile possesses unique characteristics, contributing to the overall bespoke feel of any installation. The Corduroy tiles, available in both 3 ½-square and 4 ½-square sizes, offer a different aesthetic. Their solid colors and textured surface provide a more uniform yet equally engaging option, drawing inspiration from the familiar comfort and visual texture of fabric. The installation at Talea Beer Co. also signifies a successful venture into commercial design, demonstrating the versatility of the tiles beyond residential use. The selection of the peach Color Fields tiles for a brewery suggests an intention to create an inviting and visually stimulating environment, aligning with current trends in commercial interior design that prioritize unique, artisan-crafted elements. #Ceramics #CeramicaSuro #HelenLevi #TileDesign #SatinGlazed #ArtisanCollaboration #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign

Subway tiles, originally designed by George C. Heins and Christopher Grant La Farge in 1904 for the New York City subway, have a rich history rooted in both hygiene and aesthetics. These 3″x6″ ceramic tiles were chosen for their easy-to-clean surface and their ability to reflect light in the subterranean stations, a practical consideration for a new mode of public transport. The Victorian era's emphasis on cleanliness had already popularized tiles as a hygienic design solution, making them a suitable choice for the subway environment. Beyond functionality, the initial designs often incorporated decorative mosaics, showcasing the early potential for artistic expression within this utilitarian material. Over the decades, subway tiles transitioned from public infrastructure to a ubiquitous design element in residential kitchens and bathrooms. Their enduring appeal lies in their versatility, managing to embody both traditional and modern aesthetics simultaneously. This adaptability has cemented their place as a classic choice in interior design. However, the traditional flat, glossy white subway tile, while timeless, has seen limited evolution in its fundamental form. Recognizing this, Mission Stone & Tile, a luxury importer and distributor based in Nashville, has introduced a new collection that seeks to redefine and expand the possibilities of this classic material. The company's new "Essentials Collection" introduces a significant update to the traditional subway tile: tactile textures. This innovative line features tiles with pan-glazed surfaces that incorporate various patterns such as pinpoints, pinstripes, honeycombs, and diamonds. This textural variation adds a new dimension to the visual and tactile experience of the tiles, moving beyond the smooth, flat surfaces of their predecessors. The collection was conceived by Mission Stone & Tile founder, Mary Elizabeth Oropeza, with the explicit goal of empowering designers to explore more complex and geometric configurations, much like the breathtaking original installations in the New York City Hall Station. Beyond texture, the Essentials Collection also offers an updated color palette designed to complement contemporary interiors while fostering creative design. The new range includes warm grays, ivories, oyster whites, mists, and a deep, nearly-black mink color. These sophisticated hues, combined with unusual tile sizes like 2.5″, 4.5″, mod pickets, and raised-edged mosaics, provide designers with enhanced flexibility. This allows for diverse applications, from creating bold graphic statements in a kitchen to subtle ombré effects through color and texture variations, or even focusing purely on textural interplay with a simple color scheme. The collection aims to unlock a new level of creativity for subway tile applications, encouraging designers to push the boundaries of this enduring design classic. #subwayTiles #tileDesign #interiorDesign #homeDecor #tactileTiles #missionStoneAndTile #designInnovation #kitchenDesign #bathroomDesign

In Gardena, California, a family-owned business called B&W Tile Co. has been manufacturing tiles since 1947. The company's vibrant purple building stands out near the freeway, attracting builders, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts. Inside, a team of 15 operates a showroom displaying a wide array of tiles, which are the same colors and styles the company has produced for decades. Beyond the showroom, the manufacturing process unfolds in a clay-filled environment, utilizing kilns and large machinery to create each tile from start to finish. Alex Vassaux, the head of operations, attributes the company's longevity to the passion and dedication of its employees and their commitment to preserving historical craftsmanship. The tile bisque and glazes are made from scratch, with most processes handled by personnel. Despite using machinery, the operations are not automated or computerized, relying on staff for control and operation. B&W Tile has faced significant challenges, including a factory fire last year that destroyed critical equipment, impacting production timelines. The company is actively working to recover from these setbacks, with production currently running six days a week to compensate for the damage. New kilns are expected to arrive within three months, which should help normalize production. The resilience of B&W Tile mirrors the durability of its products. The commitment to traditional tile-making by B&W Tile aligns with a broader resurgence of interest in vintage tiles. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, have played a crucial role in fostering online communities dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of vintage tiling. An Instagram account, @vintagebathroomlove, curated by an individual without professional ties to the tile industry, exemplifies this passion. The curator's appreciation for vintage tiles began in their mid-20s, sparked by a studio apartment with original hex mosaic floor tile, a pedestal sink, and a tub. They were impressed by the enduring quality of these neglected installations. Vintage Bathroom Love considers tiles to be an accessible form of art, functional, approachable, and relatively affordable. Elaborate tiled bathrooms are viewed as museum-quality art pieces, highlighting the skill of past tile setters. The visual appeal of vintage tiles, especially colorful ones, is well-suited for platforms like Instagram, where bright, eye-catching imagery thrives. This visual emphasis has contributed to a shift in design culture, moving away from monochrome aesthetics towards more vibrant and unique elements. Evidence of this trend can be seen in mainstream advertisements from companies like Geico and Target incorporating vintage bathroom aesthetics. Nostalgia also contributes to the rising popularity of vintage tiles. Vassaux notes that classic designs are always appreciated across generations. Vintage Bathroom Love adds that people often gravitate towards familiar elements from the past during challenging times. Many individuals grew up in homes with colored tiles and retain fond memories of these designs, leading them to incorporate similar elements into their own living spaces. This cultural phenomenon reflects a desire for comfort and familiarity in home design. #VintageTiles #TileManufacturing #HistoricCraftsmanship #DesignCulture #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesignTrends #SocialMediaInfluence #ArchitecturalPreservation

The 'Soot' architect's desk is a collaborative project between Note Design Studio and cabinetmaker Karolina Stenfelt, conceived as Stenfelt's journeyman project for the Carl Malmsten School of Furniture. Kristoffer Fagerström from Note Design Studio was given creative freedom to design the desk, with the primary objective of creating a piece that offers subtle complexity and stands out in a discreet manner. The selection of a desk for this project was driven by the requirement for specific construction elements and functionalities to meet the criteria for a journeyman's assessment. The design concept for 'Soot' is an architect's 'black box' that seamlessly integrates traditional analog features with modern technological needs. This includes built-in rulers, concealed magnets, and paper roll storage, alongside contemporary additions such as USB hubs and power outlets. A core principle guiding the material choice was the shared motto of 'pine is fine' between Kristoffer and Karolina, leading to the decision to construct the desk entirely from Swedish pine wood. This presented a significant challenge for the cabinetmaker due to the inherent softness of pine and the innovative surface treatment planned. A key design element involved using charred wood as a surface finish. The intention behind charring the pine was to harden its relatively soft surface. This process was particularly challenging because there was no established technique for charring pine veneer, especially not one that could be adapted to create and adhere to the intricate intarsia pattern intended for the desk's surface. Karolina Stenfelt undertook extensive experimentation with veneer burning to achieve the desired effect, highlighting the project's ambitious nature and the designers' commitment to pushing material boundaries. Contrast was a central theme throughout the project, aiming to showcase the versatility of pine wood. The exterior of the desk is covered with the experimentally burned veneer, arranged in a striking fishbone pattern, which gives the desk its distinctive 'soot' appearance. In stark contrast, the interior of the desk, when opened, reveals a finely selected golden pine, arranged in the same fishbone pattern, offering a visually stunning juxtaposition of charred and natural wood tones. The 'black box' structure of the desk is supported by a tar-burned steel frame. The tar burning process effectively covered the welding forges and the rest of the frame, resulting in a varied, sooted surface that complements the charred wood. Custom-made brass fittings, including locks, rulers, and hinges, provide gleaming accents against the darkened surfaces, subtly referencing the fire used in the charring process. The collaboration between Karolina Stenfelt and Note Design Studio has led to discussions about developing a limited edition series of the 'Soot' desk. The desk is currently on display at the Carl Malmsten School's spring exhibition in Stockholm, Sweden, serving as a testament to innovative design and craftsmanship. #ArchitectsDesk #FurnitureDesign #PineWood #CharredWood #NoteDesignStudio #KarolinaStenfelt #SwedishDesign #Craftsmanship #CustomFurniture

The classic subway tile, a ubiquitous feature in many homes and commercial spaces, has remained a design staple for its versatility and timeless appeal. However, even iconic design elements periodically benefit from innovation and a fresh perspective. Studio McGee, in collaboration with Ann Sacks, has introduced a new collection that reinterprets the traditional subway tile, offering an updated aesthetic that maintains its core charm while introducing a playful and distinctive element. The new collection, Ashton Meadows, features five distinct tile designs available in five different color palettes, ranging from subtle cool grays to a bold oxblood. Among these, the glossy Scalloped Field Tile stands out as the collection's highlight. This particular tile reimagines the conventional rectangular shape of subway tile by incorporating wavy edges, giving it a soft, organic, and visually interesting profile. This subtle alteration transforms the tile from a familiar background element into a more engaging design feature, allowing it to serve as a focal point or to add a touch of whimsy to various applications. Retailing at just under $15 per square foot, the Scalloped Field Tile represents a considered investment that promises to significantly enhance the visual appeal of a space. Its unique silhouette also emphasizes the grout lines, providing an opportunity for creative expression through the selection of grout colors. Designers and homeowners can opt for contrasting or complementary grout shades to either highlight the scalloped edges or to create a more integrated, textural look. For instance, using a vibrant cobalt blue grout with these tiles could introduce an unexpected pop of color and a modern twist. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the ceramic tiles in the Ashton Meadows collection are designed for both indoor and outdoor applications, offering broad utility. This versatility means they can be incorporated into a wide array of settings, including bathroom tub surrounds, kitchen backsplashes, range hoods, accent walls in living areas, and even fireplace surrounds. The durability and adaptability of the tiles make them suitable for high-moisture environments like bathrooms, where they can contribute to a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. The article suggests an imaginative application: envisioning a shower outfitted with the dark green scalloped tiles, paired with a slightly darker shade of grout. This combination is presented as a method to achieve a calming and luxurious start to the day, highlighting how thoughtful material selection and design can influence daily routines and overall well-being. The Studio McGee x Ann Sacks collaboration offers a compelling evolution of a beloved design element, demonstrating that even a classic can be reinvented with creativity and attention to detail. #StudioMcGee #AnnSacks #SubwayTile #TileDesign #BathroomTile #KitchenBacksplash #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends

This article explores fifteen innovative and creative ways to utilize tiles in home decor, moving beyond traditional applications. It highlights how tiles can be a versatile element in various rooms, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. The piece begins by acknowledging the balance required in selecting tiles, considering factors such as color, style, shape, placement, resilience, and ease of cleaning. It emphasizes looking for innovative uses, clever laying patterns, and unexpected placements to elevate interior design. One featured idea is creative wall paneling using wood-effect ceramic tiles from Mandarin Stone, offering a durable alternative to traditional wall panels, particularly in high-traffic areas like kitchens. These advanced ceramic tiles can convincingly mimic premium materials such as solid wood or marble. Another suggestion involves arranging two-tone square tiles into a striking zig-zag pattern to create a feature wall in small bathrooms, as demonstrated by Homebase. The article also presents the concept of matching mixed materials, where House of Hackney offers tiles that coordinate with soft furnishings like curtains, lampshades, chairs, and carpets, enabling a cohesive maximalist scheme. For small bathrooms, a tiled pedestal can provide an attractive foundation for a basin sink, with the potential for recessed storage on its sides, as shown by Ca’Pietra and the London Basin Company. Illustrated tiles, featuring whimsical designs by artists like Sasha Compton for Ca’Pietra, are presented as a way to introduce color, pattern, and depth. A creative faux rug effect, using tiles from Bert & May, can be implemented under freestanding baths, dining tables, or as runners in hallways and up stairs, allowing for customizable patterns and trims. Claybrook Tiles' glossy two-tone stripe patterns, like the Fellini tile, are highlighted for their visual impact, especially when combined with a squiggly paint effect. Wraparound murals, such as those from Surface View, are discussed as a method to cover entire walls or rooms with large-scale botanical motifs, creating an immersive outdoor feel while offering splash-proof durability. The article challenges the traditional exclusion of hard surfaces from soft spaces like living rooms and bedrooms, illustrating how patterned tiles from Mandarin Stone can introduce visual interest below eye-level, especially when paired with soft rugs or underfloor heating. A feature wall in a kitchen or bathroom using creative checkerboard patterns from Fired Earth is presented as a playful and nostalgic alternative to paint or wallpaper. Tiles with uneven surfaces, exemplified by Homebase's crackled tiles, are noted for their unique light-reflecting qualities and the ability to create an unbroken wash of color when laid without grouting. The piece also revisits retro tiled chimneys, showcasing a design from 2LG x Maitland & Poate that evokes the aesthetics of the 60s and 70s with vibrant, undulating wave patterns. Bespoke indoor/outdoor tiled benches from Otto Tiles offer integrated seating for terraces or conservatories, allowing for recessed storage and customizable finishes. Lastly, tiles are suggested as a framing device for arches or alcoves, where luxury tiles can be used sparingly to create a link between spaces, as seen with Mandarin Stone's marbled veins. The article concludes by mentioning the effectiveness of using matching tiles on a smaller scale around a bathroom to achieve cohesion and maximize space, referencing examples from Claybrook Studio. #TileDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CreativeTiling #BathroomTiles #KitchenTiles #WallPanelling #PatternedTiles #TiledMurals

This blog post from Wickes showcases their extensive range of tiles designed to help homeowners transform their living spaces. It emphasizes the variety of designs, materials, and applications available, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. The article highlights that tiles can be used to reflect a unique personality and style, suggesting their versatility beyond traditional kitchen and bathroom settings to include hallways, conservatories, and even bedrooms. The content is structured to guide customers through different tile categories and provide helpful advice. It begins by encouraging users to explore various tile options, from intricately patterned floor tiles to sleek, modern designs, all aligned with current trends. The post categorizes tiles by their intended use, such as Bathroom Tiles, Kitchen Tiles, Floor Tiles, Wall Tiles, Outdoor Tiles & Paving, and Wet Room Tiles, making it easier for customers to navigate and find what they need for specific projects. Additionally, it features specialized collections like Boutique Tiles and Mosaic Tiles for those seeking unique or decorative options. Beyond just showcasing products, the article provides practical guidance through a dedicated "Tiling Ideas & Advice" section. This includes a step-by-step guide on "How to tile a bathroom wall," aiming to demystify the tiling process and empower DIY enthusiasts to achieve a professional finish. Another advice piece, "Tiling ideas & advice," offers inspiration for using tiles in various rooms and highlights the aesthetic benefits of incorporating them into home makeovers. The inclusion of a "tile buying guide" further assists customers in making informed decisions by considering factors such as application, desired aesthetic, budget, and maintenance requirements. The blog post addresses frequently asked questions regarding tile installation and selection. It specifically tackles whether it's possible to drill into tiles, providing detailed instructions on the necessary tools and precautions, such as using diamond-tipped drill bits and masking tape to prevent cracking. It also clarifies the different types of tiles available, including ceramic, porcelain, and glass, and explains their respective benefits and suitable applications. For instance, it mentions porcelain and ceramic tiles for durability, contrasting polished variations (beautiful shine, less slip-resistant) with matt tiles (more slip-resistant), and distinguishing between rectified tiles (straight edges for clean lines) and pressed tiles (natural look). Finally, the article lists various tile-related accessories and services offered by Wickes, such as Tile Adhesives, Tile Grout, Tile Tools & Accessories, and Underfloor Heating. It also promotes the availability of Tile Samples, allowing customers to test options before committing to a purchase. The overall aim is to position Wickes as a comprehensive resource for tiling needs, combining product offerings with practical advice and support. #Tiles #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #BathroomTiles #KitchenTiles #FloorTiles #WallTiles #TilingAdvice #DIYHome

Tiles are an essential element in home decor, particularly in practical spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, where they effectively combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. They offer diverse colors and patterns, enabling the creation of beautiful and durable designs that can withstand daily wear and tear. This article, part of the 'Decorator's Address Book' series, gathers recommendations from twelve interior design experts on their preferred sources for browsing, sourcing, and purchasing tiles for various projects. The featured designers share their go-to vendors, covering a spectrum from well-known brands to artisan tile makers, ensuring options for different budgets and tastes. Tama Bell of Tama Bell Design highlights Fireclay Tile for its extensive color palette, varied shapes and sizes, and customization options, which allow for unique color combinations. Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight favors Cle Tile for its wide array of cement tiles, available in various shapes, colors, and sizes, including custom options. He particularly values their uneven texture, which adds depth and interest to any space, noting that many of Cle Tile's products are handcrafted and made-to-order, offering personalized color selections and unique imperfections. Ami Mckay of Pure Design Inc expresses her admiration for Tiles of Ezra and other handmade tiles, emphasizing their timeless quality and organic beauty that improves with age. Kathy Kuo of Kathy Kuo Home and Mindy O'Connor of Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors both commend Ann Sacks for its reputation for high-quality, beautiful tiling options suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, available in diverse materials like porcelain, ceramic, concrete, and stone. O'Connor specifically praises Ann Sacks' Savoy line, crafted by Japanese artisans, for its simple yet versatile options, crisp edges, and subtle color variations, which provide a sophisticated look at a reasonable price point, all while being produced in a waste-conscious manner. Becky Shea of Becky Shea Design prefers artisanal vendors such as Cle Tile, Fireclay Tile, Tabarka Studio, and Zia Tile, appreciating their unique flair, handcrafted quality, and organic aesthetic. She notes that these artisans bring sustainability, timeless craftsmanship, and innovative patterns to their creations, enhancing visual appeal and supporting traditional artistry. Luis Carmona of Verde and Mollie Ranize of Dmar Interiors are strong advocates for Zia Tile, highlighting its ability to add character and depth to designs through various materials like ceramic, cement, and limestone. They appreciate Zia Tile's diverse range of types, rich colors, and shapes, noting its quality, ease of engagement, and versatility across different home styles. Natalie Rebuck of Re: Design Architects also endorses Zia Tile for its beautiful, unique, and affordably priced options, which she has successfully sourced for various projects. Lauren Lerner of Living with Lolo recommends Bedrosians for its broad selection of in-stock items, efficient shipping, and varied price points, catering to different client needs and budgets. Shelagh Conway of Triple Heart Design values Clay Imports for its unique and handmade tiles, particularly their Relief Mudcloth Cowrie tile, which adds fun, freshness, and visual interest to projects. Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA praises Studio GdB from the Netherlands for its cutting-edge methodology involving computer-controlled glaze application, allowing for quick changes, a wide assortment of patterns, extensive colors, and seamless sample delivery. She also notes the tiles' thinness, which simplifies installation and enables their application on various surfaces. Finally, Mindy O'Connor also commends Heath Ceramics for its sustainably handcrafted tiles, produced in California since the 1960s. She highlights their unmatched color glazes, which offer depth and beauty in large applications, and their versatile field tiles that come in many shapes and sizes, making them suitable for diverse spaces. The article concludes by emphasizing that tiles, whether artisan-made or from well-known stores, are a reliable investment that brings character and longevity to any design scheme. #InteriorDesign #TileSelection #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #ArtisanTiles #DesignTrends #HomeImprovement

This article features an interview with Vanessa Rome, an interior designer based in New York City, discussing her career, business philosophy, and personal recommendations. Rome attributes her success to a Type A personality, strong organizational skills, and an unwavering passion for interior design. She emphasizes that her work feels less like a job and more like a calling, which allows her to dedicate long hours and weekends to her projects without feeling burdened. Vanessa Rome Interiors operates as a boutique residential interior design studio in New York City. Rome deliberately limits the number of projects taken on each year to fewer than ten. This approach ensures that each client receives a high level of personalized attention and meticulous care, reflecting the standard of service she would expect as a client herself. A key lesson she has learned in her career is the critical importance of measuring and re-measuring everything to ensure accuracy and prevent errors in design execution. When asked about recommendations for a friend visiting New York City, Rome suggests a culinary and cultural tour. Her top dining picks include Indochine, a long-standing favorite from her NYU days, and upscale Asian restaurants like Nobu and Mr. Chow. For activities, she recommends walking through the neighborhoods of Tribeca and Soho to explore various clothing and furniture stores, indulging her passion for both fashion and home aesthetics. A stroll through Central Park is also highlighted for its people-watching opportunities and scenic beauty. Rome acknowledges the significant contributions of several individuals and groups to her professional journey. She expresses gratitude for the support of her husband and family, who provide her with the freedom and encouragement to pursue her demanding career. Her team also receives recognition, as she states that she could not achieve her goals without their collaboration and dedication. Additionally, she values her fellow interior designer colleagues, who serve as sources of inspiration, guidance, and emotional support during stressful periods. The article also provides contact information for Vanessa Rome Interiors, including her website (vanessaromeinteriors.com) and Instagram handle (@vanessaromeinteriors). The illustrations accompanying the article are credited to photographers Marco Ricca and Julia Lynn. The interview concludes by encouraging readers to nominate other deserving individuals for recognition through Shoutout Miami's platform, reinforcing the community-driven mission of the publication. #InteriorDesign #VanessaRome #Entrepreneurship #NewYorkCity #DesignStudio #WorkEthic #BoutiqueBusiness #PersonalInterview

Studio McGee, the lifestyle brand founded by Syd and Shea McGee, has partnered with Ann Sacks to launch three original tile collections. Studio McGee, which originated in 2014, has cultivated a significant online presence, garnering millions of followers across social media platforms, including 3.8 million on Instagram. Their brand encompasses a range of ventures, such as the Netflix series 'Dream Home Makeover,' the best-selling book 'Make Life Beautiful,' and the e-commerce site McGee & Co. The brand's success stems from its ability to make sophisticated design accessible and to convey that good design can enhance daily life regardless of budget. The collaboration with Ann Sacks was a natural progression for Studio McGee, building on previous custom home projects. Shea McGee, the chief creative officer, explained that Ann Sacks' expertise in tile manufacturing was a key factor in the partnership. To develop the collections, McGee drew inspiration from her personal ceramic pieces, meticulously analyzing their textures, colors, and glazes. She then created initial designs, which underwent several rounds of discussions, edits, and sample productions with Ann Sacks to finalize the shared vision. McGee emphasized the collaborative nature of the process, highlighting how Ann Sacks’ quality materials and expertise helped translate her aesthetic vision into tangible products. The three new collections—Canyon Lake, Willow Heights, and Novah—collectively offer a wide array of styles while maintaining McGee's preference for muted and nuanced color palettes. McGee expressed her affinity for calming color schemes, explaining her desire for interiors that promote relaxation and tranquility. However, these subdued palettes are far from monotonous; they incorporate tonal and textural variations within each shade and tile, creating an organic warmth and visual movement that is characteristic of Studio McGee's designs. Canyon Lake, inspired by mountain landscapes, features a palette of cool blues and greens with dusky undertones. These dry-pressed porcelain tiles, crafted in Spain from 51 percent recycled materials, are available in six mix-and-match hues with gloss or matte glazes. McGee noted the popularity of the Dusty Rose shade and mentioned plans to use the Sea Salt color in a future bathroom, appreciating how glossy finishes enhance light reflection and reveal the undulating surfaces of the tiles. The Willow Heights collection consists of two marble patterns, Brynn and Rylee, inspired by traditional parquet flooring. Brynn features a frame-within-a-frame design with small square insets, while Rylee incorporates hexagonal forms. Made from Calacatta marble, these 12-inch-square mosaics are designed to add structured luxury to various spaces. McGee intentionally softened the colorways to highlight the marble's veining, incorporating Brittania beige and Bardiglio gray accents in addition to an all-white option. She views marble as an heirloom material, symbolizing a lasting design choice. Finally, the Novah collection offers the durability of porcelain while emulating the dimensional and weathered appearance of limestone. Available in four square-corner sizes and three elemental colors—Glacier, Salt, and Sand—Novah tiles can be arranged in various patterns or used as a singular shade. With tumbled edges and a slightly distressed texture, Novah provides a transitional tile solution that combines the resilience of porcelain with the rustic charm of aged limestone. McGee drew inspiration from nature for Novah, particularly favoring the Glacier color for its resemblance to sky palettes. #StudioMcGee #AnnSacks #TileCollections #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductLaunch #DesignCollaboration #SheaMcGee #HomeDecoration