This designer just revealed how she makes new stone flooring look original – it's all about the layout

Patterned stone floors, renowned for their visual fluidity and tactile stability, have been a significant element in interior design for millennia, evident in historical structures like Turkey's Hagia Sophia and the Papal Basilica of St. Paul in Rome. The enduring appeal of geometric patterns crafted from natural stone tiles lies in the striking contrast between the material's hard, linear forms and the organic veins, blooms, and specks inherent in stone. Modern design continues to embrace this aesthetic, but achieving a masterful patterned stone floor involves careful consideration of several factors. Selecting the right stone is the initial step, with options such as marble, onyx, granite, and slate available. According to Nancy Epstein, CEO of Artistic Tile, most stones are compatible, offering boundless possibilities for combinations. While the material selection is vast, white, gray, and black consistently rank as the most popular color choices. Interior designer Kelly Wearstler emphasizes the importance of incorporating neutrals, even in motifs that feature bolder colors like reds, pinks, tans, and golds, to provide balance within a geometric design. She also notes that a border can effectively ground the overall pattern. Choosing a design involves deciding between geometric and more organic shapes, a decision often guided by the designer's personal taste. Wearstler frequently draws inspiration from historical parquet wood floors when developing her intricate geometric stone floor patterns. However, the inherent properties of stone impose certain limitations on pattern complexity. When utilizing waterjet machines for cutting, extremely thin shapes or patterns with sharp, tight points are prone to breakage during shipping. Consequently, working with larger, more basic tile shapes proves to be more practical and resilient. The way stone is cut significantly influences its visual impact. Vein-cutting, which aligns with the stone's grain, produces long, slender bands of color. Conversely, cross-cutting, against the grain, reveals the stone's layered, blossoming veins. Another crucial aspect is ensuring consistent tile thickness, as Epstein highlights that a centimeter from one country may not be the same as a centimeter from another, necessitating careful verification before installation. After cutting, stone tiles can undergo various finishing processes. Polishing results in a glossy surface, while honing creates a matte appearance. Wearstler prefers to hone the stone, as it removes the shine and imparts a more soulful quality to the floor. Once the stones are selected, the pattern designed, and the tiles cut and finished, the floor must be sealed. Due to varying porosity levels, even within tiles from the same batch, applying multiple layers of sealant is essential to ensure comprehensive coverage. Epstein advises sealing the stone until it can absorb no more, guaranteeing maximum resilience. For ongoing maintenance, basic rules apply to all stone types. Promptly cleaning spills of acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar is crucial. For routine cleaning, frequent vacuuming is recommended, alongside infrequent mopping with a moist, rather than soaking wet, mop. When incorporating rugs, especially on a visually striking patterned floor, Wearstler suggests using solid-colored rugs, with organically shaped options like natural hides offering the most successful pairing. #patternedStoneFloors #stoneTileDesign #interiorDesign #homeDecoration #naturalStone #geometricPatterns #materialSelection #stoneFinishing #floorMaintenance

This article explores creative applications of marble in home design, moving beyond single-slab installations to showcase innovative uses of smaller pieces and offcuts. It features eight distinct projects from the ELLE Decoration archive, each demonstrating how designers are transforming marble into bespoke and visually striking surfaces. The first example is a London bathroom designed by set designer Anna Burns, inspired by the cult horror film *Suspiria*. The bathroom features a striking floor created from marble segments sourced from Diespeker & Co., complemented by glossy black tiles from Fired Earth and a pumpkin-colored ceiling, evoking a gothic glamour. Next, the article highlights designer Lara Bohinc's London home, where offcuts from an Italian quarry were utilized to form a captivating wall installation in her ensuite bathroom. The design incorporates black arched doorways with concealed sliding doors and a curved vanity by Ideal Standard, mirroring the marble's architectural elements. In Paris, homeowner Ramdane Touhami masterminded an all-stone bathroom in his family home. Inspired by Cubism, the design combines Rosso Levanto, rosa tea, verde Guatemala, blue Bahia, and blanc de carrare marble to create an immersive 'stone box' experience. An Amsterdam home designed by Nicole Dohmen of Atelier ND showcases a multi-colored parquet flooring custom-cut by stone specialists Solid Nature. This playful touch uses ten different varieties of marble, adding vibrant pattern and color to the hallway. A five-story listed townhouse in Kensington, London, designed by Own London for two brothers, features marble throughout. Creative director Alicia Meireles aimed for a blend of tradition and modernity, evident in a brightly colored mosaic-style floor and a bathroom with a baby pink wall and vanity paired with a geometric patchwork floor. Another London home, designed by Gruff Architects, features a meticulously crafted parquet hallway. The design-savvy homeowner, inspired by Celine's London store flooring, collaborated with Diespeker & Co. to select individual marble pieces from large slabs, resulting in a perfect patchwork of shades. The article also presents a creative checkerboard floor in a Victorian townhouse in London. Designers Rose Hanson and Charlie Tilbury sourced three separate marble styles and meticulously tiled them to create this bespoke floor when they couldn't find the ideal ready-made option. Finally, a Primrose Hill home in London, designed by Colette Ward, draws inspiration from its eclectic neighborhood. The home features a pretty herringbone marble floor that riffs on a pink color scheme while introducing contrast with shades of forest green and claret, embodying the area's unique character. These examples collectively illustrate the versatility and artistic potential of marble in contemporary interior design. #MarbleDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CreativeStoneUse #BespokeSurfaces #LuxuryInteriors #BathroomDesign #FlooringIdeas #ArchitecturalMarble

The entryway is the first impression visitors get of a home, making careful consideration of its flooring essential. Beyond aesthetics, practicality, durability, maintenance requirements, and overall feel underfoot are crucial factors. This article explores various entryway flooring options, ranging from traditional and authentic materials to modern and luxurious choices, offering expert advice for each. One approach is to embrace the authenticity of existing flooring. Preserving original flooring, especially in period properties, can add character and charm, as its worn appearance often reflects centuries of history and enduring quality. For those seeking a bold statement, geometric elements can be introduced into dark and dramatic entryways. Since entryways are transitional spaces, bolder patterns and colors, which might overwhelm larger rooms, can be effectively utilized. Large-repeat wallpaper or dark stair paint ideas can create a striking visual impact, particularly on staircases, enhancing the grandeur of the space. Textured stone tiles are another option for adding character. Natural stone flooring types offer unique beauty and exceptional durability, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. Interior designers often use stone in entryways and mudrooms to evoke a sense of grandeur and timelessness. For budget-conscious homeowners, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) provides an elegant and hardwearing alternative that mimics the look of more expensive materials. Advances in durable laminate designs also offer realistic wood effects. Investing in a good underlay is recommended to enhance durability and comfort, particularly for carpets. Marble flooring can impart a classic and luxurious finish, especially when designed with neoclassical patterns like checkerboards or diamond-laid formats with cabochon inserts. A softly tumbled, imperfect finish in natural stone can be a forgiving choice for busy areas. Carpet, another viable option, offers a sense of calm and warmth. Neutral shades provide versatility and longevity, allowing for easy coordination with other rooms and contributing to a consistent flow throughout the house. Carpets are also effective in high-traffic areas, offering resilience against wear and tear. For an added touch of luxury, a silk rug can be layered over stone tiled floors, creating an elegant and opulent feel, complemented by elements like crystal chandeliers and brass accents. Natural flooring materials such as sisal or wool are excellent choices for high-traffic entryways. Sisal is known for its hardwearing nature, while wool offers a softer underfoot experience. Achieving symmetry in entryway design can create harmony and make smaller spaces feel larger and more organized. Wood floors paired with wood-paneled walls can open up a space, and a rug can add warmth and a lived-in feel. Striped runners can visually widen narrow entryways, creating a focal point and allowing for experimentation with patterns on a smaller scale. Linear stripes draw the eye along the design, elongating the area, and are practical for busy homes as they conceal dirt and wear better than solid colors. Finally, patterned flooring, particularly tiles, has experienced a resurgence, moving beyond an afterthought to become an integral design feature. Victorian-era geometric patterns and modern designs in opulent colors are popular, offering durable, easy-to-maintain solutions that can link indoor and outdoor spaces. Large-format tiles are also gaining popularity, extending their use beyond kitchens and bathrooms to create seamless transitions throughout the home. For those concerned about cold floors, many tile options are compatible with underfloor heating. #EntrywayFlooring #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryFlooring #NaturalStone #TileDesign #CarpetIdeas #SymmetryInDesign #PatternedFlooring

Statement stone, characterized by its prominent contrast, movement, and veining, is a popular interior design trend, frequently utilized for countertops and backsplashes where solid stone slabs extend from the counter up the wall, replacing traditional tile. This approach, using natural stones like quartzite or marble, is seen as creating a sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. When considering the incorporation of statement stone into kitchen and bathroom renovations, several factors warrant consideration. First, the timelessness of the design is crucial, given that large stone slabs represent a significant investment. Homeowners should determine whether they prefer a dramatic visual impact with highly veined and contrasting slabs or a more serene atmosphere with muted or less contrasting stone. It is also important to select colors within the stone that will complement existing home elements, such as furniture, artwork, hardware finishes, and flooring, for many years. For those hesitant to commit to large-scale installations, using remnant pieces for decorative trays or accent table tops offers a way to introduce the aesthetic without a major investment. Second, the potential resale value of the home should be assessed. If a home is likely to be sold within a few years, and its market value is on the lower end, investing heavily in expensive marble slabs throughout the kitchen and bathroom may not yield a proportional return on investment. In such cases, choosing lighter-colored stones with less veining and contrast can appeal to a broader range of potential buyers. Third, cost is a significant consideration. Natural stone slabs, along with their fabrication and installation, can be among the more expensive components of a remodel. A cost-effective strategy involves searching for remnant pieces, particularly for smaller applications like bathroom vanity countertops or fireplace hearths. Fourth, the practical use of the area and the specific material chosen are important. While marble is aesthetically pleasing, its porous nature makes it susceptible to staining, rendering it potentially unsuitable for high-activity kitchens. Quartzite and granite offer greater durability and heat resistance, making them more appropriate choices for areas near heat sources like oven ranges, stovetops, or fireplaces. Finally, maintaining balance in design is essential to prevent an overdone appearance. If a bold, high-contrast stone is chosen for an open-concept kitchen, it should serve as the singular focal point. Introducing multiple distinct statement stones, such as one for the kitchen island and another for the backsplash, can create visual competition and an overwhelming effect. The goal is to highlight the chosen statement stone without cluttering the visual space with competing elements. #StatementStone #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation #HomeImprovement #NaturalStone #DesignTrends #MaterialSelection

Natural stone, celebrated for its rugged, rustic, and eco-friendly qualities, brings a timeless elegance to interior spaces. Its natural charm and versatility make it a favored material in home décor, offering distinct textures and aesthetic appeal. Experts in design, such as Ashish Patil and Prachi Chavarkar of ArchiLab Designs, highlight the unique characteristics of various stones, from elegant Italian marble and directional travertine to durable granite, practical Kota, translucent onyx, and rustic slate. While granite, quartz, and marble are widely used, designers are increasingly incorporating limestone, cuddapah, and soapstone. Beyond aesthetics, natural stone is also valued for its environmental sustainability. Basob Majumdar, VP—Design at HomeLane, notes that stone is abundantly available and frequently used in green building projects due to its eco-friendly properties. It contains no harmful materials or toxins, making it safe for both indoor and outdoor applications. Furthermore, natural stone can be salvaged and recycled, significantly reducing its environmental impact. There are several clever applications for natural stone within a home. For flooring, options like granite, marble, limestone, and travertine are popular choices, known for their strength, durability, and minimal maintenance requirements. These materials create a welcoming, earthy atmosphere. For a more experimental approach, different colors and textures can be mixed, and skilled artisans can create intricate inlay work using various shades of granite or marble, transforming floors into artistic masterpieces. Stone cladding, utilizing materials such as slate and sandstone, adds dimension and depth to spaces. To ensure longevity and protection from wear and tear, especially given the natural porosity of most stones, a sealer coating is recommended after cladding. This step makes the surface impervious and maintains its aesthetic integrity. Wall claddings made from natural stone introduce a fresh and intriguing appeal to any room. Natural stone is also highly suitable for shelves and storage solutions. Granite, limestone, and cuddapah can be fashioned into floating shelves, which are not only functional and easy to maintain but also enhance the aesthetic value of a space. In kitchens, rows of stone shelves can create an open and spacious feel, offering an alternative to traditional closed cabinets. Additionally, hard and non-porous stones like granite and quartz are ideal for kitchen counters, table tops, and backsplashes. These surfaces are durable and easy to clean. Majumdar suggests creating a unique backsplash by designing a mosaic with small stones in contrasting colors. Dining tables with stone tops can establish an earthy ambiance, which can be further enhanced by incorporating colorful tile accents. Finally, natural stone extends its utility to accessories. Sculptures, diyas, urlis, and lamps made from soapstone make exquisite decorative items for living rooms or gardens. For plant enthusiasts, stone planters offer a durable, waterproof, and long-lasting solution, preventing seepage and blending seamlessly with garden landscapes. Shahabad and Kota stones are excellent choices for landscaping, integrating beautifully with garden designs. Panels made from semiprecious stones, pebbles, and shells can serve as wall highlights or be incorporated as inlays into furniture pieces, adding a touch of unique artistry to home décor. #NaturalStone #HomeDécor #InteriorDesign #EcoFriendlyMaterials #Flooring #WallCladding #KitchenDesign #StoneAccessories #SustainableDesign

The annual ceramic-tile and natural-stone conference, Coverings 2023, held in Orlando, Florida, showcased a significant trend towards graphic-driven designs in tile and stone. The event highlighted innovative and visually compelling products from various manufacturers, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and advancements in material science and sustainability. The selections from the exhibition demonstrate a move towards bolder patterns, sophisticated textures, and environmentally conscious production methods. Anthology Tile presented its Matisse Moonstone ceramic tile, which features a distinctive design inspired by artistic aesthetics. Emilceramica, through its Ergon brand, introduced Pigmento Amaranto indoor/outdoor porcelain wall/floor tiles and large slim-line slabs. These products draw inspiration from the appearance of hand-troweled cement resin, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern durability suitable for various applications. Ceramica Bardelli featured Storagemilano’s Volume white-body porous single-fired wall tiles, distinguished by their extra-glossy finish, adding a luxurious and refined touch to interior spaces. Vidrepur showcased its Belgirate recycled-glass mosaic tile, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and innovative material use. This mosaic tile offers an eco-friendly option without compromising on design quality. Sicis contributed with its Ragtime ceramic mosaic tile, which presents intricate patterns and a classic aesthetic. Lea Ceramiche highlighted Ferruccio Laviani’s Pigmenti, a collection of carbon-neutral, ultra-thin, laminated porcelain stoneware slabs. This product line is notable for its environmental responsibility and its advanced manufacturing techniques that allow for slim profiles and vibrant pigmentation. Ceramica Fioranese’s Riggiole Nero Mix porcelain tiles combine traditional influences with contemporary design. These tiles offer a rich visual texture and are suitable for diverse design schemes. Lastly, Ascot introduced the Joyce Decor Optical porcelain stoneware tiles, which feature dynamic optical patterns. These tiles contribute to creating visually stimulating environments, leveraging geometric and abstract designs to enhance interior aesthetics. Collectively, these highlights from Coverings 2023 indicate a strong emphasis on innovative design, material diversity, and a growing consciousness towards sustainable practices within the tile and stone industry. #Coverings #TileDesign #StoneDesigns #CeramicTile #PorcelainStoneware #InteriorDesign #ProductShowcase #SustainableMaterials

Flooring is a crucial element in home design, often overlooked despite its significant impact on a room's aesthetic. Joanna Gaines, known for her design choices on "Fixer Upper," offers an innovative method to enhance basic hardwood floors beyond traditional stains and styles: incorporating a statement strip of tile inlay. This approach, featured in Season 5, Episode 11 of "Fixer Upper," combines the visual interest of rugs and patterned tiles to create a functional yet chic "tile rug" effect. This design strategy, while more involved than simply laying down carpeting, requires thoughtful consideration of tile choices. Gaines emphasizes that the goal is to make people feel welcome and inspired upon entering a home, making this approach particularly effective for entryways. The right tile inlay can set the tone for the entire house, while incorrect choices could lead to an unfavorable first impression. A key aspect of successful implementation is selecting tile colors that complement the natural undertones of the wood flooring. In her specific design, Gaines utilized a blend of dark gray and cream encaustic cement tiles in conjunction with white oak hardwood floors. The natural warmth of the oak, if left without contrast, might appear overly monotone. The neutral cool and warm tones of the tiles provide a perfect balance, introducing visual interest without clashing. This principle extends to various wood types; deep hardwood floors benefit from lighter, earthy tile tones or even bold pops of color, similar to how rug colors are chosen for dark floors. Conversely, light woods, which can sometimes make a room feel sparse, can gain depth through tile inlays featuring rich tones such as royal blue or burgundy, or deeper neutrals. The strategic placement of the tile inlay is as important as the color selection. A well-chosen and positioned tile rug inlay serves as a stylish focal point, effectively breaking up the monotony of plain hardwood and adding significant visual interest. By carefully considering both color and placement, homeowners can transform standard hardwood floors into a distinctive and inviting design feature, reflecting a sophisticated design aesthetic and enhancing the overall ambiance of their living space. #JoannaGaines #HardwoodFlooring #TileInlay #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #FlooringTrends #FixerUpper #DesignHacks

Marble and other natural stones are being used in innovative and versatile ways by designers to create luxurious and textured interiors. Interior designers emphasize the importance of selecting the right marble slab, often before other design elements, to allow the overall scheme to evolve around its unique characteristics. The choice between honed (matte) or polished (shiny) finishes, edge type, and thickness also contributes to the final aesthetic and cost efficiency. The versatility of marble extends beyond traditional applications in kitchens and bathrooms. Designers are now incorporating it into furniture, bar fronts, and even backlit bookcase panels, utilizing thin cuts of stone for dramatic effects. Mixing different types of marble, as long as they are tonally similar, can create a rich and impactful design, such as combining honed marble for bathroom floors with darker, polished marble for washstands to introduce contrast and creativity. Integrating marble into modern settings can involve playful patterns, such as colored travertine floors, where the flooring becomes the primary design element, complemented by natural fabrics and a muted palette. Marble fireplaces, especially those with unique veining like Calacatta Viola, serve as focal points that add warmth and character without overwhelming the space. Exaggerating the scale of mosaic-like marble patterns, historically seen in grand palazzi, can give flooring a contemporary feel, as demonstrated by bespoke designs mixing Nero Marquina, Crema Marfil, and Bianco Lasa marbles. Even subtle applications of marble can elevate a space. Veneering cabinetry or shelving with a layer of natural stone combined with a thin sheet of fiberglass can enhance bespoke joinery, bringing together elements like TV screens, fireplaces, and storage with sophisticated finishes. Marble can also be used for baseboards and door trims to create a clean, tailored, and cohesive link between rooms, with pale marbles offering a crisp look and veined stones providing a more modern and eye-catching detail. For home bars, using quartz like Belvedere, known for its sexy vibe and durability against stains and etching, provides a luxurious feel. Kitchen backsplashes, particularly those with organic shapes like half-moons made from Calacatta Breccia, can add a focal point and allow the marble's natural veins to influence the room's color scheme. Marble can also be used to line pantries or breakfast stations, especially when showcased behind smoked glass doors with brass accents, creating a 'wow moment' within a kitchen. Modern design techniques involve fluting and reeded details on marble kitchen islands, breaking up seamless surfaces and highlighting the stone's veining. Monochromatic marble floors, such as black and white geometric patterns, offer a timeless and glamorous investment for entryways, setting the tone for the entire home. Sculptural and functional design statements can be made with marble stone slabs as bottom stairs, hand-carved to reveal the material's depth and allowing for a moment of contemplation between spaces. In bathrooms, marble can be used floor-to-ceiling for a luxuriously elegant effect, as seen in designs with dramatically veined walls and matching marble baths. To prevent sterility, warm finishes like wood or metal can be subtly introduced. Shower niches crafted from Carrara marble provide a crisp contrast against colorful tiles, creating a clean yet distinct feature. Sustainable approaches include using reclaimed marble or offcuts for unique shapes, such as triangular backsplashes or custom tubs, working with the stone's organic form. Extending marble details to architectural edges, like window sills and frames, in bathrooms creates a cohesive and tailored look while offering practical benefits like water repellency. Even stairs, which experience high foot traffic, can incorporate marble details, such as cladding risers with Nero Marquina marble tiles, providing durability and a sophisticated aesthetic that can be highlighted with lighting. While often perceived as high-maintenance, modern sealants offer long-term protection, making marble a durable and environmentally conscious choice, especially when reclaimed or sourced from terrazzo. #MarbleDecor #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #NaturalStone #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #SustainableDesign

This article explores the unique design elements of Glace Candy, a viral new candy shop in New York City, and how these elements can inspire residential kitchen design. Glace Candy is the sister shop to Glace, an ice cream parlor, both located on the Upper East Side near the Guggenheim Museum. The interior design, crafted by Brooklyn-based studio Faber/Hughes, blends 19th-century Parisian apothecary aesthetics with a historic New York institution feel. The co-founder, Audrey Hughes, describes the candy store as a "special little jewel box" designed to fit the high-end boutique and museum context of Madison Avenue. The shop's distinctive style incorporates an unexpected mix of walnut paneling, mint tiling, striped stone, and cloud-like lighting. The designers, Hughes and Levi Shaw-Faber, suggest how homeowners can integrate these rebellious design choices into their kitchens. A significant design takeaway is the attention given to the ceiling, often an overlooked space in kitchen design. Glace Candy features a curved walnut ceiling with wood paneling that forms a grid, framing cylinder lights and creating a cozy, retro ambiance. Shaw-Faber emphasizes that in limited spaces like the candy and ice cream shops, intentional ceiling design makes the spaces feel all-encompassing. Homeowners are encouraged to consider matching ceilings to cabinetry, adding trim for texture, or using paint to tie into the room's palette, and upgrading builder-grade lights to stylish mounted cylinders. Another key inspiration comes from the shop's choice of tile and stone. The mint tiles used around the candy displays feature a crackle glaze, which provides a balance of glossy and matte textures, contributing to a "candy-like" appearance. For those seeking to add personality, the ice cream counter's striped stone facade offers a bold yet achievable look for home kitchens. Shaw-Faber advises using strong, less brittle stones like granite, quartzite, basalt, or soapstone if cutting them into thin strips for practical application on an island front or floor. Finally, the article highlights the importance of combining durability with daring design. Despite its elevated aesthetic, Glace was built with materials chosen for their resilience against high foot traffic and potential spills, including stone, stainless steel, lacquer-coated wood, and tile. These materials are equally suitable for a home kitchen, a space that demands both beauty and longevity. Shaw-Faber notes that using non-porous materials can ensure a beautiful kitchen endures, concluding that a lasting finish is a key component of successful design. The overall message is to draw inspiration from the shop's blend of playful elegance and practicality to create unique and enduring kitchen spaces. #KitchenDesign #InteriorInspiration #TileDesign #StoneWork #CeilingDesign #MaterialSelection #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends #NYCDesign

Flooring is a significant design element that can instantly transform any space. Erika Dale, an interior design expert and founder of Erika Dale Interior Design, emphasizes the importance of selecting high-quality materials and a look that truly resonates with the homeowner, as flooring updates are an expensive and long-term commitment. She advises against solely following fleeting trends and instead encourages choosing materials that homeowners will cherish for decades. Looking ahead to 2026, Dale predicts a surge in organic, eco-friendly materials and bold statement floors, often associated with higher price points but offering superior quality and longevity. Natural materials are poised to take center stage in 2026, driven by the popularity of nature-focused design styles. Dale highlights the desire for materials derived from the earth, fostering a sense of authenticity and harmony. Biophilic design principles are easily incorporated through natural flooring options like hardwood, cork, travertine, and marble. Hardwood offers warmth and durability, cork provides an eco-friendly and comfortable underfoot experience, and stone materials introduce a luxurious feel. While these options may involve higher costs and more intensive installation and maintenance, their long-term value and aesthetic appeal often outweigh these challenges, connecting homes to the natural world. Sustainability is another dominant trend, with homeowners increasingly prioritizing their environmental impact when selecting materials. Beyond natural options, this trend encompasses bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled tile, and linoleum made from renewable sources. These sustainable alternatives often match traditional materials in durability and style, with added benefits like lower emissions. Dale notes the abundance of eco-friendly choices available, making it easier for homeowners to align their design decisions with their values. Although sustainable materials might have a higher initial cost, many homeowners view it as a worthwhile investment for environmental protection. Domestically produced flooring can also offer a more affordable and sustainable option by reducing transportation impact and avoiding tariffs. Sustainable materials tend to have a longer lifespan, require less frequent replacement, and can even enhance a home's resale value as environmental consciousness grows among buyers. The shift from cool grays to warm earth tones marks a significant comeback in color trends. Dale observes that warm tones are becoming the preferred choice for wood finishes, moving away from gray-toned or -washed floors. This trend transforms interiors into more welcoming and personalized spaces. Honey, caramel, and chestnut stains for hardwoods are gaining popularity, while deeper walnut and rich amber tones add drama, complementing the continued popularity of color-drenched rooms in 2026. This warmth extends beyond wood to tiles and other flooring options, with manufacturers producing collections that mimic natural stones with warm undertones and even tinting concrete with warmer pigments. These versatile, earth-toned floors integrate well with various aesthetics, from classic to modern, ensuring a lasting appeal. Finally, 2026 is expected to be the year for bold flooring choices, with statement patterns and colors. Dale attributes this to the increasing presence of color and pattern in design media. Homeowners are embracing intricate patterns like checkerboard, cross and star, geometrics, and mosaics, making their floors a focal point. While historically seen in high-end or historic homes, patterned flooring is now more accessible and affordable due to advancements in manufacturing, offering durable and easy-to-install options. This encourages homeowners to be more adventurous in their design choices. For those not ready for patterns, a wide array of chic and interesting color options allows for bold, personality-driven flooring selections, adding energy and character to any space. #FlooringTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #NaturalMaterials #SustainableMaterials #EarthTones #PatternedFlooring #DesignExpert #HomeDecor

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

This article, authored by Giles Kime, Country Life's Executive and Interiors Editor, provides ten distinct ideas for selecting appropriate flooring materials for various rooms within a home. The selection encompasses a range of carpets, rugs, wood, and stone options, catering to different aesthetic preferences, functional requirements, and design styles. Beginning with practical considerations, the article highlights the "Tone carpet in Alloy" from Ulster Carpets. This carpet, a blend of 80% wool and 20% nylon, is presented as a durable choice for high-traffic areas due to its robust composition. Moving to more decorative options, The Rug Company's "Kuba rug" is introduced as a subtle statement piece. This hand-knotted Tibetan wool rug features a striking soft grey pattern, offering a blend of luxury and understated elegance. For those seeking a bolder aesthetic, the "Kyoto Lantern flatweave 100% wool rug" by Roger Oates is showcased. Inspired by Japanese lanterns, this rug features non-symmetrical stripes that combine to create a balanced yet impactful design, bringing a burst of color and pattern to a space. The article then transitions to hard flooring options, starting with the innovative application of a herringbone pattern. Mandarin Stone's "Moleanos Blue Honed Limestone" tiles demonstrate that this classic pattern is not limited to wood parquet. The 45.7cm by 10cm tiles offer a sophisticated and durable alternative to traditional wood flooring. Luxury is further emphasized with Lapicida's "Illusion tile." This exquisite tile, crafted from marble and limestone, highlights the natural beauty and subtle variations of these materials. Each tile measures 28.7cm by 27.1cm and offers a touch of classic grandeur to any interior. A unique approach to flooring marquetry is presented by Devon&Devon; with their "Intarsia oak flooring with black-granite inlay." These 60cm by 60cm pre-assembled pieces create a distinctive checkerboard effect, adding a sophisticated geometric element to floors. Returning to carpets, the "Enchanted carpet" from Crucial Trading is recommended for its soft pile and 100% wool composition. Available in five modern neutral shades, including Castle Grey, it is suitable for all rooms, including bedrooms, providing comfort and warmth. For a modern take on classic design, Brockway's "Natural Tweed Eriskay loop pile carpet" features a herringbone design. Made from 100% undyed wool, it offers a contemporary feel while maintaining natural texture. The historical legacy of Axminster carpets is acknowledged with their "Hazy Days" collection. This line of pure-wool woven carpets, exemplified by the "Leapfrog Swansdown" pattern, demonstrates Axminster's continued commitment to up-to-date designs with soft greys and subtle patterns. Finally, the article explores the growing trend of marble-effect in carpets with Alternative Flooring's "Barefoot Marble 100% wool carpet." This option features a subtle stripe pattern, shown in the Morwad colorway, bringing the elegance of marble to soft flooring. The article provides a comprehensive overview of various flooring solutions, offering practical and aesthetic considerations for homeowners and designers seeking to enhance their interiors. #FlooringIdeas #InteriorDesign #CarpetTrends #WoodFlooring #StoneTiles #HomeDecor #LuxuryFlooring #RugDesigns #PatternedFlooring

The author, Luke Arthur Wells, reflects on the cyclical nature of interior design trends, specifically focusing on the resurgence of flagstone paving. Initially finding it dated and inauthentic, particularly its traditional use in the US resembling a theme park queue-line, the author now sees flagstone paving, also known as "crazy pavers," being re-imagined in modern and luxurious ways globally. The article highlights how this material, which offers bold, organic shapes and natural character, is being reinvented to fit contemporary interior design trends. Kerrie-Ann Jones, a style director, notes the popularity of exterior crazy pavers in Australia for balconies and pools, and emphasizes designers' innovative exploration of this pattern for interiors. She appreciates the use of unusual marble combinations to create elevated flooring surfaces. The article then addresses whether flagstone flooring is out of style, suggesting that while standard flagstone can still look good, its application needs modernization. A key aspect of this modernization involves moving away from stark white patio grout, which can detract from the material's natural feel. Instead, a softer approach, playing up its organic qualities, is recommended, as exemplified by a front yard path by Spiegel Aihara Workshop. Jones praises crazy paving for its ability to add an unexpected and exciting feature to a home, highlighting its beauty, uniqueness, durability, and hard-wearing nature, likening it to a work of art. Designers are reinventing flagstone flooring by shifting from traditional dark greys and browns to softer neutral palettes, allowing the flooring to act as a supportive element rather than a dominant one. An example is an apartment by Ater Architects, where rough sedimentary rock is replaced with beige marble fragments and polymer grout-filled joints, offering a distinct take on marble bathroom flooring. Another modern approach is seen in a Sydney home by YSG Studio, which utilizes blue-ish stone for both indoor and outdoor spaces, contributing to a bold color scheme and creating a cool, contemporary, and joyful aesthetic. For those seeking alternatives that capture the essence of flagstone while offering a more luxurious feel, the article suggests a palladiana floor. This stone flooring idea features a similar layout to flagstones but is essentially a supersized form of terrazzo using marble. Interior stylist Kerrie-Ann Jones implemented this in her Sydney home's bathroom, combining a neutral color palette with natural marble to create a bold and unique statement. On a smaller scale, an opus incertum floor is presented as another alternative, characterized by irregular-shaped stones forming interesting patterns. Heju Studio’s small bathroom design, for instance, uses small shards of travertine with bold orange grouting, creating an effect similar to terrazzo but avoiding its now-outdated perception. These reinterpretations demonstrate how flagstone-inspired flooring can be adapted to contemporary design preferences, proving that a once-dismissed material can achieve a sophisticated comeback. #FlagstonePaving #CrazyPavers #InteriorDesignTrends #FlooringTrends #ModernFlooring #NaturalMaterials #HomeRenovation #LuxuryInteriors #PalladianaFloor

This article explores seven innovative applications for stone slabs, moving beyond their traditional use as kitchen countertops to create unique and impactful interior design elements. It highlights how designers and DIY enthusiasts are leveraging the aesthetic and durable qualities of various stones, such as marble, quartz, and onyx, to elevate different areas of the home. The piece begins by emphasizing that incorporating a unique stone slab is a timeless choice for making a statement and that designers are now applying them in unexpected ways. Leah Alexander, founder of Beauty Is Abundant, shares her experience creating bespoke shower walls with quartz slabs, illustrating the rewarding outcome of bold design choices. The first idea presented is using stone as a staircase base. J.L. Ramirez employed Artistic Tile’s Montclair Striato marble for a staircase base and steps, where the vein-cut direction of the stone naturally complements the angularity of the wooden staircase, resulting in a sophisticated and modern look. Next, the article details Alexander’s creative approach to shower walls in the Dallas 2022 Kips Bay Decorator Show House. She used three styles of Cambria quartz—Black, Cherrybrook, and Inverness Bronze—and incorporated horseshoe shapes inlaid into the black quartz, playing into a “curve craze” while maintaining durability. The shower floor also featured individually cut and inset stars, echoing a starry wallpaper to create an "intergalactic" vibe. Another innovative application discussed is the use of stone as a furniture insert. Joy Street Design integrated Artistic Tile’s Velluto polished onyx into a custom bedroom bench for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach. The soft, river-like veins of the onyx complemented the room's rich tones, with similar insets used for nightstands and a makeup vanity top. The article then moves to custom vanity backsplashes, a method frequently used by Katie Labourdette-Martinez and Olivia Wahler of Hearth Homes Interiors to give bathrooms a polished feel. They created a marble floating vanity and a customized stone backsplash in a Santa Barbara home to achieve a modern French country aesthetic, demonstrating that even small stone elements can have a significant design impact. For entertainment spaces, the article suggests using stone as a television backdrop. Brittany Farinas of House of One transformed a Miami home’s entertainment wall into an elegant focal point with a marble slab. She selected a natural marble with unique bronze crystallized details in its veining to contrast with dark wood tones, grounding the living room with its texture and tonality. Dining rooms can also benefit from stone slabs, as illustrated by Avery Cox’s design for a client’s table in Austin. After an extensive search, they found the perfect Estremoz Gold slab at Aria Stone Gallery, featuring unique pink tones and dramatic veining, creating a custom table with a distinct aesthetic. Finally, the article highlights the creative use of stone for a wet bar and a floating shelf. Kyla Herbes of House of Hipsters chose a specific Cambria quartz with warm grey veins for her wet bar remodel. To create a sturdy yet thin floating shelf, her team drilled steel brackets into studs, then perfectly mitered five pieces of stone to create the illusion of a single solid piece. The backsplash, a solid piece with cutouts for the brackets, required careful installation to align flush with the soffit. These diverse examples demonstrate the versatility of stone slabs in enhancing interior spaces beyond traditional uses, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and practical innovation. #StoneSlabIdeas #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CreativeApplications #MarbleDesign #QuartzInteriors #BathroomDesign #LivingRoomDesign #CustomFurniture

Acme Brick, Tile and Stone's Pelham location in Alabama features the largest brick and tile showroom in the Birmingham area, serving seven counties and surrounding regions. The 4,000-square-foot showroom displays a comprehensive range of products for residential and commercial construction, including various brick samples, natural stone, simulated stone, and limestone fireplace surrounds. The selection also includes specialized items such as Isokern fireplaces, clay and concrete pavers, and diverse patio products. Beyond exterior and structural materials, the showroom offers a high-end flooring section. This area showcases ceramic and porcelain tile, hardwood floors, and natural stone options. The facility also provides installation services for granite, marble, limestone, and quartz countertops, catering to both aesthetic and functional needs within a home or commercial space. For those undertaking DIY projects or professional installations, the store stocks all necessary tools, supplies, cleaners, and sealers. Customers visiting the Pelham location can benefit from the expertise of in-house design professionals. These specialists are available to assist with product selection and design guidance, ensuring that clients find the most suitable materials for their specific project requirements. The store’s extensive product categories include various types of brick (cladding, thin brick, surplus brick), a wide array of flooring options (hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl, tile, mosaics, pavers), and diverse stone products (Majestic Stone, MStone, Stonebrook). Detailed product listings are available, featuring different brick sizes like Modular, Queen, and King, and various textures such as Smooth, Velour, and Wirecut. Color filters are also provided, allowing customers to easily navigate options like Beige, Red, and Bronze. This comprehensive product offering, combined with expert support, positions the Pelham showroom as a central resource for building and design materials in the region. The store's hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with weekends closed. #HomeDesign #BuildingMaterials #Brick #Tile #Stone #Flooring #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #Showroom

Designers are increasingly moving away from traditional, subdued tiling options, embracing bold colors, unique patterns, and varied textures to create distinctive interior spaces. This shift challenges the conventional use of standard subway tiles in kitchens and bathrooms, encouraging homeowners to infuse their personal style and vibrant hues into their living environments, even on floors. Katie Deedy of Grow House Grow, known for her narrative-inspired wallpapers, has successfully transitioned into designing cement tiles. Her Cuban heritage influenced her desire to create tiles reminiscent of those seen in family photos, but with a contemporary twist. While initially aiming for wallpaper-matching tiles, she adapted her designs to the tile format, exemplified by her cephalopod-inspired Captain Smith tile, which mirrors her best-selling wallpaper. The brand continues to prioritize nature-inspired themes, as seen in their three new tiles and the popular Otomi collection, featuring animal and floral folk art. These tiles are predominantly used on floors but are also gaining traction for backsplashes and walls, creating cohesive, patterned nooks in bathrooms. Artistic Tile, in collaboration with Michael Aram, also presents nature-inspired designs. Their Orchid Dimensional collection, a 2017 Interior Design magazine award winner for Best Wall Covering, combines innovation with natural stone. This collection showcases crystalline white Thassos marble flowers emerging from polished Bianco Carrara marble, offering a sophisticated and seductive aesthetic. Color is a significant trend, with Artistic Tile embracing vibrant palettes and mixed materials in their designs. Rachel Adler, a representative for the brand, highlights their new Fan Club mosaic glass design, which features a captivating blue ombre colorway. This design is suggested for adding a touch of elegance to wet bars or as a striking feature wall. Popham Design’s ceramic tile collection also emphasizes rich colors and playful patterns. Design editors, including Tori Mellott of Traditional Home Magazine, recommend these graphic tiles for entryways, noting their ability to set the mood and convey the homeowner's personality—whether formal, playful, artsy, or busy. Encaustic tiles, in particular, are praised for their individuality in entryways. Elle Decor editor-in-chief Whitney Robinson is particularly fond of India Mahdavi’s pink-driven collection for Bisazza, suggesting it for creating a personalized and cheerful washroom. Robinson argues that while bathrooms are utilitarian, they are also frequently visited spaces that should evoke happiness. Pink tiles, she notes, also have the added benefit of making skin appear radiant. Customization is another growing trend, allowing homeowners to create truly unique tile designs. Sarah Watson, founder of Balineum in England, specializes in small-batch custom orders. Her Hanley collection offers ceramic tiles in a dozen hand-mixed solid-color glazes, and clients can request custom glaze colors to match specific Pantone references, fabrics, or wallpapers. Watson highlights the passion customers have for finding the perfect hue, citing an instance where two brothers requested slightly different shades of blue for their shared bathroom. She suggests arranging custom tiles in graphic patterns like chevron to enhance their uniqueness. For those seeking texture and dimension, Granada Tile’s new Relief collection, launched after extensive development, masterfully combines color with unexpected tactile elements. Melanie Stephens, director of design and marketing, explains that these tiles achieve a tone-on-tone effect by contrasting a highly polished top surface with the matte finish of indented areas. Each pattern is available in four colors from Granada’s 40-color palette, with certain designs, like Tangalle, lending themselves to specific earth and rock tones. Textured tiles are also used to create futuristic and dynamic wall statements. The Tile Shop’s Yara Metal hex ceramic wall tile series, available in metallic black, silver, or white with a 3D geometric pattern, adds a reflective and conversational element. Pittsburgh designer Lauren Levant champions sculptural wavy tiles from Porcelanosa, emphasizing how textured tiles, made from materials like natural stone, porcelain, wood, metal, and glass, can introduce depth and allow light to interact beautifully with the surface. Even the classic subway tile receives a modern update. San Francisco designer Jon de la Cruz, known for the 2017 House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year, recommends Fireclay Tile’s handmade glazed thin brick. These recycled brick tiles offer texture and rich, saturated colors that suit both traditional and modern aesthetics, making them ideal for kitchen backsplashes and fireplace surrounds, adding a subtle patina while maintaining a clean and fresh look. The abundance of colorful and textural tile options makes decorating exciting, with the primary challenge being deciding where to begin. #TileDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CementTiles #NatureInspiredDesign #ColorPalette #CustomTiles #TexturedTiles #ModernTiling