Well designed rooms are well-rounded, diversified and stimulating, as well as grounded and relaxing. They appear to have evolved organically – mixing family heirlooms and trendy accessories. They reference the architecture of their home as well as your lifestyle.
Coordinating (and not matching) details and finishes in this room is one way to achieve this concept. A few types and colors of tile, metal, stone and wood finishes are used to make the room feel “inherited” and substantial and not newly acquired on a whim. This technique offers maximum flexibility so you can use pieces you love rather than what “matches” or fits. Great rooms make people have to think about whether the room is original to the house… or newly remodeled.
We started with the concept of “contemporary – rustic.” We decided that our material selections should all be clean and simple in form, but have hand-made, natural or rustic details.
We started with the color palette. We wanted it to be natural, simple and crisp so we used Coffees and Creams in multiple shades and values. We found a pretty inexpensive cream tile in the shape of a brick that had a crackle finish. From there we found a mosaic-rhomboid border tile the has a bit of cream a bit of a crackle finish and a bit of stone that incorporates the stone chair and pencil rail. The floor tile is a tumbled natural stone with chiseled edges, in random sizes and a random pattern. Its purpose is to ground and frame the contents of the room, so it is darker in color than the wall tile.
The cabinets are finished with an antique-inspired look. The countertop is the same color as the wall tile stone and has a chiseled edge.
All of the faucets and fixtures are classically inspired designs – that will never expire. We chose brass and bronze fixtures that will age beautifully and enhance their hand-made qualities as time goes on. The plumbing fixtures are all unlaquered brass that is finished in bronze, which will lighten and discolor (beautifully) with age. The brass chandelier is a little bit lighter in finish, and the sconces are chrome so they can be mounted directly onto the mirror.
We will point out what we like about each product we chose for you so you can understand our design intentions, and what to look for if you would like to substitute a product from another store or manufacturer.
We also note the products that are available from manufacturers that offer us a "designer discount." We would be happy to help you purchase these items at a discount. Please visit http://www.hmdhome.com/dd.htm for more info.
Good Luck! If you get stuck – we are here to help. Search for an HMD certified designer in your area to help you fit this design package into your room.
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