The Return of the Vinyl Floor Tile

August 15th, 2014

Vinyl flooring has been around for a long time and appeals to many because of its durability and its attractive price. But the choices and variety of products available today make it more than just a cost-saving option. Recently, we found some designers who have helped to re-energize the vinyl market, adding bright colours and pattern options to appeal to design-savvy customers.

Take a look at some of the gorgeous vinyl flooring options we've found:

These beautiful vinyl geometric tiles, designed by Neisha Crosland for Harvey Maria, help to define the area in this dining room. (Neisha Crosland for Harvey Maria)

Who would guess that these are actually vinyl floor tiles? (Shaw Floors)

This red and white patterned flooring is so bright and cheery in this side entryway. An added bonus: it's easy to clean and durable! (Roses des Vents for Zazous)

This large graphic patterned blue tile is a great way to add dynamic colour into a space - without spending a fortune! (Casablanca Flooring)

Pinks and Peaches: Delicate Colour Palettes Done Right

August 8th, 2014

While I love to use bold colours and patterns, using a calming colour palette is often desirable, depending on the client or environment we are designing for. One of my favourite colours to use are light pinks and peaches. These colours can be so light and delicate, and still make a statement in a room. The key to making this palette exciting is to mix in some metallic elements, strong textures and visual contrast. Take a look at some of our favourite peach spaces:

Light peaches and pinks work great with pastels, metallics and white accents. It's such a delicate and calming colour palette, we love to use it! (Linda Rodin - The Coveteur)

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Peach wallpaper and bedding play with yellow and blue pastels to create a harmonious and serene master bedroom. (Casey Design / Planning Group Inc. - photograph by Donna Griffith)

Red and black accents against a dusty pink wall can make this space feel anything but boring! (Paul Costello)

A zebra print rug and gold accents add texture and dimension to this space. (Tumblr)

Floored!

August 1st, 2014

Flooring is often the "foundation" of a room on which the rest of the design decisions are made. From hardwood and laminates to tiles and carpeting, there is a vast amount of choice available in today's flooring market. Each varies in its durability, maintenance and life span, and these are the important criteria to consider when determining what works best for you.

When I design a room, flooring is a perfect opportunity to add colour, pattern and texture. Here are some images of unique and bold flooring applications that I love!

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This entryway makes a strong impression with its intricate marble mosaic tile patterns. (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - photograph by Ted Yarwood)

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How great would these painted timber planks look as the floor of a family farmhouse? (www.timelinewood.com)

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Neutral marble flooring with a graphic border creates a sense of luxury and elegance in this master ensuite (Casey Design/Planning Group Inc. - photograph by Ted Yarwood)

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These stunning hand-marbled wooden planks are quite unique and inspiring! (Snedker Studio)

Paper Creations

July 25th, 2014

Flowers are an important detail in designing both indoor and outdoor spaces. They add another dimension to the design and can help make a room come to life. My dear friend, Annellie Samuel, and her partner Dimitre Kostic run their own animation studio. Annellie and Dimitre recently got married and made some paper flowers for the occasion. The level of work and detail that went into making these flowers was so remarkable that I thought I'd share some of their work here, as well as some inspiring paper flower arrangements.

Some snapshots from the wedding. These handmade paper flowers are just as delicate and beautiful - and last longer - than freshly cut flowers! For their animation work, please visit www.sparkheadnewmedia.com

Here are some more paper flower arrangements that we found to be very inspiring:

Print and Pattern - The Story Behind Ikat Fabrics

July 18, 2014

The ikat process is an ancient and intricate weaving technique that originated in Indonesia. It involves lining threads along a frame, tying the threads together in a particular pattern, dying the threads and finally, weaving the dyed thread.

Step 1: Thread is aligned on the frame and is tied according to the particular pattern. (Blue Fish Clothing)

Step 2: Once the pattern is fully translated, the threads are ready to be dyed. (Lovina Ladies League)

Step 3: The thread is dyed and the ties are removed (Bev and Thierry in India)

Step 4: The thread is put back onto the frame and woven, to reveal the beautiful, intricate ikat pattern. (Victoria & Albert Museum)

We love how this technique can produce a variety of patterns with endless colour combinations. Take a look at some of the contemporary patterns and applications we've found to inspire you!

Ikat bowls can help to add some detail and colour to a space. (Anthropologie)

Accents of ikat in a black and white palette is a subtle way to introduce this pattern into a space. (Jar Designs)

Ikat patterns in upholstery and drapery will make a bold statement in your living area! (Coras de Casa)