fbpx
CLOSE MENU

A Pop of Printed Tile

small but updated full bathroomSolid color tiles can often feel like a blank canvas, and while there are times when that’s exactly what your design needs, there are other times when it can make the space feel, well, blank. Adding a pattern to one of these solid color tile opens up a world of opportunities for color, pattern, and style that can take that blank canvas and make it a wow factor for almost any space.

delicate looking square shower niche“Printed tile is just what it sounds like,” Normandy Designer Ashley Noethe says. “They take a plain tile and print a pattern over the top of it, and usually the pattern is then glazed over for a more durable finish.”

“You can find patterns applied to natural stone that allows the beauty of the stone to blend with the printed pattern, or you can find printed patterns on a more uniform background like porcelain, ceramic or even glass” Ashley explains. “They are very durable and hold up well over time so you can place them practically anywhere, on your backsplash, on your floor, or even in your shower for an added pop of detail.”

printed tile next to soaking tubPrinted tiles can create the look of wallpaper or even intricate mosaics, but be careful not to indulge in too much of a good thing. “I like to remind people that too many patterns in one space can make the room feel busy, which detracts from the beauty of the individual tiles,” Ashley notes. “That doesn’t mean you’re limited to just one pattern, but try to use different sized options to balance the scale and proportion. For instance, use bigger patterns on the floor and smaller patterns on the wall to really help break up the space and not make things feel too uniform.”

decorative bath floor tileWhile patterned tiles can create a dynamic look, there are certain spaces you may want to reconsider incorporating them into. “Patterned tiles in areas such as the stairs can create a major trip or fall hazard due in part from the eyes struggling to distinguish depth and borders with the changes in elevation because of the pattern,” Ashley states. “If your remodel is part of a long term plan for aging-in-place, I’d advise against incorporating such a strong pattern within your stairs to avoid any possible injuries.”

About ready to incorporate a bold and one-of-a-kind feature wall into your own home? Set up a time with Ashley to discuss your home’s possibilities, and make sure to register for one of our upcoming virtual webinars where we’ll discuss a range of remodeling projects such as additions, kitchens or even primary bath remodels. Looking for even more home inspiration? Follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the loop on our favorite projects as well as some helpful tricks to help you with your next remodeling endeavor.

Giving Detail to Your Cabinet Interior

built in cabinetry for storage and viewingThey say it’s not what is outside, but what’s inside that matters the most. Now this doesn’t mean you should disregard your cabinetry’s exterior, rather it’s more about giving thought to the cabinet interior, which can be easy to overlook.

A cabinet’s interior typically matches its exterior color, or features the standard natural maple stained interior. For cabinets with glass fronts, open mesh, or open shelving, incorporating a contrasting paint color or stain is an easy way to give your cabinets a boost of character. “A stark color contrast can create that dramatic look that sets your kitchen apart from others,”  says Normandy Designer Liz Reifschneider . “It also provides a striking backdrop to showcase your favorite set of plates, those travel mugs you’ve gathered throughout the years, or any collectibles that you’re just itching to brag about.”

Two-tone kitchens and contrasting interiors go hand in hand, as they have the potential to really tie a space together. “For kitchens that feature multiple colors or stains, I’ll typically take the island color  and apply it to the inside of the perimeter cabinetry,” Liz remarks. “For instance, if the perimeter cabinetry is white and the island features a dark stain, I’ll incorporate the stain into the cabinet interior for cabinets that want to have a ‘see through’ element.”

“Taking color cues from other areas such as beams, floating shelves, or even your backsplash is another great way to visually balance and tie together a space,” Liz adds. “Just make sure not to overdo it; less is always more when opting for a vivid color.”

Wine storage, white outer cabinet, dark interior“Mirrors are another unexpected option you can use to brighten up a cabinet interior, and work well for kitchens that are looking for more of a glam element” notes Liz. “A full piece of mirror on the back of the cabinet interior adds a bit of glitz to a space while they simultaneously brighten up the cabinet interior by reflecting the available light.”

Cabinets are about so much more than the look of the interior or the exterior, and the right design is more about a smart layout than anything else. Set up a free consultation with Liz to talk about possibilities for your kitchen. Make sure to follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips, tricks, and inspiration.

Schedule an Appointment