Can you verify the collection name and finish you used in this kitchen design?
I chose the Erika collection in Warm Brass from Atlas Homewares.
Tell us about why you chose Atlas Homewares for this design.
I chose Atlas Homewares because they had the right blend of modern and traditional style while having the brass finish that seamlessly matches other brass tones in the space.
Describe the project and how you fulfilled your plans for the space.
This project was a complete full renovation of a Master Bath for a client. The bathroom was completely stripped down to the studs, as the client was tired of their outdated oak cabinets, frosted vanity lighting, and beige corian and tile. They wanted an updated look and layout.
We achieved their design goals by removing a window bay and the angled jetted tub to accommodate an oversized double vanity with linen storage. We also removed the angled shower layout and enlarged it with updated features including a niche for shampoos and a second low niche for shaving. We bumped the toilet wall out with a half-height wall that has shelving above for additional storage. We installed an oversized 20x20 slate floor tile on a diagonal and a 2x2 slate mosaic tile in the shower floor. Aside from slate floor tile, the clients’ only other requests were a heated towel bar and radiant flooring; all of which were met. To complete the updated look, we used warm brass light fixtures, mirrors and cabinet hardware paired with polished nickel faucets and marine blue cabinetry.
Did you run into any challenges with this specific project?
Like any project, this one had its share of challenges. Specifically, we encountered a difficulty with the shower wall tile. Initially, we had originally selected a variegated wall tile for the shower. During the initial stages of installation, we decided to change this variegated 3x8 tile to a wavy 5x16 white tile which was a better scale. The larger tile not only reduced the amount of grout lines, but also lent itself to a more proportionate and crisper look when combined with the slate floor.
Tell us about yourself. What is your design style, passion, and/or inspiration?
Although my style has a more relaxed modern industrial vibe, I always tell clients that it’s not about what my style is; but instead about me navigating the design decisions to pull their style out, even if they don’t know what that is. I love being creative and pulling inspiration from my love of the outdoors. Design is definitely a passion that finds its way into everything I do.
Where do you go to get new ideas and inspiration?
I love going to greenhouses, flea markets, antique and thrift shops, tile shops, and some of my local vintage retro furniture shops. I also love looking through fabric and wallpaper swatches, and swinging into art galleries while traveling with my family.
What hardware trends are you seeing today?
Some hardware trends that I am seeing are the use of specialty hardware in certain areas. For example, using leather pulls in offices or places that don't have to worry about moisture. In modern homes, metal and acrylic are being incorporated into built-in desks and wet or dry bar areas. When it comes to kitchen hardware, I'm seeing the use of various size hardware to break up the monotony; like appliance-sized pulls on wide drawers combined with their shorter version installed vertically on doors. Then sometimes I even use knobs to add interest. Twenty years ago, everything from furniture sets to bedding to hardware used to be matchy-matchy. Mixing things up adds character and interest to any space.
Do you have any tips about how to choose the best hardware for your space, lifestyle and/or style preferences?
I feel that hardware selection first depends on overall style. If you want a more modern look, I lean toward opting for elongated and minimalistic detailed hardware. However, for traditional and transitional styles, I like to implement hardware with curves like cupped pulls, knobs and pulls that have more body and ornate detailing.
What’s the best interior design lesson you have learned?
The best interior design lesson I have learned is that there is always more to learn. Design is always evolving and because of that, asking contractors and vendors about materials and install is a wonderful and valuable resource.
