In this instance we choose to keep the corbels supporting the fireplace mantle thus determining the spacing and scale. The terra cotta marble was replaced with travertine tying in the nearby front entry flooring. Plants and existing art work complete the new look!
Colors go through cycles. Gray has been in for many years now – maybe 10 or more. In the cycle of design that is a long time! Many of my clients had a warm base of wood or stone and therefore NEVER wanted gray.
I just finished a renovation at the end of the year. Existing warmer tones and updating numerous baths and counter-tops led to material searches that were not easy. Gray was the dominant color and not integrating it would create a lack of continuity throughout the home. From six sources, there were three options for replacing the dated wall tile in the tub and shower areas. The materials used – included wood, carpet, three different quartz colors for counter-tops, bath wall tiles and porcelain bath floors – were all compatible but hints of gray were there.
On a recent home tour I attended, the master shower was gray and the remainder of the home was warm tones. The shower looked out of context.
So, no doubt, gray has to be going as its been the longest gray run we have ever had. If you’re selecting for a new build or renovation, work harder for a newer look so your project is not dated upon completion! Don’t go for easy, go for the most return on your investment.
How attached are you to your furniture? When I paid $1000 each for Kindle Queen Anne dining chairs in the ‘80s I expected them to be with me forever! But the next house had 12-15’ ceilings and they looked like dollhouse furniture. Our son moved back to Arizona and the problem was temporarily solved as his new home had low ceilings! I found the perfect chairs for my new move at a great price during the recession and now we’re into contemporary! Maybe the younger generation has the best idea – inexpensive furniture that gets dumped every time you move! Or if you furnish the home perfectly the new owner may want to purchase the furniture.
AND what about the family pieces that have memories? I had to part with the Bentwood rocker my husband gave me before we were married, but no one had ever sat in it – too deep!
So what is your goal? A breathtaking space that is perfect or room full of memories?
Today’s “in” look is a free standing tub but if one wants to age-in-place, a lower tub is a better option. You can specify the tub you want. Most showrooms have tubs you can try for comfort. The back slant and length are important. If the tub is to have a deck so you can use it to sit, put your shoes on, lotion up or swing your legs into the tub, the distance from the tub rim to the edge detail can be close to 10”. This is sufficient for sitting and easier cleaning than a deeper deck. A separate spray located on the outer side will allow for rinsing the tub. The height of the deck should be chair height – 17” so adjust the flooring under the tub for this height and tie in any windowsills with back-splash material. Specify a honed finish on the floor and a soft rug to step on with your wet feet! The comforts of home!
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