All photos courtesy Room & Board.
Little Green Details
Falper Vetro Integrated Cabinet Glass Top Basin. All photos courtesy Rogerseller.
‘Green’ design and products have historically found their classification in the product features themselves and not necessarily in the processes behind the production, or the facilities that produce them.
But that’s beginning to change, with more emphasis given to the green cogs that keep the green machine going.
Luckily, you don’t have to go green with envy at what others are doing; below, we’ve listed several firms working to contribute to the green movement.
Claybrook
Utilizing recycled marble that is a by-product of its mosaic tile workshop, Claybrook’s MarbleForm bathware is manufactured in a low impact, emission-free production process, using environmentally sustainable products, materials and manufacturing methods wherever possible.
With a unique wet polishing method, which incorporates water, the method is healthier, cleaner and safer, the result is a finer and smoother texture for a superior finish.
Apart from the fact that these pieces are made from recycled by-products, the actual products themselves can be recycled too.
At right: Claybrook Skye Bath
Catalano
“Think Green” is the motto of Catalano, who has been pursuing sustainability and respect for the environment at all stages of its production cycle for years. The firm prides itself in using pure raw materials without any risk of toxicity, while cutting-edge technology has resulted in a new generation of products with reduced thicknesses that require less material.
Catalano pays great attention to environmental efficiency and operating conditions of machinery as well; the installation of solar panels at the production plant generates 1,625,000 KWh – about a quarter of its total energy requirements.
Catalano’s plant is characterized by a low-noise impact and features a closed-loop wastewater recycling system, while the production processes facilitate the maximum reduction of volatile fumes and pollutants released into the atmosphere. But its green efforts don’t stop there.
When it comes to its products, Catalano is constantly innovating to ensure it stays at the forefront of technology and its impact on product design. For example, the company’s revolutionary glazing method, Cataglaze+, actively kills bacteria through Silver Titanium technology, eliminates the stagnation of water and reduces the amount of cleaning detergents and water required. The visibly superior aesthetic also guarantees anti-yellowing over time.
At left: Catalano Zero 55 Basin
Falper
Utilizing only natural materials, Falper recycles all of its manufacturing waste.
Each timber panel is certified ecological and all the wood finishes are entirely water-based.
Scratches and breaks are easily restored on the surfaces of bathtubs and washbasins, reducing the need to replace items, while they are also completely recyclable.
At right: Falper Quattro Zero Caldera bath
Fantini
At its core, Fantini is all about water. Since 2012, its “100 Fontane: Fantini for Africa” project has succeeded in bringing clean water to 25,000 people in Masango, Burundi, through the construction of 12 collection wells, 27km of aqueducts and 100 water outlets.
Fantini products also adhere to the most stringent standards to safeguard consumer health. Its products are certified Lead free (containing less than 0.25 percent) whilst they’re also utilizing more stainless steel across all of its collections. A compact and solid material, stainless steel offers the highest resistance to corrosion and is particularly hard-wearing and durable, facilitating maximum hygiene. In addition, it’s also an eco-friendly and recyclable material.
At left: Fantini Mare Basin Mixer
Find Your Euro-spiration
From holiday gift giving to to keeping your home’s style fresh in the dead of winter, finding the perfect inspiration can sometimes seem impossible. What if the perfect source was just across the pond?
These collections showcase a passion for design and creativity, all inspired by a European country or the style of that nation. May these sources of inspiration spark your own!
Procook’s Oslo Collection
ProCook’s Oslo range brings Nordic cool to the table this winter, continuing the dining trend for reactive glaze stoneware. Oslo tableware embraces the Scandinavian hygge trend with its organic shapes and cool grey tones with a subtle salt and pepper look. Easily dressed up for more formal dining, the Oslo range is also perfect for everyday use. Oslo includes dinner and side plates which have flat bases and a sharp vertical lip, complemented by gently curved cereal and pasta bowls.
Photo courtesy Procook.
Photo courtesy Reformations.
Reformation
Living in rural Mid Wales, designer Craig Anthony is surrounded by the shifting patterns and colors of the country’s multiple landscapes, from open moorlands and mountains, to the woods surrounding lakes and rivers. All of this landscape inspires his creativity, which in turn helped him to launch his decorative arts company Reformations, an online gallery of handmade glass clocks and modern glass wall art.
His pieces that boast functional elements combined with highly decorative and abstract attributes. Additionally, many of his works also feature ambient lighting that creates a dramatic display when seen in darkness.
“My work develops organically, a reciprocal relationship between the materials and my imagination,” Anthony says. “Every piece I create feeds the design of the next. Created using paints with a high pigment content on specially prepared glass, and embracing a sense of natural chaos, my work is guaranteed to make a bold statement in any, contemporary setting.”
Shekåbba
Started in October 2019, Shekåbba consists of a small, visionary team of people who originate from all over the United Kingdom, all who share a love and passion to introduce others to the people-centred happiness of the Danish home. “We believe that thoughtfully crafting a home environment of warmth and beauty, sets the stage for a lifetime shared with those we love most,” according to company founders Dan and Rosanna Chapman.
Inspiration behind the company’s founding starts within the Danish culture, specifically the Danish homes model which focuses on time with family and friends. To introduce others to such a rich, happy culture, Shekåbba helps customers discover more of Denmark’s gifted home decor designers and artists, to bring an authentic and broadening Danish home experience.
Photo courtesy Shekåbba The Danish Home.
Celebrate the New Year
Starting January 25, 2020 is this year’s Chinese New Year, the Year of the Rat, associated with such characteristics as wealth, cleverness, creativity and midnight hours.
If your looking to freshen up your interior style, perhaps its time to ring in the new year with some Chinese New Year-inspired design tips and tricks. From oriental furniture and art to luxurious fine finishes, you can find all the inspiration you need to start this new year right!
Clever Finds
In Chinese Zodiac culture, Rats are clever, quick thinkers; what a way to reflect that in terms of furnishings! The best way to reflect this choice is through pieces that serve multiple purposes.
Take the Markus Multi-Functional table, designed by Marco Pozzoli, which features a gas-powered structure that lifts and divides, quickly transforming it into a comfortable desk/table with extra bench seating and generous proportions — a superb home-office desk or dining table.
Or even these beautiful Urban Chic nest of tables. The tables slot inside each other to minimise the amount of space taken up when not in use.
At Left: Markus Multi-Functional table.
Photo courtesy Go Modern Furniture.
Above: Urban Chic nest of tables.
Photo courtesy Wooden Furniture Store.
Rich Midnight
Because of the cleverness of Rats, the year of the Rat is said to encompass wealth and rich fortune. Rich tones, such as reds, deep blues, and metallic shades like gold are perfect color choices to represent this characteristic.
According to Chinese culture, the Rat is also associated with “midnight hours,” which in design terms can be interpreted as the color black, a great complementary shade to the other rich tones.
Whether these colors are utilized in furniture, accessories or painted walls, showcasing these tones throughout will help create a cohesive look throughout your space.
At left photo courtesy Maison Valentina.
Above photo courtesy Orchid Furniture.
Fine Creativity
Because of their independence and imagination, Rats often display characteristics of creativity and artistic excellence, as well as an affinity toward fine details.
To accompany the overall color palette, pieces should showcase creative design and fine, intricate detailing.
This can be found in a framed artwork or a handcrafted piece of furniture, no matter its style.
At left photo courtesy Orchid Furniture.
Above photo courtesy Artisanti.
The Terrazzo Trend
Cheerful and perfectly imperfect, terrazzo is a trend that was popular in the 1970s and derived from mosaic artforms. Building on the popularity of marble over the last few years, terrazzo now offers a playful alternative with more color.
This speckled mosaic of marble scraps originated with Venetian craftsmen over 1,000 years ago, but it couldn’t look more cutting edge. When created with contemporary colors and placed within a modern scheme, terrazzo brings interest and texture to countertops, floors, and staircases. It also works incredibly well as a graphic design for fabrics and wallpapers.
Photo courtesy of Idyll Home
Terrazzo is a favorite in design, graphics, and architecture, and it’s likely going to last.
While the real historical terrazzo consists of a mix of really small pieces of scraps scattered in the concrete, the terrazzo we see at present in design and interiors is a mix of different marbles with bigger sizes, less density, and a more striking graphical look.
Going together with the rising popularity of pattern decor, terrazzo gives you several different possibilities for decor, and to add color in original shapes.
Photo courtesy of einrichten-design.de
Rugs, Curtains, Tablecloths and More
Terrazzo, an Italian flooring composite, is one of the biggest current trends in fashion and interior design, thanks to its bespoke and unreplicable look. Rug’Society is proud of bringing this craze to the tapestry world with our Terrazzo Rug, one of the most trendy choices to bring any ambiance together.
Photo courtesy of Rug’Society
Wall Decor that’s Functional
Karlsson Tom Terrazzo Wall Clock Pink
The Karlsson wall clock Tom Terrazzo in pretty pink adds a chic industrial touch to your walls. It is finished with black hands, a red second hand and a high-quality quartz movement.
Photo courtesy of The Design Gift Shop
Throw Pillows and Wallpaper
Eye-catching terrazzo works as a decorative display, whether it’s on an elegant throw pillow or covering the walls.
Photo courtesy of Patricia Braune Textile & Surface Designer
Photo courtesy of einrichten-design.de
Featured image courtesy of Maison Valentina
Blacked-Out Kitchens are the New Trend
Photo courtesy of Alexander Jospeph
It seemed as if the interior designing industry has exhausted all of the various designs used in kitchens — until the new trend of all-black kitchens became the new fad and shifted the paradigm. Here’s how designers are getting into the trend and making blacked-out kitchens feel warm and inviting at the same time.
Dark cabinets and countertops not only add a beautiful composition to the space, but they actually make the room feel less blank and minimalistic. Ironically, the dark colors add a certain vibrance and texture to the space rather than washing it out. Utilize natural light with large floor-to-ceiling windows to give the black cabinets a hint of blue dark blue for a more colorful style. The sunlight on these cabinets keep they style modern and sleek without making it bland and boring.
Photo courtesy of Original BTC
Photo courtesy of Viva Lagoon
Another perfect way of styling blacked-out kitchens is adding gold accents. Not only do they add the perfect contrast, but they vary the textures used, making a refined and finished look. The reflective material of the gold cabinets create an open and war atmosphere.
Regardless, if a completely blacked-out kitchen isn’t your style, then look toward making a stark contrast between black and white. Not only does it create a striking composition, but it brings a unique flair that’s sure to be a conversation piece. The blacked-out island at the forefront of this otherwise white kitchen is a perfect example, and will make sure to invite people in.
Photo courtesy of PullCast
Candles are the new Trend in the Wellness Industry
By the end of 2023, the aromatherapy industry is expected to hit over $4.3 billion, as reported by Reuters. And with candles being the quintessential form of aromatherapy, luxury homeowners are making room for this new form of wellness. Here are ways in which artisans and craftsmen are using candles to elevate the wellness industry once again.
Decreasing stress is one of the top priorities for people in demanding careers — and everyone is turning to scented candles for a natural and easy remedy in creating the perfect escape from the pressures in the world. Heating and Plumbing’s wide variety of scented candles does just that. The “Herb Garden and Hops” candles generate a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Adding scented candles to various rooms in your home can help you relax and unwind after a busy day.
Photo courtesy of Heating & Plumbing
Photo courtesy of Garden Trading
Photo courtesy of Garden Trading
Just in time for the holidays, make sure to include candles in your decorating process. They’re not only the top product in the wellness industry but, when styled right, can leave a festive impression. These scented candles from Garden Trading are the perfect design for the upcoming holiday season.
Buckley and Phillips Aromatics has also been one of the forerunners in the boost for candles in the wellness industry. With candles like these, decoration is key. Candle centerpieces work perfectly for the holiday or year-round decorations to brighten the atmosphere. Or, just have the candles by themselves for a simpler and more minimalist design. Either way, candles like these are sure to bring a calm and inviting mood to the space.
Photo courtesy of Buckley & Phillips Aromatics
Five Easy Upgrades to Your Holiday Table Settings
As family and friends gather around, set an unforgettable spread this holiday season with these tips.
Photo courtesy of Canva
Patterns and More
Mix and match prints for a festive and comfortable look. There is a time for pristine white table cloths and identical table settings. If you’re looking for a slightly more cozy feeling, try mixing and matching various prints and textures to create a one-of-a-kind look. A vibrant table cloth will pair nicely with a neutral or complementary napkin. Your colorful salad bowls or bread plates can shine against a muted dinner plate. Explore new prints and patterns this season!
Photo courtesy of Canva
Greenery is Key
Whether it’s a sprig of holly on dishes, a bowl of multicolored gourds or a towering vase of flowers, even the smallest touch of nature can go a long way. Garlands of pine or other greenery can make the perfect runner for your table. Allow fresh flowers and plants to complement colorful tones in your table cloth and other fabrics.
Photo courtesy of Garden Trading
Decorate the Bar
Don’t neglect your bar area, buffet table or side tables. The dinner table is the main show but side tables can be as festive as they are functional. Add small lights to your drinks cart. The lights will reflect in the glasses and bottles to create a magical setting. Add a runner or exiting table cloth to your buffet table to keep the merriment going.
Photo courtesy of AUDENZA
Consider a Treat
A small favor is a great way to begin your meal! Consider incorporating a small treat into each setting or amongst the table for guests to enjoy. A sweet treat can be placed on the dish alongside a touch of greenery. The table can be spattered with ornaments or small trinkets for guests to take with them. Fresh whole fruit or a small dish of berries can serve as a hint of color in your decor as well as an appetizer. A tiny wreath or potted plant will also welcome guests!
Phot courtesy of Canva
A Centerpiece with Pieces
The centerpiece should attract attention but not overwhelm the table. Keep your centerpiece at a reasonable height so as not to block guests but still draw the eye. The center of your table can be made up of several components that work together to create a warm and welcoming scene. Try a collection of small vases, bowls, mixed with greenery, fruit, or traditional candles. Be creative when bringing your table together this season.
Photo courtesy of Lights4fun
Featured image by buffetcrush
Designing your Dream Walk-In Closet
For those who are looking to find more storage for their clothes and accessories, or those who simply want to elevate the style of their home, look toward making the dream walk-in closet. Not only can it be practical by offering ample storage, but it can also be a reflection of your style, so don’t forget to make it yours. Here’s how:
1. Sleek, Organized Design
When it’s completely organized, having all your clothes on display can add vibrant color and a beautiful composition to your walk-in closet. But practically, it can be a challenge to keep the storage space that organized all the time. So instead, look toward stained cabinets with a matte finish. Use gold to add a pop of color and a simple design for a sleek finish.
Photo courtesy of LUXXU Home
Photo courtesy of LUXXU Home
Photo courtesy of PullCast
Photo courtesy of Brabbu Designs
2. Not Just a Closet (seating, too!)
When you have the space, add in comfortable seating as well. Not only does it elevate the luxury-end of the design, but it functions well when changing or putting on shoes. Add a comfortable bench or chair for the same effect.
3. Effortless Impact
When designing a walk-in closet, there’s one word that’s a must: effortless. Whether it’s more monochrome or vibrant in color or more spacious or closed off, let the room be yours. Let it reflect your personal taste — both in fashion and design.
Photo courtesy of Chaplins Furniture
Picking the Perfect Front Door
As the first impression a visitor receives, the front door is arguably one of the most important pieces of your home. Whenever you’re rushing to get out the door, walking back in from a long day or inviting guests in, the front door should be a reflection of you and your style.
For a bolder style, look toward a deep blue colored door like this. The clean lines and bold colors are sure to turn heads. Add floor-to-ceiling glass panels on the sides to create a sleek and stylish look.
Photo courtesy of Urban Front
Photo courtesy of Urban Front
The glass around this front door also works to bring a modern flair. Both doors are conversation pieces for the home, inviting you and your guests in.
Photo courtesy of John Cullen Lighting
For a more comfortable and warm approach, look toward different materials and textures. This rustic wooden door establishes an inviting atmosphere, and the dramatic lights add a striking feature. The distinctly modern approach paired with the rustic wood creates the perfect balance.
Another way to find a door with a more relaxed style is in its colors and simple design. The recessed doorway draws attention to the simplicity of this home. The light fixtures and the paneling complement each other on their simplicity. Meanwhile, the neutral colors brighten the exterior on a sunny day and complement the hues on a rainy day, too. This stoop is sure to invite you in.
Photo courtesy of Garden Trading