When I’m working with a client I like to visit my favourite tile suppliers (De Fazio Tiles & Stone and Luscombe Tiles) to see what’s available and start researching suitable options for my client, their space, their goals and vision. I visit local suppliers first but sometimes I look online as well. I always get samples as colours and textures are difficult to fully grasp online. So, because tiles are key to any kitchen design project, I like to see samples in person.
Interior Design Strategy
I start every project defining a design strategy. Talking in depth with my client I learn their style and colour preferences. This is defined in the Brief stage of the project.
The design strategy for this client, is a style goal of Mid-Century Modern (MCM). With a colour scheme of grey, white, sage, and salmon. A muted colour palette but interesting as well.
Interior design is a visual language. When I see colour, textures, or fabric I can visualise how to apply it. For example, with this sage tile I see it applied in a stacked pattern rather than a typical brick pattern.
The challenge comes in deciding which tile and which tile pattern is best suited to communicate a Mid-Century Modern style. To be honest, I’m not sure yet. This client is interested in a streamlined line MCM look rather than a kitschy MCM look. Knowing this detail will help me propose a recommendation.
What tile and tile pattern I recommend also depends on the counter top, colour of the cabinetry and handles etc. In an open plan setting the adjacent zones, such as dining and living are also part of the decision making process.
So before looking for a suitable tile for your apartment kitchen renovation decide on your interior style goal and colour scheme.
Importance of a Moodboard
This is why a moodboard is so important. A moodboard enables me to visualise my client’s kitchen and the overall open plan space cohesively and understand how all the specifications relate and work with each other.
When I select tiles for kitchen design projects there are numerous options. So, I like having a design strategy from the outset. If there is a choice to be made between option 1 and option 2, but option 2 suits an MCM style more then the decision is made easier.
A moodboard assists in determining how cohesivie all the kitchen selections are. Is there tonal cohesion? A texture, colour or pattern imbalance? A moodboard helps you see what works together and what doesn’t.
Like most interior design decisions whether you’re furnishing your apartment or renovating an apartment kitchen there are many options. This is where clients get stressed, confused and overwhelmed. By letting go of finding the ‘perfect’ tile and instead focusing on which tile works with your interior style goal, colour scheme or budget is a much more streamlined starting point.
