Design Notes
Design is so simple, that’s why it’s so complicated.
— Paul Rand
Porcelain or Ceramic?
Believe it or not, the tried-and-true way to tell the difference between ceramic and porcelain is not hardness, sheen, or even price. It’s water absorption! Porcelain tiles must have a demonstrated absorption rate of 0.5 percent or less. Anything above that threshold...
Feng Shui
Translated literally from Chinese to English, feng means “wind” and shui translates to “water.” Together, the words Feng Shui can be defined as “a Chinese geomantic practice in which a structure or site is chosen or configured so as to harmonize with the spiritual...
Wallpaper: Then + NOW
It’s thought that wallpaper made its debut in China around 200 B.C., and that it took the form of birds, flowers and landscapes painted on rice paper. The concept migrated to Europe in the 16th century, where options soon expanded to include hand-printed block wood...
The Countertop Quandary: Granite or Quartz?
Soapstone, marble, Corian, ceramic tile, butcher block and stainless steel … The list of material options for countertops grows, yet granite and quartz continue to reign supreme. Both are beautiful, durable, and offer a reliable return on investment, but there are...
Space with Purpose
Living through a global pandemic has inspired us to appreciate our homes as never before—and to make the most of every inch of floor space. More than a place to showcase our style, we’re looking to our homes for a sense of the peace and tranquility that’s become...
The Kitchen Triangle Rule
The art and practice of interior design presents endless opportunities for creativity and self expression. At the same time, there are certain tried-and-true guidelines and rules that savvy practitioners have come to rely on again and again. In the kitchen, one such...