Three Reasons to Choose a Classic Backsplash

Why a classic backsplash is a smart choice if you want to keep up with the latest trends

Whenever someone tells me they want to make their backsplash “pop” with the latest tile, my question to them is why, and my advice is don’t do it. 

Here are the top three reasons why I feel so strongly that a simple, classic backsplash such as white or cream subway tile is a more savvy design choice:

With its classic elements, including a white subway tile backsplash, this kitchen would allow you to make a different style statement every day of the year. Layer it with bright colours, warm it with natural elements, make it feel more cottage-y, or more contemporary — it’s your choice. Image: Pinterest

A classic backsplash lets you be in charge

A trendy or “statement” backsplash can be a bully that dictates what you can and can’t do in your own kitchen. It tells you what colour you can paint your walls and limits your choice of artwork and accessories.

This may be fine at first because you’re so in love with the trend, but eventually, something else will capture your imagination, and old bossypants is going to be standing in your way. I don’t know about you, but I am way too much of a control freak to put up with that!

Image: Pinterest

By serving as a backdrop for your accessories, a classic backsplash gives you more freedom to  express your changing tastes. You are the boss.

I can’t post really bad pictures of trendy backsplashes without hurting someone’s feelings, so this will have to do. This kitchen is lovely, and it has lots of classic elements. However, you can see that the touch of coral in the backsplash tile (and the stove knobs, which really are adorable, but you’d better love the colour!) starts to dictate what you can and can’t change in this kitchen. Image: Pinterest

A classic backsplash stays current longer

Just like the proverbial little black dress, a classic backsplash never looks particularly trendy. Conversely, it never really looks dated either. This actually makes it a great choice if you love to keep up with the latest trends. All you have to do to keep your kitchen on the cutting edge is to bring in new artwork and accessories.

If you’re in love with all things turquoise today — great! Find a gorgeous turquoise tray and add some inexpensive artwork in watery tones. When the trend changes or your mood shifts, it’s a simple switch. No demolition required – which brings me to my final point….

In this kitchen, the marble of the counter top continues up the wall. The interest in the space comes from the artwork, fabric and accessories. Even then, the elements that are harder to swap out (window valance and fabric on the stools) are more classic, and the smaller elements are where the most personal statement comes through. Image: Pinterest

Choosing a classic backsplash makes better use of your design dollars

The backsplash is a fixed element that’s likely to stay in place for a  long time. Replacing it isn’t impossible, but it isn’t the most practical or economical way to keep your home feeling current. Invest once in a good classic backsplash and then have fun playing with accessories as the mood strikes you.

If you’d like help to create a home with the perfect balance of classic elements, current trends and harmonious colour – become a client!

I Like…Luxembourg Chairs

Here’s a bit of Paris I’d love to recreate at home! I am obsessed with these classic metal chairs and loungers that dot public parks across Paris.

I covet a pair of these low Luxembourg armchairs! Of course I wouldn’t turn my nose up at the chairs, either… Photo: Carol Standil

I first flirted with Fermob’s Luxembourg chairs in the Jardin des Tuileries and then fell in love in the Jardin du Luxembourg, from where they take their name. Not only are they comfortable, but they’re easy to move around to wherever they’re needed. Even on a cool day we saw people pulling together groups of chairs to share a picnic lunch, or seking a sunny spot to relax with a good book.

I like them in the original green as seen above, but if that’s not your cup of (green) tea, Fermob offers a whole host of colourful options. They also make co-ordinating footstools and tables.

Fermob’s Luxembourg chairs come in a wide range of juicy colours.

The Luxembourg range, initially produced for the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris, has become something of a legend in its own right. Its style is an emblem of French design – an expression of French culture in furniture form! Today, Luxembourg is a fabulous collection made from aluminium whose watchwords are lightness, joie de vivre and conviviality. Recently, Fermob asked Frédéric Sofia to reinterpret the legendary chairs and armchairs of the Jardin du Luxembourg, created in 1923 in the Paris parks department workshops, and which Fermob still manufactures today for the city’s public gardens. The result was a whole collection of furniture with the same distinctive lines and forms, combining the lightness and resistance of aluminium with the comfort of curved seat slats. Source: Fermob.com/en

These beauties don’t come cheaply, but I’m saving up for a pair of the low recliners for my back yard. And maybe a pair of the armchairs… Sigh.

Cheap and cheerful Luxembourg chair substitute

In the meantime, I’ll be looking for something to lend this Paris park feel to my presently rather underwhelming space.

ROXO armchair – Source: Ikear

This ROXO armchair from good old Ikea might fill the bill for now. It comes in a dark gray or white as well as orange, and, at $59 it’s a far more affordable way to get the look. (There’s also a matching bench, and an armless chair that would be fun paired with a little bistro table,)

What do you think? What kind of furniture are you itching to add to your outdoor space?

If there’s a look you’d like help to create or recreate – become a client!

Colourful inspiration from Paris in the spring!

At long last I can say from experience that I love Paris in the springtime! I recently spent a week in that incredible city — a gift to myself to mark a milestone birthday (!!) and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

The primroses in the Luxembourg Gardens offered a tantalizing taste of early spring, even though the days were cool enough that I wore my parka almost every day. This was taken on my birthday – one of the few days we saw sun on this trip. Perfect timing!

I traveled with my husband, so the focus of this trip wasn’t exactly design and decor — however, I did sneak into a couple of stores, and I can’t resist sharing a few of the things that caught my eye!

Paris Decor Stores Are Awash in Colour for Spring 2013

The skies were mostly gray, but stores in Paris were showing plenty of colour. I had a chance to stop into the Bon Marche, Paris’s oldest department store, and found fresh, vibrant colours calling to me from every display!

This display of linen napkins was almost enough to make me forget my dis-inclination toward ironing….Maybe my more practical side will just pick up an assortment of colourful paper napkins to brighten up my table.

I’ve always been a sucker for exuberant florals, and this green table cloth was really tugging at my heartstrings…

These classic Tolix Marais chairs come in colours to suit every need…

Maybe you want a warmer colour? No problem. These have me thinking about repainting some old wooden chairs in my kitchen to recreate a similar look.

I think my cafe au lait would taste ooh la la in one of these colourful mugs…

Look up. Be happy! I’d love to find a spot in my house for a fun, colourful light fixture…These are fabulous, and I also love the idea of painting an old or basic fixture to give it new and unexpected life!

I was very inspired by this combination of graphic black and white cushions against a colourful patterned throw. I’ve started adding similar pillows to my living room and I LOVE the way it’s coming together!

Coming home inspired is one of the best parts of travel. I can’t wait to incorporate a few more of these Paris inspirations into my house in the weeks and months ahead.

What’s inspiring you this spring?!

If you want the colours in your home to inspire, motivate, soothe, or energize you — or if you simply want them to play more nicely with your existing finishes – become a client!