Trend Watch: Timeless Looks

Expert Advice from Karen Walker – Editor at Good Homes Magazine

I’m always excited to see how creatively interiors styles can be applied to our homes. Kitchens and bathrooms are the two key project we all tackle at some point – if not repeatedly – and it’s important to get them right, which is why I intentionally use the word “style” earlier and not “trend”…

antique crackle metro tiles

Above: Antique Smooth Crackle Metro Tiles

One of my favourites is industrial luxe; it has an enduring appeal that is easy to achieve. Simple, utilitarian tiles in monochrome colours are the key starting point; rectangular shapes tend to work best, as they lend an unfussy feel – but you can still be imaginative with the layout. Slanted at 45 degrees, turned upright or in a custom format (think Tetris) all work well to bring personality into this pared-back style.

Above: Cappella Marble Effect Tiles

Mixing different natural materials is another failsafe look, where you can take your pick from slate, marble, concrete and wood, and use two-three throughout the scheme. I can’t get enough of marble and wood, as together they have a lovely balance of cool and warm that you can dial up or down.

gold accessories bathroom

It’s also wise to think about the surface textures when grouping different materials – i.e., pairing a matte finish against hits of high-shine gloss. This can also be considered in other schemes, such as industrial luxe, where a feature matte splashback could include bursts of high-shine elements in the same tones.
What matters most is your personal taste and what will make you smile every time you walk into the room – so pick a style that you love first, consider its longevity second and always remember to have lots of fun putting it all together.

Style tip

Oversized marble tiles set the scene for a luxe space; enhance the elegance by butting the tiles up next to each other with no grout lines for a glorious expanse of natural stone.

by Karen Walker – Editor at Good Homes Magazine

Kare Walker Good Homes Magazine editor