Color and Texture
The Decorative Details that Create the Atmosphere of a Kitchen
Published in The Essential Guide to Kitchens 2023
- By
- California Homes Staff
- Date:
- December 4 2023
Starting with a blank canvas and then layering color, pattern, and texture creates the narrative of a kitchen. It can be minimal with efficiency in mind or maximalist with layers, telling the homeowner's story. The tone and color can change with the soft morning light or afternoon sun. Farrow and Ball are known for their response to light, and the weight and texture of the tile add richness and warmth. Hardware selection is an opportunity to highlight an architectural style or add an artisanal touch. Noted designer Mark D. Sikes and Modern Matter have collaborated on a collection that reflects his classic aesthetic. The organic forms of the new collection from Rocky Mountain Hardware make a contemporary statement.
FARROW & BALL | COLOR
Farrow & Ball has been based in Dorset, England, since 1946. To this day, the brand remains dedicated to handcrafting richly pigmented paints with a directional palette of paint colors that have an extraordinary response to light. From ultra-matte, durable Dead Flat to mold-protected Modern Emulsion ideal for kitchens.
WALKER ZANGER | PATTERN PLAY
The Pop Culture Collection reflects the changing spirit of each generation. The black and white porcelain tiles bring a graphic contrast to the kitchen to create a playful and modern design. They offer the option to design a unique pattern to create a one-of-a-kind kitchen.
FIRECLAY | RECYCLED
Manzanita Satin is a soft, soothing green that imbues sophistication into any space with its subtle satin sheen and mossy hue. The modern square straight-set 3x3 mosaic tile is made from recycled red clay. A smooth satin finish with a light sheen, very low color variation, and low crackled detailing. Fireclay is committed to using sustainable manufacturing practices using recycled materials and is a certified B Corporation.
CLE | STORYTELLER
The dynamic Cinema Collection from Cle is the next generation of cement tile. Mythology celebrates the richness and expressiveness of color stories in pre-set neutral, shade and vibrant bundles specifically paired to bring each story and mood to life. Dartmoor Army Forest Pantery Pavers are inspired by untamed romance: a longing for dark, earthy hues and the wilderness.
ANNS SACKS | STUDIO MCGEE
A new collaboration with tastemaker, interior, and product designer Shea McGee. Canyon Lake by Studio McGee is one of three new tile collections that reflect her original and relatable approach to design. Inspired by Old World Moroccan tile, the collection is designed for everyday living. "From hand carving to kiln firing over olive branches, the authentic process of Old World tile delivers each piece its own individual texture, color, and rustic edges,” said McGee.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HARDWARE | ORGANIC
Drawing inspiration from interior designers, Rocky Mountain Hardware created this unique collection of four grips/pulls to showcase an organic and contemporary appearance that perfectly complements every space. This hardware can be incorporated onto a wide range of hard surfaces and appliances, including dishwashers, refrigerators, and cabinets, and is also available in a variety of sizes as well as sleek bronze finishes.
MARK D. SIKES FOR MODERN MATTER | CLASSIC
A design collaboration with interior designer Mark D. Sikes, who is celebrated for his fresh take on classic design. The three collections [Clementin-Pixie-Valencia] effortlessly outfit all the spaces of a home. Each is designed to fulfill the needs of the different aspects of a house, from the most formal spaces like dining rooms to everyday areas like kitchens to functional rooms like mudrooms. Its all-American aesthetic is classic yet sensible and elevates a wide range of design styles.