Aaron Brown has been a tile setter in the Edmonton area for 15 years.  His background in the industry includes not just installation but manufacturing of handmade tile, as well as working in retail showrooms. He is a certified Schluter and Wedi installer. He is also one of two Canadians who have the distinction of earning a Bisazza installers certificate which recognizes installers who have completed the Bisazza installation school.  Aaron just recently opened his own retail store River City Tile (12250,142^nd Street Edmonton AB) specializing in luxury and custom tile.  They carry a wide variety of styles and tile materials from ceramic and glass to concrete and leather for residential and commercial use.  Some of the recognizable brands that they carry are Artistic Tile from New York, Sonoma Tilemakers from California and Ann Sacks from Seattle. I had a chance to interview Aaron about some industry trends and tile advice.

Bisazza Installation with no cut tiles. This is how to properly design with Mosaics!

Laura: What trends are you currently seeing in the Edmonton stone and tile market?

Aaron: Edmonton seems to be leaning more and more to a modern aesthetic.  Large format tiles of 12”x24″ and larger are very popular.  As far as walls are concerned Edmontonians still love glass and glass mosaics in watery colours as a compliment to neutral porcelain.

Laura: Sounds like the Edmonton I remember, beige and safe but beautiful none the less! What trends are you seeing globally

Aaron: Texture and textiles!  Tile and stone with dimension that when placed together in larger formats tell a rich story.  Textile patterns are also very popular as technology in processing tile and stone advances so do the design possibilities and at this point your imagination is your only limitation.

A recent install of Artistic Tile Dimensional Stone

Laura:  As the local representative for Artistic Tile in Edmonton can you share what the company is about and what products they produce?

Aaron:  Artistic Tile is a New Jersey headquartered company that specialize in tile design. The owner/founder of Artistic Tile (Nancy Epstein) is always traveling the world in search of inspiration for the latest and greatest.  Most of their product lines are produced from different manufactures around the world based on Nancy and her design team’s concepts and colour selections.  Even if the material and stylings are familiar the colour or finish might be what makes the tile unique to anything else available. Artistic Tile has a huge variety of styles and materials that can be combined or even customized to give a unique and distinguished one of a kind look.  They really understand that each project has its own design challenges and have the capability and more importantly the willingness to meet those challenges head on and exceed expectations.  They certainly have their finger on the pulse of the global trends and have become trend setters in their own right.  Artistic Tile has won the award for “best of the year” from Interior Design magazine, 4 times in 5 years for their original concepts.

Artistic Tiles samples displayed in Aaron's new River city tile showroom

Laura: Sicis has a stunning product range but looks like a nightmare to install.  Are there recommended installers in Edmonton and is it quite a bit more of an installation charge than regular mosaics

Aaron:To say that Sicis has quite a product range is an understatement to say the least.  Their product line is enormous.  As far as installation is concerned there are definitely tricks of the trade.  The most important thing that an installer can have in is bag of tricks is respect for the material.  Understanding what the end result should be and look like is one thing and then to have the patience to execute the install properly is another.  Technically speaking Sicis installs similarly to many other glass mosaics but requires, let’s just say a little massaging to get it right. The best thing any client can do when it comes to Sicis is prevent themselves from being hypnotized by some of the overwhelmingly beautiful murals that are available and remember that it does require an expert with some experience to get the proper end result.  We are a full service showroom and have the right people available.  When it comes to cost it can be more expensive but it really matters what type of application and the intricacy of the mosaic that needs installing.

Custom Sicis mosaic tile installation - each tile individually laid

Laura: Let’s set the record straight for my readers.  What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic and what is better for high traffic/commercial spaces?

Aaron: I love these questions because it really allows my tile nerd to come out.  The simplest way to explain the difference is Porcelain is clay body fired at a much higher temperature than ceramic.  Technically porcelain is a type of ceramic but porcelain can be fired at very high temperatures, this allows for a denser and far more durable tile body.  Porcelain tile is impervious to water which makes it a great choice for freeze/thaw areas, like Edmonton patios.  Many types of porcelain are full bodied as well which means even if there is a small chip in the tile the clay body is the same colour as the surface so it is much less noticeable.  There is actually a rating for durability in the tile business and it’s based on what is called the P.E.I. scale.  The Porcelain and Enamel Institute rates tile surfaces on a P.E.I. scale of 1-5.  5 being the most durable.  Porcelain typically falls in the 4 or 5 area which means heavy commercial traffic while ceramic is typically found in the 1-3 side which is recommended for light residential to light commercial.  Ask your supplier what the P.E.I. rating is if durability is a concern.

Laura: Have you done any installations of the new ultra light large format tiles?  If so from an installers side how do you feel about the product?

Aaron: I have and I love it.  I wish all large format porcelain was like this. The technology that is found in the slim tile’s clay body is incredible.  At 3 mm thick and up to 5 feet by 10 feet in size these tiles are actually stronger and more durable than traditional porcelain tile.  Watching one person installing 40″x40″ tiles alone is quite something.  The only thing holding it back at this point is the price.  Most people are willing to stay within more traditional tile formats in order to save in most cases double the price.  If clean and minimal is the look you are going for it doesn’t get better than the ultra thin tile in huge formats.

Companies like Kerlite produce ultra thin large format floor tiles which are perfect for renovations and are a great sustainable product simply for using ridiculously less material!

Laura: What is the biggest mistake designers seem to be repeating in there tile designs and what do you recommend?

Aaron: FINISHING! Hands down without a doubt the biggest problem I see is the lack of attention to the end details.  I sort of touched on it in the Sicis question when I said the most important trick a tile setter can have is knowing what the final product should look like.  Most designers seem to leave it up to the tile setter to decide how an edge should be finished or how thick the grout lines should be.  I am almost obsessed with looking at other tile setter’s work to see if there is any tiny detail I can pick up on and make myself better.  I think if designer just took a little more time specifying exactly how tile should finish and learn more about what is possible in the way of grout joints everyone in the process will be happier with the end result.  We are now laying large format tile with 1/32nd of an inch grout lines.  Some installers and designers will accept that the larger the tile the larger the grout line, but is shouldn’t be that way.  Schluter trim is not a swear word and when done properly can really enhance the overall look and feel of an installation.  In my opinion however metal trim should never be used to finish natural stone unless the metal is there to protect the stone from damage in a commercial application.

Example of a stone tile finished edge

Laura: Did you hear that designers? Finish up your specifications with grout thicknesses and Schluter or transition tiles!  Schluter trim pieces can really make an installation seamless what should designers know before specifying?

Aaron: Between colour , finish, and profile , Schluter has hundreds of choices.  That’s the first thing designers need to know.  As I mentioned earlier somehow Schluter has become like a swear word amongst the design community.  In many cases Schluter is the best looking and most practical option and in almost every situation its better than beveling 3/8″ of grout and calling that a finished edge.  Again ask a pro what your options are and if you’re not quite satisfied with the answer call me!

Schluter trim installation examples

Laura: Aaron, as I have a bit of a fetish with learning about new products and installation techniques what are the big tile shows around the world and which ones would you recommend designers attend if they ever get the chance?

Aaron: There are two major shows every year that feature only tile and stone from around the world.  In the fall there is Cersaie in Bologna Italy and in the spring Coverings in the U.S.A.  These shows are so enormous that it literally takes days and days to get through.  There are so many cutting edge designs and inspiration at these shows that in some ways it disappoints me knowing that the Edmonton design community is not well represented at these events.  If you get sick of looking at the tile and stone, the displays and booths that the vendors set up in these massive venues are nothing short of amazing.  This year Coverings will be in Orlando Florida at the end of April and I suggest that everyone who reads this makes a point of going even for just a day.  When designers get a glimpse of what is available in the tile and stone industry I am sure they will come home with a whole new attitude toward how they look at tile and stone and how it can be incorporated into different projects.

Laura: How has sustainability/LEED and other green initiatives affected the tile business and have you seen a big with towards these products?  Do you think this switch has come more from company’s initiatives or consumer demand?

Aaron:  The tile business as a whole has definitely been affected by green initiatives.  Recycled and post consumer products are making their way into the clay bodies of tile without compromising the quality.  Some companies buy carbon credits to offset the shipping emissions.  Residential projects haven’t really been driving these initiatives especially here in Edmonton.  There are some larger corporate projects that are specifying green materials.  I’m not convinced that LEED is a real thing in the Edmonton tile market yet.  There are many factors that are taken into consideration when determining what a LEED quality product is but everything in Edmonton has to come from somewhere first which in my mind sort of diminishes the whole green thing. Add to it the fact that we are an oil rich province and as a whole are a little less concerned and I still think we have a way to go before its a real consideration in most projects.

Laura: Aaron while I can see where you are going I must defend the design industry in Edmonton by saying that I did work on a few LEED projects, particularly the Edmonton Federal Building which is striving for LEED gold. While there are not many projects in Edmonton I think the big ones are making a good impact on educating the community and potential clients about the benefits and need for more sustainable construction. On to a another issue all together, what are your thoughts on DIY installs? Any tips for those who chose to do a DIY install?

Aaron: I have no problem with people doing their own thing.  Where I have a problem is when the do not do it right or finish the job and then expect a pro to bail them out for next to nothing.  My advice is that you do your research and take your time. The right tools for the job make all the difference. Believe it or not the Home Depot Tiling 1-2-3 book is an awesome resource.  It costs 20 bucks and if you do what they tell you to you can’t go wrong.  I just wish sometimes the people that work in the tile aisle at hardware stores would read it to.  I have overheard some really bad advice from hardware store staff.  Read the books they sell and don’t listen the stories they tell.

The Home Depot Tiling 1-2-3 book

Laura: Great advice Aaron!! Can you give us a quick intro on how to specify the proper grout?

Aaron: Well to make it simple, in my opinion it’s like this:  If there is no blood involved (i.e. butcher or medical) than cement based grout is fine in any application.  Epoxy grout is well marketed and some of my customers ask for it because they think that it will maintain its original colour longer versus cement based grouts.  Neither grouts are self cleaning and both need to be cleaned the same way.  My recommendation is to specify really tight joints and use a cement based grout followed by a good sealer.  When people used to use carpet everywhere in their homes they would have someone come and clean the carpets every 6 months or year.  Now there are companies that do the same with grout only its every 3-5 years.  If you are worried about the surface scratching like in glass or highly polished stone jobs then a non sanded grout should be specified.  There’s much more to it than this so consult a pro when you are concerned about specific grout types.

Thank you so much Aaron for your very insightful look into today’s stone and tile world. I greatly appreciated you taking the time to set my readers straight on some big topics. Congratulations on your new showroom and best of luck for 2012! I can’t wait for you to pop in with an update for us with some great photos from 2012’s Cersaie + Coverings trade shows! If I can take a few must have tips (Coles notes) from our interview for my readers, here are my Top 5 tile and stone tips:

1. Designers: pay careful attention to your finishing details. How will you transition materials or finish off your stone/tiling job? Consider your grout thicknesses in your specifications.
2. Measure twice, cut once…. Always do your research before DIY tile setting! My Birthday wishlist is going to include 100 copies of the Home Depot 1-2-3 book for me to give away to any tile setter I meet in Dubai as I have seen some truly tragic installs here!
3. Sustainable products don’t seem to be a leading decision maker on designers and consumers minds when specifying… start asking when you walk into a tile store for their eco-friendly products… it will narrow down your selection and make you feel better about your final project!
4. Ultra thin large format tiles are the future, get on the band wagon. They are great for tiling over existing floors without all the demo work, are easy for an installation team to deal with and are ultra durable. Just think, less grout means less grout to clean!
5. For homeowners, particularly in Edmonton. We know you have a better budget to work with and we know you have good taste… do some research through design magazines and *ahem* blogs to find some unique, innovative and interested stone and tile patterns, layouts and combinations. Having a “wow” home can make you the talk of your beige on beige with glass mosaic detailing neighborhood.

Not to leave out my other great tile friends in Edmonton who supply some amazing products for residential and commercial projects (bathroom tile, floor tile, mosaics, accent tiles, bashsplash, stone, how to and do it yourself tile advice, Schluter trim etc.) be sure to check them out below. Stop the Calgary Habit… you can find all the tile and stone products you need in Edmonton!

Julian Tile  -  11419, 160^th Street, Edmonton AB

Olympia Tile  -  11540, 163 Street NW, Edmonton AB

Ames Tile  -  17203, 102^nd Avenue, Edmonton AB

Tierra Sol  -  12410, 184^th Street, Edmonton AB

Euro Tile  -  1124, 154^th Street, Edmonton AB

Related posts:

1. Artistic Tile
2. Lavish Stone
3. Edmonton Interior Design in Avenue Magazine
4. IDA Edmonton First Annual Christmas Party
5. Sicis the art of tile

It is probably the bottom of most interior designers and clients lists for specification priority but the quality of switchplates in a project can make a dramatic difference to those with finer tastes. Often times it is the first thing a designer notices when walking onto a construction site… mis-matched switchplate colors and sizes, askew mounting and even a mixture of styles can all happen when you let the contractor have his run of plate selection. Here are some of my new favorite lines in the Luxury switchplate market. I figured I should share as I had a hard time myself finding these “wall jewelry” items.  All of them work especially well in Hospitality projects & private residences and are perfect for the MENA (Middle East & North Africa) market. Us designers know… “God is in the details” ~ Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Fontini (Spain) at over 50 years in business has a beautiful collection in a variety of finishes and styles but stands out most for me is their Swarovski elements collection seen below.

Fontini Wood switchplates

Fontini white backpainted glass switchplate

Fontini 1950 collection with Hyacinth Swarovski element toggle

Fontini Art Collection Swarovski switch plates

Fede (Spain) “The Art of Illumination” knows how to play with finishes and forms to create recognizable, elegant and even flashy switch plate covers in anything from crystal, wood, brass or more to suit almost any decor or taste.

Fede switch & light

Meljac (France) is a recent find of mine with timeless contemporary and classical styling options as well as an array of customization options. This line has been spotted in the likes of the Four Seasons George V in Paris, Aman Resort Montenegro, Hotel Royal Mansour in Marrakech Morrocco, Hotel Meurice in Paris and Castiglion del Bosco in Tuscany, Italy.

Meljac switches + sockets

Lithoss (Belgium) is the sleek streamlined switch + socket company for upscale modern installs with its clean lines and LED options. As they describe it the design is “clean, sober and simple”. The Crown Plaza in Brussels and the Puerta America in Madrid. Famous designers such as Jean Nouvel, Andree Putman, Alvaro Siza and Piet Boon are all claimed to have specified Lithoss switches in projects. Also, this company was a 2006 Red Dot design award winner!

Lithoss designed switches

Lithoss LED switches

Luxonov keeps sleek and simple but with a variety of traditional and unique metal finish options.

Luxonov sleek contemporary switch plates

Bendheim (NJ USA) my dear favorite specialty Architectural glass manufacturer has also come out with a backpainted glass range to compliment their backpainted glass wall panels.

Bendheim beveled custom color backpainted glass switchplate in cerulean blue

Finally lets not forget Lutron which is an element all its own with entire home controls and electronics fixed in with fancy customizable colored plates. This company enters the world of sustainability with occupancy sensors, roller shade controls and dimmers hooked up in a techie array to make any guy smirk. This company is best when you can do the whole meal deal and is more about the technology than the looks… don’t rely on them for a classy traditional switch plate cover or they may laugh at you.

There are many other manufacturers whom I have not showcased that have great product just not of the same unique aesthetic I have shown above. Here are some more options:

BTicino owned by Legrand contemporary switch plates (Finishes included: leather, glass, stone, lacquer, steel aluminum etc.)

ABB Light Switches owned by Siemens (LED technology, Finishes: slate, exotic woods, stainless steel, glass, plastic)

BJC contemporary switches (waterproof switches, finishes: metal, wood, glass etc)

Related posts:

1. Perspective Lyrique – Architecture Light show

Dubai Business Bay Reiser + Umemoto office building O-14

Architectural Detail

I thought today would be like any other showroom visit…. until I stepped out of the car in front of Dubai office building O-14 by Reiser + Umemoto Architecture out of NYC. Out from the desert landscape formations of another world rose up in an amoebic lacing of concrete. The playful pet name “cheese grater” or “gruyere tower” became evident and left no need for explanation. The building was beautiful… pure, white and of a single architectural concept. It felt casual strong and non fussy while standing out amidst the ever stretching heights of glass over the Dubai Business Bay skyline. Located in the heart of a sad overly ambitious Dubai Creek it stands as a reminder to what big world ideas and encouraged innovative thinking came from the pre-recession boom of the worlds fastest growing city.

Some quick facts about this beautiful Project:  22 Stories high (347 feet), 1,326 holes in 5 different sizes and an Interior Designers dream of a column free interior

The building draws the user in with curiosity to an equally stunning lobby with balooning polka dots of sun bursts across every plane in the space. The atmosphere of the lobby felt like I was floating in the clouds of Design heaven where light, shadow and white marble embrace the most unique reception desk I have ever seen.

Cheese grater main entrance

Main Lobby of the beautiful O-14 "Cheese Grater" by Reiser + Umemoto

Verde furniture showroom in O-14 office tower

I had stopped in to view the new Verde Custom furniture showroom on the main and second floor. The raw and unfinished interiors let all the focus speak to the building facade which dominated the walls and the elegant white staircase that wrapped the corner of the room.

Verde Furniture LLC Dubai - to the trade only

I went in with little expectation regarding the quality of craftsmanship as Dubai has a history of sloppy product. I came out excited and overwhelmed with the quality of wood veneer, attention to detail and overall finish of the products.

Related posts:

1. Back in Business
2. Playa Del Carmen Mexico

It has been a fantastic 2011 for me both personally and professionally. While I have not written in my blog for over 6 months (Yikes!) I have spent plenty of time finding myself. It all began with my trip to Milan in April with 3 very good designer friends. The trip marked my first time overseas and was a phenomenal exploration of European design, history and Architecture. We attended the 50th anniversary of iSalone the Milan International Furniture Fair and Euroluce for 2 days. It was my first design show that I attended as press and somehow I managed to pull it off and learn a lot. Note to self: I will have to write a blog article one day on how to properly prepare for and attend a trade show.

1. The Leaning Tower of Pisa 2. Milan Fairgrounds for I Saloni 2011 3. Simon, Me (Laura Bielecki), Celeste & Courtney wine tasting in Tuscany

Just before my trip to Milan my boss at Kasian in Edmonton pulled me aside to ask if I would be interested in doing a 6 month work assignment designing in Doha. Without any hesitation or thought “yes” instantly rolled off my tongue. I think my reaction sums up why I get to do some of the most random and exciting things. After a long wait the day finally arrived for me to take off to Qatar… a country I knew nothing about. On June 9th I took off for the Bedouin village on the tiny peninsula in the gulf to meet my new temporary life. I worked on the shop drawing/contracting side for the gorgeous and monumental palace in Al Wajba (Home of the Emir of Qatar) as well as a few Villas. It was a phenomenal opportunity to open my mind to the inside world of Qatari culture and lifestyle. Lets not get confused, this was no vacation or picnic on the beach. When I was not at work or exhausted at my Beverly Hills Villa (no joke that was my compounds name) from the excruciating 50 degree heat I explored. I spent my spare time trying to explore the food, traditions and opportunities Qatar had to offer and made a few very good friends along the way. My colleagues and roomies were a fantastic, young and energetic team of adventure seekers which proved to make the work days worthwhile. We explored the beaches, pools, spas, gyms and bars in every inch of the city thriving for any expat amusements we could find. We also created memorable friendships with local Qatari and Saudi gentlemen (its a lot harder to be able to converse with the women). Our dear friend Khalid introduced us to all the local treats like Lebanese breakfast at the souk, a traditional Saudi meal that we ate off a large silver platter while sitting on the floor with our bare hands, beautiful goats, camels and horses and most memorably falcon hunting!

1. Doha and Dubai on the map 2. Lebanese breakfast with my dear Saudi friend Khalid 3. wheelbarrow's in the souk

Posing at the Corniche in Doha (downtown skyline & Persian gulf in the distance)

Laura and the "Sport of Kings" - Falcon Hunting in Qatar

Me exploring Katara Village during Ramadan in Qatar

As I was so far away from my Canadian home and so close to Europe I decided that I needed to take some opportunities to travel. In November I flew to London and Barcelona for a little getaway. I met up with my parents (after there Mediterranean cruise) and a very good former colleague of mine from Edmonton Leticia (who now lives in Alicante Spain) for a much needed break and refresher, not to mention some greenery! Unfortunately I have somehow managed to misplace my photos from the fab trip… here is hoping that I can find the SD card somewhere in my 8 suitcases!

Barcelona Spain October 2011 1. New friends from around the world 2. Leticia and myself in Antonio Gaudi's creation Park Guell

This past summer in Doha I also met pure and genuine Jack. He managed to capture my heart when and where I least expected it on the other side of the world in the middle east.

Jack and I in 2011

After a lot of thought and a need for change I decided to move on from Kasian. If I was going to be in the Middle East I was going to do it with a well known and established company with plenty of experience in the region. I was hired by GAJ (Godwin Austen Johnson Architects) in Dubai as a Senior Interior Designer to work on prestigious commercial, hospitality and residential projects throughout Europe and the Middle East. The move came about from my good friendship with Elie Choucair who had been my mentor and friend back at Andres Escobar & Associates in Montreal when I was an intern and fresh graduate. Coincidentally the week I was offered a position Elie won Middle East Interior Designer of the Year 2011 and GAJ won Interior Design Firm of the year 2011. What a perfect motivation to join the team and see what we could both do for each other. I am excited to see my career blossom with this move.

Elie Choucair Middle East Interior Designer of the Year 2011

After leaving Kasian and Doha I went back to Canada for 2 weeks (late November) to visit family and friends in Calgary and Montreal. I am glad I took the time to see everyone I love and take a break from my Middle Eastern lifestyle. It was a good refresher for me to start my new adventure on solid (albeit sandy) ground. While in Calgary I visited with some of my girls from Design school and friends who I have missed so much. In Montreal my friend Vlad introduced me to a fantastic fashion photographer and blooming bespoke lighting designer Maciek Wilkos who managed to find some time to do a shoot for my blog in the streets of Old Montreal.

A little photo shoot of me in beautiful Old Montreal this November. Photographer: the very talented Maciek Wilkos.

Montreal November 2011 1. me (Laura Bielecki) and the beautiful designer/blogger Genevieve Ghaleb 2. Me (Laura Bielecki) and my very sweet and bubbly cousin Emilia 3. Visiting my grandparents still ever so in love

Reunion with friends 1. MRU classmates Carolina, Me (Laura Bielecki), Lindsey and Emily 2. My ever sweet friends Jarrod, Me (Laura Bielecki) and Ian

I moved to Dubai on December 3rd and started work on the 5th. So far all has been going well. I still have yet to get my passport, work visa, bank account or an apartment but in the next week or so I should be ready to roll in my new life and new year.

I am eagerly looking forward to sharing with all of you my experiences from both Doha and Dubai. I want you to know what it is like to be a Designer in the Emirates. Qatari and Emirati culture can be quite foreign to westerners and it is best if you get acquainted with the basics before coming out. This especially comes in handy when planning your wardrobe for your move. Good news is it is not as conservatively dressed of a place as I was brutally warned about. Work wear is about the same as back home minus the longjohns and snowsuits and there is no restrictions on the time of year you can wear white pants!

When it comes to design in the Emirates and Qatar amongst most other Arabic cultures, religion and tradition play a large role. All hotels have an arrow on the ceiling pointing to Mecca. Most banks, airports, Mosques have separate entries/lines for men and women. Many restaurants in Doha and the metro and buses in Dubai have a section at the front for women and children. Note to avoid designing a bathroom with the toilet facing Mecca and if possible point hospital beds towards Mecca. Also, avoid fabrics/wallcoverings that depict animals or people. I will add to this list as I learn more.

Somehow I managed to nix a few things off my bucketlist this year (and add a few things to it that I never conceived I would do):

• Italy! biking through vineyards in Tuscany, sitting on the roof of the Duomo, Climb the leaning tower of Pisa, stay in a monastery in Florence, the Spanish steps, throw a coin into the Trevi fountain, visit the Vatican and spend time looking up at the Sistine Chapel Ceiling, View the last supper, gaze at the statue of David, drink coffee at a cafe in Milan, East John Travolta’s favorite Florentine dish, tour the Colosseum, kiss a bust….
• move overseas, Doha! Falcon training, clubbing in the middle east, trying shisha, trying sheep brain, experiencing 50+ degree heat! Ramadan, swimming in the gulf, fishing in the gulf
• design (well sort of) a palace
• Visit then move to Dubai! going to the top of the Burj Khalifa, afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab
• Visit London (for a day): Tate modern, double decker bus tour of London, ride in a London cab, shopping on Oxford Street
• Visit Barcelona: Pilgrimage to the Mies Van der Rohe Barcelona pavilion and Antonia Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia and park Guell, enjoying sangria, tapas and pork along Las Ramblas and Architecture party crashing

Its now New Years Day and I am sitting in a friends apartment sipping my tea reflecting on how wonderful of a year I have had. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of my readers. I wish you all a successful and positive 2012. Dream it, achieve it and thank yourself.

Ney Years Eve 2012 Fireworks over the Burj Al Arab in Dubai - Photo taken from the Palm Island

Yours,

Laura of Arabia!

Related posts:

1. Interior Design Trend 2011 – Marmara Marble
2. Calgary Interior Design Event – May 5, 2011
3. Hotel Design Trends 2011
4. RED Interior Design
5. Interior Design Bold Stripes

Hospitality Design is evolving quickly and designers are constantly trying to design new and innovative spaces that are breathtaking, cost effective and never been seen before. In the video above are some of the influences and trends happening in todays design world. This is a presentation I gave to a group of hotel rating professionals who wanted the inside scoop into upcoming trends and materials that they may be exposed to.

Interior Design and Fashion Design are very parallel businesses. Both are motivated by evolving trends and play off of each other in there progression. Cultures, technology, world events and perceptions are all variables in the progression of these trends. Interior Design tends to be the slower evolving of the two as more money is involved in changing surfaces, furniture and lighting pieces within spaces. In fashion change can be easy as a new skirt or accessories.

The easiest way to inject trends into spaces is through color, art and fabric which can transform a dated space rather quickly. Following are some examples of today’s trends in Hospitality projects that we will start to see more and more of in North America.

Fashion and Exclusivity

Most seasons hottest looks on the runway are surprisingly similar to the hottest trends for decor and lighting both residentially and commercially. This is true particularly for color trends.

Materials

Metals:   satin finish aluminum, raw steel, copper and other unique metal finishes

Woods:   natural maple, zebra wood, black walnut, brazilian cherry

Naturals fibers:   seagrass, sisal, jute

Glass:   sandblasted, textured, stained, etched, colored

Fabrics:   plush velvet, natural silks, cotton, other natural fibers, sheers

Colors:   browns, neutral tones, greens, bold colors

Lighting: gels, LED, fiber optic, sconces, backlit lighting effects

Misc:   faux finishes, cork, leather floor tiles, granite and all types of stone

Related posts:

1. Top 10 Interior Design Trends of 2010 – Black walls
2. Hotel Inspired Design Ideas
3. Interior Design Trend 2011 – Marmara Marble
4. Calgary Interior Design Event – May 5, 2011
5. Milan International Contemporary Furniture Fair and Euroluce 2011

I was inspired a few weeks ago to write a blog post about chocolate shop designs by my favorite new chocolatier Brett Roy creator of Sweet Lollapalooza confections in Commerce Place downtown Edmonton. Simon and I were in a 3pm lull and in need of a pick me up from more than just a regular chocolate bar. There is something truly therapeutic and satisfying about a good piece of chocolate or maybe even a few or a box…

Sweet Lollapalooza’s Brett Roy does chocolate making classes which I think would make an awesome Fathers day gift!

Here are some inspiring Chocolate Shops around the world to get you salivating. After all good design should be yummy!

Check out the 100% Chocolate Cafe in Japan by designers Wonderwall. The entire cafe was designed to look like a chocolate kitchen with a table for guests. The chocolate ceiling is not actually chocolate unfortunately but paired with the gold details it truly adds a sophisticated twist on your average Bernard Callebaut.  I have heard that the clientelle seems to be exclusively female for this hot spot… what an excellent location to spot a classy woman who knows what she wants!

100% Chocolate Cafe

100% Chocolate Cafe

Bulgari Chocolate Bar:

Bulgari Chocolate Bar

Aria Hotel Las Vegas – Jean Philippe Patisserie

ARIA Jean Philippe Patisserie

Godiva Chocoiste in Tokyo by Wonderwall is a stunning example of literal design in a a classy way. I love the dripping chocolate from the ceilings and over the wall paneling.  This is a very simple but bold and well executed detail. This is the concept flagship store for Godiva and I hope it comes to Canada soon!

Chocoiste Godiva Tokyo

The Chocolate Research Facility was designed by Editorial. It has both a store and cafe resembling a research lab.

Chocolate Research Facility

Patrick Roger is considered one of the top 10 French chocolatiers. He focuses his pieces on flavor and loves to use exotic ingredients and has seasonal delights like beer chocolate for St. Patricks day. I love the mint green of his shop and the care that he takes through every element of his brand.

Patrick Roger Chocolatier

Patrick Roger

Noka Chocolate is considered the #1 Luxury Chocolate in the world by most. The collection of chocolate is presented similarily to jewelry in minimalist glass cases with sharp lighting.

Noka Chocolate Japan

Noka Chocolate Dallas

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A the Milan Furniture Fair there were a lot of inspiring ideas that came not only from the products on display but also from the booths they were in. Here are some of my favorite reception desk designs from the show.

Alf Da Fre glass and wood reception desk. Image: Laura Bielecki

Glass Reception desks seem to be very popular. Many are beautiful glass boxes with a solid form floating within. This one above at the Alfa Da Fre booth had a beautiful medium tone wood to complement the delicate glass box.

Glass and Lacquer Reception Desk. Image: Laura Bielecki

Office furnishings company Lafano had a stunning Glass and Wood reception desk. Image: Laura Bielecki

Beautiful white contemporary reception showroom name unknown. Image: Laura Bielecki

Another trend seemed to be playing with natural and rough woods to showcase the grain, knots and roughness.

Tre-P & Tre-Piu wood reception desk Image: Laura Bielecki

Knotty wood reception desk - booth name unknown. photo: Laura Bielecki

Smania had 2 great reception desks one was for press and the other for showing off what the company does best- pulling the whole package (walls, texture, signage, lighting and furniture) together. Check out how the table lamp hold up the table! what a beautiful detail. The only thing I would do to perfect this piece for the function of a reception desk would be to add a modesty panel, nothing is racier than seeing a receptionists legs under the table. Also, that padded reception desk is yummy… makes you reach out to pet it. I wish they had designed it with a concealed work surface however so you didn’t see all the staffs junk all over it!

Smania reception desk photo: Laura Bielecki

Smania fabric and marble padded reception desk

Some of the desks were very simple but make bold statements.

Ligne Roset reception desk image: Laura Bielecki

White and black reception desk booth name unknown. image: Laura Bielecki

Simple forms in LED booth name unknown. photo: Laura Bielecki

Incanto metal reception desk. image: Laura Bielecki

Metal Reception Desk booth name unknown. image: Laura Bielecki

Logica reception desk. image: Laura Bielecki

Sometimes its not about whats going on with the desk but more about the wall behind it. Here are some great examples to showcase a brand.

Presotto reception desk image: Laura Bielecki

Jesse reception desk. Image: Laura Bielecki

Giorgetti Showroom reception desk. Image: Laura Bielecki

And one more great detail on a fabulous reception desk to keep you inspired and bursting with design ideas…..

Moltoluce Reception desk detail. Image: Laura Bielecki

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Mommy & Me

Happy Mothers Day to all the baby mamma’s out there. Particularly the Blogger moms. But most of all Happy Mothers day to my fabulous Mom!!! Thank you for being there through all of my drama, triumphs, exciting moments and successes.  Thank you for dealing with my garbage and my messes and thank you most for keeping me safe and on the right track. Cheers, love and hugs. Wish I was in town today to have tea with you. xo, Laura.

Its the only explanation....

“My mother’s menu consisted of two choices: Take it or leave it.” – Buddy Hackett
“Any mother could perform the jobs of several air-traffic controllers with ease.” – LisaAlther

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At the Lyon Festival of Lights in 2010 on the Theatre of Celestins, 1024 Architecture pulled off an incredible display with a system of visual distortions on voice command.

At first glance its an average historical building, but its about to undergo a 21st century overhaul of sound and light using 3D mapping. Perspective Lyrique interprets public participation and turns it into large scale projected images.

The truly creative studio kept a blog through the process to show the making of.

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Swarovski booth - Euroluce 2011

Beauty is timeless and for me anything shiny is forever!
I was super excited to see the Swarovski booth at Milan Design Week. Swarovski always goes over and above at shows to exhibit top notch products that will have you dreaming. Walking through the booth for me was like daydreaming in a candy shop. Each fixture was unique and stunning with the sole purpose of catching the light off each and every individual crystal. What makes the best backdrop to a Swarovski Chandelier? most certainly a jewel studded wallcovering like the new Swarovski Elements wallpaper. This is luxury design….

Swarovski Elements Euroluce 2011

The new collection was directed by the vision of company founder Daniel Swarovski who wished to create beauty and enrich the world of fashion through crystal. Be it jewelry, accessories, architecture or haute couture this company has taken sparkle from cinema to catwalk. Renowned wallpaper designer Karen Beauchamp has created this line rich in feathers, stripes, crackle, velvet, diamonds and more. Eleven creations were designed using rich colors like royal blue, eggplant and burgundy intertwined with classic designs like damask, paisley and stripes, all topped off with a dash of Swarovski Elements.

CREATE A SPACE WITH THE BEAUTY OF CRYSTAL

Here are a few of my favorite pieces from the new collection:

Swarovski Elements Wallcovering - Diamond Trellis

The harlequin argyle patterned paper is a patchwork of crystals, metallic effects and a modern expression of sophistication through prosaic geometry of diamonds. Classy, long lasting and gender neutral.

Swarovski Elements Wallcovering - Plume

Plume is a whimsical display of history, romance, nobility and wisdom. It is delicate and bold to make an expressive statement in a space.

Swarovski Elements Wallcovering - Ruffle Silk Jaspe

Ruffle Silk Jaspe is a pure pattern with expressionist luster and surprising elements of crystal.

Swarovski Elements Wallcovering - Versailles

Versailles is my favorite of the collection. A simple and strong pattern ideal for hotels, living rooms, powder rooms and boutiques. It is an opulent pattern in the verre eglomise style of baroque glass art adorned in crystal rocks.

BEAUTY IS LIKE AN EMPTY CHAMBER: ONCE DISCOVERED, IT IS TO THE ARTIST BOTH INSPIRATION AND CANVAS

So many amazing options! Let me know what you think.

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