In my personal world, I love the tone-on-tone look. There’s something very soothing about using similar colors with different textures. From my perspective,it’s organized, elegant and makes a powerful statement! It’s interesting but not overwhelming. When working with tone-on-tone or a monochromatic palette, one must create visual interest or excitement in unique ways. One of my favorite ways is using different textures of the same basic color group on different materials and elements of the overall design.
Some great examples of different textures that you might consider combining in your kitchen or bath are: Cabinetry: There are so many exciting finishes available on fine custom cabinetry these days! If you are feeling modern or contemporary, you can use a high-gloss lacquer or a mirrored stainless steel door front. This gives a crisp and clean look to any space! If you are feeling a bit more rustic, you can have an open grain, sand blasted oak that has a “limed” finish applied to the open grain.
Metals: such as stainless steel, chrome, nickel, or brass can all have different finishes such as polished, brushed or matte (see image of brushed nickel faucet with honed Carrara marble countertop).
Paints: Both wall and trim sheens can vary greatly and can really impact the room by using the same color and sheen for both the walls and the interior trim. One can also use the same color but different sheens. One of my favorite features is to paint the ceiling a shade or two off the wall color. This is a subtle effect but adds visual interest.
Countertops: Whether you are using natural stone, quartz composite, wood, metal or even porcelain, you can select different finishes, which greatly enhance their appearance. Different finishes include: high polish, honed (non reflective), leathered, acid washed and many variations in between. One can also choose a chiseled or “live” edge to add interest.
Backsplashes: In the past, ceramic tile backsplashes were almost always high gloss. The last few kitchen renovations that I have designed incorporated a honed stone backsplash. The individual tiles were all nearly the same tone or color but they each had unique shapes (see photo of hexagon marble backsplash). When making these important design decisions, it’s very helpful to create a “design board” that will allow you to see all of the finishes and colors that you have selected. While this is only a small representation of your project, it is extremely helpful.
Catherine Whitney is the showroom manager and designer at South End Kitchens. She has 30 years experience in the kitchen and bath industry and works diligently with clients every step of the way. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 704-508-9505, or email Catherine at Catherine@southendkitchens.com. The design studio is located in the historic Meeting Hall building at 1500 South Blvd. Suite 101-A. You can also visit South End Kitchens at www.sekdesignstudio.com.