I’ve written and spoken about trends before but was inspired to write this particular journal post in response to the plethora of statements from various sources that I’ve seen and heard (on social media, on podcasts, in articles, out in the wild) that people should always/only do this in their spaces, and never do that.

The this and that vary amongst the speaker, of course. Here a list of examples I’ve come across over the last few months:

Never use white subway tile for a backsplash
Only use white subway tile for a backsplash
Never use patterned tile
Only use custom countertop edge profiles
Never use grey - it’s out
Only use neutrals
Always paint the ceiling white
Never use multiple bold colors
Only use custom cabinetry
Always use a narrow grout line
Only use natural stone
Never use natural stone

(again, these are not my statements, these have been found all around)

Clearly, there is a significant amount of contradiction here between the different sources; they’ve all made sweeping declarations without any flexibility, and without an actual client or project to consider. And truly, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Here is my perspective, having been in the industry for 22 years at this point: I disagree with all of the statements bullet-pointed above. Nothing is that black and white (no pun intended). My design recommendations are dependent on the clients and the space. Design is deeply personal, and the concepts and selections need to be built around the necessary function of the space and preferences of the people who will use and/or live in it.

When I work with my clients, I consider a laundry list of items; the use of the space, durability needs (e.g. they have three dogs and two cats), maintenance preferences, desired style, colors that they respond to, and much much more. This way, the appropriate layout, materials, and color palettes are put together to have the most appealing result. I want them to light up when the final design is put together, and say “Wow, I love it!” I want my clients to see themselves in their spaces.

So, when my clients ask:

“Can we incorporate a patterned tile into the shower? I love that look and have always wanted it.” Yes, we can!

“Can we use natural stone for the countertops? I understand the characteristics and am ready to take on the maintenance.” Absolutely!

“Can you put together a colorful palette? I want our home to be lively.” I’d love to!

I embrace the collaborative and personal nature of interior design. My business name is no arbitrary alliteration. I strive to approach each project with a creative vision for that particular client and curate the elements to be the best reflection of them. Not the latest craze.