So OK its' been written about before this blog. But I kinda think this is cool enough for another mention. Popped into Hunt Valley Tile & Stone the other day to see a wall that looked like an Andy Warhol montage. Don Werneke, owner, enthusiastically explained that the wall was made completely of recycled skate boards. Pretty out of the box, pretty stoked I'd say.

Recycling has presented itself in many different apparitions.  Recycled glass fragments incorporated into counter tops using Skyy vodka bottles or Alehouse Amber makes a statement, as does utilizing post-consumer wine cork stoppers for floor tiles. I think I could contribute to that cause. In any case, the skateboard tiles really caught my attention.

They're fun, fresh and produced locally in Hanover, PA. The goal of Art of Board is to keep broken or unwanted skateboards out of landfills. Why do I like this concept when I haven't been on a skateboard in - well, never mind. I like it because of the visual appeal and environmental impact. Art of Board also celebrates that each board is not only a graphic work of art, but that all recycled boards have their own story - their dings and their dents are preserved to show the beauty of wear, of use, of skills learned. 

They're thrashed and they're proud. Alot like those of us that are warriors of life. Celebrating everyday wear and tear, of blows to the heart and soul. Wearing it out loud. And given yet another chance to show our many colors.

Weaving its' way in a consumer savvy landscape, Art of the Board can create a wall or floor that works with your color palette. These tiles can be grouped into various color segments, still random in pattern but can accommodate the desire to have a wall of yellow boards. Or blue, or green. Cool stuff. This sent me into such a tailslide I almost did a wallie. Custom tiles out of random art. Now wrap your head around that. 

To see a wall or visit the site, click on the links below. I gotta tell you, Hunt Valley Tile is always on the cutting edge of whats' out there. Good people that work toward bringing you what you least expect. Experience, enthusiasm and a way of seeing things anew by utilizing products morphed into diverse and different functions. Makes me want to rockandroll into a 360.



http://www.huntvalleytileandstone.com/
http://www.artofboard.com/
http://www.vetrazzo.com/

New Age Design...: Serious Style

New Age Design...: Serious Style: "There's this rumor going around that 'Aging in Place' has to have an industrial appeal. That walls have to be white to match the s..."

Serious Style

There's this rumor going around that "Aging in Place" has to have an industrial appeal. That walls have to be white to match the shoes and belt, and that the feel should be that of a santarium. Well I beg to differ. 

In designing a space that increases functionality and ease of use for the client, the result doesn't need to be sterile. Incorporating elements of design that wow the senses can create a bath remodel that looks good - and FEELS good. I very much believe and practice the Japanese sensibility of bringing the outdoors in. A tactile experience complimented with a soothing color scheme can create a customized space that simply allows a sigh of contentment. And what a better retreat than in a bathroom - where our day starts and ends.   

By utilizing natural elements like a wispy soft porcelain tile, pebble stones, teak and granite this recent bath remodel allows for accessibility with some stylish assistance. Oil rubbed bronze grab bars, taller vanity cabinets and ADA compliant comfort height commode assist in creating user stability without giving up fashion. The door was removed that enclosed the WC, the existing tub and shower replaced with a walk in glass enclosed shower. A hand held shower wand as well as a shower head on the opposite wall creates options and good looks. 

Streamlined and functional, two niches were created to house necessary soaps and shampoos and are treated with the same pebbles for visual appeal. Plenty of counter space and a framed mirror to reflect the window on the opposite wall expands the space and mind. The unusual pop of khaki green on the ceiling brings warmth, soothes the spirit and softens the hard surfaces. 


I feel an "ahhhhhhhhhh" coming on.  My client said she couldn't ask for anything more.

To hear a client say that at the end of a project - well, neither could I. 

Project partners' websites are below. How wonderful to work with succinct professional people that know how to have fun.  I love it when a plan comes together....

http://greenleafbaltimore.com/
http://huntvalleytileandstone.com/
http://franksgranite.com/