Style, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Kitchen and Bath Backsplash Trends

October 30, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

Backsplash trends for kitchen and bath are always evolving. While your backsplash is likely something you’ll be living with for a while, the thought of searching for the perfect style and material may seem daunting. However, your decision may be achieved rather easily if you follow these few guidelines on what is hot right now.

The biggest change in backsplash trends that the Jigsaw Design team is seeing is the height of the backsplash. Tiles and slabs are soaring to new heights… sometimes even the ceiling. This creates a work of art in your kitchen or bath for the perfect focal point. The tiny kitchen in the images below appears much grander with the small square tiles all the way to ceiling, drawing the eye up. The light monochromatic look also helps add size and focus to the room. Secondly the blue glass backsplash in the kitchen with high ceilings serves two purposes, backsplash and art. Clean, simple and homey, who would ever want to leave the kitchen?

The Jigsaw Designers are seeing the Cararra Marble trend rise to near phenomenon levels. Cararra has been resurrected for home interiors from its long history dating back as far as Ancient Rome. The statue of David and even entire buildings like the Basilica of Massa and Harvard Medical School were constructed entirely of Cararra. However on a much smaller scale than that, luxury bathrooms and kitchens are being adorned with Cararra or Cararra “like” marble on the backsplash, counter tops, table tops, bar tops as well as other areas of the home. The look is gorgeous and luxurious and works well in many different styles as seen in the images below. The rustic modern table pairs perfectly with the floor to ceiling marble backsplash, counters and shelves as well as the more traditional kitchen with farmhouse cup-pulls and French oven.

A trend to watch is colored grout which is being used to add more interest and color instead of using additional colored tile. For a more lighthearted or whimsical look such colors as orange or turquoise can be a fun idea. If you are looking to add some dimension but more understated, try dark grey grout with white subway tiles for a vintage feel.

Over all the common thread in backsplash trends is a more neutral palette, more simplicity in design, tone on tone grout/tile combinations, timeless and cleaner looks. Consider tiles that have been around for a long time and don’t really go out of style like subway tiles, Spanish tiles, Italian or French encaustic tiles. If none of these genres tickle your fancy, then sticking with a neutral palette will seem fresher longer.

We spend so much of our time in the kitchen. Regardless of how much space we have, guest always congregate in the kitchen. In addition, your bathroom should be your tranquil escape from the hectic world. You might as well love the kitchen and bath you have by indulging yourself in the look you really want.

For more information on backsplashes and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Furniture, Lamps and Lighting, Style, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

The Updated Beach Bungalow

October 20, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

The term ‘beach bungalow’ has grown to mean much more than what it did in its humble beginnings. A small cottage of rustic materials surrounded by a veranda may still describe some, but no matter the size the Updated Beach Bungalow is big on personality and far from humble.

Defining this shabby chic meets modern look is a difficult thing to put your finger on. There are common threads that once pulled together just simply personify the chic beach house movement. One trend across the board in this multifaceted style is large and sometimes floor to ceiling windows allowing the light to pour into the room.

Another common denominator in this beach vibe is the emblematic white canvas. Floor to ceiling white walls, white tiles and natural linens create a fresh atmosphere that is relaxed and comforting. A bold pop of color in this sea of white is crisp and adds interest to a room. Even adding a black valance and throw is still light and bright as seen in the images below.

Exposed vaulted ceilings dressed in white are reminiscent of the classic beach cottage. Whether your ceiling is finished in bead board or crown molding, the key to capturing the bungalow look is all in the color white. From there you can mix in earthy rugs and accessories, or keep a muted color palette like the soft lilac bedroom below for an ultra-feminine look.

The basics are covered. The rest is up to your style. Whether you enjoy modern, Hollywood glam, or shabby chic, there is a place for your style in the updated beach bungalow. The shabby chic slip cover can be mixed into a room with a more contemporary feeling as shown in the Malibu home in the images below.

Rustic modern, the style de jour, has even crept into beach bungalow category. That natural element plays perfectly into this timeless style with reclaimed wood walls, vanities, tables and floors. The natural wood tones add warmth to the bungalow look and a touch of masculinity.

Kitchen colors have brightened up in many style categories, especially in the bungalow style. White cabinets with Carrera marble counter tops and back splashes are hot and on-trend. At Jigsaw we are seeing a new direction with backsplashes in a single solid slab of material used instead of individual tiles. If you are a tile fan as many are, then a rule to follow would be to stick to simple white tiles avoiding fussy patterns and multiple colors. After you’ve muted your palette, then adding a fun stripe, nautical print, or solid pop of color to your chairs or curtains will liven up your kitchen.

The updated beach bungalow is very open-minded. It doesn’t require a beach or any specific furniture or accessories. It’s about a feeling coupled with cleaner lines, bright whites and your personality.

For more information on the updated beach bungalow and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Furniture, Lamps and Lighting

Coffee Table Trends-What’s Hot Right Now

October 14, 2014 Jigsaw Design 3 Comments

The classic rectangle coffee table is quickly being passed over for newer and more updated shapes. Current trends that are making waves include fresh new takes on round, square, mixed metal, and Lucite. In this post we’ll explore some fun and exciting looks to freshen up your space. Most rooms like the image of the white room with the black metal table consist of existing rectangular shapes from the sofa, rug, and even the room itself. Therefore placing a more organic shape like round or kidney creates a better flow for the eye to follow.

The round coffee table has become increasingly popular and can be found in so many varieties. The Jigsaw Designers love mixing metal into a space for a touch of industrial modern. The gold leaf Modern Glam table below is fresh and light enough to add into most any room.

Carrera marble is the hottest look for kitchens and bathrooms renovations. Therefore this look is trending into the furniture market as well. The marble makes a beautiful table top for coffee tables, and creates a look that is clean, bright and eye catching. The mix of Carrera and the vintage look of the gold leaf legs in the image below are the perfect juxtaposition of modern and vintage.

If you like the metal trend, but don’t want to love it for too long, CB2 designs a chrome and Carrera table that’s very affordable as seen pictured below. Metal and wood styles nod to the industrial vibe that is still going strong, and the solid wood round or square tables will also fit nicely into the industrial modern look for a more organic feel.

We are also seeing a surge in tufted ottomans used as table again. The beauty of a tufted ottoman is that you can recover as the trends in color and fabric change. They have a timeless feel and have slightly more flexibility in their use. In the images below, both the round tufted orange and the turquoise blue really pop in these rooms and give them added personality.

While Lucite is a strong material in many areas of design, the Lucite coffee table is sometimes the perfect addition to a room. The square table below seems to float in the room’s monochromatic palate, not disturbing the serenity. Furthermore, a Lucite table can complete a room and allow for the natural elements like light from a window or a rug to take center stage as shown in the second image of the round Lucite table.

Square coffee tables have also become increasing popular like their relative square dining table. The square table creates a perfect balance in sitting areas, and allows for better flow to the living area. We love the white square table below for its intricate detail while being simple in shape and color. It adds interest to a room with an artistic flair.

Smokey mirrors are being used on walls, dressers, dining tables and even coffee tables. From clean and contemporary to antiqued and ornate this look is on the rise.

Whether you are in search for a statement table with wow factor or an understated one for simplicity, we hope this post will inspire you in a fresh new direction. For more information on smokey mirrors or Lucite check out our archives for previous blogs on these topics.

For more information on top trends in coffee tables and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Color Trends, Style, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Men’s Suiting Trend

October 7, 2014 Jigsaw Design 2 Comments

There is something about men’s suiting that feels timeless. The fabrics, colors, patterns and texture may vary, but they never venture far from the root of what they are. Menswear has become an inspiration for women’s fashion over the last year and this rich tailored look has now made its way into home interiors in a fresh new way. Suiting inspired design in masculine colors like charcoal, navy and tan are not just for the quintessential bachelor pad anymore, it is a very warm and cozy look for cohabitation and even the whole family to enjoy. In this post we will explore some ways to implement this look into your home in a small dose or even a complete overhaul.

One of our favorite interpretations of the menswear styles is expressed through pinstripes. Great pinstripe wallpaper can fit so nicely into a guest bathroom for just a touch of this tailored look, or down a long hall way for high impact. We love this sitting area in the images below with the clean lines of the chrome furniture popping off the dark charcoal striped paper. This creates an understated yet elegant look.

Want a quick pinstripe fix? Try recovering an old chair, stool or ottoman with Pinstripe fabric for instant style. Velvet is a great fabric for adding texture. While it’s typically considered a feminine fabric it’s often found in men’s blazers and smoking jackets in darker colors. We can’t get enough of this uber-cool navy pinstripe vintage chair with the brass framework.

Classic to the core, houndstooth is showing up with a whimsical new approach in interior design. Oversized patterned pillows and throw add a punch to a monochromatic room to drive this exciting trend home. Command your court in a houndstooth Louis XIV chair, or simply sit pretty in Danish modern chairs covered with a touch of feminine pink to break up the masculinity.

Texture plays the biggest role in the men’s suiting motif. Flannel in trending in upholstery and bedding, and this timeless classic is soothing and cozy. Pinstriped flannel or even soft grey are seen covering sofas, headboards and bedding like the images below. Wool throws and pillows can add the perfect finishing touch to any room. The Jigsaw Designers love draping a Hermes throw over a chair or sofa for a soft yet sophisticated touch.

If you like the men’s suiting look but prefer to lighten up your space then seersucker is a great way to incorporate the menswear look. Seersucker couches, chairs and bedding are fresh, light and surprisingly versatile. Using the fabric on the walls instead of wallpaper adds a unique texture and interest to the room.

The captivating menswear trend is an elegant look to bring into your home. With accessories readily available this update can be done easily. While being fresh and yet timeless your space will be cozy and tailored for the winter.

For more information on the men’s suiting and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas

Custom Garage Elevators

October 2, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

Picture this…you are living in your dream home where you raised your kids. You’ve spent a fortune making it just right. Now that the kids are off to college you can start working on your car collection. But first, where are you planning to store those precious beauties? Jigsaw has your answer…subterranean garage. Hidden away from the elements, the grand kids, in a temperature controlled environment in your current home.

There are a handful of contractors that build these incredible lifts. Design companies like Cardok in the UK began creating luxury design lifts to fill the constant need for space for the wealthy in European cities. The typical lift will hold a 3 ton vehicle, and for a reference a Range Rover weighs about 2.7 tons. Multi-level lifts are available for up to 3 vehicles that will support up to 10 tons.

These companies pride themselves on leaving a small footprint in their engineering by taking up only slightly more space than the car itself. These custom lifts are minimal in design aesthetic to not be a complete eye-sore when they are exposed, and when the system is engaged they are virtually invisible.

We’ve priced out a typical lift by an American made company that installs for car collectors and A-List celebrity homes. A top of the line unit costs around $55,000 installed, but for customized units the cost runs significantly higher depending on the surroundings being matched. Besides cars these lifts are used for boats, RV’s, food trucks, or anything your neighbors don’t want to look at 365 days a year. The customization can be whatever you dream it to be, covered by a faux grass lawn, gravel rock driveway or tucked away in the basement of your home.

The big question is always; will it add value to your home? Well, most numbers show you will only get back about half on your investment, but this uber exclusive device will definitely set your property apart from the rest.

The next question is will it be safe. Most of the car elevators are controlled by a remote and the units will only engage while the button is pressed. There is also a kill switch and a backup generator in case the power trips.

This unique indulgence is a car lover’s dream. It is truly a luxury item most of the world will only fantasize about. But, like they say, dreams can come true.

For more information on custom garages and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Style, Unique Ideas

Luxury European Ranges

September 23, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

The Grand Palais 180 by LeCornue is the pièce de résistance of the kitchen. The celebrity appliance among appliances…and celebrities as you will see in Gwyneth Paltrow’s kitchen below.

Whether you are a gourmet aficionado or not, the Grand Palais 180 is a culinary lover’s dream appliance and eye candy for the rest of us. With a price tag starting at $46,000 this stove is quite a commitment but will last a lifetime. Why do we love this gastronomic appliance so? It features a stylish design in a class all it’s own, coupled with a vaulted electric oven, plus a six cooktop configuration. Thanksgiving dinner will be ready in a flash, but if you love your oven to the tune of $46K, you’ll likely not want to rush and instead savor the opportunity to cook like a Michelin rated chef.

If functionality is most important to you and you’re looking for a completely custom designed French oven, then the Molteni Professional 145 Evolution line is your answer. While only about 150 ranges are made per year at this time, this one can be designed for the individual with iPod docks, USB connection, pasta maker, you name it. This French beauty can be yours at the starting price of $ 100,000. While still being made solely in Saint-Uze, France, the company Electrolux purchased the Molteni Company in the 1980’s and now controls manufacturing and distributorship. Despite being bought by such a large company we haven’t seen a decline in price, but we are hopeful.

While aesthetically very similar to LeCornue the Molteni brand is not offered in as many colors and trims. The LeCornue is offered in 30 colors and 12 trims as well as having the liberty to create a custom color for your extraordinary oven. While your personalized color may be satisfied at Le Cornue, your custom designed oven dreams can be fulfilled by Molteni regarding function. Rotisserie ovens, lava rock grills…the sky’s the limit with this ultimate unique oven design experience.

For any foodie or lover of cooking, these ranges rise far above the rest. Whether you have a $500 dollar budget or a $150,000 we hope this post will inspire ideas for your kitchen appliance update. However you realize your dream kitchen these ovens are sure to excite!

For more information on luxury ovens and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Color Trends, Unique Ideas

Floral Design Trends

September 17, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

A cutting edge floral arrangement can be the perfect finishing touch; other times it demands to be the main attraction. The inspiration for this post on trends in floral design came from the breathtaking floral display at the George V in Paris. While the images don’t begin to paint the picture of how amazing this floating purple blanket actually is, it certainly gives you a glimpse of the impact a flower can bring.

The floral trends this year according to the Floral Trend Forecast by the International Floral Distributors Association are broken down into four groups, Confetti, Grand Lodge, Revival and Aqua Culture. Each category is broken down by pantone color and a general list of recommended flowers. In this post we will share the different trend ideas by category. We will start with the light and bright Confetti group. This group includes fun, bright color with pop like Tangerine, Sunshine Yellow, Fuchsia, and Bright Green. These inspiring flowers include Green Trick Dianthus, Pincushions, Zinnias and Gerber’s among others.

The Grand Lodge category is dear to our hearts with its earthy organic vibe. Floral design artists are combining the following flowers with natural and rustic materials such as wood, metal and glass for optimum impact. The colors are cream, stone, moss green, chestnut and blue-greys that are present in flowers such as white and green hydrangeas, white sweet peas, poppy pods, Dahlias, Anemone, Uhule fern tips and Hypericum.

Glamour and beauty are expressed through Art Deco design in the Revival category. The colors in this palette reflect the A list trends we love right now, blush, mint, black, and gold. Flowers include Calla Lilies, White Tulips, Pink Peony, Cymbidium Orchids and Istilbe. Artists are mixing feathers, metal containers and even beads to add to the natural romanticism of these classic beauties.

Circling back to the George V and those unforgettable purple Hydrangeas that are part of the Aqua Collection category that reflects the deep blue, indigos, and purples found mostly in rare and unique flowers. Orchids, Delphinium, Succulents, and Tillandsia are part of this captivating collection. Floral designers are using textured ceramics and bubble shaped containers with a more organic feel.

Floral Design trends changes as quickly as any other design trends, so the best bet is to choose the flowers you love that compliment your space. Try using only one type of flower for a clean, modern look; or mix many multiple flowers in monochromatic colors to give a soft romantic look. Flowers will bring life and a happy feeling into your home whatever you choose. Keep checking back for the 2015 trend forecast that will be coming soon.

For more information on floral design trends and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Flooring, Carpet and Rugs

European Encaustic Tile Trend

September 12, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

On a recent inspirational trip through Greece and Turkey, we fell in love with the stunning variety of tile found in the homes, hotels, churches and mosques we visited. Many of the tiles have spiritual meaning and represent the natural colors of their beautiful surroundings. We hope this post will renew your enthusiasm for vintage European tiles as much as it has ours.

The very sought after 20^th Century French and Italian ceramic tiles are a hot trend that is popping up in beautiful designer homes and boutique hotels from far and near. In the images below the veranda floor at the lovely Joya Hotel in Marmaris Turkey shows the perfect example of this trend on the rise.

Typically these ceramic tiles are made in the encaustic method and vary in type from glazed, unglazed or polished. Ceramic encaustic tiles are produced in deep clay slips and the different colors of clay are inlayed. This method produces a tile that is easy to care for and last for years holding their color beautifully. They are exquisite in their design and authentic vintage tiles can be restored professionally, but with a hefty price tag.

Encaustic tiles were the perfect canvas during the Art Nouveau era which is also growing in popularity as the Nouveau and Deco trends continue to rise. These encaustic tiles are artistic and a charming way to add elegance to your home. Using deeper colors for a bold look or use mostly neutral colors for a softer vintage vibe. Either way incorporating these vintage inspired tiles into your home will create a statement floor that you can love for years to come.

The right flooring in your home will help create a warm and inviting feel. While tile trends are always changing these vintage inspired floors are an investment that you can appreciate for a lifetime.

For more information on tile trends and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Furniture, Lamps and Lighting, Unique Ideas

The Modern Murphy Bed

September 7, 2014 Jigsaw Design 5 Comments

The desire for more space is a resounding request we hear every day from our clients at Jigsaw Design. Whether the space is needed for a guest room, home office, kid’s playroom or all three in one, multifunctional rooms and more space are on the top of our client’s want list. While being used since the early 1900’s, the Murphy bed has been a space saving solution that has stood the test of time. Mr. Murphy’s naughty intent to coax women into his San Francisco bachelor pad lead him to create a design that still thrives today. In this post we will show some unique and downright cool Murphy beds that are nothing like the infamous Charlie Chaplin bouncing beds from the days of silent films.

The Murphy bed is an excellent solution for adding space, but it comes with a rather high price tag. A custom designed Murphy bed, depending on the features you want to include, can set you back $3K to $10K. Custom cabinetry can be built in as well as lighting, book shelves and technology. If you are a city dweller looking for a Murphy bed to sleep on every night, then a custom designed bed will be the best route. Also in keeping with your custom designed home, finding a prefabricated bed with high-end appeal may present some challenges.

While not giving you the more luxurious feel and aesthetics of the custom bed, there are dozens of prefab Murphy beds available at market for more reasonable prices. This is an excellent solution for a guest room. Your office, playroom, craft room or sewing room can double as a guest room in an instant. A quality prefab Murphy beds run about $1,000-$3,000 with professional installation.

If you are somewhat handy and on a budget, then Murphy kits are available on line to install yourself. These beds can be attached to the wall or floor inside an existing closet and viola…extra bed and out of sight! Most kits run between $300-$400 and work smoothly and easily.

The quality of sleep you or your guest will have on the Murphy system will far surpass that of a futon or air mattress. Whatever direction you choose for your Murphy bed this is a fantastic idea as a space saver. Considering the cost of adding extra square footage to your home the Murphy is a steal!

For more information on murphy beds and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Color Trends, Furniture, Lamps and Lighting, Style, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

The Art Deco Revival

August 29, 2014 Jigsaw Design 2 Comments

Art Deco took shape as the technology and machine age emerged after WWI. It represented strength, glamour, and hope for a bright future for the world. Likewise we embrace the rapidly changing and ever evolving world we live in, therefore it seems only fitting for this enduring style to take center stage again.

We’ve seen glimpses of the Art Deco trend upon us with the infiltration of black, white, gold and blush into the marketplace. In stepping away from the cold modern interiors of yesterday, we are seeing new shapes, monochromatic color schemes and more details. Patterns are bolder, more geometric and circular, and full of movement with textures becoming more involved and luxurious.

Erte, the iconic graphic designer of the Art Deco era, personified the colors, textures, and patterns best with his 20’s and 30’s fashion illustrations.

Using a monochromatic color scheme and a few choice items such as patterned wallpaper, a great Deco chandelier or a scroll bench at the foot of the bed can bring your space up to trend in an instant. A few great pieces like these are worth the splurge to add to your eclectic room.

Some of the hottest Parisian antique markets have seen an influx of Art Deco furnishings such as these gorgeous chrome chairs we found on our most recent scouting trip. The markets are no bargain but the quality is amazing and you can get one of kind items by famous artists and designers like the lamp featured below in the photos.

After years of Modern and Hollywood Regency being the leading styles in the market, the Art Deco trend is a breath of fresh air. The Jigsaw Designers love mixing styles and textures, so adding key elements of the Deco trend can work perfectly into the aforementioned styles. A Deco rug in a Hollywood Regency room blends perfectly in this beautiful monochromatic bedroom below.

From wall furnishing to furniture there are dozens of ways to capture the Deco trend while it’s hot. Grab some popcorn and rent a roaring 20’s flick and get inspired. Happy decorating!

For more information on art deco trends and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

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