58 THE QUEENS COURIER • AT HOME • APRIL 23, 2015 FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.queenscourier.com at home THE ART OF TACKLING YOUR TILE PROJECT When you add a tile or natural stone surface to the kitchen or bathroom, it transforms each space with a fresh, clean and customized look. Many homeowners often dream about adding a backsplash or replacing a fl oor, but never complete the project because they can’t decide on the right look, become mentally exhausted by the thought of doing the project or don’t know how to accomplish it themselves. “There are simple tips designers use to plan the look and feel of a room using tile colors and patterns,” says Kirsty Froelich, design director for The Tile Shop. “Whether you want to do the tiling yourself or plan to hire someone to lay it for you, these hints will help you get the look you want with ease.” Do: Find inspiration to guide your vision - This is the fun part. Get motivated to do your project by looking for photos that catch your eye in magazines or Decorpad, get inspired with hundreds of inspirational spaces from The Tile Shop on Houzz, Instagram, Pinterest or www.tileshop.com, and start a fi le of your favorites. Visuals of what can be done or what has already worked for someone else are great reference for your project even if you tailor it to fi t your own style. Also, try using graph paper to draw out your own geometric designs. As you gather visuals, you’ll most likely notice a similar pattern and/or shape of tile or stone materials that you’re drawn to, which can range from ceramic, porcelain and glass to marble or slate. This will help you narrow down a style of tile to use. One material that is very versatile is Travertine from The Tile Shop. Don’t: Go overboard - Too many patterns or colors in one space can overwhelm a room. Instead, keep things clean and simple. Do: Check your colors - Before purchasing all the materials for your project, bring samples home so you can see the colors in the space. “Store lights and the lights in your kitchen are very different, and all of the sudden, what you thought was a beige color in the store might look green in your home,” says Froelich. Also match your tile samples against other colors that will be in the room, from the paint on the walls to the granite countertop to the wooden cupboards and fl oor. By matching samples, you’ll know the fi nished project will result in the exact look you want. Do: Measure twice - This tip applies not only to the planning process, but also to the installation process, especially if you need to cut tile. Once you’ve measured and double-checked your measurements, don’t be afraid to have someone else repeat the process to ensure accuracy. Don’t: Ignore the details - A tile project will go from nice to stunning if you add simple fi nishing touches to the project. For example, Froelich recommends mitering corners for a professional look and fi nishing any raw edges of the space with bullnose, stone profi les or trim pieces. Do: Use resources - Take your plans, photos, sketches and any color swatches you’ve selected to The Tile Shop so your sales associate can work with you to achieve your vision, and help you fi nd the perfect tile for your project. Additionally, a tile setter can help you avoid common design or layout mistakes. For a fi nal check before cutting and installation, lay out the tiles out in the place and pattern you’ve designed so you can make any last-minute adjustments. If you’re doing the tiling yourself and need a refresher, “Once you have your design, your materials and you have tested your pattern, you’re ready to start the project,” Froelich says. “Roll up your sleeves and get started so you can enjoy your updated look for many years to come.” Courtesy BPT Metro Cabinet and Flooring COUNTERTOPS STARTING AT $45 PER SQ. FT. Including Installation $600 OFF FOR PURCHASES OF $5000 OR MORE Specializing in: • Kitchen Cabinetry • Floor Tiles • Hardwood Flooring • Granite and Quartz Countertops • Commercial & Residential Carpeting • FREE 3-D Design • FREE Estimate • FREE Measurement 100-07 Metropolitan Avenue, Forest Hills 718.544.2634 Fax: 718.263.2032 YOUR PROMOTIONS SUPERMARKET SINCE 1995 CORPORATE & TEAM OUTFITTING H Staff Shirts H Giveaways H Family Reunions H School/Camps H Organizations/Events CUSTOM APPAREL H T-SHIRTS POPULAR BRAND WHITE TEE SCREEN PRINTED (1 COLOR) MIN. 144* ONLY $295 EACH *SAME DEAL: SWEATSHIRTS $495 EACH of the 2013 THE QUEENS (Screen Printed or Embroidered) QueensCourier.com CALL FOR FREE H CAPS/HATS H UNIFORMS H JACKETS H BACK PACKS H BAGS H TROPHIES CATALOG 866.701.3263 H 718.969.3144 YOU NAME IT, WE GOT IT!!! (We can customize your art, logo, messages on anything!) Pens (All Types) Bags (Plastic/Paper) Calendars Water Bottles Awareness Bracelets Food Gifts Corporate Gifts Badges & Buttons Electronics Calculators Computer Accessories Eco Friendly Products Full Color Magnetic Business Cards 10 ¢ each Minimum 1,000 Your Business Card Their Refrigerator 866.701.3263 H 718.969.3144 www.PROMOTIONALEMPIRE.com
QC04232015
To see the actual publication please follow the link above