Save on SplurgeWorthy Home Styles
In the fashion and design
world, alternative materials
that emulate high-end looks
are trendy not only for their
lower price point and low
maintenance qualities, but
thanks to advancements in
design and technology, are
often hard to differentiate from
the real thing.
Throughout the home,
you can find examples of
home design options in
which alternative versions of
high-end materials can be
incorporated.
Metallic bling
Bright, golden tones
are big right now, but few
homeowners have the
financial means to deck out
the family home with mirrors,
sconces and other decorative
items made of genuine gold.
Fortunately, these, and a wide
range of other accessories, are
available in finishes that mimic
the look of real gold, with
price tags that won’t leave you
feeling like a fool.
Trendy tile
Wood-look
porcelain
tiles, such
as Daltile’s
Season
Wood
ColorBody™
Porcelain,
resemble
distressed
and aged
wood; yet
can be
installed
without
concern
for water
damage,
warping or wear
and tear.
With advanced technologies,
tile manufacturers are also able
to create visuals that capture
the look of natural stone.
Veining, color variations and
even textured surfaces make
them often indiscernible from
the real thing. Some examples
include Daltile’s marble (Marble
Falls) and slate-look (Porada)
collections.
Earth-inspired walls
Creating a feature wall is an
easy way to instantly transform
a room. One hot look that has
made a big comeback – grass
cloth – lets you set an earthy
mood with a fun and funky
focal point. However, the
wall treatment can be fragile,
especially in a high-traffic
area or in a room, such as a
bathroom, where humidity is
high and can weaken fibers.
Fortunately, there are
numerous vinyl options that
simulate the natural material
but are much hardier to stand
up to the activity of an average
household. Another benefit:
the “imitation” versions tend
to be a bit more uniform,
eliminating the color variation
or texture inconsistency that
are inherent to the natural
varieties and can make it very
difficult to match to other
decor and accessories.
Stylish stucco
Another way to add interest
to your walls is to incorporate
dimension – literally. Forget
faux paint finishes that give
the illusion of depth. Achieve
a look that is more “now” with
a stucco-like finish. Using
some simple painting tools,
multi-tone paint and a material
such as joint compound, you
can easily – and relatively
inexpensively – create a stucco
surface that adds genuine
texture you can see and feel.
Touchable textiles
The use of diverse fabrics
is an age-old method of
introducing variety and polish
to a well-decorated space.
Contemporary designers are
looking to opulent options
such as rich leather, suede
and fur to create a high-end
ambiance. You can enjoy the
look without the expense by
opting for synthetic versions
of these coveted textiles.
Even better, these simulated
materials will prove more
practical for everyday wear and
tear.
v Family Features
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NEW CONSTRUCTION
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AN ELECTRICAL
CONTRACTOR WITH
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Harry Lane Electrical Contractor
HOME: 665-6612 FAX: 668-1772
TODAY’S HOME - Spring 2015 • 21