Minimalism in Modern Design

If you’re interested in clean lines, wide open spaces, cutting out the extras and focusing on essential, functional elements in your decor, you may be interested in the latest rage of minimalism in modern design. We often hear the terms modern, contemporary and minimalist when it comes to decorating.  All three terms are popular in interior room and home décor and are often used interchangeably. 

While there is definitely overlap in these three decorating styles, there are differences which give unique characteristics to each style.  Each style focuses on simpler forms and clean, geometric lines with less ornate décor and less traditional furnishings. Let’s review the meaning of modern, contemporary and minimalism to fully understand the similarities and differences in modern design.

Modern Style

Modern design refers to innovations developed from mid-century, modern designers who introduced neutral, white walls, bare flooring and furnishing in white, cream, brown or gray as opposed to the ornate and handcrafted furnishings prior to the 1920’s.  The modern movement focused on simple lines, clean colors and the less is more philosophy. Color is introduced in artwork or small accent furnishings with a pop of red, yellow, blue or orange being the favored color choices.  

While modern is a precursor to both contemporary and minimalism styles, there are some specific trains that make each style unique.

Contemporary Style

Contemporary style refers to clean and fashionable without overdoing it, while also referring to the current trends which are ever changing.  For example, stainless steel and brushed nickel were considered ‘in’ until just recently when we’ve seen gold and brass finishes trending, which could be called contemporary. 

Materials used in your décor play a big role in how your space is defined, either as modern or contemporary.  Modern décor may still consist of natural and wood elements while a contemporary style seems to define a more glass and metal material look. 

Minimalism in Modern Design

Minimalism is modern design includes elements from modern and contemporary design techniques, with a focus on function and eliminating anything extra.  Minimalism also places extra focus on placing only essential, functional elements in wide open spaces.  This promotes an efficient design, which can still be modern or contemporary.  Some key elements of a minimalist design approach include:

●       Clean lines and open, well-lit spaces – open areas allow an abundance of light to enter the room on clean, light colored and uncluttered spaces.

●       Uncluttered, uncomplicated wall finishes – simple materials which express physical characteristics and visual appeal

●       Simplicity in form and function – straightforward and simple floor layout with stacked spaces for efficiency and less internal walls

●       Simple details with lack of decoration – clean cabinetry without hardware and minimal trim details

●       Strategic use of texture and materials – materials provide a visually appealing texture which looks interesting even with minimal décor and furnishings.

When looking to modernize the look of your home or specific rooms, start with an open mind to reducing waste, decorations and furnishings and focus on the essentials for a minimalistic approach.  Open airy spaces with plenty of natural light and interesting textures will go along way to upgrade your space without going overboard.  Contact your flooring and tile design center for more ideas on using minimalism in modern design for your next project.

Great Western Flooring offers complimentary design consultations to make sure your next project is a raging success. We provide quality flooring and tile products with professional installation. Stop by one of our convenient design centers in Naperville, Oswego or St. Charles to learn more tips on incorporating modern, contemporary or minimalism in modern design techniques.

This article was originally published at  https://www.greatwesternflooring.com/flooring-blog/minimalism-in-modern-design/

Tile Your Patio in Style

As we make it through yet another cold winter, it will soon be time to think about opening our outdoor patio.  Why not spruce it up to make your three seasons room, all seasons room or outdoor patio a haven for comfort this spring?  Tile your patio in style with some trending outdoor tile ideas that make lounging on the patio cozy and comfortable.

Outdoor patios in Chicago require some sturdy flooring to hold up during the cold months and weather the hot summers with the same style and beauty year after year.  Many outdoor patios look amazing all year long with a traditional natural stone tile, a little flair can be added for the Spanish tile look, or porcelain tile is becoming quite popular in kitchens and patios for beauty and durability.

If you’re considering updating your patio with a quick remodel, here are some trending flooring ideas for inspiration in updating your outdoor space.

Tile Your Patio in Traditional Stone

Traditional stone is always a winner for durable flooring options and is available in many styles and designs to match any décor.  You can get creative with installation techniques such as laying your tile diagonally for added dimension or using accent tiles to incorporate additional colors or designs.  Stone tile holds up well in any weather environment, is easy to clean and maintain and feels good underfoot. 

Spanish Tile for an Inviting Patio

If you enjoy the feel of the Caribbean and the appeal of an inviting, Mexican villa, consider installing a Saltillo stone or porcelain tile in the bright colors inspired by Spanish décor.  Install diagonally or with intercutting stone tiles or porcelain glazed tiles that provide the hand crafted Spanish feel.

Wide Plank Porcelain Tile for Patios

Porcelain tile is a popular choice in Kitchens and bathrooms due to it’s durable, water resistant properties.  Take this beautiful tile outdoors into your patio for contemporary style indoors and out.  Porcelain is available in so many styles with looks that resemble natural stone, concrete and even wood planks.

Wood Looking Porcelain Tile and Decking

Porcelain tile that resembles wood provides a warm, cozy feel, beautiful aesthetics and weathers the harsh elements with durability not found in wood products.  Real wood patios and decking require ongoing maintenance and protections to weather the sun and cold winters.  Wood looking porcelain tile is so realistic you can’t tell the difference except for the long lasting durability it provides with no maintenance and repairs needed.

These are few ideas for upgrading your outdoor space with beautiful, long lasting flooring.  For more ideas on how to tile your patio in style, contact your flooring specialists at Great Western Flooring.

Great Western Flooring has over 35 years of experience pleasing customers with a wide selection of quality flooring and tile products.  We offer free design consultations and professional installation.  Contact us today or stop by one of our convenient design centers in Naperville, Oswego or St. Charles to speak with a flooring specialist.

This article was originally published at  https://www.greatwesternflooring.com/flooring-blog/tile-your-patio-in-style/

Why A Cork Floor?

A cork floor is something we don’t often hear about although cork flooring offers many benefits which should be considered.  Cork provides resilience with a little give in it’s cushiony feel, this is a relief to people with back pain who stand on their floors for any length of time.  A cork floor relieves back pain and leg stress with a much more comfortable surface underfoot compared to harder surfaces.  

Cork is a viable option for surface flooring and should also be considered for underlayment to laminate, ceramic tiles or hardwood.  Cork provides insulation which reduces room noise, holds in warmth for comfort and is resistant to mold and mildew.  Cork flooring is gaining popularity due to the many benefits if provides.

Benefits of Cork Flooring

Whether your décor is modern or traditional, cork flooring delivers many benefits you should know about which include:

Eco-friendly renewable resource – cork is made from the bark of a cork oak tree which leaves the trees intact with very little negative impact to the environment.  Cork oak tress must be 25 years old before the bark may be harvested and can be harvested again every 8 to 14 years without harming the tree.  The typical life span of a cork tree is 150 to 200 years although they can live up to 800 years.

Mold and mildew resistant  - cork is anti-microbial, resistant to mold, mildew and termites.  The hypoallergic features of cork make it a healthy option that does not shed microfibers or negatively impact air quality. 

Durable – cork is impermeable to liquid, resists abrasions and cracking.  Cork will bounce back from indentations and can last for decades, up to 40 years, with proper maintenance.

Comfortable – cork is resilient and gives a little when compressed, providing cushion and comfort underfoot.  The many air cells that fill cork material make it soft and spongey which is big plus when standing and cooking for those with back pain. 

Insulation – cork provides acoustic and thermal insulation, making for a quieter and warmer floor. 

Versatility – cork is available in planks or tiles, in various styles and colors.

Cork is a great option for flooring in many rooms and is gaining popularity in the United States.  Two finishes are typical with a polyurethane and acrylic based finish or water-based finish.  The polyurethane and acrylic finish may provide a little added protection, although water based finishes are eco-friendlier and are less likely tarnish with a yellow color when exposed to light. 

Contact your flooring specialist at Great Western Flooring to learn more about cork flooring and they benefits it provides.

Great Western Flooring is a leading flooring and tile company serving customers in and around Chicago for over 35 years.  We provide quality materials, professional installation and complimentary design consultations.  Contact us to learn more about cork flooring and choosing the right floor for your home.  

This article was originally published at https://www.greatwesternflooring.com/flooring-blog/why-a-cork-floor/