Innovative Ways to Use Materials

This week on the Blog, Julia Abriola, our talented Design Intern takes over and discusses her thoughts on using materials in unconventional ways in your home.

When thinking about the Interior Design of your home, it may often feel easier to use materials like wood and tile and metal in the way in which they were intended to be used. But just because a certain material is marketed for a specific use, it does not mean that you can’t use it in different ways. Get creative and think outside the box! Here are some innovative ways to use conventional materials in unconventional ways in your home.

Wood

Hardwood is not just for floors anymore. With new products like engineered and tongue and groove hardwood, applying wood to your space has never been easier or more affordable.  Throw hardwood onto the ceiling to instantly add warmth to your space. But don’t forget about unfinished wood, as well; you can use salvaged and scrap wood you find or purchase at a salvage yard to create an inexpensive, rustic feature wall. Here, in Philadelphia, Provenance is your go-to store for forgotten objects and reclaimed wood.  It's the Philadelphia Interior Designer's secret spot to find innovative materials.

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Tile

Tile is very functional in that it protects wall surfaces from splashes and is easy to wipe clean. But, tile can also be used in fun ways to add color and pattern to a space, and not just to protect surfaces. Rather than painting your walls a bold color or using a patterned wall paper, opt for a decorative ceramic tile instead. Apply it floor to ceiling for an unexpected look. Or mix your floorings to define spaces; use wood and geometric tile to transition from space to space in a unique way. If you are not too keen on bold statements, apply tiles to the rise of your stairs for a subtle accent.

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Textiles

If you gravitate more towards soft textures rather than wood or tile, bring more textiles into your home. Fabrics are not just for upholstering. Hang a yard of fabric above your bed for a simple but elevated canopy that doubles as a headboard. Or, if you are not the handiest handyman, pick up some picture frames and swap out photos with some of your favorite patterned fabrics.

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Metal

For a more industrial or rustic look, consider incorporating more metal into your home. Corrugated sheet metal is typically used on roofs, but you can also apply it to your walls for a unique texture. Go bold and wrap the whole room, or keep it simple with an inexpensive backsplash for your shower. Metal sheeting can also be used on the ceiling, creating more interest in the space.

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Concrete

Mostly used in the foundation of buildings, concrete is a strong, adaptable material that can work wonders indoors. Because it does not come in solid slabs like a wood or tile, concrete can be molded into countless different forms, opening up the opportunity for affordable custom pieces in your home. You can simply apply it to your floors for a cool, polished look, or opt for a concrete sink, or even a concrete tub! The possibilities are endless.

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