Stone Dimensions - Winter/Spring 2008 - (Page 11) I Designing the ultimate splash Plan ahead Whether you’re building or remodeling, chances are that you have already begun a collection of unique ideas for your kitchen. You may have a folder overflowing with pages torn from popular design magazines or perhaps a trunk full of samples gathered along the way from visits to local tile shops. Whatever your ultimate fantasy, choosing your countertop material prior to the splash is always prudent given the fact that it represents a much greater investment. Once the selection process for the countertop is complete, be sure to carry a nice size sample along while shopping. Choosing materials that complement each other and blend well is imperative for a successful outcome. With a little forethought and ingenuity, the one dimensional and customarily standard backsplash can be transformed into an attractive addition to your overall kitchen design. Formulate your design As you begin your journey in search of the perfect complement to your countertop, you will soon discover that there are literally hundreds even thousands of options available when it comes to layout, pattern, color and decorative tile. This is the perfect opportunity to incorporate some of those more interesting and exotic pieces you‘ve spotted along the way but didn‘t think you could find a place for. An efficient planner will select the splash material and approve the layout prior to cabinet installation. This process guarantees that the precise amount of space required to accommodate the design is available. Unfortunately, many of us wait until the cabinets have been installed before ever selecting our splash material. This leaves us with the disappointing realization that there may not be enough room to incorporate our desired layout. If this occurs, don’t become discouraged. It simply means that slight adjustments may be necessary. Create more space On average, the space between the countertop and the bottom of the wall cabinet is between 16 and 18 inches. Increasing this area slightly to 20, 22 or even 24 inches will dramatically alter the size of the splash and expand your options considerably. It is important to remember however, that as the space between the countertop and cabinets increases, so does the height of the upper most shelving. In some instances, this may result in the top shelf becoming too high to routinely access. The trade off, however, will be well worth it. In the end, the splash will not only be visually much larger and grander in scale, but you will have also produced the area necessary to compose an elaborate motif. Now that magine walking into a stunning designer kitchen outfitted with the most extraordinary cabinetry, captivating tiles and awe-inspiring amenities you have ever seen. Now imagine that same kitchen without it’s backsplash… does it suddenly seem as if something is missing? When I enter a kitchen where this all important focal point has been omitted, it is the bare space that first catches my eye undermining my immediate appreciation for the overall composition. You might ask how it is that such a small area can carry such weight in the over-all design scheme. The answer is simple, it all boils down to location, location, location. Nestled between the countertop and upper cabinetry, this tiny space lands directly in the line of vision for anyone entering the room. Sometimes overlooked and often under appreciated, the splash offers designers and homeowners alike a blank canvas upon which to compose a functional piece of art. Capable of dramatic impact, this pint sized component can pack a hefty punch whether featured as the primary focal point or an unpretentious but compelling backdrop. With so much importance riding on this one element, it is important to not overlook the power of this petite space when planning your masterpiece. Take your time, be creative and make use of the backsplash to instill the WOW factor in your design. www.stonedimensionsmagazine.com StoneDimensions 11 http://www.stonedimensionsmagazine.com
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