What’s the biggest mistake people make when updating their kitchens and bathrooms?  

staged bathroom

 

Choosing surfaces that don’t complement each other.  They might be close….almost a good match — but there is a little difference that makes it “off”.

Not that each individual surface isn’t beautiful on its own – but when they are all brought together they don’t play nice together…..it’s always a case of undertones.

We were removing the staging from this lovely coastal home recently which has been professionally remodeled and very lovely.  The bathrooms don’t “feel” quite right.  This photo has too much glare on the counters to see clearly, but let’s take a closer look.

bathroom granite and tile choices

choosing tile and granite

 

Undertones.  

Always lurking in the background and can rear its ugly head when different undertones are in the same room. No amount of decorating is going to make this problem go away.

The backsplash has a pink undertone which doesn’t play nice with yellow undertones in this countertop.

I’ve intensified the colors in this picture to help make it very evident.

 

 

 

 

 

Can you see the undertone clash?

As interior design professionals, our job often involves making these choices for our clients and making sure they all work together in a room.

All too often we receive a phone call after the tile is installed and not working well with the counters.  A design consultation during the remodeling process can often save hundreds of dollars and achieve professional results.

 

 

 

One secret – when you choose a granite slab or quartz surface they give you a little piece of the product.  Do yourself a favor and don’t invest in purchasing and installing tile based on the colors in this tiny sample.  It’s kind of like choosing an exterior paint color based on a tiny paint chip….the results can be disappointing.  Tiny differences in undertones can have a huge effect on end results of your project!  Make sure you watch your tones!

 

granite counter with tile mosaic

 

If you don’t have the trained eye to see the difference in tone, make sure to hire a professional so your construction or remodeling project has the beautiful look you are planning!

 

Margaret Oscilia is a Professional Home Stager with Creative Concepts-Home Staging and Contracting serving Salem Oregon and surrounding areas.  Specializing in helping home sellers stage to sell or re-design to live well – and making good design choices too!

 

Moving or improving?  Creative Concepts-Home Staging and Contracting has the expertise to showcase your home’s full potential, stretch your budget, and maximize your time.

Professional Home Staging – Reliable Contractor Repairs – Beautiful Results!

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