Design Trends and Inspiration

Within the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends continuously emerge, captivating our imaginations and inspiring us to grab hold of that inspiration and transform our living spaces. One trend that has recently taken the spotlight is the “Going Gucci” style concept.

This design concept blends futuristic design with retro design to seamlessly merge the nostalgic allure of the past with the sleek and forward-thinking design elements of the future. The trend results in a captivating interior design concept that evokes a sense of creativity and innovation.

Infuse your home with the “Going Gucci” style by pairing key accessories that are prevalent in this design scheme, like embellished wallpapers and luxurious velvet materials with bold colours, unique shapes, and special accents in your furniture. Then, round out your retro-but-futuristic look with the perfect flooring. We’ve gathered some of our favourite flooring products for you to explore, so you can be on your way to capturing the essence of this designer aesthetic.

Futuristic Design

The look of futuristic interior design is a captivating blend of sleekness, ergonomic innovation, technology, and avant-garde aesthetics. Clean lines and minimalistic forms dominate the design, creating a sense of simplicity and sophistication. The colour palette in this design scheme often leans towards bold and vibrant tones, with pops of neon and metallic accents, which make for great opportunities to incorporate accent walls. These striking colour choices go hand-in-hand with retro design, making it easy to fuse and connect the two.

Materials used while designing this aesthetic embrace a sense of modernity and innovation. Sleek surfaces like glass, polished metals, and acrylics are commonly incorporated and used to evoke a futuristic vibe. Overall, the look of futuristic interior design and architecture is created through a harmonious balance between simplicity, innovation, and visual impact. It creates an atmosphere that is both functional and visually striking, embracing cutting-edge technologies and materials to transport us into a world that seamlessly merges imagination and art with reality.

Retro Design

Design by MARGARITA BRAVO  Photography by TIA CURRAN

Retro interior design is a delightful journey back in time, celebrating the iconic styles and trends from designers of the past. Inspired by the design aesthetics and architecture of the mid-20th century, retro interior design evokes a nostalgic charm and a sense of whimsy. Bold colours, playful patterns, and unique shapes define this style, taking us back to the vibrant and eclectic eras of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

Another defining feature of retro interior design is the use of iconic patterns and textures. From simple, curved geometric shapes to bold floral prints, retro interior design embraces patterns that make a statement and add a lot of visual interest to the space. These patterns are often seen on wallpapers, upholstery, and accessories, lending a playful and nostalgic touch.

Retro furniture pieces, with their distinctive curves and sleek lines, also contribute to the overall aesthetic, creating a sense of nostalgia and charm that harks back to a bygone era. Whether it's a retro-inspired living room or a funky kitchen, retro interior design brings a sense of fun and personality to any space.

Hand-Scraped Hardwood 

White Oak Hardwood by Flooring America/Flooring Canada

The "Going Gucci" style trend can be characterized by embracing vintage charm and paying homage to the luxurious times of the past. Hand-scraped hardwood flooring aligns perfectly with this vision, as its distressed surface replicates the look and feel of aged, reclaimed wood. This flooring choice in particular offers a unique and stunning blend of elegance, durability, and versatility.

From its vintage-inspired character to its uncompromising sophistication, this wire-brushed white oak hardwood brings a touch of luxury and enchantment to the "Going Gucci" aesthetic design concept, ensuring a visually stunning and enduring foundation for creating your extraordinary interior. You can also play with texture and patterns in hand-scraped hardwood, calling back to 16th century emerging floor designs with herringbone and parquet.

Patterned Luxury Vinyl

Wood-Look Luxury Vinyl by Flooring America/Flooring Canada

Patterned flooring is a perfect complement to the captivating "Going Gucci" aesthetic. The intricate herringbone pattern of this flooring in particular creates a visually stunning foundation that elevates the overall ambiance.

The luxurious vinyl material not only mimics the look of natural wood but also offers a lot of durability and easy maintenance, making it a practical choice for modern living. Whether used as statement flooring or as an accent in specific areas, patterned luxury vinyl in stone-look or wood-look becomes an integral element in achieving the distinctly bold allure that's the hallmark of the "Going Gucci" aesthetic.

Geometric Tile

Omni Glazed Porcelain by Emser

Clean lines, symmetrical shapes, and bold patterns dominate geometric tile design to create a visual impact that perfectly complements the eclectic and futuristic design elements of "Going Gucci." The combination of intricate details and precise craftsmanship presented in this tile adds a touch of art and opulence to any room.

Whether used as a statement floor or as an accent in specific areas, this patterned tile becomes a focal point that exemplifies the essence of the "Going Gucci" concept, combining retro charm with a futuristic edge. Its versatility and ability to harmonize with a range of other elements make it a perfect choice for bringing the unique and mesmerizing designs of the retro-futuristic trend into your home.

Whether you choose hand-scraped hardwood flooring or patterned tiles to be installed, your flooring choice plays a vital role in bringing the "Going Gucci" design aesthetic to life. With careful consideration and the right selection of unique furniture, accents, and lighting, your house can become a stunning example of style, functionality, and innovation. Embrace the timeless allure and futuristic design flair of the "Going Gucci" design trend to create a living space that is both enchanting and extraordinary.

Looking for more hot trends to inspire your inner interior designer? Check out the top 2023 flooring trends on our blog!

A tile backsplash can take your traditional kitchen design to new levels at an affordable price. Today, we’ll share some backsplash tile ideas for every home and advice on how to choose the latest kitchen tile trends for your home. Plus, connect with our local experts and installers at Flooring Canada, who can help you through all the steps of the process and make sure your project turns out great!

Literati Melville Mosaic Cast Stone Emser Tile

What is Backsplash Tiling & What Tools Do You Need?

A tile backsplash is a great touch that gives modern kitchens a fresh look without spending the time or money on a larger renovation. Backsplashes are an extension of your counter, which functions as a protection against liquids, but tile décor can also add a beautiful touch to the design of your space. Most kitchen tile designs can also be installed faster and more efficiently than larger renovations.

Choosing the Perfect Tile Backsplash

Carrara White Marble by Daltile

From subway tile backsplash to geometric tile backsplash and more, there's an endless amount of style options to choose from when it comes to finding the right backsplash tile ideas to match your design aesthetic and personal style. If chosen right, your backsplash can serve as a dramatic focal point and complement your existing kitchen design.

Consider your space and the colour palette in your kitchen, and don't be afraid to play with textures, geometric patterns, and shapes. Your backsplash tile can be featured in light or dark hues to complement white cabinets or dark cabinets as well as many unique patterns like a vertical pattern or a herringbone pattern.

Now is the perfect time to bring out your inner interior designer to help you create designer spaces. Start off each new project by considering your existing space —think about what backsplash would match your marble countertops, your pendant lights, your white cabinetry and upper cabinets, or what backsplash would be the perfect complement to your antique dining chairs in your dining room.

What Materials Can You Use for a Backsplash?

Quartetto Cool Figura by Daltile

The right backsplash can elevate any cooking space in an otherwise neutral kitchen. With a specialist’s help, you can pick a material and pattern that work for your budget, timetable, and long-term goals. Ceramics, glass, natural stone, and porcelain all make for beautiful backsplashes.

Whatever you choose, make sure your material complements your kitchen countertops, your kitchen's colour scheme, and your kitchen island. If you’re looking to sell your home in the future, keep the design simple and timeless to suit any neutral kitchen.

Picking Your Backsplash Installation Materials

National Marble Res tile Statuary Unity by Daltile

There are two main types of materials used for tile backsplash installation, mastic tile adhesive and mortar or thin-set. Your choice of material depends on your same material preference. Plus, it's important to consider whether or not the backsplash is easy to clean and maintain. Your installation expert can help you find the perfect material for your project.

• Ceramic tile offers an almost endless array of vibrant colour options.  Ceramic tile can be applied with mastic tile adhesive.

• Stone backsplash tile comes in a variety of natural materials, from slate to marble to limestone. These tiles are installed with mortar and are perfect for those looking for a natural look.    

• Porcelain tile offers beautiful stone finishes as well as colours. Porcelain is also installed as mortar. 

• Glass tile is available in a variety of patterns and colours to give visual interest. Glass tile is applied with thin set mortar.  

When choosing appliances, think about kitchen backsplashes ahead of time so you can be sure they complement each other well.

How to Install a Tile Backsplash

Morocco Fawn Arabesque Gloss Mosaic Ceramic Emser Tile

With the help of your local Flooring Canada expert, the installation process for backsplash tiles is usually straightforward. Here is an overview of the process that our experts would follow:

1. First, we protect your countertop with plastic sheeting and lay out the location of the backsplash on the wall to assure a proper fit.

2. Next, we will remove all outlet covers and sand down the wall, wiping away any dust or debris with a wet cloth, and then mark a centerline halfway between your countertop and cabinets using a pencil.

3. We will apply a thin layer of tile adhesive or mortar on the wall using a trowel, beginning at the centerline and working outwards.

4. Then we set the tiles, beginning with the bottom row and working out from the center.

5. When we reach a cabinet or other area that requires a trimmed tile, we make sure we are using the proper equipment to make our cuts, mark the tile, and then cut to a proper fit.

6. Once finished with that, we’ll let the tile adhesive dry overnight or according to the adhesive instructions.

7. Once the adhesive is dry, we will fill in the joints with grout to create a seamless transition and clean the area with a sponge and water.

Installing tile backsplashes is a process, but with the help of one of our professionals, you can make sure the beauty, durability, and function of your tile backsplash is protected for years to come. 

Be sure to shop our tile products catalog to begin your next home improvement project today!

When it comes to predicting style for “below your feet” fashions, look around at other styles in interior design, like furniture. Curves are in for 2023 from furniture to the floor.

Farrier Res Tile by Daltile

“We’re moving away from crisp, straight lines and are adding curved furniture pieces and interior archways. We have seen this trend in Europe for a while now,” said Lisa Kooistra, of Kooistra Designs in Ontario. “Curved furniture has the same effect, because these pieces add interest and can be placed organically in an interior. This style was made famous by mid-century modern furniture designer Vladimir Kagan, who created the iconic Serpentine sofa in 1950. These sofas are largely referred to as conversation sofas or crescent sofas. They are not only meant for snuggling and watching TV, but also for cultivating aesthetic pleasure and conversation.”

Design by LISA KOOISTRA Photography by BLYNDA DACOSTA

Curves in Interior Design

Curved elements in interior design can be beautiful in a multitude of ways, from their organic anfloord flowing feel to their ability to add energy to a space. By incorporating curves into your interior design and your floor, you can create unique and striking spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Especially if you feature natural curves in your interiors, you can amplify the effects that this design trend has on your room.

Curves in Carpet

Why Me by Tigressa Cherish in Foggy Day

Choosing a carpet with curves design versus straight lines can help soften the look of a space and make it nice and inviting, especially if the rest of your apartment or home features a sharp line and edge. Not only that, but the sweeping lines of curved carpet adds visual interest and texture to a space, making it more visually appealing as a result.

With a soft textured pattern carpet, you can implement a curved design into your interior design that does all of the above and more. Browse our extensive carpet catalog at Flooring America and filter out your selection by pattern to find a sophisticated look to match your curved design.

Curves in Tile

Aesthetic Geometric by Daltile

Curved tiles can add texture and dimension to a space, as the curves create shadows and highlights that give the surface depth. This can be especially effective when using tiles with a glossy or reflective finish, which can enhance the play of light and shadow.

This can be seen in the Aesthetic Geometric wall tile, which features organic, natural visuals with structured geometric textures that create a sense of movement and flow in a space, as the eye follows the curves along the surface.

Curves in Luxury Vinyl

Curves in luxury vinyl can add a touch of elegance to a space, while also providing practical benefits such as durability and ease of maintenance. By incorporating the trend of curved luxury vinyl planks into your interiors, you can create a unique and visually striking space that is both functional and beautiful.

With a marbled luxury vinyl tile, you can show off the beauty of natural stone with curved detailing in its unique pattern. Plus, reap the benefits of luxury vinyl with spill-, stain-, and scratch-resistance.

Curious to know more about the top 2023 flooring trends? Explore our blog and get the latest design inspiration with our Design at Home magazine!

Written by KATE O’HARA | Design by MARTHA O’HARA INTERIORS | Photography by SPACECRAFTING PHOTOGRAPHY | Remodel by MDS REMODELING

After relocating from a large city where square footage came at a premium, this family of four was eager for more space, combined with the benefits of city living. Location and walking access to restaurants and shops remained a priority, but inside, the lofts were about creating connectedness for parents who love to entertain, while offering personal areas for two teenage boys.

What was originally a two-bedroom condo would no longer cut it for this family with teenagers. At the same time, because the condos wouldn’t be their forever home, the overall goal was to make changes that would support how the family wanted to live in their new home and city and increase the property’s value without any significant architectural changes.

Although boasting urban elements, this lofted condo was nothing like the sleek, basic studio you might rent in the high-rise apartments of the city —it had charm. Although it offered a great space for entertaining, the dated finishes, two bedrooms, and limited closets simply weren't enough. We found opportunities and solutions to modify this condo to fit all the needs of a busy, city-dwelling family of four.

Adding function & flow with focal points

There’s a reason this family fell in love with loft living, and it was our job to highlight all the best details while ensuring that it could accommodate their daily needs. By embracing the current architecture of loft living within the residence, we found ways to enhance flow while infusing our clients’ eclectic, contemporary style.

An updated palette.

A dated color palette in an array of beiges was adjusted to establish new focal points throughout the home that accentuate what the family loves most. A fresh coat of creamy paint and refreshed flooring in a dark finish created a backdrop that showcases the space, views, and furnishings.

Furnishing with intention.

Although spacious with high ceilings, this contemporary loft presented an oddly shaped floorplan. Given the unique layout of the main floor with its angled and asymmetrical spaces, our furniture plans had to be thoughtfully arranged. A fresh face meant an invitation to appreciate skyline views and help a useful stairway blend into the background. It meant transforming nooks into intentional and functional spaces with furnishings and finishes.

A sitting area is nestled within the staircase. Layered textiles add intimacy, and furnishings define this cozy spot to enjoy reading and unwinding. A velvet pinstripe adorns swivel chairs, and a diamond-patterned, oversized ottoman grounds the area. Favorite books, accessories from worldly travels, and personal artwork amplify the true coziness of the area.

Separate but together.

We had to be careful about furniture floor planning to ensure that the furniture did not interfere with the door to the balcony or the path to the dining room and loft staircase. The goal was to maximize seating without obstructing the view. A vibrant palette connects the sitting area to the living room, maximizing function for this family that loves to entertain while also allowing plenty of separation and privacy for everyday living.

The jewel-toned sofas in plush velvet are anchored by an area rug, carving space for conversation amid the exposed brick and downtown views. The mix of materials feels slightly industrial, with texture and color elevating this seating area. A lacquered linen console behind the sofa adds functionality as a perfectly positioned drop zone at the stairway’s base, leading to a loft for the boys.

Bold Oak Flooring.

The golden oak flooring needed new life, and with a mix of dated wood tones throughout the residence, it was time for a dramatic change. We kept the original hardwood floors and gave them a refresh with a dark look to complement the creamy color palette and modern design.

Uniform flooring throughout the residence makes the transition from one space to another feel natural, thereby creating a sense of cohesion and continuity. With the condo’s sky-high views, the rich tone is a grounded comfort, paired with bright walls, bold details, and ample natural light

Skyline views and natural light.

We painted the window frames black to frame skyline views and create a natural focal point. The clean lines of the windows juxtapose with the warmth and texture of the exposed brick wall and let in all the daytime and nighttime light. This sets the stage for bold color and statement pieces. Sconces, floor lamp, chandeliers, and pendants offer warm nighttime lighting and ambiance when paired with the evening glow of the city.

Eating and Drinking in Style

For many, especially those who love to entertain, the kitchen and dining areas are the heart of the home. These areas are natural spaces for gathering and making memories over food and drink. This family needed a kitchen and dining room that would not only serve their family of four, but also accommodate a crowd.

Two rooms made one.

One of our first goals was to unify these spaces. We converted these rooms into an open concept layout by adding weight to the colors of the dining table, metal buffet cabinet, and vice versa in the base of the island and kitchen backsplash.

Quartz countertops match between spaces, and a metal and glass buffet cabinet stands out in the dining room. White lower cabinetry blends gracefully within the space without contributing too much visual weight. Adding even more cohesion is a wood veneer wallcovering backsplash in a bold diamond pattern, paired with a smaller scale diamond backsplash in the kitchen. Brass and silver leaf finishes add opulence and connection.

Serving up style and purpose, these details create an interesting canvas with clean lines that showcases a connectivity between rooms so that dinner parties can now happen with ease.

Furnishings make the space.

Counter stools and dining chairs are lavish in light performance fabric that is made for messes. They provide visual relief from the heavier furnishings around them. Brass accents, like the kitchen pendants, nailhead detail on the counter stools, dining chair ferrules, and buffet cabinet accessories, are understated and elegant.

The result is a kitchen transformed into a modern showstopper, blending seamlessly with the nearby dining room. Contrast and cohesion result from a balanced color palette that feels modern and elegant.

Playing Up the Primary Suite

Like much of the condo, the biggest challenge in the primary suite was an uncommon floor plan. The lack of wall space for a bed or dresser required an unconventional approach. To make the most of the room, we angled the king-sized bed in the corner between the windows. The door into the suite, which is also on an angle, is directly across from the bed and creates a welcoming feeling upon entering.

Layered wool rugs and oversized artwork anchor the space and create defined areas within this large room. The room is not only a clear sleeping space, but features a secondary area for reading and lounging near the balcony. Because this is the main suite, we wanted to create the impression of a boutique hotel in the comfort of the client’s home. Finishes and furnishings accomplish this goal with clean lines, unique shapes, crisp white bedding, and plush textiles. The bold floral velvet on the ottoman served as the initial inspiration for the overall color palette and invites fresh color accents amongst the otherwise moody space.

The ensuite features a timeless yet modern black-and-white aesthetic that will never go out of style and can be paired with any accent color to instantly transform the space.

Making Room for Teenage Mood

This bedroom perfectly captures the spirit of a teenager in need of his own space, a room that is equal parts modern and mature. Tall ceilings provide the necessary expanse for the youngest son to sleep, work, and play. A bold navy on the walls and ceiling offers a daring canvas for artwork and lighting, and a mix of wood, metal, and geometric elements creates a sophisticated and modern atmosphere. Natural light streams through a large window to showcase this teenager’s love of plants and to highlight architectural details.

We selected furnishings that could grow with this teenager into adulthood. Vertical space maximizes the room's function with a lofted bed and designed entertainment center underneath. This is great for watching movies or playing video games. In addition, an adjacent sleeper sofa offers comfortable overnight hangouts with friends.

This room is all about fun and function, with city skyline views and modern accents that feel grown up for a teenager who is ready for adulthood.

A Loft that Packs a Punch

The upstairs loft features a cozy hangout for teens away from the busyness of the main floor. With an additional bedroom, the loft ensures that each teen has his own private space. This loft has it all, with easy access to the rooftop patio and a hidden office.

Repurposed room.

With big architectural changes out of the question, we decided to wall off a private room for the eldest son. The remaining area was repurposed for the boys to share—a TV hangout, a music room for piano practice, and a homework station built into a closet and framed by a sliding door.

A hidden workspace.

This downtown condo packs in function, taking a modern twist on home office closets, with a hidden desk behind a sleek, sliding door. This office is the perfect mix of storage and workspace that maximizes the square footage.

Planning a design is about relying on your team of designers and contractors to tailor your space to suit your family’s needs. You don’t need to know exactly what you want, but you should share must-haves, pain points, and inspiration to cultivate a space that’s right for you.

By seamlessly mixing the couple’s contemporary and eclectic styles and paying thoughtful attention to the family’s everyday and hosting needs, this loft can now accommodate daily functions in the most breathtaking city landscape, offering the best of urban living.

Looking for more design inspiration? Don't miss out on the latest in flooring and interior design trends when you keep up to date with our blog. Read the latest issue of Design at Home magazine to get more designer advice and go behind the design.

Planning your next home renovation? Consider adding a personalized home bar to your “must-have” list! A cocktail home bar or a basement lounge is a great addition to home renovation design. Not only do built-in at-home bars give you a designated space for entertaining, but a home bar makes for an excellent extension to family dinner nights!

The best part about having a home bar in your house? Not needing to go out for drinks! Customize your dedicated home bar with one-of-a-kind accessories, from bottles and glassware to silly aprons and personalized bar logos.

The Basement Entertainment Zone

Transform your basement into a lounge space fully furnished with a wine cooler, a mini-fridge with ice for storage, a bar cart, bar stools, and colourful glassware that's perfect for entertaining guests. Throw in some comfy chairs and a cozy area rug that suits your style to create the perfect space with seating to entertain, connect with guests, and watch the next game. We recommend luxury vinyl flooring or laminate near the wet home bar in your lounge space because they perform well in high-humidity areas like the basement. Plus, the style of waterproof floors makes cleaning up those drink spills easier!

Get the Look: Gray-Washed Wood-Look Laminate by Flooring Canada

The Espresso Home Bar

Personalized home bars don’t have to be just for alcoholic beverages—espresso bars and tea stations make crafting at-home brews fun, too! Maybe you’re a coffee aficionado, or your partner is a tea snob—look to install a custom home bar in rooms fully equipped with a hot water faucet, glasses, a cute coffee sign, and a built-in espresso machine available in many different styles. You can even add custom drawers in the wall of your coffee corner for essentials like Keurig pods, coffee mugs, and creamer.

Get the Look: White Oak Hardwood by Flooring Canada

The Breakfast Nook

Perfect for the early-bird crew, a breakfast bar nook has all the essentials for your first meal of the day. Often, breakfast bars include hot beverages, cereal, and freshly baked goods, so think of the equipment that you are most likely to need, such as a prep sink, an elegant French press, an electric kettle, glassware, or a small mini fridge for juice. Keep a bowl of fresh fruit and a blender on hand so you can kick off your morning with a refreshing smoothie.

Get the Look: Waterproof Vintage Gray Plank by Flooring Canada

The Cocktail Lounge

The perfect place to prepare your signature martini with a twist, cocktail bars are a simple addition to any kitchen,, or entertainment space. These bars are perfect for entertaining guests and turning your space into your own little speakeasy. All you need is a bar cart or extra counter space. You can keep your cocktail lounge casual by displaying your prized bottles of liquor or showing off your space with a bar sign. Don’t forget to fully equip the design of your cocktail bar you create with the essentials, including a cocktail shaker, glassware, a fine strainer, and a mixing glass for cocktails . You can even level up with a built-in wine fridge to keep your favourite bottle of red close at hand.

Get the Look: Waterproof Rustic Oak Hardwood by Flooring Canada

The Butler’s Pantry

If you’re currently renovating your kitchen, you might consider adding a butler’s pantry. These pantries have grown in popularity over the past few years as an extra space to have storage for equipment, glasses, bulk ingredients, and baking goods that you feel you might not want on display in the main area. Plus, with a built-in fridge, a butler’s pantry offers the perfect space to prep a range of before-dinner drinks and keep your mixers and other ingredients out of the main fridge space.

Get the Look: Medium-Finish Oak Hardwood by Flooring Canada

The Kitchen Minibar

Who doesn’t love a little extra fridge storage and prepping space? Kitchen mini bars provide just that, offering a place to beverages and more counter space to prepare your drinks. Plus, because your flooring style is already designed to be waterproof, you won’t have to worry about dripping when preparing that Taco Tuesday margarita.

Get the Look: Bel Terra Quartetto in Cobalto Unpolished by Flooring Canada