NEW from Modwalls

Modwalls posted a little sneaky peeky of their new collaboration with Rex Ray a while back, one I've been super stoked about ever since.  It's officially launching this weekend at Dwell on Design, but samples are available on their site now (the full collection will be available for ordering in August 2011).

They also unveiled a new collection of ceramic tiles done in collaboration with Clayhaus.  I am equally excited about this one, what with its unique colorways and sizes (2x8" and, hello, check out that sweet "plus" shape)!  You can get the jump on these bad boys right away.

Check out more info about these collections on www.modwalls.com.

Kitchen Ideas :: Marble Backsplash

Yesterday was a good day for deliveries, let me tell you!  After my sweet new candle holders arrived, I went to check the mail and was delighted to find that the tile samples I'd ordered were patiently waiting for me.  Hooray!

You may remember my last kitchen idea post, that included black countertops with a black penny round backsplash.  Well, we've sort of nixed that idea.  At least the countertops, anyway.  Currently, we're leaning towards a (much more affordable) butcher block countertop, white cabinets (still), and maybe a marble backsplash.

My initial favorite after opening the package was the mini subway style tile (#1).  It's 1/2 inch by 2 inches.  I just loved the size and the fairly classic look (I know, shocker!).  Brady loved the black/grey/white waterfall tile (#2) the most, which is a fun, unusual pattern.  It would be a great complement to our adjacent living and dining rooms (and branch wall!), which both have a pretty clear view of the kitchen.

I also ordered another waterfall style (#3) and then a 3/4 by 4 inch subway style (#4).  I like both of those as well, especially the crazy pattern of the white Carrara waterfall tiles.  It's a decidedly modern look in a classic material that I think would work in well in our home.  As for paint, I had a few paint chips from Benjamin Moore that I'd picked up a little while ago.  I'm considering Gossamer Blue (a), Soft Chinchilla (b), or Wedgewood Gray (c).  Even though they're extremely close, I'm definitely leaning towards Gossamer Blue...

So, Adventurers, what are your thoughts?  Which tile do you like?  Color?  I'd love to hear your feedback!

P.S.  I also ordered a sample of this black/white/grey tile, but it hasn't arrived yet!

Dwell + Heath Ceramics

Equals perfection!  I'm so, so excited about this collaboration!  Dwell announced on Friday that they will be teaming up with Heath Ceramics to create an exclusive line of ceramic tiles.  The Dwell Patterns line will debut at this weekend's Dwell On Design event.

The foundation for Dwell Patterns begins with three new tile shapes: diamond, hex, and half hex.  When combined, they can create virtually limitless designs.  While in-stock tiles are only available in Antique White and Stone White, you can custom-order these tiles in any of Heath's hand-glazed colors.

At $24 - $48 per square foot, they're a bit on the pricey side.  But I'm a firm believer in the idea that you get what you pay for.  Heath's products are beyond quality; they're made to last and absolutely beautiful.  Whatever your tile project, you can't go wrong with Heath.  Seriously.

To learn more about this collaboration, check out Dwell's own press release.

Dwell Patterns by Heath Ceramics: $24 - $48 / sq ft