"For me tile tells a story. It is a way to represent a client's personality." We couldn't agree more with the words of Kristen Peña, lead designer and owner of K Interiors. We're so excited to share more about this Bay Area (and Lake Tahoe) based designer, who uses our tile so beautifully in many of her projects. Continue on for sage design advice and some major tile inspiration.
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Here's a bit about Kristen:
My style can be described as…Modern meets layers of cozy comfortable and live-able.
My design philosophy is…Nothing should be too precious or fancy. I believe that every space in one's house should be lived in and therefore cozy, comfortable and inviting.
I got my start…In fashion, actually, where I think I mastered color and texture. Moving into interiors was such a natural transition for me and opened up a level of creativity that I previously didn’t realize I had.
I find inspiration in…Oh my, everything! I am constantly looking for the next most beautiful thing. I love to travel and make connections and import products, but I also love to find new creative artisans out there to partner and grow up with, so to speak.
I can’t live without…My kids! I don’t believe in getting too attached to material items, I think that goes back to keeping things comfortable and livable. But if I had to choose I would say all of my treasures from travels…pillows, textiles, artifacts, baskets and my art!
My best design advice would be…You need to love your space. You should feel proud and comfortable everytime you walk in, so be sure to partner with someone who really listens and helps to bring your sense of style and beauty into your space.
I love Tile because... For me tile tells a story. It is a way to represent a client's personality. Wherever I go I am photographing tile and pattern that the tile creates. There is really nothing more beautiful when you are traveling the world than the history that is displayed through tile. (Well, ok maybe rugs too).
Tile Shown: Ogee Drops in Naples Blue, Caspian Sea and Calcite.
My favorite Fireclay color is… Do I really have to choose? It depends on the job, but what I love about Fireclay the most is the handmade texture and variation. I love that it is recycled and made in CA, but mostly I love the texture it creates in a space simply from being handmade. If I have to choose my next up tile color to use is going to be Hunter Green.
Here are a few of Kristen's favorite projects:
Light filled kitchen using 3x6 Subway tiles in Calcite for the backsplash; beautifully paired with white, brass, walnut and blue finishes.
Tile Shown: 3x6 Subway Tiles in Calcite.
Tile Shown: 3x6 Subway Tiles in Calcite.
Master Bathroom remodel pairing 8" Hexagon tiles in Raven Matte with crisp white walls, a dreamy tub and light for days through a sky-light.
Tile Shown: 8" Hexagons in Raven Matte.
The bold black tile moves from a tub surround into a luxe shower set up:
Tile Shown: 8" Hexagons in Raven Matte.
A light filled airy kitchen in San Francisco that perfectly reflects the owners taste and background; featuring handpainted Malta tiles and 2x6s in Feldspar Gloss.
Tile Shown: Handpainted Malta tiles surrounded by 2x6 tiles in Feldspar Gloss.
Tile Shown: Handpainted Malta (Black Dryline with Feldspar Gloss).
A designer's dream kitchen that uses a bold concrete tile floor paired with walnut countertops, a mix of dark and light cabinets and handmade tile (a neutral matte, Feldspar).
Tile Shown: 2x6s in Feldspar.
A dreamy refacing of a simple 50’s fireplace in White Mountains Brick gives it character like it deserves.
Tile Shown: Glazed Thin Brick in White Mountains.
Speaking of Cotton Brick, we'll leave you with one of our favorites of Kristen's projects: this bathroom featuring this perfect combination of brick and Antique:
Tile Shown: Glazed Thin Brick in White Mountains and 4x4s in Antique for the floor tile.
Inspired by Kristen? Order color samples online now. Need some help? Simply call, chat or fill out our Design Assistance Form and one of our talented design consultants will get back to you shortly.
