R O O F . T I L E . R E-U S E

I have always been intrigued by things made of re-used and re-purposed materials. The allure is not merely that “re-use” is “green” – but that building something out of a material meant for a different use often leads to unexpected and inspiring results – something that has never really been seen, yet is vaguely familiar.

In the old canal town of Zhujiajiao, located on the outskirts of Shanghai, my design sense and love of architecture was aroused when I came upon this outdoor courtyard. The floor was constructed of re-purposed roof tiles, the kind that grace many of the ancient tiled roofs throughout China. These tiles were installed on their side and buried to create a smooth, durable walking surface with a pattern so familiar and intricate, yet delightfully unexpected, that my heart skipped a beat.

As I continued to stroll the crumbling sidewalks of this town, I could not stop thinking about how else, and where else, one could re-purpose this type of roof tile. A material such as this - whether recycled or purchased new - is inexpensive, widely available, and offers a warm color and natural texture that would be a welcome sight in many houses or gardens. An accent wall or free-standing partition in a Northern California home, constructed of battered, burnt-orange terra cotta tiles, could be the perfect modern accoutrement for the traditional Spanish architecture that is so prevalent in this area. An age-old material with a new use, separating and creating space with and intricate pattern that offers tiny glimpses into the spaces beyond.

S T E E L . P E N N I E S

Many of our design projects deal with infusing old buildings with modern style and function. We are constantly looking for ways to bridge the gap between old and new - to compliment and contrast the unique beauty of each. Ideally, the result is one that generates a new way of using the space and an updated aesthetic that is decidedly modern but completely harmonious with its more traditional components.

Over the last four years we have had the creative pleasure of helping a friend to design new interior spaces for her pristinely restored Victorian. Once again we were presented with the challenge of merging traditional and modern architecture. While choosing a backsplash material for her kitchen, we came across a perfect tile, one that speaks to “old” and “new” in a poetic way. Stainless steel penny rounds – a traditional type of tile from the days of our Great Grandmothers’ bathrooms, yet made of a truly modern material that conjures images of shiny machinery and industrial lofts!

It is rare that a single material comes around that speaks to “old” and “new” in such a significant way. Although these pennies cost a pretty penny, a small amount went a long way in bringing the modern materials of the kitchen together, while at the same time, offering a familiar glimpse into the lives and stories associated with homes of this era.

Tierney Conner Design Studio

P L A N T . P A L E T T E S

Summer is here, the weather is improving (finally) and we find ourselves passing more and more time outdoors! It is no wonder we have been busy designing gardens for the past several weeks – here are a couple of our recent plant palettes that we find truly tantalizing (the upper one is for sun, the lower one is for shade). We love to mix textures and forms within a cool range of colors. Even if you have an established outdoor space, new planting is a stylish and economical way to infuse your home with a breath of fresh air.