In our series, What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Nature reigns supreme for Rachael Grochowski. The Montclair, New Jersey–based designer gravitates toward artisanal items made from tactile raw materials to infuse warmth and character into her spaces. “We are part of nature and yet live in a crafted world,” she tells Business of Home. “I try to strike the balance between both in my designs.”
This mood board is an excellent example. Forged with her favorite fabrics and finishes in mind, the flat lay showcases a medley of sustainable designs in warm earth tones that draw from the great outdoors. “Organic motifs and materials are naturally calming and soothing,” she says.
The final scheme features an earthy mix of simple lines and airy neutral hues, anchored by the occasional zip of a deep gray stone or rich brown wood. Here, Grochowski breaks down the details, from walnut parquet to geometric jacquard weaves
1. ICANNETI PARQUET IN AMERICAN WALNUT BY CP PARQUET
“We are moving back toward darker woods, and this walnut parquet creates a gorgeous pattern, whether installed vertically or horizontally.”
2. CORDUROY MINI FLUTED PRIVACY GLASS BY BENDHEIM
“Fluted glass brings the hint of classic and modern. I love the mirrored back, as it reflects the light throughout the room, making it feel like magic.”
3. TADELAKT SHOWER PLASTER IN STONE WHITE BY COLOR ATELIER PAINT & PLASTER
“There is nothing better than a continuous surface without joints or grout. This one is also waterproof, so you can use it for a shower or bathroom floor.”
4. MIDNIGHT FABRIC IN BIRCH BY BERNHARDT TEXTILES
“This fabric reminds me that each thread is woven from nature. I can literally feel nature in it.”
5. BED AND BREAKFAST (CC-184) PAINT BY BENJAMIN MOORE
“Earth tones bring me back to where I recharge: nature. I can’t seem to get enough of them right now.”
6. CONCRETE CAST BASIN FINISH SAMPLE IN MUSK BY NOOD CO.
“Nood’s concrete sinks are pure bliss. This color makes me feel connected to the earth and reminds me that the best materials are harvested from nature.”
7. INDUS FABRIC IN CRAIE BY PIERRE FREY
“I’ve always been attached to an expressed stitch, and the multidirectional nature of this fabric adds interest to a neutral palette.”
8. MOCCA QUARTZITE CUCARCITA FINISH SAMPLE BY ADRIANA HOYOS
“Cucarcita is a veiny stone with a moody flavor.”
9. AZIZA FEZ ECLIPSE MATTE TILE BY NEMO TILE + STONE
“This multitextured tile allows you to add more visual depth to a space.”
Homepage photo: A flat lay by Rachael Grochowski | Courtesy of RHG Design
