Backsplash style
Home owners are looking to the humble backsplash to make an artistic statement. “The trend now is to mix elements like colors, glass, metal, and ceramics for a more lively look,” says Dilmohan Chadra, owner of Integrated Resources Group located in Brisbane and Dublin.
Integrated Resources Group 415-657-0280 | 925-829-1133 | marblecompany.com


Grill as social center
The Fuego is not a grill you want to hide in a corner. First, its modern appearance makes it the star of the patio. Plus, its retractable lid allows multiple cooks (or multiple tasters) to stand around the grilling surface, dispelling the idea of grilling as a solitary act.
Purcell Murray 800-863-7133 | purcellmurray.com


Made-to-order rugs
A new program at California Carpets makes the search for the perfect rug easy. You choose the colors, the yarns (fat, skinny, long, or short), and the shape for your dream rug and then apply them to one of many patterns. The result is a custom rug for a reasonable price.
California Carpet 415-487-3636 | calfloor.com


Urban wine
To taste wine before you serve it at a party, hop on BART. Dashe Cellars and JC Cellars share a winery and tasting room in Oakland. “If you taste the wine yourself, you can make a more satisfying pairing,” says Errin Leach of Dashe Cellars.
Dashe Cellars 510-452-1800 | dashecellars.com
JC Cellars 510-465-5900 | jccellars.com


Timeless Traditional
Home owners are turning towards the beauty of natural wood and the organic, handcrafted forms found in classic furniture. The perfect example is the sculptural Sawbuck Chair by Hans Wegner, with 1960s era lines. It’s available exclusively at Room & Board.
Room & Board 415-252-9280 | roomandboard.com


Classic Marble
Marble is hot because of its natural beauty and soft finish. Popular options at Pietra Fina, Inc. include Calacatta Oro and Calacatta Oro Franchi, both classic white marbles with grey veins. Also popular are colored stones, such as: Blue Louise, Black Beauty, and White and Gold.
Pietra Fina, Inc. 510-670-1010 | Pietrafina.com

Accessories provided by Wine Country Party & Events (p. 173 & 178), winecountryparty.com; Christofle (p. 174), christofle.com; Crate & Barrel (p. 176), crateandbarrel.com; and Aldea (p. 174), aldeahome.com