For Tristan Gary, founder of Tristan Gary Designs, designing #AreWeThereYet was all about reimagining the familiar. Every space holds a sense of discovery, with unexpected details at every turn. We sat down with Tristan to hear more about her design philosophy and how Walker Zanger helped bring her vision to life. Continue reading to explore the project, including photography by Seattle Interior and Architecture photographer, Kara Mercer.
Q: What was the overall inspiration behind the design of this project?
Tristan: My overall inspiration for #AreWeThereYet was to create unexpected moments within every space. I aimed to elevate the familiar and introduce elements of surprise, encouraging people to see things differently.
Q: What is your favorite part of this project? What space are you most proud of?
Tristan: Please don’t tell the other rooms, but I think it’s a tie between the laundry room and the speakeasy! The layers of design in both spaces make me smile just thinking about them. The wallpapered ceiling in the laundry room pairs perfectly with the hand-painted tile—there’s something so European about the space that feels both lived-in and loved.
The Walker Zanger Influence
Q: Can you explain the design and technical choice for featuring Geometric Lilac Fluted tile for the fireplace?
Tristan: There was never a question—this was the tile for the fireplace! I knew I wanted something unique and elevated, and the Geometric Lilac Fluted tile delivered exactly that. The fluted texture adds such a distinctive character to the space. It’s just perfect!
Q: What inspired your choice of Walker Zanger’s Gubi collection on the wine wall in the living room and the primary bathroom?
Tristan: Walker Zanger’s Gubi collection felt incredibly calming and captured that spa-like vibe we all strive for in bathrooms. The matte finish is neutral but far from boring—it brings a subtle sophistication to the space. I knew the Gubi light print wall tiles would interact beautifully with the lighting, adding just the right amount of visual interest as the backdrop for the glass-enclosed wine display in the living room.
“For the primary bathroom, I wanted to layer textures and warmth without overpowering the stunning views. Gubi was the perfect choice to create a serene, inviting mood that complements rather than competes with the natural surroundings.“
Tristan Gary on choosing
Gubi Light Print tiles
Q: What drew you to Walker Zanger’s Duquesa Alexandra Ambra Deco for the laundry room wall?
Tristan: There was never a question. I used Duquesa Fatima in a project a few years ago, and there was something so warm and magical about it that stuck with me. I knew Duquesa Alexandra Ambra Deco was the only tile I wanted for this laundry room.
“The hand-painted colors are perfect, and the subtle imperfections of the handmade tiles brought exactly the vibe I was looking for in this European-inspired space. Honestly, the room wouldn’t have worked without it!“
Tristan Gary on choosing Duquesa Alexandra Ambra Deco tiles
Q: Texture plays a significant role in surface design – could you elaborate on your philosophy for incorporating texture into your designs?
Tristan: Texture is everything in my designs. I always aim to layer textures thoughtfully to add visual interest and intentionality. It’s a powerful way to make a space feel curated and elevated, bringing depth and warmth without creating visual chaos.
Q: Overall, how was your experience using Walker Zanger surfaces?
Tristan: My experience using Walker Zanger surfaces was incredible. Their materials brought an elevated sense of detail and intentionality to the project that truly shines through in every tiled space. The craftsmanship, texture, and unique finishes added depth and character, transforming each room into something special. You can feel the difference—the quality is undeniable and it really ties everything together.
Every element of #AreWeThereYet reflects Tristan Gary’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries and crafting spaces that leave lasting impressions. Ready to explore the possibilities for your own space? Visit a Walker Zanger showroom to get started.
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