Latest from Livingetc in Tiles

Kitchen 'Tile Rugs' Are the Elevated Design Trick That Gives Small Spaces a Charming Focal Point

Maya Glantz — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 05:30:00 +0000

Nothing pulls a room together quite like a rug. It's the little touch of softness that every space needs — something to add a bit of color, texture, and pattern, injecting a sense of life into what could otherwise be a flat, hard space. And now, with this trend, we've found a way to bring this personality into one of the rooms that needs it most - your kitchen.

A functionality-first space, it's easy for kitchens to quickly become dominated by cooler, harder materials, making the need for color and softness all the more important. However, with all the water, oil, and other spillages that your kitchen flooring withstands, a beautiful kitchen rug may not be the best option. Which is exactly why these 'tile rugs' provide such a genius solution. With all the color, personality, and intrigue of a traditional rug, but with far more durability and permanence, this is the perfect way to inject some more life into your kitchen design. Whether you opt for a small patch or a larger design, these tiled features offer a way to bring some definition to your floor plan, especially useful in open-plan spaces.

It's a kitchen tile trend that's beginning to gain some traction, gradually popping up in more and more design projects, and we expect that it won't be long before it really takes over. So, this is what the experts think about this unique flooring style, so you can get ahead of the curve.

What Are 'Tile Rugs'?

"The checkerboard pattern in an unexpected color combination creates a really fun and memorable design moment," says Jamie. (Image credit: Fireclay Tiles)

As the name suggests, tile rugs refer to a specific style of floor tiling, in which a small patch of floor is laid with tiles, often of a patterned variety, while the rest of the surrounding floor is finished in an alternate material, creating the effect of a tiled rug lying across your flooring. And while this kitchen flooring trend may feel distinctly new, like many interior design trends, it draws on the styles of centuries past.

This is, in many ways, particularly unsurprising for a trend that revolves around the use of tiles within the home. The use of decorative tiles dates back as far as the third millennium, and the material was frequently used to embellish tombs and pyramids in ancient Egypt. These previous uses lay the groundwork for the current 'tile rug' trend we're seeing today.

As Otto Tiles founder, Damla Turgut explains, "Tile rugs draw on a long tradition of decorative flooring, from mosaic courtyards to hand-laid cement tile schemes, where a change in pattern or color was used to define a particular area within a larger room."

Over the years, we've seen these historical tile styles taking on new forms, reinterpreted with new, modern approaches, taking on a whole new life, like the unswept floor trend, and now the same is happening again with these tile rugs.

"The inspiration came from wanting to modernize a very classic design concept," notes Jamie Chappell, VP at Fireclay Tile. "While we love traditional tile rugs, you don’t often see them utilized in a modern way, but they can be incredibly cool and relevant."

In the past, tile rugs would often be used in bathrooms or for patio flooring, offering a way to bring more decorative flair to these spaces. However, these were typically done in a relatively traditional style, in contrast to the striking finishes we're seeing today.

When Should You Use This Design Feature?

A tile rug can bring some more design flair to an otherwise simple room. (Image credit: Blakes London )

The reason this flooring trend is so effective is that it's not just decorative; it's functional, too.

If there's one thing that has defined how we design our homes over the past few decades, it's the rise in open-plan living. Above all else, people value a sense of openness and flow in their homes, choosing a free-flowing floor plan over a clearly defined layout. And though this style certainly has its merits, it is not without its downfalls. Chief among these problems is the lack of distinction in open-plan living. Without structural separation, it's easy for all your rooms to blend into one another, which is exactly why tile rugs are so perfect.

"A tile rug can subtly delineate and zone different functions within a space, whether that's anchoring a dining area, framing a kitchen island, or creating a sense of arrival in a hallway," explains Damla. It offers a way to zone the space, while also adding design appeal. "It's a practical design tool, but it also creates moments of decoration and surprise within a scheme and also allows you to introduce a layer of detail and craftsmanship that might otherwise be lost within a larger expanse of flooring."

This is particularly useful around rooms that play a more functional role, like the kitchen. "A tile rug naturally delineates the kitchen workspace, making it feel like its own distinct room," explains Jamie. "This is especially helpful in open floor plans or smaller footprints like an apartment."

Much like with a traditional rug, this tiling style is a great way to bring color and texture into your design without it feeling overwhelming. "A tile rug allows you to create visual impact without committing to a fully patterned or colorful floor," says Damla.

It means you can stick with the neutral kitchen colors you love, while also introducing some intrigue and character to your space.

How to Get the Look

Combine different tiles to create a bordered effect. (Image credit: Tom Kurek. Design: JT GRUPA )

Which leads us on to the fun part... how to recreate the look at home.

Arguably, the most important step, the tiles you choose will be the key to success with this design. The color, tile shape, and pattern you select will all form the overall feeling of your kitchen, and, unfortunately, not all tiles are created equal.

For the best results, Damla says, "Tiles with strong color, pattern, or geometric detail tend to work the best here, as the design relies on creating a clear visual distinction from the surrounding floor."

In terms of materials, you'll want to find a durable finish with a strong slip resistance, too. For a design like this, Damla says, "Cement tiles are a natural choice because they offer rich saturated color and intricate pattern possibilities, while mosaics can be used to create more bespoke borders and layouts. The most successful designs tend to have a clear frame or border, which helps reinforce the effect of a traditional rug."

For a more detailed finish, Jamie agrees, "Smaller tile formats really make this look pop. Going with mosaic flooring tiles allows you to pack a lot of graphic punch into a defined footprint, and patterns like a tight checkerboard or daisy hexagons give you enough repeating pieces to establish a clear design without running out of room." And she also adds, "A slip-resistant matte finish is also important to keep it safe underfoot."

In terms of positioning, the best advice is to treat it as you would a normal rug. Find a way to anchor the 'rug' in your space, connecting it to heavier design elements, like your island.

As Damla suggests, "Position furniture so it relates to the tiled area rather than floating independently within the room. In kitchens, a tile rug can work beautifully beneath an island, while in dining spaces, it can help center a table and chairs. The surrounding finishes should complement rather than compete with the feature area, allowing the tile rug to become the focal point."

The beauty of this design is that it will become a natural statement feature, allowing the rest of your kitchen to remain relatively simple, while still making an impact. "It’s all about balance," says Jamie. "Because a tile rug introduces a lot of pattern and personality underfoot, I recommend keeping the rest of your finishes fairly minimalist."

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Ca’Pietra Nebula Spring Bloom Green & Pink Matt Porcelain Indoor Floor & Wall Tile

With shades of green and pink, these lovely tiles bring a sweet, subdued warmth into your kitchen.

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Ca’Pietra Willesden Nautical Blue & Brown Matt Porcelain Indoor Floor & Wall Tile

Or, for a bolder look, these tiles combine denim blue, charcoal black, and a bright white detailing for a neutral yet striking finish.

Amara Curry - Slim Line

Play up the textural element and opt for a terrazzo tile, like these. The geometric pattern and combination of materials make these a particularly stylish choice.

For even more intriguing tile designs, this year's latest kitchen tile trends will give you all the inspiration you need.

And for more design ideas for your kitchen and beyond, why not subscribe to our newsletter, and all the latest will be delivered directly to your inbox.

8 Kitchen Tile Trends for 2026 That Perfectly Balance Form and Function — From Contemporary Twists on the Classics to Unexpected Applications

Maya Glantz — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

The success of your kitchen all comes down to the careful balance between practicality and visual appeal. It's the classic battle between form and function, and no aspect straddles the two quite like your kitchen tiles.

Whether on the floor, the wall, or the counters, your kitchen tiles bring color, texture, and style into your space. But they can also dictate the functionality of your space, too. And, as trends shift, so does what we look for in tiles. So far, this year's interiors have been defined by a greater desire for a more lived-in, characterful look in our homes. Gone are the days of minimalist sterility; today's kitchen trends center on adding as much texture, warmth, and personality as possible, and this is just as clear in the tiles we choose as it is elsewhere in the home.

I asked the experts for the kitchen tile trends they predict will be taking over this year, and their answers did not disappoint. The only problem is knowing which one to choose.

1. Checkerboard, With a Twist

Diamond-format tiles bring a more playful feel than the classic checkerboard finish. (Image credit: Claybrook)

Checkerboard tiles are hardly anything new; they're a style rooted in antiquity, with a timeless appeal that persists today. However, what we're seeing pop up is a slight twist on the classic, literally.

As well as the classic square configuration, Rob Whitaker from Claybrook, notes an increased interest in diamond layouts. "Where the tiles are rotated by 45°, so the squares appear as diamonds instead of upright squares."

This variation feels slightly more contemporary than the classic checkerboard finish, while still maintaining that timeless feel. "The tilted tiles to form a diamond shape add an extra element of thoughtful design, as part of a redecoration project to ring the changes," says Rob.

It's also a great way to incorporate the mixed marble trend into your kitchen, combining various types of marble to create an even more eye-catching design, or for an even more striking look, try include it as a kitchen tile rug.

2. Human Touch

Opting for textured, imperfect tiles allows you to build up depth and texture, without having to bring in lots of different colors. (Image credit: Lisa Staton Design)

"Across kitchen design this year, we are seeing a clear shift towards what we would describe as perfectly imperfect craftsmanship, where tiles carry the quiet signatures of the hand that made them," says Grazzie Wilson from Ca'Pietra.

In response to the boom in AI, people are increasingly keen to seek out materials and designs that feel distinctly human, and artisan-made tiles are a perfect example. And with all the different shades available, you can easily make them work with one of the year's kitchen tile color trends.

Materials like Zellige tiles, which Katerina Tchevytchalova, director of K’Arte Design, explains are "Traditionally made in Morocco using natural clay, creating slight tonal differences and irregular edges that give kitchens a softer, more artisanal feel," are becoming far more popular this year.

Unlike mass-produced, factory-made tile, these materials are full of character and imperfections. "There’s something special about the variation, texture, and imperfections that come with artisan tile," explains Lidia Valdivia from Moonstone Design +Build. It's a way of bringing more texture and life into your kitchen.

“What is so compelling about this direction is the way it introduces a more human quality into the kitchen, which has traditionally been one of the most engineered rooms in the home," says Grazzie. "These tiles soften that feeling without losing sophistication, offering texture, movement, and nuance that shift gently with the light throughout the day."

3. The Sky Is the Limit

A white, Zellige tile wall is the perfect way to add visual interest in a neutral kitchen. (Image credit: Ibrahim Ozbunar, Erdem Hamza, Otto Tiles)

Whoever said less is more had clearly never seen this tile trend. Why keep your tiles limited to your kitchen backsplash when you can extend them across the whole wall?

For Damla Turgut, founder and creative director of Otto Tiles, floor-to-ceiling tiling has been one of the standout trends for this year. "It creates a much more immersive space and, whether you’re using a neutral, plain Zellige tile or something more bold and expressive, it just feels more considered," she says.

An extension of the tile-drenching trend, this striking look turns your kitchen from a place of practicality to a design highlight. As Damla explains, "It also shifts the focus away from the more functional elements like ovens and hobs, so the space feels more elevated and, ultimately, more aesthetic."

4. Calm Cohesion

This trend is particularly well-suited to natural materials rich in movement, like travertine. (Image credit: Subtle Stories. Gudbjorg Simonsen)

"I see a clear shift from traditional tiles toward larger, more continuous surfaces — such as custom-cut stone slabs or large-format tiles with minimal joints," comments interior architect, Gudbjørg Simonsen.

As charming as small-format tiles can be, for those who value minimalist interior design, the uneven texture and exposed grout lines can be off-putting. Instead, people are opting for larger slab tiles, creating a more seamless, cohesive finish.

"While tiles remain relevant, the emphasis is moving toward reducing grout lines and creating a more seamless, architectural expression," says Gudbjørg, "This reflects a broader desire for calm, cohesive spaces where materials feel more integrated rather than applied."

Working with larger tiles allows the natural material to come into the foreground, so you can fully appreciate the beauty of the stone, rather than it being obstructed by lines and joins.

5. Unexpected Moments

A tiled kitchen island is a true highlight feature in any home. (Image credit: Bo Abode London, Otto Tiles)

One of the most exciting trends revolves less around a specific type of tile, but how we use them more broadly. While tiles were once solely reserved for kitchen flooring, or for a backsplash, recently, we're seeing a rise in people applying tiles in more unexpected places.

From tiled kitchen islands, to decorative windowsill trims, people are finding ways to use this material as a decorative feature, as opposed to a solely functional one. "It takes those more functional areas and adds a layer of decoration, bringing in a bit more personality and a sense of fun," argues Damla.

This more open-minded approach to the material is reflective of a wider shift in design. As Damla says, "I think what all of these trends show is that we’re being a bit more experimental with kitchens, which is great. And they also prove that you don’t have to go straight to a bold pattern or a strong color to achieve that. You can do all of this with plains and neutrals, and the effect still feels quite fresh and considered."

6. Mix-and-Match With Textures

"I opted for full dimension, using Tilebar's ColorPlay Inflex tile in emerald green across the whole backsplash of my monochromatic kitchen project. I then added the fluted tile, which had the same finish to the island front," says Crystal (Image credit: Will Ellis, Silverwing Interiors)

One of the more intriguing trends we've noticed popping up this year is the rise in textural contrast tile combinations.

As Crystal Maki from Silverwing Interiors explains, "Many tile manufacturers are creating lines that allow mixing and matching patterns, such as combining a fluted or curvy pattern with a flat tile on a backsplash."

While in the past, mix-and-match tiles have been saved for bold, colorful kitchens, this take on the trend allows you to build dimension and texture in the home while sticking with a more neutral kitchen color scheme. In white kitchens, which can often end up feeling slightly flat, a design like this can add depth while maintaining that bright, airy look.

7. Statement Flooring

Terrazzo tiles are a sustainable, striking material to use for your kitchen flooring. (Image credit: Megan Taylor, Brooke Copp Barton, Otto Tiles)

Finally, it's not just the walls that get to have all the fun anymore, as Damla notes, "Statement tiled flooring in a kitchen is definitely having a renaissance which I’m here for."

For many years, kitchen flooring was a space where people were particularly resistant to experimentation, opting instead to play it safe with a simple stone or wooden floor finish. However, more recently, there's been a rise in more playful, intriguing flooring designs.

This doesn't have to be super out-there and bold, either. "We’re seeing softer and more tonal checkerboards within kitchens, which are playful and fun and a great way of just dipping your toe into pattern," says Damla.

"Terrazzo is also back in a big way for kitchens," she adds, "and using terrazzo to create a checkerboard (or on its own in an unexpected color) is another way to introduce color and pattern without it feeling overwhelming. A floor can really ground and transform the feel of a kitchen, but it’s a decision that’s made too late, when actually it should be shaping the room from the very beginning."

diy

Ca’Pietra Casamar Forest Gloss Zellige Embossed Ceramic Indoor Wall tile - 20 x 20 cm

Victorian Plumbing

Stonehouse Studio Farhill Coloured Flecks Terrazzo Effect Wall & Floor Tiles - 60.8 x 60.8 cm

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Mineral White Matt Pietra Santa Marble effect Embossed Stone - 120 x 60 cm

As much as the latest trends are wonderful for inspiring our kitchen design, it is still important that what you choose will be something you will still be happy with in several years to come; with that in mind, these are the three kitchen tile colors to avoid if you want your space to be timeless and stylish, according to experts.

And for more design ideas and advice, subscribe to our newsletter, and it'll land straight in your inbox.

Where to Shop for Tiles — The 10 Luxury Tile Shops You Shouldn't Start Your Renovation Without Knowing About

Lara Sargent — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

As an interiors journalist, I’ve been writing about tiles for years. And I have to say, the incredible selection of wall and floor tiles available in 2026 is beyond exciting.

Because today’s tiles are no longer a design afterthought — they are often the main feature in our kitchens and bathrooms. From the striped bathroom tile trend to classic checkerboard floors, today’s wall and floor tiles elevate your home into a beautifully unique space. But where to start with such a vast array of tile colors, materials, shapes, and patterns?

There are 10 tile shops that I come back to time and time again — and for good reason. My go-to tile brands offer superb quality in terms of tile style and material. They are also at the forefront of tile design, launching exciting new collections to whet our creative appetites.

But they fixate on quality materials that stand the test of time too so you’ll love your tiles for years not just today.

So if you’re on the hunt for new tiles, for kitchens, bathrooms, a fireplace or hallways, don’t do anything before you read my list of the best 10 tile shops in the business.

Mandarin Stone

Jude gloss ceramic tiles from Mandarin Stone. (Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

British brand Mandarin Stone can do no wrong in my eyes. The one-stop tiling destination is packed with natural stones, colourful ceramics and man-made porcelains for every tiling project and budget. Yes, the family-run brand has led the way as tile experts for more than 35 years, and it shows.

Want a glossy ceramic? Mandarin is there with a gorgeous colour palette, interesting textures (ridged, rippled or delicate relief) and multiple sizes to suit your space. And special mention goes to the Hoxton toffee coloured gloss porcelain tiles with a cool geo relief pattern. Stunning.

There are tiles for the garden too. We love Mandarin’s new tumbled limestone and sandstone cobbles for a warm, lived-in outdoor space. But equally we’re big fans of the tough, outdoor porcelains that look like stone, wood, concrete or terrazzo, which are simple to install and maintain.

Bert & May

Marigold Maze tile by Bert & May. (Image credit: Bert & May)

I’ve always been a huge fan of Bert & May’s gorgeous designs, but especially since interviewing founder Lee Thornley about his stylish home, decorated with the brand’s beautiful cement tiles.

Yes, Bert & May has done something special in the tile world ever since it launched over 10 years ago. With a deep love of traditional craftsmanship, the brand has captured the sun-soaked mood of the Med and translated it into velvet-smooth, cement tiles for every modern home. Its chunky encaustic tiles in geometric stars, stripes, and circles are unmistakable. As is the glorious, sunbaked palette of pistachio, ochre, apricot, cornflower blue, and rose.

These are not just tiles. These are tiles that create a lifestyle. And don’t just take Livingetc’s word for it, as high-profile celebs (including Jamie Oliver, Pearl Lowe and Sienna Miller) are lining up to get a slice of the Bert & May look.

It’s not just cement tiles that Bert & May specialises in. You’ll find pretty crackle glazed tiles in the Rediscovered collection, handmade Moroccan Bejmat clay tiles with a raw, artisan finish as well as reclaimed terracotta floor tiles and speckly retro terrazzo. There’s an option to create your own bespoke tiles too for the ultimate personalized space.

Ca’ Pietra

Marlborough terracotta floor tiles from Ca' Pietra. (Image credit: Ca' Pietra)

I’m fully obsessed with family-owned, British brand Ca’ Pietra – and you will be too.

The range of artisanal tiles is beautifully made and long-lasting, be it the best-selling Marlborough Terracotta or the new Stone Glaze ceramic tiles in 17 delicious shades (from deep Cola and Menthol to neutral Chalkstone and Linen).

Ca’ Pietra have collab’ed with some of the best too. Think paving stones endorsed by the RHS, botanical print tiles inspired by the National Trust, and the vibrant Aventuras tiles from textile designer Zoe Glencross.

But it is the latest collab with wallpaper brand Divine Savages that has stolen my heart. Decorated in vintage florals and retro lovebird motifs, these vibrant tiles create the most stunning visual statement I can’t get enough of.

So whether you want checkerboard marble, patterned porcelain, or gently textured ceramic inspired by Moroccan Bejmat tiles, you will definitely find it all at Ca’ Pietra.

And did I mention bespoke? If you’ve got the budget, Ca Pietra offers custom-cut stones and luxe materials tailored to your individual look.

Quorn Stone

Pastello cotton gloss metro tiles from Quorn Stone. (Image credit: Quorn Stone)

Quorn Stone is a one-stop shop for natural stones, porcelain, and ceramic tiles. The family-run business, founded in 1995, started out importing hand-painted terracotta tiles from Spain. And today the brand has nine UK showrooms, dedicated to timeless, classic tiles. They are all about longevity over novelty and want your tiles to feel as beautiful in 10 years’ time as they do the day you bought them.

That’s not to say these are tiles without personality – far from it. And Quorn Stone are champions of soothing nature-led colour palettes and considered patterns. Think striking stripes using its Pastello Pistachio gloss metro tiles or for a touch of Mediterranean cool back home, the new Marisol Amalia decorative tiles.

Then there are herringbone tumbled limestones and monochrome marbles for heritage tiles for modern-day living.

And we’re a teeny bit in love with the Carrara Rosa marble-effect porcelain tiles for classic luxe with a twist.

Florim

Lady Hamilton Vaniglia by Florim. (Image credit: Florim)

For a cool, architectural look, Florim’s porcelain surfaces are a Livingetc hidden secret. Founded in 1962, the heritage Italian brand offers a huge range of porcelain surfaces focusing on quality, innovation, and sustainability.

These are porcelain tiles and slabs used as seriously cool design tools. Think classic stone, marble, and wood effect tiles for a slick contemporary mood. Or concrete effect porcelain tiles for hit of industrial charm (without all the installation hassle).

For something a little different, Florim’s metal-effect, reflective tiles in bronze, carbon, titanium, and gold add just the right note of understated glam to your home.

But perhaps it is the fabric-look tiles in florals, linen, and damasks that have won me over. Like textiles and wallpaper in pretty patterns and joyful colors, but in hardwearing porcelain.

Fired Earth

Nina Campbell Cochin Tile by Fired Earth. (Image credit: Fired Earth)

I’ve been writing about tiles for a very, very long time and Fired Earth’s beautiful tiles have continued to wow for very good reason.

The British brand started life in the early 80s by selling terracotta floor tiles. More than forty years later, the heritage brand is applauded for its timeless, characterful tiles that deliver a lived-in look using quality materials.

From classic glazed tiles to pretty marble mosaics and Victorian-style relief patterns, discover a treasure trove of tiles to transform walls, floors, fireplaces and splashbacks at Fired Earth.

You’ll find a colour, pattern and material to suit your project and your budget – whether you want a real limestone or a more purse-friendly porcelain lookalike.

The brand has also collaborated with leading interior designers and like-minded brands over the years for some pretty special tile collections. Try Kelly Hoppen’s Perfect Neutrals range if you love the designer’s signature pared-back look or elegant patterned tiles inspired by Nina Campbell’s fabric and wallpaper designs.

Otto Tiles & Design

Echoes ceramic tiles by Otto Tiles. (Image credit: Otto Tiles)

If you’ve fallen in love with Zellige and Bejmat tiles, you can probably thank Otto Tiles & Design for bringing them to the UK.

In fact, Otto is an industry-leading tile studio with a UK HQ and a cornucopia of tiles that are off-the-scale gorgeous. It’s not just authentic Moroccan tiles Otto sells but terrazzo, ceramic, mosaic, and marble — all with a bold approach to color and unexpected pattern.

Founded by Damla Turgut in 2015 (who designs and curates everything herself) Otto is probably best known for its colorful striped tiles as well as its authentic Moroccan tiles.

But it is perhaps Otto’s latest Kismet collection of handcrafted tiles that sums up the brand. These beautiful encaustic cement tiles pay homage to traditional craftsmanship, women, and Turkish heritage. Think striking tiles in speckled pink circles, abstract patterns in rich mustard and deep navy blue, and walnut tiles with a cool pictorial vibe.

Claybrook

Cornucopia Rose tiles from Claybrook Studio. (Image credit: Claybrook Studio)

Since opening its doors in 2018, Claybrook Studio has been a fabulous source of stunning yet affordable tiles.

I love how the brand sources pretty yet practical tiles to reinvigorate any style of kitchen and bathroom. Take the Zellige-style Tan-Tan and Fellini tiles in glossy ceramic. You get all the visual appeal of a handmade tile but in a hardwearing material that’s easier to install and maintain, and more cost-effective to boot.

Claybrook also designs its own tiles. You’ll find gorgeous plains such as the Med-influenced Bungalow 22 tiles in pool blue, mottled dusty pink, and lawn green - which come in slim, square, and rectangular formats to suit every project.

But there are patterned tiles too, including the fabulous Discotheque collection in geometrics, florals, and Moorish patterns. And the terrazzo-style Cornucopia is made from hard-wearing porcelain.

Iris Ceramica

Terrapura Pura Tiles from Iris FMG, part of the Iris Ceramica group. (Image credit: Iris Ceramica)

I don’t like to gatekeep, and Iris Ceramica is one of those innovative tile brands that I'm itching to share with you. Specializing in super stylish and super clever ceramics, the Italian brand takes surfaces to the next level. These are hi-tech products that will revolutionize your home — not just how it looks but how it functions.

Take the Hypertouch range, for example. The ceramic surfaces are equipped with hidden technology, so with just a touch, you can turn on your lighting, switch on music, or control windows. Clever right?

Its Active Surfaces are self-cleaning, antibacterial, and anti-pollution, while the Moonlight translucent slabs are backlit with LED for a cozy, gentle glow.

You’ll find all these really cool ceramic surfaces at the ICG Gallery in the Clerkenwell district in London. The space is packed with all the brand’s inspiring surfaces, mood boards, and user experiences so you can see and try out all the ceramic magic for yourself.

Lapicida

(Image credit: Lapicida)

For a wealth of luxury natural stones and antique reclaimed flooring, Lapicida in Harrogate is a tile emporium not to be missed.

As well as reclaimed English sandstones and French terracotta, to name but a few, the Harrogate-based brand also sells porcelain floor tiles and vibrant mural-style ceramics.

Lapicida is all about top-notch craftsmanship. Its traditional artisans and stonemasons design custom walls and floors to elevate your home to an extra-special level.

The brand has also partnered with English Heritage to create an exclusive collection of real limestone floors.

Now you know where to head for the best tile retailers, how about bathroom lighting? Lighting your bathroom is far more challenging than choosing lights and lamps for other rooms in the house. Bathroom lights need to be IP-rated so they can work safely in a room that’s bombarded with splashes, condensation, and steam.

After all, water and electricity are not a good combination — that’s why beautiful bathroom lighting should definitely not be left to the last minute. But help is at hand. We’ve written a definitive guide to the best bathroom lighting shops to transform your eau zone, safely and stylishly.

5 Rooms With Mosaic Floors That Have Convinced Me, Without a Doubt, That This Is the Most Incredible Idea for Flooring in 2026

Kiera Buckley-Jones — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

For centuries — millennia, even — decorative tiles have been a cornerstone of design, and few styles possess the timeless charm of mosaics. Dating back to Roman times, they pack a powerful sense of history, and done right, they're a powerful contemporary design tool, capable of adding texture, depth, and character to any space.

Yes, mosaics have had minor style blips over the years — see their questionable use in the 1990s and early 2000s — but decorating with tiles like these now is all about pushing boundaries. Mosaics are being used in fresh, exciting ways: zoning open-plan spaces, adding texture to walls, and bringing architectural interest to plainer properties.

These tiny tiles are proving their versatility as an interior design trend. Read on for five imaginative design ideas bringing contemporary mosaics to floors (and, in some cases, walls) in ways you'd never expect.

1. The Look, Recreated

In Amy Lee McArdle's kitchen design, a hand-pieced mosaic look was recreated with a sheet tile. (Image credit: Abigail Mair. Design: Amy Young Designs)

Some of the most exciting mosaic floor designs have a Renaissance period quality — sprawling, ornate frescoes which are undoubtedly a labor of love, but potentially not within reach for the everyday homeowner who doesn't have a master mosaicist on their trades team.

However, in this kitchen design for Palm Beach's Kips Bay Showhouse, designer Amy Lee McArdle used Artistic Tiles Artifact collection — a design that has all the sense of a hand-crafted mosaic, with a base of small white tiles swirling around shards of jewel-like colored shapes inspired by traditional Roman styles, but made ready-made on an interlocking sheet. It's an easier way to get a faithful recreation of this flooring trend.

2. Play Areas

The mosaic tiles cleverly define spaces without eating into any of it. (Image credit: Lucas Madani for Hauvette Madani)

In open-plan living spaces, mosaics can help to create distinct zones without the need for wall divides. Change up the colors and pattern formations on the floor to act as a signpost for the different functions of each area, like in this project by Parisian interior design studio Hauvette & Madani.

"The mosaics in this house are not original: they were custom-made for the occasion, in collaboration with mosaic artist Pierre Mesguich," explain Samantha Hauvette and Lucas Madani, of the design studio. "They add a timeless and refined dimension, and their beauty contrasts with the more contemporary elements of the house. This dialogue between tradition and modernity is what fascinates us: the marble mosaic floors evoke classic Venetian craftsmanship, while the more contemporary lines and modern materials of the interior design create a subtle and elegant balance."

3. Stroke of Genius

Get experimental with shapes, formation and color for a statement-making design that never ages. (Image credit: Michael Sinclair. Design: Scott Maddux)

If you can't quite picture embracing the Roman aesthetic as a bathroom tile trend, bear in mind that this isn't the only era that speaks to the mosaic floor. In this bathroom, created by designers Scott Maddux and Jo LeGleud under their partnership Maddux Creative, the large-scale mosaic was inspired by artist Jean Cocteau and gives the space a glamorous Art Deco feel.

4. Modern Interpretations

Small, hand-cut tiles aren't the only way to embrace the mosaic look. (Image credit: Anson Smart. Design: Yasmine Saleh Ghoniem)

While you might think of this kind of mosaic in the sense of small, irregular, hand-cut tiles, there are ways to embrace the sensibilities while using a more standard, off-the-shelf tile idea — just take this example from Sydney studio YSG’s aptly named Checkmate project. Expressive checkered tiles are used throughout the kitchen, creating wildly colorful patterns that help demarcate the room and give it a sense of rhythm.

"When you look closely, within the pixelations, there are three distinct 'rugs' incorporated in the design," says Yasmine Ghoniem, founder of YSG Studio.

5. Optical Illusion

This kitchen flooring idea is a creative way to trick the eye and add interest to your space. (Image credit: Ramona Balaban for Bisazza)

Create an impression of larger tiles with a creative arrangement of minuscule square kitchen floor tiles.

The interlocking loop pattern is the key to this optical illusion in this scheme by mosaic tile brand Bisazza; it’s confidently presented with a palette of three boldly contrasting colors, which in turn bring together the materials found in the kitchen: the cabinetry, surface, and wall color.

Stylish Mosaic Tiles to Shop

Ca'Pietra

Athens Mint Marble Mosaic

Delicate but statement-making, these marble mosaic tiles from Ca'Pietra also come in three other stunning colorways.

Fired Earth

Copenhagen Kit Kat White Mosaic

Available in three colorways, the Copenhagen Kit Kat mosaic tiles are made from porcelain with a reactive-style glaze and are easy to install and maintain.

Bert & May

Rose Pink Hexagon Mosaic Marble

Elevate any space with these smooth, textural marble mosaic tiles with a matte finish as a refined way to introduce pattern.

For more imaginative ways to use tiles, this 'sampler' marble floor idea is like the grown-up version of 'pick'n'mix' for your bathroom.

And, if you sign up for Livingetc's newsletter, all the latest and greatest in design ideas will land straight in your inbox.

3 Kitchen Tile Colors Experts Say You Should Avoid If You Want Your Space to Be Timeless and Stylish

Maya Glantz — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:30:00 +0000

As Livingetc's resident kitchen expert, I spend a lot of time looking at kitchens — and if there's one thing I never grow bored of, it's beautiful kitchen tiles. However, not all tiles are created equal, and according to experts, there are a few choice colors that should be avoided at all costs.

You see, your kitchen tiles aren't just an aesthetic choice; they are a functional one too. So, although that creamy white tile may look beautiful in the showroom, chances are, it will cause you a major headache when installed in your home. And good tiles don't come cheap, either, so this isn't the type of mistake you want to be making when renovating your kitchen.

Luckily, our experts share the three kitchen colors we should avoid for our tiles, along with their favorite alternatives.

1. Bright Whites

DO INSTEAD: "What we are seeing instead is a strong shift towards warmer, more grounded colors that sit comfortably alongside timber cabinetry, natural stone, and painted finishes. Terracotta-inspired tones, soft taupes, mustards, and richer browns have become increasingly popular because they bring depth and warmth without overwhelming the space, allowing the kitchen to feel welcoming and lived-in rather than overly polished," says Lesley. (Image credit: Malissa Mabey. Design: Susannah Holmberg)

While white kitchens were once the fail-safe go-to, over the kitchen tile color trends of recent years, we've seen a huge shift away from the bright sterility of this style. And it's not just white kitchen cabinets and appliances that the experts are avoiding; the same goes for kitchen tiles, too.

While the crisp, clean finish of a white tile may be appealing at first, over time, that clean look can quickly become suffocating. As Lesley Taylor, founder of Baked Tiles, explains, "Colors that feel too stark or overly uniform can sometimes be the most difficult to live with in a kitchen." She goes on to note that "very bright whites" may look great under showroom lighting, but once they enter your kitchen, they can feel rather soulless and one-dimensional.

This lack of depth doesn't just come from the color, but the material, too. "Some colors struggle in a kitchen not because of the shade itself, but because of how flat the surface presenting that color is," comments Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca' Pietra.

When you're working with a glazed ceramic tile or a similar finish, this can end up intensifying the harsh effects of a white tile, even more so under the harsh glare of artificial kitchen lighting. Grazzie explains, "Without variation in the surface, the color can appear almost static under kitchen lighting, which often makes the space feel cooler or more rigid than intended."

Beyond the visual, white tiles, especially when used as a backsplash, are particularly ill-suited to the inevitable messes that occur in the kitchen. "Kitchens are hardworking spaces where cooking, cleaning, and movement all happen at once," says Lesley, "so finishes that feel slightly softer in tone tend to perform better over time while still looking fresh."

Baked Tiles

1860 Dapple Terracotta

Size: 15 x 15 cm

Material: Porcelain

Victorian Plumbing

Lowton Gloss Beige Wall Tiles

Size: 5 x 25 cm

Material: Porcelain Gloss

Victorian Plumbing

Rustic Beige Stone Effect Wall & Floor Tiles

Size: 20 x 20 cm

Material: Ceramic

2. Pale Neutrals

DO INSTEAD: "In kitchens in particular, cola has a natural authority because it carries warmth without feeling sugary or nostalgic, and it offers depth that works hard in a space that is used constantly throughout the day," says Grazzie. (Image credit: Ca' Pietra)

Now, this one may come as a shock, seeing as soft, warm neutral colors have been the designer's go-to for the past few years. But this is precisely why experts are now recommending looking elsewhere when choosing your kitchen tile color.

"Warm neutrals paved the way for a softer, more comforting approach to interiors, but we are now seeing that appetite mature into something deeper and more expressive," explains Grazzie.

In our move away from stark, cool tones, colors like griege, and other light, sandy neutrals have become far more popular. And while these colors do offer a softer look, they fail to provide the depth and warmth we're now prioritizing in our homes.

This is reflected in wider kitchen material trends, beyond tiles. Dark wood kitchens, with warm natural materials, have become far more desirable. But when these materials are paired with light, neutral tiles, they can create too harsh a contrast, flattening the richness of the wood. Opting for a deeper tile, instead, creates a more cohesive finish.

"Timber cabinetry, especially walnut and oak, feels richer against it; honed stone and composite worktops gain definition; aged or brushed metals appear warmer and more cohesive." Instead of creating contrast, warm, dark tiles act as a "grounding backdrop", naturally complementing the natural tones of your kitchen worktops and flooring.

Darker tiles are also harder-wearing and more durable than their lighter counterparts, making for a more low-maintenance kitchen. "Deeper brown tones are forgiving in high-traffic cooking areas, where splashes and daily wear are inevitable, and they soften the visual impact of open shelving, utensils, and appliances," says Grazzie.

"When used across a splashback or a full run of wall, the color creates a cocooning effect that still feels sophisticated, particularly when the surface has subtle movement or variation that stops the tone from appearing flat."

Ca' Pietra

Stone Glaze Ceramic Cola Gloss Brick

Size: 5 x 20 cm

Material: Stone Glazed Ceramic

Victorian Plumbing

Victoria Metro Bevelled Gloss Maroon Tiles

Size: 20 x 10 cm

Material: Ceramic

Otto Tiles

Mulberry Zellige

Size: 10 x 10 cm

Material: Handmade Zellige

3. Bright, Saturated Colors

INSTEAD: For a softer, more timeless look, opt for natural stone tiles. (Image credit: Austin Leis, Ome Dezin)

"Similarly, highly saturated colors can occasionally dominate a scheme if they are not carefully balanced with the rest of the room," shares Lesley.

While a thoughtfully designed, bright, colorful kitchen can certainly bring some more life and excitement to your home, they aren't always the easiest to live with, and they're likely to date more quickly than a more neutral kitchen color would.

Choosing a brightly colored tile may also present issues with how it pairs with your wider kitchen design. As Lesley explains, "In many kitchens today, cabinetry, worktops and flooring lean towards warmer, natural materials, so very bold or synthetic-looking tones can feel slightly at odds with that direction."

These colors are typically only found in synthetic materials, which can also work against this more natural, soft kitchen trend.

Baked Tiles

Bordeaux Marble

Size: 60 x 120 cm

Material: Marble-Look Porcelain

Mandarin Stone

Rosso Di Scacchi Tumbled Marble Tiles

Size: 30.5 x 30.5 cm

Material: Tumbled Rosso Di Scacchi Marble

Ca' Pietra

Ravenna Marble Honed Cabochon

Size: 10 x 10 cm

Material: Honed Marble

Now that you know the colors the experts recommend avoiding, you might also be interested to know the unlikely kitchen color combinations that experts agree work so well.

And if you care about staying on top of all the biggest trends in design, why not subscribe to our newsletter, too?

I Spotted This Incredible 'Sampler' Marble Floor Idea — It's Like a New Take on Checkerboard Floors That's So Full of Personality

Maya Glantz — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

The hardest part of any design project is having to commit to just one of anything — whether that be your wall color, your countertop material, or your bathroom stone — having to choose the one you'll be sticking with, and say goodbye to all those other gorgeous options brings its own mini heartbreak, every time. And while I haven't yet found a total fix for this problem, I think I've found at least a partial solution, and it comes in the form of a bathroom tile.

Starel Stone's Arabescato Mix Marble Window Mosaic Tiles, to be exact. You don't have to commit to just one stone; you get to enjoy them all — a patchwork mosaic of different marble finishes, each one as striking as the next; it's like the grown-up version of a pick'n'mix, and a far more stylish version, at that.

Whether used on your bathroom floors or as a kitchen backsplash, I can't get the image of this gorgeous cacophony of marble out of my mind, and I've found some equally delightful alternatives to shop, as well.

Styling these tiles is a breeze; they'll look perfect with any manner of materials and finishes. (Image credit: Starel Stones)

At once strikingly contemporary, yet simultaneously reminiscent of traditional designs, these tiles would make for a timeless touch in a modern bathroom.

Borrowing from time-tested traditions, Starel Stone's Marion Lane explains that the design was "inspired by classic marble inlay and window motifs, reworked into a contemporary mosaic."

The simple pattern sees a warm, earthy color palette of marbles framed by a milky white marble outline, allowing each individual square to make an impact, while also ensuring the overall design feels balanced.

At the center are squares of Arabescato Viola, Amazon, and Calacatta Gold, all using offcuts of larger tiles, making them a more sustainable material choice for your bathroom design. This combination of stones, each with its own unique veining and colorway, invites a greater freedom in your design process, allowing you to experiment with different colors for a marble bathroom that's far from standard.

"It works beautifully in bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways and is slip-resistant, pairing particularly well with oak furniture and natural materials, while coordinating easily with other tiles or finishes," explains Marion.

Starel Stones

Arabescato Mix Marble Window Mosaic Tiles

The ultimate mix-and-match design, these gorgeous tiles use mixed marble offcuts to create a type of bathroom tile that isn't just strikingly beautiful, but is sustainable, too. Calacatta marble frames the varied Arabescato marble squares for a checkerboard tile with a twist.

Stylish Alternatives

Claybrook

East Haven Basket Weave Mosaic

If you prefer a simpler, neutral finish, these basketweave tiles bring plenty of interest and texture to a white bathroom. The monochromatic materials keep it neutral, while the woven effect makes it anything but boring.

Victorian Plumbing

Nova Stone Mosaic Tile Sheet

For a more rustic effect, these lovely stone tiles have a rough, textured surface, ideal for a farmhouse bathroom-look, while the warm, terracotta tones keep it feeling thoroughly on-trend.

Otto Tiles

Magic Rectangles

Otto Tiles never ceases to excite with its selection of tiles. The magic rectangle tile uses five of the best Italian marbles in a mix-and-match design that invites you to get creative with its configuration, creating your own, unique pattern for your bathroom flooring.

Porcelain Superstore

Muse Decor Tile

If you love the look of marble, but are put off by the material's sensitive nature, these porcelain tiles are the perfect option for you. The ultra-realistic tile finish maintains the luxurious appeal of marble, with the added benefit of porcelain's supreme durability.

capietra

East Village Porcelain Quadrant Mosaic Oro

Another super convincing marble-look porcelain tile, this New York-inspired design has an optical illusion-like quality to it, thanks to the tile shape's unique use of color and depth.

Starel Stones

Mix Marble Window Mosaic Tiles

With the same concept as the original Starel Stone tile, this one uses a more colorful selection of stones, so it's great if you're looking for something with a slightly more playful look.

When bathroom floors can so often be rather bland, this lovely mosaic design shows us exactly how easy it is to bring a little bit of personality into your space — I'm hoping to see much more of mixing stones in interiors going forward.

7 Bathroom Tile Trends I Think You’ll See in the Most Exciting Projects This Year

Lara Sargent — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Bathroom tile trends are fast becoming the most exciting design tool you’ll use in your home. Because we’re not just decorating our bathrooms for functionality these days. Instead, we want a personality-packed eau zone that reflects our aesthetic and becomes a space to relax, recharge, and energize.

“We are seeing a clear shift towards bathrooms being designed with a sense of theater, where the room is conceived as a setting rather than a purely functional space,” says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra. “Tiles are central to this way of thinking because they establish the visual framework of the room, controlling what is seen first and how

“What I’m seeing across projects is a clear move away from cold, overly polished finishes,” adds luxury interior designer Sarah Ferreira. “Warmer tile tones such as stone, muted green, and clay create bathrooms that feel calm, welcoming, and timeless.”

So if you’re on the hunt for bathroom tiles for your project, we’ve got the lowdown on what tiles are hot in bathroom trends for 2026.

1. Imperfect Surfaces

Reach for clay, terracotta and cement bathroom tiles with uneven surfaces. (Image credit: Dean Hearne. Design: Dalrymple Studio.)

In recent years, the bathroom has evolved into a spa sanctuary, a space to relax and disconnect from our busy, digital-fuelled lives.

And with the switch from functionality to wellbeing, bathroom tiles are ditching smooth, uniform textures and celebrating imperfect finishes and uneven surfaces, say the experts. The result is a bathroom that feels calm, grounded, and full of depth.

“For 2026, the most exciting shift in bathroom tiles is a move towards imperfection,” says interior designer Kunal Trehan, founder of Touched Interiors. “Handmade-effect ceramics, soft, uneven zellige bathroom tiles, and tiles with visible glaze variation are replacing anything overly polished or uniform. The appeal lies in their individuality, creating depth, movement, and a more human feel.”

And this works whether you choose to tile drench every surface for an immersive mood or tile one area of your bathroom, like the shower or floor.

“Surfaces inspired by the earth, from weathered stone to layered clay and mineral textures, reveal their beauty through subtle imperfections and irregular finishes,” says María D Arráez, director of Tile of Spain UK. “These are tiles that invite touch as much as sight – surfaces that don’t just decorate a room, but add a sense of time, craft, and connection to nature.”

2. Hand Glazed Tiles

Soft glazed bathroom tiles catch the light. (Image credit: Malcolm Menzies @ 82mm Photography. Design: The Vawdrey House)

Matte tiles have ruled our design feeds for a while now, but glazed bathroom tiles are back for 2026. Forget mirror-like shine and high gloss, though. This year’s glazed bathroom tiles are all about hand finishes with subtle variation and surface movement that responds to light and water.

“Matte tiles have dominated bathrooms for several years,” explains Grazzie of Ca’ Pietra, “because they aligned neatly with the rise of spa-like, muted interiors and a desire for calm, uniform surfaces.

“This hasn’t disappeared, but glazed tiles are being reintroduced with renewed confidence because designers are looking for ways to add warmth, depth, and visual interest without relying on busy decoration. Even quiet colors feel engaging, and deeper tones feel grounded rather than heavy.”

That’s not to say this signals the death knell for matte bathroom tiles — far from it. Simply, that hand glazed tiles fit in with the wider bathroom tile trend for imperfect surfaces.

So look out for glazed and matte tiles increasingly being used together to create contrast, warmth, and a gorgeous artisan look for your spa bathroom.

3. Intentional Stripes

Striped bathroom tiles visually lengthen your space. (Image credit: Otto Tiles / HoK Living)

If stripes and geometric tiles inched their way into our bathrooms in 2025, then 2026 is all about embracing pattern – but intentionally.

“Pattern is no longer a supporting act,” declares Joanne Sangster, senior design consultant at Ripples London. “Checkerboards, stripes, and graphic layouts are being used unapologetically on both walls and floors, injecting personality and movement and turning bathrooms into expressive, design-led spaces rather than purely functional rooms.”

The key is to use bold tile patterns to shape a space rather than simply chucking on a load of motif or geometric tiles and hoping for the best.

“We’re seeing stripes created through directional layouts rather than through tile pattern,” says Damla Turgut, founder and creative director at Otto Tiles. “Linear tiles laid vertically can exaggerate height and make small bathrooms feel more generous, while horizontal layouts help stretch narrow spaces.”

Stacked and linear mosaics used like paneling is another pattern laying trick that adds a subtle graphic look to walls.

4. Small, Theatrical Moments

Statement tiles can be used on a small scale for impact. (Image credit: Prospect Refuge )

Tile drenching is still big news for bathrooms. But there’s another less-is-more trend that designers are all over for 2026, and this one uses bold, characterful bathroom tiles sparingly.

“Jewel-like finishes, handmade textures and zellige-style tiles are being introduced in small, impactful moments within niches, behind basins or framed within shower recesses,” says Sophie Chapman, associate and interior designer at The Vawdrey House, “then balanced with more restrained, affordable tiles elsewhere. This approach allows bathrooms to feel luxurious and expressive without being overwhelming or costly.”

Joanne at Ripples agrees: “Many homeowners are choosing calm, neutral bathrooms and then adding one standout feature to create impact. Often, that’s a contrasting marble used to frame an architectural detail, like an arch or niche. It feels more decorative — almost like artwork — and helps turn a practical space into something special.”

5. Tonal Checkerboards

Swap monochrome checkerboard tiles for earthier tones . (Image credit: West One Bathroom)

Checkerboard floors and walls are re-emerging in bathrooms for 2026, but in a much more nuanced way, say the experts.

“Checkerboard tiles are enjoying a softer revival, with gentle tonal contrasts such as gray, cream, and sand replacing stark black and white, making them feel more relaxed and design-conscious,” says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

“There’s also a move toward smaller checks with a more graphic, almost retro feel,” adds Damla at Otto Tiles. “And it’s great to see people experimenting with handmade tiles to create a plaid or check.”

6. Rich, earthy palettes

Dig deep and choose richly colored bathroom tiles. (Image credit: Pablo Viega. Carter Williamson Architects)

Deep green, sunbaked terracotta and rich plum colored tiles are emerging as the new neutrals, say the experts. The result is warm, inviting and quietly sophisticated – bathrooms with soul and style.

“There’s a growing confidence in bolder color palettes, from deep forest greens and inky blues to clay tones and earthy reds,” says Caroline Milns, head of interior design at Zulufish.

Designers are using richer hues in two ways: as head-to-toe tile drenching for a relaxed feel. Or as accent colors to highlight alcoves, doorways and arches. And they pair effortlessly with natural materials such as timber and stone.

“It’s about designing with intention and where every tile contributes to a sense of peace,” adds Isabel Fernandez, director of Quorn Stone. “Research continues to show that natural materials and soft palettes can reduce stress and improve mood.”

7. Opulent onyx

Add a little lustre with onyx bathroom tiles. (Image credit: Fired Earth)

We’re not saying goodbye to marble bathroom tiles for sure. But there’s a new stone on the block for 2026, and that’s onyx and onyx-effect porcelain tiles.

“Onyx brings a quietly luxurious edge to interiors, offering a depth and drama that creates a true statement,” says Carly Allison, head of brand and product at Fired Earth. “With its rich veining and natural translucency, we love the way that onyx interacts with light, creating a soft, almost sculptural glow. And rather than replacing classic marbles, onyx-effect tiles expand the palette, introducing ivory, green and amber tones.”

“The look is unapologetically indulgent yet refined, bringing together the ornamental and the modern in perfect balance,” adds Maria of Tile of Spain UK. “This is contemporary opulence for immersive, atmospheric interiors that exude confidence and creativity.”

Tiles are an exciting way to add so much style and personality to your bathroom, and that’s both wall and flooring trends. So if you’re starting your bathroom reno, it’s a great idea to get some samples and see what the tiles look like in your space – rather than from a photo. I’d recommend getting hold of a full-size tile, as often the free samples are just a section of the tile, and you won’t get a complete picture of the tile pattern or scale.

Seek advice too on what type of tiles work best for bathroom walls and floors — sometimes you can use the same tile, sometimes not, depending on the material. Above all else, look at the rest of your home and decide if you want your bathroom to fit in with the overall aesthetic. Or do you fancy going bold and adventurous?

Interior Designers Are Using Tiles in This Small Way to Elevate a Home's Thresholds — And It's Even a Weekend Project You Could Do Yourself

Luke Arthur Wells — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +0000

Tiling might seem like a big project — such as a bathroom or kitchen renovation — however, there are smaller ways to use tile in a design that are, actually, relatively easy to achieve, but bring the sense of intentionality that comes with a material like ceramic, porcelain, or stone that just doesn’t come from knocking something up out of a sheet of MDF in quite the same way.

My favorite tile trend at the moment? Tiled borders. Small interventions of checkerboard tiles are utilized brilliantly to highlight something unexpected and bring a sense of whimsy to the design of a space.

It’s a surprisingly versatile idea, too, as this gallery of designers who have brought this detail into their projects goes to prove.

1. Decorate an Arched Doorway

Adding a tiled border to this arched doorway transforms the space. (Image credit: KL Design)

For this dressing room, originally divided by a structural wall, designer Natalie Proctor of KL Design created an opening to connect the two spaces, decorating the arch with a chequered pattern of Zellige tiles. "The trick is to use tiles small enough to be able to easily create the curve," Natalie explains, "and then plaster the walls on either side to create a seamless finish."

Ca'Pietra

Maroc Porcelain Khaki

2. Border an Island, or Banquette

Have leftover tiles? Why not jazz up your kitchen island or banquette seating area with a tiled border. (Image credit: Charlotte Lea)

The renovation of this surf-meets-Mexico second home in the Pacific Northwest of America required interior designer Abbie Naber to match an existing travertine floor throughout the lower ground. To add some fun to the flooring, the designer used a border tile, which she also used to "border the island and the face of the banquette with the extra tile we had accrued," she explains.

Baked Tiles

Marrakesh Brick Clay Red Gloss 5cm X 15cm

3. Add It to the Skirting

Make your kitchen cabinets pop with an alternating skirting tile. (Image credit: Martin Siegner)

A kitchen’s kickboards aren’t often seen as an opportunity for design innovation, but designer Georgia Gregory, director of Frankly Interior Design, brought a new dimension to the cabinetry with a clever alternating skirting tile. "We wanted to create small design moments throughout the home that didn’t necessarily follow convention but still felt cohesive and thoughtful," she says.

Amber Zellige - 10cm X 10cm X 1.2cm

4. Frame a Doorway

Make a design moment of a doorway by framing it in a tiled border. (Image credit: Przestrzenie Fotografia)

The tiled border framing the pocket doors that conceal the bedroom from the living space in this apartment in a tenement building in Łódź, Poland, was inspired by the original tiles found in the bathroom. "The double sliding doors and tile surround are new but designed in a modernist style to enhance the building's character and also to emphasize the entrance to the bedroom," explains architect Joanna Fabjańska, of Luva Architecture.

Claybrook

Kromatic Eclipse

5. Choose an Unexpected Tile Material

Use a tiled border to emphasize height and to provide contrast. (Image credit: Maree Homer)

Once a square, low door opening, this newly formed archway has been highlighted by an unusual material choice. "Clad in tumbled stone chequerboard tiles which reference the adjacent kitchen backsplash, the new opening accentuates the thickness of the double brick walls and increases the sense of height and natural light throughout," says its interior designer Kate Nixon.

Fired Earth

Medina Raw Square Handmade Moroccan Zellige Tile

Feeling inspired? These are the eight types of tile shapes to know for your next tiling project.

This Kitchen's 'Tetris' Backsplash Has Become My New Favorite Tiling Idea for Quiet Pattern

Maya Glantz — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

It can be tricky to find the right balance between a space that feels timeless and welcoming, but also visually interesting. You want your modern kitchen to be a space that your family can gather in, comfortable enough to act out their daily life in without fear of breaking or damaging anything, while also being a space you'd feel proud to host your friends in.

These two things can feel almost contradictory at times. But Jennifer Sucher, from Sucher Studios, seems to have figured out the formula. In her Belle Avenue project, Jennifer designed a kitchen that feels simultaneously simplistic and welcoming, while also being full of surprising and intriguing design flourishes.

At the heart of this design is the carefully selected color palette, full of the warm, earthy tones found in the natural world. "At Sucher Studios, color is always at the heart of how we transform a space," explains Jennifer. "We love using unexpected palettes, sculptural shapes, and unique materials to give a room its own personality."

The Brief

Warm, soft tones keep the space feeling welcoming and natural. (Image credit: Sarah Crowley. Jennifer Sucher of Sucher Studios)

"The main inspiration was creating a home that could speak for itself," explains Jennifer. A space that felt natural, free-flowing, and welcoming, where hosting was just as intuitive as family dinners. To achieve this, an open-plan kitchen layout was key

The other main requirement was thoughtful, effortlessly stylish design choices. "The client wanted the kitchen to feel finished, expressive, and ready for anything. Even on the most casual day, she wanted the space to feel dressed and intentional," says Jennifer.

Bold, geometric-shaped furniture and subtly intriguing design elements, including the mesmerizing Tetris tiling, both work to emphasize this sense of intentional, yet effortless styling. Instead of relying on kitchen accessories and finishing touches that can often require constant care and upkeep, make your permanent features the accessories, so no matter what, your kitchen always looks ready to go.

To ensure these modern kitchen flourishes didn't look overly stylized, Jennifer prioritized natural materials and soft, earthy color palettes. "We looked to earth and nature for inspiration," she says, "using clay, grass, wood, and sky tones to build a palette that feels warm, timeless, and quietly confident."

The Materials

"The goal was for the kitchen to feel inviting and lived in while still feeling styled and ready for entertaining," says Jennifer. (Image credit: Sarah Crowley. Jennifer Sucher of Sucher Studios)

In looking towards nature for inspiration, the materials used in the final design stand as an obvious reflection of this approach. Every surface exudes the soft kitchen aesthetic, with plenty of warmth and texture appearing throughout the space.

While kitchens can often be dominated by sharp lines and cold, hard materials, as seen in the popular stainless steel kitchens that have dominated over recent years, this project was intentionally designed in opposition to this trend, instead choosing to prioritize warmth and texture.

To achieve this, Jennifer says, "We used plaster for the sculptural hood, handmade terracotta tile for the backsplash, painted cabinetry, and walnut hardware and wood surfaces."

Dominating the central wall of the room, the plaster oven hood transforms into an object of pure functionality into a highlight of the room. "The plaster adds softness and organic shape," Jennifer says. This, combined with the terracotta tiles and the wooden kitchen island, creates an atmosphere of unpretentious elegance. "The tile brings in craft and movement, and the wood tones ground the palette," she says, "Together, these materials create a space that feels both elevated and comfortable."

In choosing the materials and the colors of this space, Jennifer maintained one ultimate goal - creating a warm, welcoming room. "The soft pink walls, olive green cabinetry, and terracotta tile wrap the space in warmth, while the deeper tones and textures make it feel layered and finished rather than flat," she says.

The Design

Beautiful, candy colored glass tiles bring a sense of playfulness and fun to this kitchen. (Image credit: Sarah Crowley. Jennifer Sucher of Sucher Studios)

The secret to success in this design is the balance between simplicity and surprising flourishes. The Tetris-style kitchen backsplash tiling is just one example of this - a simple material laid out in an intriguing, uncommon way.

But an even better example of this, perhaps, is the modern stained glass door separating the kitchen from the front of the house from the distinct kitchen zone.

"The stained glass door was designed as a bridge between two very different color stories in the home," explains Jennifer. "The front of the house and the back of the house have dramatically different palettes, and this door allows them to speak to each other in a thoughtful way."

Finding surfaces that allow some sense of transparency, while still providing partial shielding and separation, can be tricky, but stained glass is the perfect solution. It brings a sense of personality, and history with it, as well as an obvious injection of color and light. Positioning the material somewhere in which natural light can flow through it, flooding the room with the tinted tones of the stained glass makes it a particularly effective and beautiful addition.

"We knew from the beginning that we wanted to incorporate stained glass somewhere in the project, and this became the perfect place for it," she explains. Every part of this addition was carefully considered. "We had the door handmade out of metal and custom-selected every piece of glass, carefully choosing each color so it would connect both spaces while still feeling like its own moment of art," says Jennifer.

And this level of customization was not limited to just the visual aspect of the door, but was also applied to the general functionality of the feature, too. "We also changed the door swing so that when it is open, light from the back of the house can pour through, making the glass glow and bringing warmth and movement into the transition between rooms."

Terracotta Trapezoid Zellige

SIZE: 30 x 30 cm

These terracotta tiles may not have the exact same puzzle slot, Tetris-style design as seen in this project, but they achieve a similar effect.

AM.PM

Calendes Solid Mango Wood Side Table

The cool, stacked, geometric bar stools bring a striking sculptural quality to this room, and this side table offers the same look. Plus, it can be used across you entire home, not just your kitchen.

HAY

Hay Compass Pendant Lamp

The HAY Compass Pendant lights bring another layer of geometric design to this space, while the burnt orange tone adds warmth, and depth to the space.

There's a touch of the Scandinavian kitchen design aesthetic to this project, and it's part of what makes the room feel so natural and inviting.

Okay, This Is Definitely Going to Be the Big Trend in Kitchen Backsplashes for 2026 — These Super-Personal, Custom Delft Tiles Are the Coolest Way to Bring Personality to Your Space

Maya Glantz — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0000

So much of designing your home revolves around the idea of bringing as much of yourself into it as possible. We want our space to feel like a true reflection of us, of our identity, our style, and our experiences. But finding a way to do this that feels elevated and stylish can often be a bit of a struggle. Unless, that is, you use custom Delft tiles.

A modern take on a classic style, the signature blue and white painted tiles are given a new lease on life with this highly personalized and uniquely beautiful type of tile, and they make for a particularly striking kitchen backsplash idea.

But, as Adam Davies from the custom Delft tile brand, Not Quite Past, explains, "Since the Dutch started making them in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, Delftware has always been about reflecting the world all around us in blue and white, like ships, animals, and tiny scenes."

Simultaneously, a reference to a long-established element of design history and a deeply personal, meaningful design feature, there's something very special about this trend, and our experts agree.

Why We Love Custom Delft Tiles

References to family pets, or sentimental locations add a new layer of significance to your kitchen design. (Image credit: Not Quite Past)

Drawing on the hundred-year-old Dutch artistic tradition of Delft tiles as a means of reflecting the outside world, this trend is, in many ways, not new at all.

However, the approach to them we're seeing at the moment still feels unmistakably modern in essence. As Adam explains, "Our Delft tiles update that idea for our own times. Instead of a generic windmill, you get your dog, your house, your kids’ favorite toy, all looking like they’ve somehow slipped back to the seventeenth century."

Interior design trends and the home are inherently personal realms, and the idea of a custom type of tile is just another way to emphasize this sense of personal identity within your space. "Having a design created for you — be it a beloved pet, favourite view or something as mundane as your trusty wellies, means the tile comes from lived experience that’s as individual as you are," comments Julia from Decorum Tiles, "It's like having a dream or a memory turned into a tiny little art work, just for you."

Another aspect of the custom Delft tile that makes it feel so special is the way it harks back to the past, referencing and acknowledging a vast history of design that came before us. This, coupled with the hands-on, deeply involved process of actually creating your own custom design, comes together to make the perfect antidote to the trend-led, fast-fashion-type approach to interior design that is becoming all too common.

"Delft was first created in the 16th-century Netherlands, so it’s a style and craft that is centuries old," says Julia. "So many things these days just feel ephemeral and trend-led, but Delft has a heritage that stands the test of time."

How to Choose Your Design

The intricacy and detail behind custom tiles is exactly what makes them so special, and appealing. (Image credit: Decorum Tiles)

The whole beauty of the custom Delft tile is that the power is completely within your own hands; your tiles can depict any scene or image that feels particularly important or relevant to you. But if this wealth of choice feels overwhelming, it might be helpful to understand the kitchen tile trends others are adopting in their homes.

By far the most popular design, referenced by both Adam and Julia, is, perhaps unsurprisingly, that of the family pet. Adam says, "Pets are number one, with lots of slightly smug dogs and cats." A far more subtle (and in my opinion, vastly more chic) take on the animal portrait, this type of design is a lovely way to honor a family pet, immortalizing them within the heart of the home.

Another very popular design, not dissimilar to what you'd find on traditional Delft tiles, is a view or landscape of personal significance.

But while these may initially appear to be in line with traditional designs, as Adam says, on closer inspection, they have a deeper, more personal meaning. "Quite often, people ask for something that looks traditional at first glance, then you realise it’s secretly very specific to them. One customer of ours actually mixed tiles of sailing ships and nuclear submarines in a very imaginative way."

Thinking of places and images that particularly resonate with you, or moments in time that you wish to remember, can be helpful things to consider before tiling your kitchen backsplash.

How to Design a Kitchen With Custom Delft Tiles

"The painted tiles can add charm, an element of story, or a bit of magic to the room in the house where everyday materials go through alchemical transformations," says Ethan. (Image credit: Tina Tyrell. Design: Ethan Pomerance Architecture)

As appealing as this style of tiles is, it can be slightly intimidating to know how to incorporate them into your kitchen layout, ensuring that they receive the attention they deserve, without making the room feel overwhelming or cluttered.

To mitigate this, Adam says, "We often suggest mixing 'special' tiles in with simpler ones so the wall doesn’t feel too busy." One way of achieving this is using them "as a panel behind the hob or range as the main feature, a small run behind the sink with family scenes, or just a few personalised tiles scattered through a larger splashback."

One helpful thing about these tiles is just how durable they are, despite their delicate appearance. "They’re fired ceramic tiles, so they can go anywhere you’d usually put tile. They wipe clean and handle heat just fine," says Adam.

This durability offers you a certain freedom in how you choose to use them within your kitchen. "Some clients use their tiles as a neat little sink backsplash, others as whole feature walls," says Julia. "We’d recommend really thinking about their overall design scheme and how everything will sit together once it's finished."

Combining custom, patterned tiles with plain tiles for a checkerboard tile pattern can be a particularly charming finish. Or, for something more bold, "you could do a Delft-style tile mural with the decoration covering a large section of tiles," suggests Julia.

In terms of materials, Adam suggests pairing these tiles with "Anything with warmth and a bit of texture: stone kitchen worktops, brass or copper fittings, and real timber." Or, he counters, "On the other hand, in a sleek, modern kitchen, you can keep everything else simple and let the Delft be the one romantic detail that brings a touch of history to an otherwise contemporary space."

Ethan Pomerance, from EPA Architecture, explains how these tiles can bring some much-needed personality into one-tone, neutral kitchens. He says, "I think they can be used effectively as an accent backsplash to provide to mono colored cabinets that don’t tend to have as much variety in their color and texture."

What Kitchen Style Do Custom Delft Tiles Look Best in?

Don't limit Delft tiles solely to splashbacks; they also look gorgeous in other applications, like on this tiled extraction hood. (Image credit: Matthew Williams. Studio DB)

"Delft Blue is used frequently in country, cottage-style kitchens, often combined with white or off-white tiles, like the traditional Dutch 'witjes'," shares Chanta, from StoryTiles.

However, just because this is the most typical setting for Delft tiles, this is not to say they cannot look just as effective in more industrial kitchens, with more modern design sensibilities.

As Julia explains, "Yes, they are super classic and look gorgeous in a traditional, cottage-core style, cozy kitchen. But they also look really fresh in more modern settings - they can lend an unexpected twist to a simple, sleek design with a pop of royal blue and a personal story within a pared-back design."

In modern kitchens, Delft tiles bring a sense of juxtaposition, offering a softer kitchen finish, preventing the space from feeling too cold or sterile.

"We've seen our tiles gorgeously used in everything from medieval merchants' houses in Norfolk to new-builds in Utah," says Adam.

Shop Tiles to Pair Custom Delft Tiles With

Victorian Plumbing

Color Cascade White Gloss Wall Tiles

Size: 15 x 15 cm

Material: Ceramic

Price per tile: £0.3

Otto Tiles

Dark Blue Zellige

Size: 10 x 10 cm

Material: Moroccan Zellige

Price per tile: £1.28

Original Style

Country Delft Beatrix

Size: 13 x 13 cm

Material: Ceramic

Price per tile: £2.7

If you love the idea behind this style, you may want to have a look through this Toronto home with 19 types of tiles used throughout. Also, we reckon you'll be a fan of Gwyneth Paltrow's kitchen tiles. And if it's good enough for GOOP...

Obsessed — This Dutch Brand's 'Blurry' Tiles Are Trending in Interiors, and I'm Totally Inspired by All These Clever Ways to Design With Them

Maya Glantz — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0000

I spend a lot of time looking at tiles — a lot. And after a while, they can all start to feel a bit similar. A zellige here, a bejmat there. Beautiful, but likely been done before. So when something new comes on the scene, I pay attention. And let me tell you, Palet has certainly made me pay attention.

I started noticing these tiles pop up a few months ago, as a splashback in a striking kitchen, or adorning the wall of a particularly cool bathroom — it's hard not to take notice of these tiles. Where most tile trends feel like an interpretation of something that's been around forever, Palet's tiles feel truly new. The designs are unique, eye-catching, and most importantly, completely gorgeous.

As the brand's managing partner, Niels Monsieurs, explains, "Every Palet tile is made to order," so the resulting design is not just unique, it's genuinely one of a kind. And while each one contains its own subtle complexities and intricacies, the common thread running through them all is the enchanting sense of movement they manage to capture.

"We’re inspired by systems rather than motifs: repetition, rhythm, and imperfection, Niels says. "The goal isn’t decoration, but creating surfaces that feel intentional and timeless."

And although this tile brand is based out of the Netherlands, as ever, the UK has begun to take note, and more of these tiles are finding their way into more UK design projects. So, I've decided to collate a few of my very favorite ways I've seen them used so far, to inspire your renovation projects.

1. Sanded Steel Spaceship

Palet tiles bring depth and complexity to all-white rooms. (Image credit: Martin Neve. Force Majeure. Palet Tiles)

In this small, white cube room, the rain print wall tiles bring much-needed movement, dimension, and most crucially, excitement to the space. Designed by Copenhagen-based studio Force Majeure, the tiles are kept within the small kitchen niche, allowing the alcove to recede in space against the white walls surrounding it.

The ridged tiles with blurred fragments of darkness move across the light gray surface to create a rippling effect, which, in the black-and-white colorway, creates an image akin to TV static, giving this design a nostalgic quality.

Paired with sanded steel cabinetry, this space has a futuristic, almost space-age feel. Although it could arguably be described as an industrial design, something about the soft texture of the steel and the artistic quality of the tiles makes this description feel like a simplification of the space.

2. Fire and Water

Lit from within and framed by the orange doorway, the fire-colored tiles appear like a portal to another world. Jang Mi. one-aftr. Palet tiles

In this otherwise minimalist bathroom, the Palet tiles take centre stage. Jang Mi. One-aftr. Palet tiles

Framed by the doorway, poppy red tiles, splattered with peach tones, flicker like flames as the backdrop for this minimalist bathroom design.

Found in Sokcho-Si, South Korea, the aptly named Orange House features various flashes of this neon tone throughout, but this tiled bathroom wall is an undeniable standout. Framed by an equally punchy orange doorframe, the tiles glow as if on fire against the surrounding concrete walls.

A modern bathroom like no other, here, the marble print tiles wrap around a soaking tub, and coat the back wall, providing the sole use of color within the space.

3. A Caramel Drizzled Splashback

Swirling patterns stand out even more effectively on the warm, cream backdrop. Peter Vinther, Holte, Palet Tiles

Chrome accessories emphasize the cool, industrial edge in this kitchen. Peter Vinther. Holte. Palet Tiles

In the London showroom of Danish brand Fredericia, you'll find this beautiful tiled kitchen splashback, with swirling lines of warm-toned browns dancing across the white background. Softening the stainless steel kitchen worktop and reflecting the natural sense of movement found in the oak cabinets, this HOLTE design expertly exploits the magical nature of these tiles.

Explaining her love for Palet, Fiona Ginnett from HOLTE says, "Their endless customization options provide our design-savvy clients with the ideal opportunity to create something unique that ties with their scheme."

The illusion of fluidity and movement created by these tiles really comes to life when paired with these materials.

4. Pixelated Perching

(Image credit: Jules Fucon. Uchronia. Palet Tiles )

In this Korean cafe found in Paris' 10th Arrondissement, Palet tiles are used in various ways across the space, but the sleek tiled bar has to be my favorite.

At Cafe Shin, design group Uchronia used the dream-like navy and pink tiles on the façade of the shop, in a tile-drenched cubby area, as well as on the tiled bar and shelf area.

The blue and pink color combination has an enchanting, blurry, pixelated effect, like bright lights against a dark road on a rainy evening. The tiles form a core pillar of the cafe's design style, helping to create this modern avant-garde look that draws customers in from the Parisian streets and transports them to a futuristic reimagining of a Seoul cafe.

5. Oil Spill Kitchen Island

The color-shifting tiles are the focal point in this space, where the open shelving blends into the white walls behind. (Image credit: Frank Stabel. Voud. Palet Tiles)

Tasked with creating a tile that would flatter the existing marble detailing in the home, the team at Palet used a blend of oxidised glazes in this Antwerp home. The result is a subtle, shifting surface, with deep blue in some lights, and emerald green in others.

These subtle tonal shifts create the illusion of life within the tiles, changing and evolving as you move through the space.

Instead of using the tiles as a small feature, the designer opted to design a tiled kitchen island and a tiled run of cabinetry, too, allowing them to become the central feature in the room.

Shop the Look

Sage

Sage the Barista Express™ Impress Luxe Coffee Machine

In the HOLTE kitchen, chrome accessories elevate the look, which is the perfect excuse to take the plunge on this luxe coffee machine.

Ferm Living

Haze Wall Cabinet

This ridged glass and chrome cabinet would look perfect in the sanded steel studio kitchen. The corrugated glass surface reflects the texture of the tiles, for a surprising visual link.

Ligne Roset

Togo Medium Settee

Something about a Togo sofa and a palet tile just feels right, and we love the idea of making like the Orange House and matching the colors of your tiles and sofa.

Looking for some more cool, surprising tiles? These ultra realistic tile finishes look amazing, and your guests will never be able to tell whether they're real or not.

Wait, I've Not Heard of 'Pattern Splicing' Before — Experts Talk Through The Tiling Trend Taking Over the Most Stylish Homes Right Now

Maya Glantz — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

As a design writer who focuses on kitchens and bathrooms, I'm basically permanently on the hunt for new trends, and I've noticed a shift when it comes to tiles. While we used to value the newest, most striking finishes, we seem to be increasingly interested in finding more personalized, sentimental designs, and no tile trend encapsulates this better than pattern splicing.

This approach, where patterned, motif tiles are used in conjunction with simple, plain tiles, feeds into the modern desire for more imperfect, human-led design elements within the home. Damla Turgut, from Otto Tiles, explains, "There’s been a shift away from uniform, highly controlled interiors towards spaces that feel more layered, organic, eclectic and personal. Pattern splicing reflects this, offering a way to introduce character and individuality without relying on color or heavy pattern."

Pattern splicing allows you to bring more character and personality into your home, without it feeling jumbled or overwhelming, and we reckon you'll be seeing much more of it in 2026.

What Is Pattern Splicing?

"It is about allowing pattern to appear in flashes, almost like punctuation within a space, which gives interiors a sense of personality and narrative without visual overload," says Grazzie Wilson. (Image credit: Annie Sloan)

Starting with the obvious — what exactly is pattern splicing? Simply put, pattern splicing is the decorative technique of pairing patterned, motif tiles with simpler, colored tiles, creating a checkerboard print of types.

However, although Delft-style, motif-decorated tiles are the most commonly used in pattern splicing, this style can be applied to a whole array of tile types. As Damla says, "This could be something visually obvious like a geometric design or floral motif, interspersed by plain tiles, or playing with layering — a herringbone, basketweave, or stepladder formation of plains interspersed by a contrasting material in the same format from, let's say, a marble or terrazzo."

It's a wonderful way to subtly inject an extra boost of character into your home. "Pattern splicing is a more expressive way of working with decorative tiles, where patterned motifs are deliberately mixed in among plain field tiles to create a layered, collected effect rather than a uniform surface," explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

Patterned tiles, while charming, can often feel slightly intimidating to work with. A full wall of pattern can look overwhelming, and not to mention, expensive to pull off. Pattern splicing allows you to put your special tiles front and centre, without giving your guests a headache.

"Instead of committing to a full wall of pattern, decorative tiles are used as accents, scattered rhythmically or grouped around key moments, so the overall scheme feels curated over time rather than overly coordinated," says Grazzie.

There's a natural nonchalance to this style; it looks homely and welcoming, like something you'd find in a charming countryside cottage.

We're beginning to choose our tiles not just based on their visual appeal, but their sentimental value, too. (Image credit: Ca' Pietra)

As refreshing as this trend may be, it hasn't come from nowhere. Personalized Delft tiles and other more individualized design elements have become increasingly popular recently — as the latest kitchen trends and beyond prove — reflecting a general desire for more lived-in personality and character.

"The rise of pattern splicing reflects a wider shift in interiors away from perfection and symmetry towards homes that feel more personal and lived-in," explains Grazzie.

"After years of pared-back neutrals and uninterrupted surfaces, there is a growing appetite for warmth, nostalgia, and individuality. Pattern splicing answers that desire because it allows homeowners to introduce decorative detail in a way that feels instinctive rather than dominant," says Grazzie.

It also aligns with the resurged interest in the arts and crafts design movement, with a greater focus being placed on British heritage designs.

Where to Use Pattern Splicing

Pattern splicing looks particularly charming as a kitchen backsplash. (Image credit: Ca'Pietra)

"[Pattern Splicing] works particularly well in spaces that benefit from character and visual rhythm," recommends Grazzie. Spaces where you'd already use tiles naturally are the obvious places to begin, like kitchens and bathrooms, but there's no reason you can't get a bit more creative with it, too.

A tiled fireplace would be a particularly striking place to try pattern splicing; it makes for a beautiful standout feature, and the soft romanticism of a fireplace only works to enhance the bucolic charm of a painted tile.

But, for a more classic look, Grazzie says, "Kitchens are a natural fit, especially kitchen splashbacks, range cooker surrounds and pantry walls, where patterned tiles can be woven through plains to create focal moments."

Pairing patterned tile with a traditional range cooker, like an AGA, is one of my favorite ways to style the trend, especially in a rustic, farmhouse kitchen.

In small bathrooms, or powder rooms, they can bring a touch of personality without becoming visually overwhelming, which is particularly key in rooms with limited space.

In terms of style, Grazzie says, "Pattern splicing looks strongest within interior schemes that favor character over rigidity. It suits homes that lean towards eclectic, country-influenced, or softly traditional styles, but it also works in contemporary spaces where the architecture is clean and simple, allowing the tiles to provide warmth and contrast.

"Because the approach is restrained rather than decorative for decoration’s sake, it integrates seamlessly into modern interiors that value individuality and craftsmanship," Grazzie continues. "The most successful pattern-spliced spaces feel intuitive and relaxed, as though the tiles have been gathered gradually, which is precisely what gives this trend its lasting appeal."

The Best Tiles to Use for Pattern Splicing

Geometric tiles, paired with mottled, zellige tiles, make for a striking, modern take on the trend. (Image credit: Otto Tiles)

"In terms of tile choice, the key is balance," says Grazzie. While the patterned, or decorated tile may feel like the more important decision, making sure you're choosing a solid type of tile as the base to intersperse them within is what can really make or break the design.

In this case, simple is often best. "A consistent base tile anchors the scheme, often a softly glazed ceramic, zellige-style square or simple gloss tile in chalky whites, creams, clays or muted color tones," suggests Grazzie.

Think of them as your canvas, allowing the decorated tiles to really pop. "Decorative tiles then sit within this framework, ideally sharing a complementary palette so the overall look feels cohesive."

To maintain this sense of cohesion, Damla suggests using "tiles with a shared material language." For this, she recommends, "Handmade cement tiles, zellige, artisanal ceramic, and terracotta lend themselves naturally to pattern splicing, as their surface variation softens the contrast between patterns."

Your base tiles don't have to be completely plain, though; simple Delft tiles can look beautiful paired with other more complex designs.

You do, however, want to ensure that your decorated tiles receive the attention they deserve. Depending on your home's style, Grazzie recommends, "Hand-painted motifs, heritage-inspired florals, or single emblem designs." A single, striking motif can look almost like a miniature artwork, framed by the plain tiles.

Beyond color, it's also important to consider how the texture of your two tiles will interact with one another. Combining smooth, shiny tiles, like zellige, with matte, chalky finishes can add an additional level of depth to your design.

Decorative Tiles to Shop

capietra

Divine Savages Lovebirds

Size: 13 x 13 cm

Material: Ceramic Gloss

Price per tile: £25

Ninefifty

Beige & Brown Tiles by Margherita Rui

Size: 15 x 15 cm

Material: Ceramic

Price per tile: £5

Otto Tiles

Sunny Mustard

Size: 20 x 20 cm
Material: Encaustic cement

Price per tile: £5.38

Victorian Plumbing

Retford Floral Blue Gloss Wall Tiles

Size: 15 x 15 cm

Material: Ceramic gloss

Price per tile: £0.83

The Dutch Tile Project

Mcdonalds French Fries

Size: 11 x 11 cm

Material: Ceramic

Price per tile: £23

Quorn Stone

Flora Autumn Bloom Crackle Glaze Decorative Tiles

Size: 14.8 x 14.8 cm

Material: Porcelain

Price per tile: £1.34

If you're looking for some more charming tile styles, I'm a big fan of striped tile bathrooms to bring a healthy dose of personality to your space.

5 Problems With Tiled Backsplashes in Kitchens That No One Ever Talks About

Maya Glantz — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0000

Truth be told, there are few styles I love more than a gorgeous, tiled backsplash. There's just something about the look of a glossy, zellige run in a kitchen that sparks something inside of me. However, as with all good things, there's another side to this look that you'll rarely hear spoken about.

That's right, behind those editorial-worthy Instagram posts is a secret, and it's much less glamorous than you may think. The truth of the matter is that this kitchen backsplash idea can be a complete pain, with plenty of potential for issues to arise.

"The main issues I see are usually to do with water, staining, or grout," comments Damla Turgut, kitchen expert from Otto Tiles. Knowing these three things to watch out for will help protect you from these problems, but if you want to really get into the nitty-gritty of it, keep on reading.

1. Staining Tendencies

Terracotta tiles, like these, are very porous and sensitive to any water exposure. (Image credit: Tile of Spain)

The inherent function of a backsplash is evident from its name; the surface is designed to protect your kitchen from accidental splashes and spills, hence its typical placement behind your kitchen stove.

You would hope, then, that the material of your backsplash would be chosen with this in mind: a waterproof, stain-resistant surface that can withstand the potential messes of daily life.

Unfortunately, our much-loved tiles don't exactly meet these standards. "If tiles haven’t been sealed properly, particularly cement or natural stone, then they can mark," explains Damla.

This fallback is equally true of other natural materials, like a marble, just another thing you'd never find in a low-maintenance kitchen. "These types of tiles are, in particular are naturally porous, so if they’re not sealed, they can take on stains from water, oils, or everyday cooking splashes," Damla continues.

Of course, since there are so many different types of tiles, this statement will not hold equally true for all of them. However, if you are thinking of investing in a natural stone tile backsplash, it's certainly something to bear in mind.

2. Grout Discoloration

Subtle, thin grout lines will help prevent any obvious discoloration. (Image credit: Chris Snook. Vaughan Design + Development)

Unlike slab backsplashes, tiled styles introduce a whole new element of the design to worry about: the grout.

In your tiled backsplash, the grout can play just as important a role, visually, as the tiles themselves, so ensuring they look just right will likely become a top concern.

Because of the areas you most typically find a tiled backsplash in, ie, kitchens and modern bathrooms, your grout will have a higher chance of being exposed to water. "As a high-functioning area in the home, tiled splashbacks are therefore prone to additional moisture and staining, which can affect the grout, leaving the lines discoloured or damaged if not properly maintained," explains Maria D Arraez, director and expert at Tile of Spain UK.

This tendency to stain and soak up excess moisture will leave you with dirty, mucky-looking grout lines, which, Maria explains, "is especially the case if you opt for a pale grout color."

3. Grout Seepage

A bright, white cement is unlikely to maintain its color over time. (Image credit: Brian Guido. Design: Brad Engelsman)

High contrast, colorful grout has become quite the trend over recent years, with many designers pairing their tiles with oversized grout lines in eye-catching shades. And while it may be striking, it's a look that carries significant risk with it.

Damla explains, "Another issue we come across is when a colored grout is used on unsealed tiles, for example, pairing a cream cement tile with a dark grey or black grout."

And as Damla explained previously, many popular tiles are made of highly porous materials, opening up the opportunity for the grout to be absorbed by the tiles themself. "The pigment gets absorbed straight into the tile and, unfortunately, there’s no real way to reverse it," she says.

4. Potential for Mould

Be sure to clean your tiles regularly, but with gentle products. (Image credit: deVOL, Otto Tiles)

You guessed it, another grout issue. When it comes to issues with tiling, the central pain points typically revolve around the grout, as opposed to the tiles themselves. While staining and discoloration can affect the look of your grouting, exposure to moisture can also have other, more problematic effects.

"When it comes to grout, poor-quality grouting and silicone sealing can lead to moisture finding its way through, which will lead to mould and other issues," says Damla.

Depending on the variety, mouldy grout can have some pretty serious side effects, especially for those with asthma or other allergies. While you may think the remedy to this would be vigorous household cleaning, as Damla explains, "Harsh cleaning products are also another issue we encounter with clients using very strong chemicals or bleach on their tiles." Instead, opt for more gentle, natural cleaning products.

5. Coming Up Short

Take your backsplash up a notch and drench the whole wall in tiles. (Image credit: Courtesy of Electric Bowery)

The last thing you want after planning a beautiful, modern kitchen is to get halfway through the installation, just to realize you undershot your tile order.

"No one wants to be a few tiles short," agrees Lindsay Thornton, from Cornerstone Design.

"Not only will this cause delays in your project, but it typically adds on shipping and labour costs." To prevent this, Lindsay suggests. "Instead, add on 5-10% extra for waste and up to 15% if you are doing a herringbone pattern that requires more cuts. Having a few extra tiles hanging around after your renovation is not a bad idea in case something cracks or you want to extend the tile into a coffee bar at a later date."

Shop Sleek Kitchen Tiles

Otto Tiles

Fes White Zellige

Size: 10 x 10 cm

Material: Glazed Moroccan Clay

Price per tile: £1.09

B&Q

Ca’Pietra Casamar Forest Gloss Zellige Tile

Size: 20 x 20 cm

Material: Glazed Ceramic

Price per tile: £2.20

Victorian Plumbing

Stonehouse Studio Santori Black Marble Effect Tiles

Size: 22.3 x 22.3 cm

Material: Porcelain

Price per tile: £1.98

Mandarin Stone

Monochrome Décor Porcelain Tile

Size: 22.3 x 22.3 cm

Material: Porcelain

Price per tile: £2.68

capietra

Avebury Ceramic Burnt Caramel

Size: 25 x 5 cm

Material: Glazed Ceramic

Price per tile: £2.16

Victorian Plumbing

Camille Blue Scallop & Feather Gloss Wall Tiles

Size: 8 x 21.5 cm

Material: Ceramic

Price per tile: £0.74

Don't let the potential for problems put you off including tiles in your next kitchen design. When done well, kitchen tiles can elevate your whole space. I'm particularly loving the look of a tiled kitchen island, at the moment.

7 Big Lessons I Learned Too Late While Tiling My Kitchen Backsplash All by Myself

Lilith Hudson — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

To the uninitiated, tiling a kitchen backsplash by yourself sounds like a Herculean task. While I promise it isn't as daunting as it seems, if you’re dreaming of a beautifully tiled kitchen but are yet to brave the mortar and spacers, take it from someone who has: there’s a lot that I wish I’d known before sticking that first tile to the wall.

DIY tiling can save you heaps of money, especially during a renovation that's already burned through the budget, but you need to be prepared. There's a lot more to it than simply sticking tiles to mortar — a fact you'll quickly learn when spacers are scattered around your kitchen, and there are smudges of grout up to your elbows.

All of this aside, I don't want to put you off DIYing your own kitchen backsplash ideas. Ambitiously — and somewhat ignorantly — my partner and I decided to tile the small area directly behind our oven using rustic Delft tiles (including two we hand-painted ourselves). My vision was simple: a rustic backsplash that complemented our small cottage — and while we eventually succeeded, bringing it to life proved trickier than we first imagined.

From uneven spacing and messy grout lines to unfinished trim and material shortages, there are plenty of pitfalls when taking on a tiling project yourself. Along the way, I learned a few lessons I wish I’d known from the start. Never one to gatekeep, I'm here to share seven cautionary tips that will help you avoid the same mistakes during your own tiling project.

1. You Need A Smooth Surface for Your Tiles to Adhere Properly

When it comes to prep work, sanding and cleaning your wall is the bare minimum. (Image credit: Lilith Hudson )

It's simple, really: for the best kitchen tile results, you need a nice and smooth surface to work with. We'd lived without a backsplash for quite some time, which meant the paintwork on the wall behind the oven had begun to crack and peel. Despite dutifully sanding down the wall, uneven patches and deteriorating plaster still hindered the adhesion of our tiles, leading to a wobbly finish where the tiles don't all sit completely flush.

Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at tile brand Ca’ Pietra, notes that without a level base to bond to, your tiles can loosen, shift, or crack over time. "Any existing bumps or uneven patches will show through, particularly with glossy or geometric designs where light and lines highlight imperfections," she says. "Always start by removing old adhesive, filling any holes, and sanding the surface until it is smooth and dust-free."

If your wall has been freshly plastered during a renovation, you'll also need to let it dry fully before priming it with a suitable tile primer to improve adhesion. "Taking the time to get this right is what separates a lasting, professional-looking installation from one that starts to fail within months," Grazzie says.

2. Order All of Your Supplies Ahead of Time (And Order Extra!)

I'll admit, our small kitchen backsplash project was something of a rushed job. From the get-go, even ordering supplies was done quickly, which meant we failed to purchase trim for the finishing touches, as well as spare tiles in case of accidents.

Of course, this isn't the be-all and end-all of tiling, but it certainly stalled our progress. Forgetting to purchase a tile trim, for example, meant living with an unfinished backsplash for longer than planned. After buying a pencil trim from a different brand, we then discovered it wasn't the right color match for our existing tiles, forcing us back to the drawing board.

Even if you're buying all your supplies from the same company, Grazzie warns against similar issues if you don't buy everything you need up front. "Tiles are made in production batches, and even slight differences between them can be noticeable once installed," she says. "Ordering everything in one go ensures consistency of color and size. It is also important to buy at least 10% extra to cover any breakages, awkward cuts around sockets or windows, and to keep a few spares for future repairs."

3. Don't Cook Straight After Laying Your Tiles

While your adhesive cures, it's the perfect excuse for a takeaway dinner. (Image credit: Lilith Hudson )

I wasn't exaggerating when I said our tiling job was a rushed one. Due to busy work schedules, we ended up laying the tiles one evening after work. All well and good, except I completely overlooked the fact that it meant we couldn't use our oven until the adhesive had dried.

When tiling a backsplash (or any area, for that matter), you'll need to allow for adequate drying time. "After applying adhesive, tiles must be left undisturbed for at least 24 hours, sometimes longer, depending on the adhesive type and temperature," explains Grazzie. "Grouting should only begin once the tiles are completely set, and grout itself needs another day to dry before sealing or exposing it to moisture."

For this reason, it's important you avoid any direct activity in this area to prevent your tiles from moving or lifting, especially in busy, steamy areas like the bathroom or kitchen.

For us, that meant the oven was out of bounds for multiple evenings during the week of application. "Plan ahead by preparing meals in advance or setting up a temporary kitchen space," recommends Grazzie. "It might feel inconvenient, but rushing this stage can compromise the finish and longevity of your new backsplash."

4. For a Clean Finish, Use Leveling Clips or a Laser

One thing this project has certainly taught me is that the human eye cannot be trusted. If you think a wall looks straight, it almost certainly isn't, in which case no amount of measuring with a tape measure is ever going to help you lay your tiles perfectly.

Although my partner (an engineer, I might add) deligently measured our backsplash area and used a spirit level when laying each tile, we still found that our tiles came out a little higgledy-piggledy. While it's not easy to fix an old, wonky wall, you can use leveling clips or a laser level to reduce imperfections (or invest in backer boards from Amazon, if necessary).

This is especially important if you plan to wrap your backsplash all the way around your kitchen, from the oven to the kitchen sink, since the larger surface area will amplify these imperfections.

"Tile leveling clips [available on Amazon] help to maintain a consistent height and spacing between tiles, preventing lippage where the edge of one tile sits slightly higher than its neighbor," says Grazzie. "This is especially useful when working with larger formats, handmade designs, or tiles with uneven edges."

A laser level, like this one from Amazon, can also be a great investment, helping to ensure your first row runs perfectly straight. "This is vital since every other tile aligns from that point," Grazzie adds. "Checking levels as you go avoids the classic issue of a drifting grout line that can throw off the whole pattern."

5. You Need to Clean Messes Quickly

Bumpy grout lines or smudges on the tile's surface? You need to work quickly to keep things smooth and clean. (Image credit: Lilith Hudson )

Grouting is a messy ordeal, but the smudges on your arms and clothes will be the least of your worries. If you don't wipe grout from the surface of your tiles quickly, you'll be left with long-term marks (especially if you're using colorful tile grout).

As Grazzie points out, adhesive and grout can stain or dull a tile’s surface if left to dry. "This is particularly true for matte finishes, textured glazes, or natural stones with a porous surface," she says. "Keep a bucket of clean water and a sponge nearby to wipe away any residue as you work, rather than waiting until the end."

When it comes to grouting, she also suggests cleaning diagonally across the tiles rather than along the joints to avoid pulling grout back out. "If haze appears once dry, use a dedicated grout-removal sponge [available on Amazon] or cleaner designed for your tile type, and never anything too abrasive, as it could scratch the surface," Grazzie adds.

6. Rustic Tiles Look Great but Complicate Spacing and Grout Work

If you couldn't tell, I'm a huge fan of a rustic, cottagecore look. Inspired by recent kitchen tile trends, I spent a good year or so swooning over Delft tiles before committing to hand-painted ones from Decorum Tiles. Beautiful though they are, however, I didn't think about how difficult they would be to work with.

As Grazzie points out, hand-finished tiles add wonderful character to a kitchen, but the very qualities that make them so charming can also be their drawback. "Their irregular edges, subtle glaze variations, and gentle undulations are what give them that artisan character, but they also require more patience during installation," she says. "Because no two tiles are exactly the same, grout lines will vary slightly, and the layout needs to be adjusted as you go."

We encountered this precise problem when laying our own backsplash. What started as neat joints became more uneven as we went along (compounded by our wonky wall). To mitigate this, Grazzie suggests laying out a dry run first to mix the tones evenly and get a feel for spacing. "Use slightly wider grout joints to accommodate the variations, and choose a grout color that complements rather than contrasts, as this will help any inconsistencies blend beautifully rather than stand out," she adds.

7. For A Polished Result, Plan For Finishing Touches Like Tile Trim

Before adding trim, our backsplash looked incomplete and failed to line up with the neighboring paneling. (Image credit: Lilith Hudson )

One of the common mistakes that makes your tiles look cheap is forgetting details like tile trim. It's so easy to overlook, but a simple pencil trim or delicate ogee border tile can make all the difference to your backsplash, and unless you're tiling to a shelf or existing molding, it will look incomplete without one.

We overlooked trim completely when drawing up plans for our backsplash, and it took several unsuccessful purchases before we settled on one. Eventually, we chose an ogee molding to match the trim on top of our surrounding panelling — an obvious choice in hindsight that should have been considered from the start.

"For exposed edges, aluminium or brass trims create a clean, protective border, especially near cooker hoods or open shelving," Grazzie suggests, adding that any joins between tiles and worktops should then be sealed with silicone to prevent water ingress. "This not only protects your wall but gives that crisp, professional finish you see in showrooms."

Ninefifty

Segni Tiles by Margherita Rui

Quantity: 45 tiles

If you have white walls and neutral cabinets, use tiles to bring color and pattern to your kitchen. I love the abstract design of these premium tiles from Ninefifty, which can be laid completely randomly.

Decorum Tiles

Wilderness Delft Corner Tile

Size: 13x13cm

These are the exact Delft tiles I used in my kitchen. Hand-painted and fired in Cornwall, each one is unique. However, this rustic finish can lead to inconsistent spacing.

Ca’Pietra

Green Gloss Zellige Wall Tiles

Quantity: 25

Zellige tiles are having a huge moment right now. The artisanal look can help create a rustic kitchen backsplash, but these ones from Ca'Pietra have even edges for easy application.

Tiling your own backsplash isn't only an easy DIY that helps you save money, but it also offers creative freedom to decorate with tiles by designing a layout that's personal to you. As with any project, however, you'll need to steer clear of common mistakes.

To save you from trial and error, learn from my mistakes above. With care, attention, and plenty of patience, I promise you can have a backsplash that rivals professional work — plus the even more satisfying reward that comes with knowing you did all yourself.

I've Been Tricked — 4 Ultra-Realistic Tile Finishes (You Won’t Believe Aren’t the Real Thing) That Bring an Unexpected Look to Your Bathroom

Maya Glantz — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:30:00 +0000

There was once a time when material-look ceramic tiles meant nothing more than naff, fake marble finishes, with a distastefully obvious look. Far from the chic vibe we're after, it's safe to say.

But, over the years, as porcelain technology has advanced, we've begun to see a boom in hyper-realistic, uniquely beautiful ceramic tiles. No longer were these types of bathroom tiles dominated by the fuzzy-line, repeated pattern, tell-tale signs. Instead, they offer genuinely convincing recreations of these expensive and sensitive materials, offering us a more affordable and low-maintenance way to bring these beautiful materials into our homes. And even more excitingly, we're no longer limited to the same white marble finishes.

These ceramic tiles take inspiration from some of the most on-trend materials around, allowing you to get the look you've been obsessed with in a more approachable and manageable way. These are the ones I've been the most excited about at the moment.

Cork

Cork-look tiles can bring a beautiful, textural finish to your bathroom. (Image credit: Florim)

Perhaps one of the most intriguing options out there, cork-look ceramic tiles offer you the opportunity to bring a touch of that distinctive textural finish into your home, without any of the maintenance issues real cork surfaces can carry with them.

"Unlike traditional ceramic tiles, cork-inspired surfaces introduce an unexpected tactile and visual component," explains the team from Florim. "The design is textured yet always carefully balanced in terms of proportions and tone. The result is a warmer, more sophisticated aesthetic, able to convey a strong emotional and sensory quality."

Bringing the durability of ceramic and the visual softness of cork together offers the best of both worlds, somewhat, allowing you to enjoy the intricacy of this sustainable material without any potential for complications.

"The ceramic reinterpretation of cork makes it possible to preserve its visual charm and tactile appeal while eliminating its technical and maintenance limitations. The surface is resistant, waterproof, and long-lasting, while still retaining the natural sense of warmth that characterises the original material," they continue.

Travertine

Pair travertine with other simple, natural materials to emphasize that soft, neutral vibe. (Image credit: Porcelain Superstore)

Travertine is a material that has become increasingly popular over recent months. With the rise of earthy color palettes and natural materials at the forefront of interior design, it only makes sense that this stone has become a favorite among designers.

It can be characterized by its distinctive, sandy tones and wide, lined surface finish, like waves crashing onto the shore.

And, according to Abbas Youssefi, from Porcelain Superstore, this popularity will transfer over to the materials' ceramic counterparts. He says, "I think travertine-effect tiles, those which mimic natural limestone, will really have a moment in 2026."

Onyx

Onyx-look tiles are perfect for tile-drenching, especially in smaller bathrooms. (Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

For a truly unique, enchanting look, there's nothing quite like an onyx-look tile. The sheer, ethereal look of the material has an almost otherworldly quality, bringing a beautiful and unexpected elegance to any modern bathroom or kitchen.

Onyx stone is a type of microcrystalline quartz, which is most typically found in a deep, jet black tone, with ribbons of white running across, though you can find the material in a variety of colors and tones. In lighter colors, the material has a slight translucence to it, which is often emphasized in projects with clever backlighting.

However, onyx is a very soft stone, so it is particularly prone to scratches and signs of wear. On top of this, it can also be quite pricey. This is why onyx-effect tiles have become such a popular option. It offers an identical effect to the real material, at a considerably lower price tag, and with none of the maintenance stress.

Metal

Metal-look tiles are amazing in spa bathrooms, where you want to achieve that super-luxe finish. (Image credit: CP Hart)

Nothing creates that cool, industrial design look quite like a full high-shine metal run, but, as people who have lived with it know, this finish isn't exactly the easiest to maintain or care for.

Which is exactly why metallic-look tiles can be such a genius addition to your home. CP Hart's collection of metal-look tiles, called Reflet, has a super luxe, high-end look that you'd never be able to guess is made from ceramic.

"Our Reflet collection represents an innovation in porcelain technology, developed over a two-year research and development phase," explains Liz Barrell from CP Hart. "Its metal-effect surface boasts illuminating qualities that create the illusion of a brighter, more open space." This illuminating, opening effect makes it perfect for small bathrooms, where you want to create the look of more space.

They're also super durable, despite their delicate finish. As Liz explains, "Constructed from robust rectified porcelain just 9mm thick, these tiles are designed for wall applications only, adding a sleek, contemporary edge to interiors without the maintenance challenges associated with real metal."

Victorian Plumbing

Nicoletta Blue Polished Onyx Marble Effect Wall & Floor Tiles

Size: 30 x 60 cm

Victorian Plumbing

Elementa Copper Oxide Metal Effect Wall & Floor Tiles

Size: 60 x 60 cm

Porcelain Superstore

Athena Beige Tile

Size: 60 x 120 cm

Claybrook

Chunk Brown Big Chip

Size: 80 x 80 cm

Claybrook

Ocean Onyx Seabed

Size: 60 x 60 cm

Mandarin Stone

Tivoli Sand Linear Matt Stone Effect Porcelain Tile

Size: 120 x 60 cm

Porcelain printing technology has advanced to the point that these copy-cat tiles are practically indistinguishable from the real thing. However, there is also still a space for classic tiling too, and for me, nothing can beat a good zellige tile bathroom idea.

This Designer Tile Brand Just Launched a B&Q Range — With a Zellige-Style Tile That's a Fraction of the Price of the Real Thing

Maya Glantz — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Who doesn't love a good collab? And this year, the design higher-ups have been keeping us well fed with a plethora of surprising but welcome collaborations. And they just keep coming. The newest and most exciting collection on the block? Luxury tile house Ca' Pietra, and the DIY go-to, B&Q.

These iconic British brands are teaming up to combine their expertise, and yesterday I got the chance to experience them firsthand. And the tiles are every bit as lovely as you'd imagine. Created with the intention of making great design more accessible, you can expect Ca' Pietras' signature, luxury takes on tile trends, at the much-loved B&Q price point. Sign me up. Plus, the whole collection has been designed exclusively for B&Q, so you'll be able to find some unique finishes and styles that you've never seen before.

The tiles are already available in select B&Q locations, and will be found online by the end of September, too.

What to Expect

So, you want some details, and I can't blame you. Let's get straight into everything you can expect to find in this collection. You'll find an impressive 11 different types of tiles in this collab, each designed specifically to provide that premium look, without any of the premium costs.

Versatility was a core concern when creating these tiles. The brands wanted to offer a selection of finishes that could be used across your home, with gorgeous options for your bathroom tiles, as well as some lovely porcelain indoor-outdoor styles, so your kitchen can lead seamlessly on to your small patio ideas, with a continuous sweep of beautiful tiling.

Inspiration for this collaboration came from all over the globe, unbound by a specific time or place. You'll see Moroccan patterns and Victorian elegance, both equally represented.

While Ca' Pietra has built a reputation for its high-quality, beautiful designs, the luxury price point makes them a top-shelf option. This collaboration changes that, making luxury accessible for all.

As Hamish Smith, creative director at Ca’ Pietra, tells me, "The Portare B&Q Collection is about opening the Ca’ Pietra world to more homes. We have taken the same attention to detail and design-led thinking that goes into our main collections, and distilled it into a range that’s simple to shop, easy to love, and works in real life."

The ability to see, feel, and experience these tiles in real life is just another benefit of this collaboration. Not only does the price drop make them more economically accessible, but the presence within a high-street staple means more people than ever will have the chance to get to know Ca' Pietra's products.

"Partnering with B&Q felt like a natural step. Their reach and reputation mean we can bring Ca’ Pietra to customers in every corner of the country, supported by clear in-store displays and helpful point-of-sale guides," explains Hamish. "Shoppers can see and feel the tiles before they buy, compare ranges side by side, and take home the inspiration they need to start their project straight away."

Let's dive into the collection a little more, shall we?

1. Casamar Zellige

The Casamar Zellige is a modern interpretation of the Moroccan classic. (Image credit: Ca' Pietra and B&Q)

There's no surprise that this one has made it to my favorites; I'm a self-confessed Zellige tile lover, and these have got the look spot-on.

One of the only downsides of the classic Zellige tile is its slightly fiddly nature. These are typically sold as individual 10 x 10 cm tiles, resulting in a lengthy and complicated installation process and higher costs to match. And while these tiles look much the same as the traditional tiles I'm describing, there is a key difference. These clever tiles are actually designed with a central seam running through the 20 x 20 tile, creating the illusion of two distinct tiles. So you can get the same rustic look, with a far more straightforward installation.

Pick from the creamy Flax, earthy Forest, or deep, aquatic Marine, all sporting the same, dappled, textured surface.

Ca’Pietra

Casamar Green Gloss Zellige

Material: Ceramic

Size: 20 x 20 cm

2. Athena

The herringbone mosaic Athena tile makes for a beautiful backsplash. (Image credit: Ca' Pietra X B&Q)

Nothing screams classic luxury quite like a marble kitchen, and now you can achieve the same look without the eyewatering price tag.

The Athena tiles exploit the natural beauty of a gently veined white marble, with swirls of peach, cream, and grey running across the surface, bringing enough warmth to make a white kitchen look cozy and inviting.

Available in a hexagon, brick, and herringbone pattern, we love the idea of combining two different tile shapes for one gorgeous, marble-drenched bathroom.

3. The Willesden

Combined with a freestanding tub, these tiles have a definite classic appeal. (Image credit: Ca' Pietra x B&Q)

It wouldn't be a Ca' Pietra collection without at least one patterned tile, and the Willesden just so happens to be my favorite of the lot.

This classic, heritage-style tile is available in two gorgeous colorways, though I have a particular soft spot for the earthy color palette of the Autumn model.

While the patterns may be delicate, the tiles are anything but. Crafted from a robust porcelain, these patterned tiles are ideal for high-traffic areas like your entryway and make quite the visual impact.

Ca’Pietra

Willsden Autumn

Material: Porcelain

Size: 33 x 33 cm

Tile It Up

Ca’Pietra

Amalfi Cotto Tan Matt

Material: Terracotta effect porcelain

Size: 28 x 7 cm

Victorian Plumbing

Bergolo White Marble Effect Tiles

Material: Porcelain

Size: 30 x 60 cm

Victorian Plumbing

Rustic Turquoise Zellige Effect Wall Tiles

Material: Ceramic

Size: 13 x 13 cm

If you need some ideas on how to use all these gorgeous tiles, don't worry, we've got you covered. The plaid and gingham tile trend is a personal favorite, but for something slightly more classic, how about a striped tile bathroom instead?

Should You Choose Your Bathroom Paint Color or Tiles First? The Designers I Asked Have This Trick to Creating a Space That Flows Well

Faiza Saqib — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

When renovating a bathroom, paint colors and tiles are the most important features that ultimately bring the space to life. But the question remains, what goes first, and does it really matter?

To get the best out of your modern bathroom ideas, you'll need to understand the dos and don'ts of design. That includes knowing what steps you need to take and in what order to create a seamless and timeless atmosphere in your home.

To help you decide whether to choose your bathroom paint color or tiles first, I consulted a few interior designers to understand their typical approach when designing this area of the home for their clients. Here's what they had to say about it.

What Should You Choose First?

In this bathroom, designers added darker tiles against lightly colored walls for a moody, yet sophisticated contrast. (Image credit: Design: MALIN + LYNN )

Designing a bathroom is no easy feat, which is why understanding what works well for your space is a must. This understanding is key to cohesive design, and it includes knowing if bathroom color or bathroom tiles go first. And well, these designers seem to agree on one thing — step one: Tiles!

Peter Lynn, designer and founder of MALIN + LYNN, tells me, "We typically choose our tiles first, as the tiles typically cover the largest surface area of the bathroom and narrate the language of the rest of the room. Especially if the clients are looking for something with color, pattern, or texture, be it marble, terrazzo, or a stone effect tile.

Peter continues, "Once the tile is chosen, it's important for us to find a complementary paint color to suit (or pick out a specific color in the tile perhaps) to finish the rest of the space."

A striking bathroom designed by MALIN + LYNN. (Image credit: Design: MALIN + LYNN )

As an example, Peter says, "within our Lansdowne House Project (pictured above), where the clients loved the drama of the terrazzo tile (we used a mix of light/dark to create zoning within the space). We then picked out paint colors to suit," explains Peter. "Tiling is always done prior to painting, to ensure no chipping or damage is caused to painted walls when laying and installing."

Tania Martins, director of interior design at The Up Studio, tells me, "High-quality tiles typically have fewer colors and finish options, and longer lead times. While paint has a much wider array of options for us to nail the perfect color pairing with the tile."

In this bathroom, designers opted for deep, dark tiles. (Image credit: Design: The Up Studio )

Tania says you should tile before you take on those paint ideas for your walls, "We typically have tile installation going into our projects before (or during) sheetrock installation. The painter will then protect it when painting."

Why? Well, she says, "We sequence it this way because the tile installation will determine the transition points to painted surfaces. Especially when tile is going on the floor, the contractor is going to want to install those in place as soon as they can."

How to Approach This Matter From a Design Standpoint?

First, start with a design concept to set the tone. (Image credit: Design: Nuno Nascimento Arquitectos)

So, what is the best way to approach this in modern interior design?

Well, Tania says, "The step is always just getting to know our clients. From there, we start with a design concept to set the overall design direction for a space."

She says this lays the groundwork for the tone and mood you are trying to capture. "From there, our team typically selects the tile to make sure it’s something our team and clients love, and paint color selection comes afterwards," she notes.

Shop Bathroom Tiles

Fired Earth

Nina Campbell Topkapi Aqua Porcelain Tile

Ideal for bathroom flooring or even walls, this Nina Campbell Topkapi Aqua Porcelain Tile will brighten up your space in no time. Crafted from resilient porcelain, this piece is ideal for spaces that might be prone to a lot of moisture.

Fired Earth

Kelmscott Standen

Elegant and sophisticated this Kelmscott Standen tile from Fired Earth has been crafted from durable porcelain. It can seamlessly fit into any space, from a bathroom to a kitchen — it is set to bring a pop of color wherever it lands.

Fired Earth

Alhambra White Decor 15 X 15

Calm and classy, this Alhambra White Decor is another favorite of mine. Available in a range of colors, this piece is a quiet beauty that makes a bold statement. What's not to love?

Shop Bathroom Paint

Farrow & Ball

Skimming Stone

Finish: Modern Emulsion
Size: 2.5L

Lick

Green 01: Supreme

Finish: Ultra Flat Matt Paint
Size: 2.5L

Benjamin Moore Paint

Aura® Bath & Spa Matte Cinnamon Slate

Finish: Matte
Size: 3.79 L

Now, if you're looking to redesign or renovate your bathroom, keeping up with the latest bathroom trends is a must. So, give our guide a read to stay on track with all the hottest movements coming around this year.

6 Mistakes That Are Making Your Kitchen Tiles Look Cheap and Not Elevated — And What You Can Do Instead

Lilith Hudson — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Tiles play a vital role in the composition of our kitchens, yet they often end up as an afterthought in our designs. Cabinets, countertops, and appliances all come before tiling on the list of priorities during a kitchen renovation, but without careful thought and consideration, your tiles can end up looking cheap and cut-rate.

Keeping up with the latest kitchen tile trends is only half the solution. You also need to choose the right size, color, grout, and layout pattern (among other things) to ensure your kitchen feels fresh and current. Then there's also the matter of durability to consider, especially in kitchen floor tiles, because nothing will make your tiles look cheaper and more uncared for than cracked, scratched, or worn stoneware.

You don't need to invest in a fresh set of luxury tiles every few years to keep your kitchen chic and contemporary, however. The secret to avoiding tired tiling is all down to the finishing touches and some intentional choices regarding style and layout. Keen to learn more? Here are the common mistakes that are dragging your kitchen down and making your space look cheap.

1. A Lack of Texture

DO INSTEAD: Choose a tile with texture to add subtle variation and bounce light around your kitchen beautifully (Image credit: Fired Earth)

The best kitchen tile ideas incorporate texture to add depth and variation to the design. While flat, high gloss tiles have their place, artisanal textured tiles always look more high-end, whether for use on walls or the floor.

"The key to achieving a truly realistic finish lies in selecting tiles with multiple face variations, nuanced textures, and irregular edges that mimic the charm of real stone," says Emma Hughes, Studio Manager at Clay & Rock. "Look for collections that feature a broad range of faces to avoid repetition during installation — carefully spacing similar faces apart for a more natural, organic layout."

Lee Thornley, Founder of Bert & May, says that even the most expensive tiles can look flat if they don’t bring a bit of texture to a design. "An overly uniform finish can feel a bit lifeless," he says. "Instead, try something with variation – zellige tiles are a favorite because they reflect light in unexpected ways and add instant charm. Their uneven, unique texture creates depth, which helps the space feel more layered and considered." Mixing matt and gloss finishes can also have a similar effect.

2. The Wrong Proportions

DO INSTEAD: Find a tile that's perfectly proportioned to your space, and make sure a backsplash stretches high enough up the wall (Image credit: Bert & May x Fired Earth)

The right sized tile can make or break your space. Proportions can have a huge impact on how the room feels, especially in the case of kitchen floor tiles where they have an illusory effect. Choose a tile that's too small, for example, and you run the risk of making your kitchen look too busy, especially in a kitchen that's already on the smaller side.

Too many "breaks" will lead to too many grout lines, which makes your kitchen look cheap and unconsidered (especially when the grout inevitably becomes dirty and discolored). "Choosing large format rectified tiles contributes to a polished finish with minimal grout lines, featuring corrected edges that create a clean, precise appearance," explains Maria D Arráez, Director of Tile of Spain UK. "This makes them ideal for seamless and contemporary designs."

3. Unfinished Edges

DO INSTEAD: Make sure the seams of your tiles look polished with edge detailing or a trim finish (seen here with a built-in shelf lip) (Image credit: Fired Earth)

Small details play a vital role when tiling a kitchen, so you shouldn't cut any corners when decorating with tiles. The minutiae of tile edges might not seem important, but this tiny feature is the secret to a more polished look. Be it bullnose or beveled, or even a listello trim, it's vital you factor finishing touches into the equation. Fail to do so and your kitchen tiles will look cheap and rushed. It's like choosing beautiful cabinets and then forgoing the hardware to match.

"A common issue is not ordering enough tiles to cover the full splashback or wrap a corner properly," says Carly Allison, Head of Product Design at Fired Earth. "This can result in awkward breaks or unfinished edges that cheapen the overall look."

4. Watermarks

DO INSTEAD: Clean gloss tiles frequently to keep them shiny and bright, or choose lower maintenance options like matt (Image credit: Ca'Pietra)

It might sound obvious, but tiles with watermarks will instantly downgrade your kitchen. To avoid cheapening the appearance of your tiles, you need to give thought to the finish. "Glossy finishes tend to accentuate watermarks and smudges, leading to the need for more frequent cleaning," says Maria. "Instead, opt for matt finish tiles to help keep tiles free from watermarks, making them particularly suitable for areas like the sink and behind the cooker."

The same goes for scratched, broken, or scuffed tiles, too. It really is worth splurging a bit more for better quality materials and doing your research on the most durable kitchen flooring finishes to prevent these kinds of imperfections.

5. The Wrong Grout

DO INSTEAD: Plan your grout as part of your tile design, and don't rely on default white (Image credit: Clay & Rock)

Discolored grout, or the wrong colored grouting, is a surefire way to make your kitchen look cheap and uncared for. "When aiming for a sophisticated kitchen design, grout lines can often detract from the overall look," says Maria. "For instance, colored grouts like grey or beige are easier to maintain compared to bright white options."

Colorful tile grout ideas are a great way to rectify this, and they can look really stylish too. "To achieve a polished, high-end aesthetic, consider grout as part of your overall palette," says Emma. "Matching or subtly complementing it with surrounding paint colors, cabinetry, or accessories can tie the entire space together, creating a more cohesive and considered design." Consider matching your grout to the shade of your cabinets, as shown above, or choose a high-contrast color that feels punchy and modern, such as pale pink tiles with black grout lines.

6. Fleeting Tile Trends

DO INSTEAD: Opt for a timeless style and layout, like a classic zellige tile in a herringbone pattern (Image credit: VBK Design Studio. Design: Makers)

Whether you're reinventing your kitchen backsplash or looking for a timeless floor tile design, try not to get sucked in by short-lived trends. The best tile ideas are timeless enough to endure for decades to come, while fleeting fads look tired in a matter of years, dating your kitchen and making it look cheap.

"When investing in a new kitchen, longevity is key," Emma emphasizes. "A design that feels current yet classic ensures your space remains stylish for years to come without the need for constant updates. Natural materials, such as stone and terracotta, offer enduring appeal thanks to their organic textures and heritage charm. Equally important is how tiles are laid: opting for time-honored patterns like herringbone brings structure and elegance to a room, with a design lineage that spans centuries."

Victorian Plumbing

Stonehouse Fluted Green Wall Tiles

Quantity: Box of 20
Color: Green

Claybrook

Parasol Square Tile

Color: Claret

Go Bathrooms

Metro Navy Blue Ceramic Wall Tile

Quantity: Box of 50
Color: Navy Blue

FAQs

How Can I Make my Kitchen Tiles Look Better?

Besides avoiding the mistakes above, be inventive with your kitchen tile ideas for a space that looks more high-end. You can't put a price on individuality, so — typically — the more unique your design, the better.

"Few design elements evoke luxury quite like the artistry of hand-painted detail," suggests Emma. "Patterns born from hand-drawn or painted origins carry an inherent sense of craftsmanship and heritage, instantly adding depth and character to a space." Delft tiles, for example, with tiny hand-patterned illustrations that speak to your personality, will tell a story and imbue your kitchen with character.

"For those drawn to pattern but keen to maintain a refined, premium aesthetic, nature-inspired designs offer the perfect balance," Emma continues. "Understated botanical or floral motifs bring subtle movement and visual interest without overpowering the space — and, crucially, they’re far less likely to date than trend-led prints."

You don't need luxury tiles in order for your kitchen to look high-end. An elegant and timeless design — be it wall, floor, or even countertop tiles — will pair a classic style with a time-honored layout while also taking the finer details into account. There's more than meets the eye with tiles, but with enough thought and intention, yours will feel refined, sophisticated, and far from cheap.

Check-mate. These Surprising Checkerboard Kitchen Tiles Are Proving That This Pattern Is Here To Stay

Maya Glantz — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 05:30:00 +0000

From the Palace of Versailles to the sticky floors of a retro diner, checkerboard is a print with an appeal that reaches far and wide. While it’s been a favorite tiling style for centuries now, with examples dating back to the Roman empire, we’ve been noticing some distinctly modern takes on the design recently, supplying us with endless inspiring kitchen tile ideas. Whoever said don't mess with the classics, clearly hadn’t seen these kitchens.

This rediscovered love for the print could have something to do with the pop culture makeover the eponymous game has gone through in recent years. Once the butt of jokes, synonymous with nerdiness and a lack of social skills, in a turn none of us saw coming, Chess has gained some serious va va voom. Perhaps the game has the Netflix original, The Queens Gambit, to thank in part for its change in perception. There’s nothing that Anya Taylor-Joy couldn’t make look glamorous. Though, more recently, Sally Rooney’s bestselling novel, Intermezzo, further encouraged this transformation, turning the once-embarrassing pastime into a lust-worthy display of logic and intellect. It's safe to say, chess has received some seriously great PR over the past few years.

While all these chess-centered media have certainly been a joy to consume, the thing that has captured my attention is the surprising ways in which designers have managed to sneak this print into their homes. From the traditional kitchen floor tiling, to creative trims, these are just a few of our favorite interpretations of the trend.

1. Statement Wall

Choose tiles that complement the other colors in your kitchen, for a more harmonious feel (Image credit: Design: Amber Yard)

Gentle, earthy tones and soft finishes combine in this kitchen, where the checkerboard tiled wall just adds to the British countryside charm. While many may find themselves intimidated by the print, in this project, interior designer Tess MacGeachy, of Amber Yard, proves that the pattern can easily lend itself to homey, comforting design styles.

"I think checkerboard holds a timeless look and, although can be seen as quite traditional, can also be made more impactful with the use of more vibrant colorways," explains Tess.

In the aptly named Sunshine Cottage Development, Tess only had a limited amount of kitchen space to work with. Her challenge was figuring out how to create an impact, while working within these confines. "The space is small so we wanted to add an element of surprise with the tiled wall, but wanted it to fit with its surrounding aesthetic," she explains. "We chose the colors in the same tonality as the colors used around the room."

Working with Mosaic Factory tiles, Tess carefully selected her tiles to complement the subtle sage tone of the cabinets. The result is a harmonious design that brings a peaceful serenity to the space. "We wanted the space to feel cocooning and homely yet with the use of the glazed tiles, it allows the light to bounce of the finish which really aids the rooms atmosphere," says Tess. "It is a small space that both during night and day feels like a space you want to come back to."

This feature is perfect for those searching for small kitchen ideas. We love how it brings some personality and playfulness to the space, while still looking undeniably chic. Take inspiration from Tess and select your tiles based on the existing tones of your kitchen design, the style looks its most effective when paired with complementary shades. While we love the gentle earthiness offered by these sage-tones, this style would work with a whole range of colors — we think a cherry red design could look especially striking.

2. Traditionally Tasteful

This black and white style strikes the balance between traditional and contemporary (Image credit: Lindsay Brown. Design: Tête-à-tête)

In this sprawling, open-plan kitchen, black and white tiled flooring offers a traditional charm, full of comfort and nostalgia. It feels sophisticated without being cold, or uninviting, and paired with the shaker cabinets and tall ceilings, this kitchen oozes with elegance. "The house was built in the 1980s and featured a lot of traditional detailing that our client was originally charmed by when purchasing the house," explains Gillian Blair, principal designer at Tête-à-tête, "however, there were also many 1980s remnants that hadn't aged quite as nicely."

One particularly troubling leftover was the sad ceramic tiles lining the kitchen floor. For a space that's so dramatic and impressive, an upgraded floor covering was certainly in order. "We looked to the very classic checkerboard pattern in order to nod to the charming detailing our client loved while also feeling fresh and new," says Gillian.

The design works to emphasize all the original features that had originally appealed to the client. As opposed to attempting to modernize the space, and cover up what it once was, this feature highlights all its existing charm, while bringing in an extra boost of luxury.

Alongside the print, the material you choose to complete this design in will have an impact on the feel of the final project. "We often opt for natural materials whenever we can because things like marble never go out of style," explains Gillian. "Our client was a little worried about the patina that naturally occurs with marble (especially in the kitchen area), though, so we hunted around for the best faux marble porcelain we could find."

Not only does using a marble alternative remove the issue of the material aging poorly, but porcelain is also a more durable option, not to mention more cost effective. This means the flooring is more likely to last throughout a lifetime, a smart choice for a design as timeless as this one.

"Not only were we hoping to walk a line between traditional and current trends (the elusive "timeless" look), we wanted to soften how bold a stark black and white checker can sometimes be," says Gillian. "We incorporated a third color in a dark gray stone look that softened the entire palette. This played a lot more nicely with the other selections in the room." This slight twist on the classic style elevates the design, resulting in an endlessly elegant look that will never go out of style.

The grey veining in the white tiles brings more complexity to this design (Image credit: Lindsay Brown. Design: Tête-à-tête)

3. Playful Accents

The neutral tones keep this detail sophisticated and understated (Image credit: Cricket Saleh. Design: Kimmy Hogan. Styling: Bea Lambos)

If a fully fledged check is just a touch outside your comfort zone, this sweet tiled trim is the perfect entryway into the trend. Artist Kimmy Hogan instantly knew she wanted to add a playful touch to this petite kitchen nook in her home in Geelong, Australia, and this checkerboard feature perfectly complemented the eclectic feel through the rest of the home.

"Our home design had an eclectic European influence, and the checkerboard was a playful way to add to this character," explains Kimmy. "The checkerboard design is somehow both quirky and classic at the same time, and will never go out of style (when used correctly."

While checkerboard is a timeless classic, interesting interpretations of the trend allow it to feel contemporary and new, as Kimmy has achieved in this design. With only two layers of tiling, it was crucial to select a tile that felt characterful in itself, and made enough of an impact within the limited amount used. "I wanted a handmade and imperfect tile for a rustic charm," says Kimmy, "The colors chosen didn't have a huge contrast so the checker is not jarring, it is soft and beautiful."

This addition exemplifies how the smallest touches can make a huge impact to the overall feel of a home, setting it apart from your standard, uninspired designs. "I wanted to inject personality and character into our home, and avoid that 'new build' look," Kimmy says. "The checker detail is such a joy to look at when making coffee in the morning!"

This small touch adds plenty of personality to this space. (Image credit: Cricket Saleh. Design: Kimmy Hogan. Styling: Bea Lambos)

4. A Bold Backsplash

High-gloss finishes, like zellige tiles, offer more richness in color (Image credit: Laura Emma van Geest. Design: Femkeido Interior and Mosaic Factory)

A design not for the faint of heart, this kitchen doubles up on the checkerboard for a go-hard-or-go-home approach to design. This is dopamine decor at its finest.

Somehow, though, the clashing colors and double-print manage to stray away from feeling overwhelming or claustrophobic and just feel... fun. "Checkerboard tiling adds a classic and timeless aesthetic to a kitchen interior," says Louisa Alice, creative director at Mosaic Factory, "the latest trend moves beyond traditional black and white, embracing bolder color combinations for a fun, contemporary touch."

Yellow and white kitchen zellige tiles combine to create a sunny warmth, further emphasized by the warm glow emitted from the built-in lights positioned above the hob. The nostalgia of the checkerboard print works delightfully alongside the retro-style smeg oven, making for a playful yet sophisticated atmosphere.

"Zellige tiles are a great choice to create this look. Rich in color and with a glossy finish, they work beautifully in a checkerboard pattern, with their handcrafted nature ensuring each tile is unique and full of character," Louisa explains.

Using tiles that mirror the color used on the cabinetry makes this kitchen feel more cohesive (Image credit: Laura Emma van Geest. Design: Femkeido Interior and Mosaic Factory)

FAQs

What Is the Best Color for Checkerboard?

Checkerboard is known for its contrasting colors and eye-catching pattern. Choosing colors such as black and white, as well as red and white — is a great way to make a statement in a big or even small kitchen.

After all, you simply cannot go wrong with checkerboard flooring in your space.

To further convince you to add checkerboard features to your kitchen, Tess tell us: "Checkerboard it a versatile pattern that can be added in so many different ways, through the likes of tile, or fabric and soft furnishings. To even decoration on a vase or tray. It is very easy pattern that is timeless so there is no fear of it going 'out of fashion'."

So, even if you aren't ready to dive in with the tiling, checkerboard is equally as popular as a fabric trend.

There Are 19 Different Tiles in This Toronto Home — From the Kitchen Island to the Room Dividers

Luke Arthur Wells — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Find the right tiles, and the rest will follow. Not a mantra for every interior design project tackled by Lisa Lev of Lisa Lev Design and Katelyn Rempel of Studio Sonny, but when collaborating together to design for a client with an overflowing ceramic collection, it was an obvious place to start.

The owners' penchant for beautiful vases aside, the two-level detached house in Toronto’s Forest Hill Village, which the couple shares with their three children, was a lackluster builder-grade property, with white on every wall and surface. Their brief for this designer duo was clear: transform these stark spaces into rooms that reflected their personality.

Drawing on inspiration from ceramic vessels by local artist Michelle Organ, Lisa and Katelyn began their approach by sourcing ceramic and porcelain tiles for each room — and where there could possibly be tile, there was. From timeless styles to burgeoning tile trends, it's an exploration of the possibilities of the medium. In fact, 19 different tiles were used in total throughout the home, each setting the tone for the design choices that followed, from colors to texture. "We gravitated to an array of blues from the sea which were mostly used in the kitchen," Lisa tells us. "We also used a contrasting palette of warm terracotta as seen in the family room, powder room, and ensuite bathroom."

Before

(Image credit: Courtesy of Studio Sonny and Lisa Lev Design)

There were functional demands on the designers though, too. "They sought to transform their main floor into a multifunctional space that balanced everyday living along with a desire to entertain friends and family more often," Katelyn explains. "Key to the design was creating zones that allowed their children to retreat and engage independently while maintaining an open, connected feel throughout the main floor. As was establishing better flow from room to room, and to their newly completed backyard pool and lounge area."

After

(Image credit: Valerie Wilcox. Design: Lisa Lev at Lisa Lev Design and Katelyn Rempel at Studio Sonny)

The colors, drawn from the Mediterranean, meet a rich layering of textures. "We collectively made this central to achieving the clients’ vision of a home filled with earthy warmth and organic elements," Katelyn says, "balancing this aesthetic with practicality, by selecting materials that not only evoke natural beauty but are also resilient enough to support a growing family and the demands of everyday life."

When first stepping into the house, you're confronted with a focal point fireplace in what was once a stark white playroom. "The main tile used on the surround is actually an ‘accent tile’ tile meant to be used sporadically within a field of solid color," Lisa explains, "but we loved it so much and thought it would be interesting to use it as the field in a random application."

(Image credit: Valerie Wilcox. Design: Lisa Lev at Lisa Lev Design and Katelyn Rempel at Studio Sonny)

The once all-white kitchen is now a highlight of the house — a trove of interesting details that bring texture and color into play once again. The kitchen backsplash tiles are three-dimensional, while a perforated panel wraps around the top of the upper cabinets, making the kitchen feel as though it's built intp the walls.

The kitchen island, with its curved detailing and pretty Taj Mahal quartzite surfaces, was a new idea for both Katelyn and Lisa. "We had never done tile on an island before," Lisa explains. As well as open and closed storage built into it, "the island’s eating area can easily accommodate several diners with an unexpected wide columnar base adding to the playful geometry of the room."

The light fixture over the kitchen island, made from hand-woven baskets and recycled water bottles is a constant conversation piece, while the kitchen's ceramic knobs, chosen for their connection to the pottery-inspired elements, add another unusual talking point.

(Image credit: Valerie Wilcox. Design: Lisa Lev at Lisa Lev Design and Katelyn Rempel at Studio Sonny)

In the adjoining snug, the unused fireplace was removed, opening up space for a shelved media wall that could display sentimental items, including their daughter’s handmade pottery.

The oak shelves and gables were stained to match the kitchen cabinetry, while a light blue was introduced to flow in from the adjoining cooking space. "A sliding door clad in wallpaper becomes a functional design element, concealing the TV when not in use and acting as an artful focal point," Katelyn explains. As an extra detail, copper linen laminate fronts introduce a subtle sheen.

Get the look

Endell Ochre Rug

The sunny yellow rug makes this room so much more uplifting.

It's a match

Hay Bowler Side Table

This is the same side table used in the family's TV room.

Style Steal

Hand Painted Stripe Vase

If artisan ceramics aren't in the budget, try this on for size.

(Image credit: Valerie Wilcox. Design: Lisa Lev at Lisa Lev Design and Katelyn Rempel at Studio Sonny)

With the primary bedroom oversized (and that's not counting its adjoining walk-in galley closet), Katelyn and Lisa set about filling it with comfortable, lounging furniture, so that the whole family can gather there in the evenings.

"The wall behind the bed is covered in grass cloth framed in oak," Lisa explains. "This brings warmth, and helps to lessen the openness of the large space." At the foot of the bed, the designers introduced a cozy, low-profile Togo, in a matching shade to the custom upholstered headboard.

(Image credit: Valerie Wilcox. Design: Lisa Lev at Lisa Lev Design and Katelyn Rempel at Studio Sonny)

Into the ensuite, the soft blues transform into warm, cocooning terracottas, paired with wood, rattan, and natural brown stone.

And the most surprising use of tile takes centerstage in this space — in the form of a 'breeze-block' style room divider, that was also seen in the snug. "It's a modern interpretation of the traditional breezeblock by using a product called Celosia by Mutina," explains Katelyn, "and the application was carried from the hallway into the ensuite, offering privacy by the toilet while ensuring continuity of materiality throughout the home."

And, through embracing ceramics as part of the core design language, that's exactly what they've achieved. Even with subtly shifting color palettes and moods room-to-room, this home is grounded in a celebration of a material, and one that its owners have a real connection to.

Before and After — This Spanish-Style Cali Kitchen Was Re-Imagined With a Bold Tiled Countertop

Aditi Sharma — Wed, 29 May 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Designers Karan and Sapna Aggarwal of Bungalowe decided to create a microcosm of Spain in Highland Park in LA, California. Tucked away on a beautiful street, this once dilapidated and uninhabitable home, now stands as an exemplary oasis. Its interiors beautifully marry historic Spanish style with an earthy color palette and eclectic furnishings for a unique, artistic aesthetic that feels grounded and timeless. The home's theme was based on the designers' trip to Oaxaca, and much of the city's charm and details are now part of this property.

Before the renovation, what's now the kitchen lacked a ceiling, let alone any functionality as a space. The team at Bungalowe reconfigured the layout and carefully decorated the interiors to channel a warm, Spanish vibe. Hand-painted decorative tiles and an earthy green palette add a refined and elevated feel to the cook room.

'The kitchen is now about 150 square feet,' say Karan and Sapna. 'Pre-renovation it was about 130 square feet and located where the guest bedroom is now. What was left of the kitchen had 90s blue tile countertops and dilapidated wood cabinetry.' Take a look at this before and after kitchen makeover, and see how it was completely transformed.

Before

(Image credit: Bungalowe )

The modern kitchen that we see today was a different space when Karan and Sapna Aggarwal of Bungalowe first came in. Much of the interiors were run down but had good bones and a beautiful vintage appeal. The kitchen was located at the far end of the home, and that's where the designers started their work.

'We had to relocate the kitchen from the back corner of the house to the front,' share the duo. 'It is now the first thing you see when you walk in the front door. We also reframed the kitchen arch you see today (which was originally the entrance to the dining room) as well as framed the range wall with an arch for a cohesive, authentic Oaxacan style design.'

After

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: Bungalowe)

Remodeling the kitchen was one of the first tasks at hand and its entire design story was based on a trip the designers took to Southern Mexico.

'We were awestruck by a trip to Grana B&B in Oaxaca; there wasn’t a shadow of a doubt it would serve as our main source of inspiration when designing our next Spanish style kitchen,' they aver. 'This property was originally a Spanish-style one and our objective as designers was to pay homage to the original architecture of the home.'

Secret Lagoon Zellige Tile

Dimension: 2" x 6" x 0.75"
Price: $3.00/piece

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: Bungalowe)

From the kitchen backsplash to the kitchen countertop, all major surfaces are uplifted with green tiles.

'The use of tile was entirely inspired by the stunning kitchen at Grana B&B where Zellige tiles are used as both the backsplash and the countertops,' say Karan and Sapna. 'While we’re used to seeing stone slabs as countertops today, it's not uncommon to see traditional Mexican tile used in place of the slab as a more authentic application.'

Another reason for choosing these tiles were due to their longevity and natural patina that will emerge over time. 'The tiles already have natural imperfections, and that'll continue to wear beautifully over time,' they say. 'The variation of green is also the perfect statement for the kitchen.'

As for the kitchen lighting, the ceiling fixtures were designed to evoke a vacation-like ambiance, 'offering a sense of relaxation and luxury that enriches this beautiful space,' say the duo.

LED Dimmable Ceiling Spot

Type: 12 Watt
Price: $39.99

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: Bungalowe)

To complement the counters and walls, a beautiful earthy tone was chosen for the kitchen flooring.

'We used traditional Saltillo tile from Mexico for the flooring for a cohesive Spanish-style kitchen design,' say the designers. As for the kitchen storage, the duo chose designs that were as functional as they were beautiful.

'We maximized storage with large pull-out cabinetry and hidden roll-out trays inside,' say Karan and Sapna. 'Vertical spice racks flanking the range can easily be used for mixing spoons, cutting boards or baking trays, and open kitchen shelving offer easy access to the day-to-day essentials.'

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: Bungalowe)

The kitchen island seating is designed such that it allows for quick meals and conversations. The cushioned bar stools offer comfort and even great views of the kitchen, the dining, and the outdoors.

'We always treat the kitchen as the heart of the home and like to make the kitchen as inclusive as possible,' aver Karan and Sapna. 'With the layout of this kitchen, there are multiple options to enjoy a meal without being away from the action. Complete with a dining nook with views of DTLA, the peninsula barstools are great for seating. The custom counter seating overlooks Mt. Angelus Drive...this is a kitchen you’ll find yourself cooking and entertaining in.'

Leather Bar & Counter Stool (Set of 2)

Dimension: 33" H X 15" W X 16.75" D
Price: $140

7 Ways to Make Gray Bathroom Tiles Feel Modern and Fresh — 'This Shade Can Still Work for Your Space'

Melissa Epifano Varley — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Swaths of charcoal and mist tones in a bathroom can lean more blasé than stylish, leading you to seriously consider ways to make gray bathroom tiles feel modern. These foundational components are more than a place to step, they play a large part in how a bathroom looks overall too. The right tile can elevate your wet room or primary bath but the wrong kind can just as quickly put a damper on it.

While it's easy to settle on a blanket of basic square tiles in your preferred shade of gray, a little more brainstorming goes a long way in ending up with a modern configuration and tone that'll never feel outdated. If your current grout and tile combination is subpar, there are a few modifications you can make to update the look.

We spoke with a few designers to get their perspectives on the most exciting bathroom tile ideas for transforming boring builder-grade layouts into punchy modern spaces that show just how adaptable gray can be.

1. Warm Up Gray Tile With Wood

(Image credit: @studiomkn / Instagram)

If you're looking for a sleek, cool-toned bathroom, using gray is one of the quickest ways of getting there. Without the right features, it can feel a little sterile and not quite like the relaxing atmosphere you'd expect from a bathroom. To counteract this issue, Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight suggests bringing in 'natural features such as wooded vanities or plant life to add warmth to the cool gray tile tones.'

He says that this will help make any 'modern bathroom a harmonious and welcoming space.' A little extra texture can break up the monotony of all-gray tiles. Terrazzo flooring and wall tiles, for instance, do a great job of this.

2. Opt for Different Shades of Gray

(Image credit: @thetileclub / Instagram)

Monochrome certainly contributes to a modern bathroom, but it's not the only way to achieve this design style. You can create a niche full of glossy tiles and then add terrazzo flooring with specs of gray. Or you can have one particular type of gray shower tile and a lighter version around the sink. There are so many ways to go about it.

Artem suggests to 'play with different gray scales in a gradient-like manner to give additional depth.' He notes that it's a 'subliminal but potent technique' that's actually a trick for creating the 'illusion of a larger and more exciting space.'

3. Blend in an Unexpected Color

(Image credit: @pierce__dev)

Although gray bathroom tile will never go out of style, it has its lulls like any other color. To instantly jazz up a gray bathroom Artem recommends incorporating 'bursts of colors through accessories or wall paint that will go in harmony with the gray tiles.'

As this eye-catching space shows, even a different color of tile is a great choice for complementing and contrasting against the neutrality of a gray. The right combination will 'uplift the space.' Pink, teal, and cobalt are just a few hues to experiment pairing with charcoal or light gray.

4. Select Matte Gray Tiles

(Image credit: @shaunawaltondesign / Instagram)

When it comes to a modern bathroom, you can go two ways for tile finish: matte or glossy. Depending on how you implement them, both can work in this style of room. Artem is on team matte tile for this purpose. Not only will it contribute to the aesthetic you're working toward, but 'the finish also can conceal water spots and smudges, which would make it appropriate for bathrooms.'

This flatter appearance tones things down and it won't lean toward glamorous or maximalist in instances where some lustrous tiles will.

5. Go for Big Format Tiles

(Image credit: TileCloud)

Typically penny tiles, subway tiles, and small squares reign supreme as the most popular tiles for home bathrooms. While these are all classic shapes, they might not feel as modern as you'd hope. There's actually a different configuration that can help you achieve this. 'For a sleek look, consider large-format gray tiles, which can create a seamless and expansive aesthetic, reducing visual clutter,' says TileCloud interior designer Courtney Cole. 'They can be particularly impactful in walk-in showers, or as statement walls when combined with minimalist fixtures.'

6. Experiment With Color Temperature

(Image credit: TileCloud)

Gray is gray is gray — or so you would think. But after looking at the selection of gray tiles available, you'll quickly realize just how many shades and tones are out there. The color temperature can help sway the aesthetic.

As an example, Courtney points out that 'opting for a warm gray can bring a more modern feel as opposed to cooler grays which tend to feel more traditional.' The size, shape, and pattern that the tile is laid out in will influence the final look, too, but this is one other factor to have in mind when you're shopping around. Cole says that 'layering different shades of gray' is also possible and will lead to a more contemporary space.

7. Use Moody Shades

(Image credit: Brio Design Homes)

FLOOR360 interior designer Nichole Abbott notes that 'choosing darker and moodier shades like charcoal gray or slate gray' contributes to a modern-feeling bathroom. This bathroom color idea and a mix of small and large tiles works wonders for constructing a shower room that doesn't feel basic by any standards. 'By installing large tiles vertically on the walls, you draw the eye up and make the space seem larger than it is,' she says. 'Add smaller tiles in the same color and material for an eye-pleasing monochromatic modernizing effect.' This is a winning combination and a unique way of mixing sizes in one area without it feeling jumbled.

The Best Gray Tiles for a Modern Bathroom

Zagora Glossy Zellige Field Tile

Price: $204.33 per carton
Coverage: 10.46 sq. ft.

Daltile Dignitary Square Floor and Wall Tile

Price: $ per carton
Coverage: 15 sq. ft.

Color One Fossil Gray Glossy Lava Stone Tile

Price: $75.47
Amount: 3.88 sq. ft.

4 Tricks to Help Choose Bathroom Tiles That Always Feel Timeless — 'This Way Your Scheme Will Never Date'

Maya Glantz — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:58:07 +0000

With so many options out there for tiles, selecting the perfect tiling for your bathroom can feel overwhelming. Finding the balance between durability, and design, is crucial in the bathroom, where form must not outweigh function.

Because the bathroom is a big investment, making the right choice is important. While the new, trendy looks may be appealing, they run the risk of quickly becoming outdated, leaving you wanting to redesign the room just months after installation.

To prevent this kind of disaster, our experts have handpicked their favorite bathroom tile ideas that are never going out of style.

1. Play by the house rules

(Image credit: Michael A. Kaske. Design: TKS Design Group)

The trick to creating a timeless look in your home stretches beyond the bathroom, connecting to the broader aesthetic of the house.

'In order to successfully address timelessness, think about the age of your home and the style that is integral to that era,' suggests Julia Mack, founder of Julia Mack Design. 'By sticking to that style but selecting a more modern interpretation, any bathroom can become timeless.'

'For example,' Julia continues, 'if your home was built In the 1920’s and has Art Deco elements, black and white tile is appropriate. Then consider updating it with black grout that hides dirt and discoloration and allows the white linear grid of the tile to enhance the space.'

Following your home's existing design features, while adding contemporary touches, allows you to create a modern bathroom look that is both timeless and exciting.

2. Keep to the classics

(Image credit: BC Designs)

Classics have earned their status for a reason, and this certainly rings true for the much-loved black and white checkerboard tiling.

'A standard checkerboard is simultaneously modern and retro,' argues Julia Mack.

In order to achieve the best look, it's important to consider how the size of your bathroom will impact the appearance of your checkerboard flooring tiles: 'For small bathrooms, look for small tiles that have either high contrast, think black and white, or compatible colors like cream and white, for a more subtle flooring choice,' says Julia.

Shannon Niehenke, of Narrative Design Studios, agrees that 'the classic checkerboard is making a comeback.' But this look does not have to be limited to the typical black and white tones. 'We are working on a Spanish-style project at the moment that has subtle cream and terracotta checkerboard tones, which feels a bit less bold than the traditional contrast of black and white,' Shannon adds.

3. It's all in the details

(Image credit: Lang Thomas Photography. Design: Britney Groneck)

Opting for a more timeless tile style does not mean you can't experiment with more exciting design elements in your bathroom. Play around with your accessories as a low-commitment way of testing out new bathroom trends, and incorporating your personal style into your bathroom.

Follow Julia Macks advice: 'Try to keep bright and trendy colors in bathrooms to easy to change out accessories like towels, soaps and candles to be certain your space always looks fresh and attractive.'

Rosita Bath Mat

Price: $48

Bath Towel

Price: $90

Soap Dispenser

Price: $17.99

4. Selecting your material

(Image credit: Getty Images)

'The bathroom flooring must be a hard surface, water resistant, and good for traction to avoid accidents,' explains Sabrina Maclean of Hino Studios.

Your bathroom tiles have to do more than just look good, and making a choice based purely on looks can lead to issues with functionality and useability.

'Porcelain and mosaic tiles are one of the most common and effective ones,' says Sabrina. 'They are durable and versatile, with a wide variety of colors and designs in the market. And, they are a cost-effective alternative to natural stone.'

'Porcelain tends to be the most popular choice for bathroom flooring as it is less porous and it is suitable for floor heaters to keep feet warm when temperatures are cold' agrees Bea Pernia, founder of Bea Interior Design. 'Porcelain also provides a clean design that will make the bathroom feel soft and elegant.'

5 Genius Ideas Using Zellige Tiles That Will Elevate Any Kitchen - Make This the Start of Your 2024 Remodel Moodboard

Luke Arthur Wells — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Yes, your kitchen cabinets are probably the most important part of your remodel, but I always think that it's the tile choice that really sets the tone for a space. Even the most beautiful millwork can be made to look pretty pedestrian when paired with an uninspired choice for a backsplash.

Right now, you can't go wrong with zellige tiles if you want a kitchen that has soul. 'Zellige tiles have an inherent and hand crafted beauty like no other,' architectural designer Britney Groneck tells me. 'They add depth, texture and movement to any type of space and in my opinion, will never go out of style.'

By themselves, they're enough to make for an incredible detail in your kitchen, but designers are exploring new and interesting ways to decorate kitchens with tile, especially zellige tiles, that have me feeling inspired. Take a look at 5 of my favorite modern kitchens using clever tiling ideas, and get your creative juices flowing for a kitchen remodel in 2024.

1. This tiled cooker hood

(Image credit: Ema Peter. Design: Gillian Segal)

When you're working with a material like zellige tiles, you want the design of a kitchen to really highlight their beauty, and avoid too much visual clutter where your tiles will get lost in the mix.

The approach Toronto-based designer Gillian Segal took with this beautifully bold kitchen backsplash provides an idea for showcasing your tiles to their fullest. 'We opted to use the same material on the hoodfan, backsplash and sconces with a few goals in mind,' Gillian explains. 'Firstly the inherent beauty of zellige tiles is the variety in tone from one tile to the next, and I find this can be lost on smaller spaces. We wanted to emphasize the drama of this texture and variety, so carried this over as much space as possible.'

'We also wanted to create a quietness in this area of the kitchen – both to make it feel larger and allow other special elements in the space (the lighting, the curvilinear forms, the bold stone and color) to be focal points,' Gillian adds.

It's an idea that streamlines the look of this kitchen, all the while letting the texture of the zellige tiles make the scheme feel richer and more organic.

2. This backsplash color-matched to the cabinets

(Image credit: Rett Peak. Design: MeetWest Studio)

When designers create two-tone kitchens, you'll often find the upper cabinets are kept in a lighter shade - an old trick for making your kitchen seem more spacious. This scheme from Arkansas design studio MeetWest elevates the idea by color blocking not only the upper cabinets, but the backsplash too.

'The homeowner is a ceramicist, so we knew we wanted to add touches that were a connection point to her craft and the Arkansas landscape, but also felt like they could be original to the home,' Whitney Romanoff, founder of MeetWest. 'The zellige tile has a super dimensional, earthy glaze and no two tiles were exactly alike.'

'We thought carrying the sage green onto the upper cabinets broke up the visual weight of the warm walnut lower cabinets and connected the eye more to the greenery outside,' Whitney adds. This idea brings a lightness to the space that helps to balance the darker, more dramatic features like the kitchen countertop and terracotta flooring.

3. This backsplash made of mixed colors

(Image credit: Lang Thomas Photography. Design: Britney Groneck)

In this over-a-century old property, architectural designer Britney Groneck wanted to design in a backsplash that would make an impact. 'There is a large window opening above the kitchen sink that allows natural light to pour into the room and that I wanted to take full advantage of,' Britney explains. 'The kitchen backsplash required a material that would immediately draw your eye into the space.'

'We ordered many samples of the zellige tiles and loved all the dark hues of the greens, deep browns, and maroon tones,' Britney explains. 'Instead of keeping the backsplash as one consistent color we decided to get creative and design a random pattern by utilizing five different color options which allowed for more depth and movement.'

'We are really proud of the outcome and the zellige tile was exactly what this project needed to elevate the space in a unique and modern way,' Britney adds. 'These hand crafted tiles give a timeless look and embody the most beautiful sheen and texture that felt appropriate for this home and became the highlight for the kitchen.'

4. This full wall of tile

(Image credit: Magnus Mårding. Design: Liljencrantz)

You'll need to make a decision when tiling a backsplash about how far up the wall to go. This can be made a lot easier when you've got a dividing line like upper cabinets or floating shelves above your counters - otherwise, it's often a sleeker look to tile all the way up the ceiling.

Of course, there's no real rules about where you should and shouldn't use kitchen tiles, and this beautiful white kitchen by Stockholm-based design studio Liljencrantz Design might just convince you to think outside of the box.

The designers used an off-white zellige tile from counter to ceiling on one side of the kitchen, but continued the tile up onto the adjoining wall and above the kitchen cabinets. It's an idea that goes beyond the practicalities of a backsplash, but that makes this simple, understated kitchen feel incredibly special.

5. This backsplash with chunky grouting

(Image credit: Lauren Taylor Creative. Design: Urbanology Designs)

Oversized grouting is a relatively new kitchen trend, but one that can really highlight the irregular beauty of a tile like zellige and create a bold feature of a splashback.

'It creates a secondary pattern without only relying on the tile,' says Ginger Curtis, founder of Urbanology Designs who designed this kitchen. 'And it is surprisingly practical. In fact, it is easier to clean than tiny, impossible-to-clean grout lines.'

It's a different look to a plain zellige tile backsplash - more graphic in its nature, but beautiful in its own way, and it opens up clever ideas for playing with different tile layouts.

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5 ways interior designers use "curved" tiles to design clever spaces – they work so well in small rooms

Hugh Metcalf — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:00:43 +0000

Have you ever seen an interior design scheme with "curved" tiles and wondered how it's done? These designs look as though the tiles are soft and fluid, melting over curved forms to allow for creative spaces that don't feel so rigid and hard-edged. However, the vast majority of any curved tiles you see actually belong to a very specific tile system called DTILE, designed and made in the Netherlands, which you'll actually need to design your space around to make work.

'It uses prefabricated parts,' explains architect Scott Weston. 'A standard tile, curved and bullnose pieces. You don’t have to cut the tiles to fit, as you base the design on the system. It's simpler for the tiler.'

It opens up your rooms, whether bathroom, kitchen or any other room in the house, to new design opportunities, and new ways to use tiles that feels fresh and modern. It's become an interior design trend in its own right.

Take a look at these 5 examples of creative ways in which DTILE has been used by interior designers that showcase just what you could do with this genius tile, and how it can work particularly well for a small space.

1. This small bathroom countertop

(Image credit: George Barberis. Design: Bright Designlab)

While some of these interior designer-designed schemes go all out on using these curved edge tiles from DTILE, they're also the sort of idea that works well when used as a small detail in a space.

In this small bathroom, for example, the tiles are just used to bring the finishing touch to the bathroom vanity - a tiny, but meaningful detail that helps to elevate the space. 'The custom tile vanity in the guest bathroom is design forward while nodding to the whispers of the architectural language of the home,' says interior designer Alissa Pulcrana of Portland-based design studio Bright Designlab. 'It also creates a textural visual interest which is a refreshing diversion from stone, and is also very durable.'

It feels like a softer edging for something like a countertop, too. Where our brains are hardwired to avoid hard, sharp angles, soft curves are welcoming and invite us to approach - perfect when space is short in supply, but you want to feel like you've got room to move.

2. This apartment's bold guest bathroom

(Image credit: Brian Ferry. design: Home Studios)

At the other end of the spectrum, interior designers Home Studios used the curved tile finished across the bathroom of this modern New York apartment. The D-Tile edgings are used across the vanity with integrated sink and built-in bathtub that's been fully tiled inside and out. It also extends to a small seating nook that incorporates towel storage for this guest space.

This bathroom also showcases how you can use the inward curving tiles along the perimeter of the room. It creates a softer connection between walls and floors, making the whole space feel like one tiled area, with no ugly or awkward cuts in the tiles to be found, while streamlining these disparate elements to make it feel a more cohesive space.

3. This small kitchen's countertop

(Image credit: Jo Bridges. Design: Owl Design London)

This clever ability to blend surfaces is the real secret to how curve-edge tiles really make a small space work better, and it's why Sophie van Winden, co-founder of Owl Design London, used them in this small kitchen.

'The kitchen is on the lower ground floor of an old chapel, so even though it has really high ceilings, it can get quite dark,' Sophie tells us. 'We wanted to open up the space with as little material and color change as possible. The DTILE was perfect for this as we could use them for the countertop, kitchen backsplash, shelf and sink and we then carried them along to become the dining table bench and media shelf continuing into the living room space.'

'The smooth curves and slightly reflective surface of them were perfect for bouncing the light and creating flow between the spaces,' the interior designer adds.

4. This living room's coffee table

(Image credit: Laure Joliet. Design: Corinne Mathern)

Curved tile edges aren't just limited to bathrooms and kitchens, either. We've seen some brilliant examples across the home, from fireplaces to dining tables, and even an outdoor kitchen. However, it's this coffee table designed by California-based interior designer Corinne Mathern that's our favorite alternative use of this tile system.

'I love the Superstudio tile tables of the 70s, but we wanted something softer for this living room and D-tile system was perfect for that,' Corinne said.

5. This modern kitchen island

(Image credit: Scott Weston Architecture Design PL. Photo credit: Nicholas Watt)

In this modern kitchen, architect Scott Weston used DTILE to create an island to contrast against the other linear forms he'd chosen for the design in his own home, inspired by the tiled countertops that appeared in American movies he'd seen as a child.

'Creatively using a tile color or pattern provides unique design solutions to our clients’ homes, rather than sticking to the same old formulaic system of specifying marble or quartz,' he says.

Designers are using Zooey Deschanel's kitchen tiles as inspiration for 2024's big decor trend

Katie Daly — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 06:30:26 +0000

Kitchen tiles are subject to trends as much as anything else. In recent years we've seen the metro tile, the finger tile, and then the Zellige. And now the actor Zooey Deschanel is spearheading a look at that we - and designers - think will be big in 2024.

Embracing pattern, Zooey's take on this kitchen trend is part of wider movement to add personality to as many areas of the home as possible. From deckchair stripes to tropical prints, we're seeing a riotous embrace of print in the work of designers as varied as Jake Arnold (who likes lattice on living room walls) and Jonathan Adler (who is going geometric on rugs).

The New Girl and Elf star took to Instagram with The Real Housewives of Beverley Hills star Crystal Kung Minkoff to show her 7.7 million followers how to make dumplings but it wasn’t just the recipe designers were taking note of.

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The modern kitchen providing the backdrop to Zooey’s cooking reel, which garnered over 20 thousand likes, showed an obvious move away from the standard subway style tile in favour of a mosaic style patterned tile in blue and green tones framed with rectangular cream rustic tiles.

Designer Hema Persad of Sagrada Studio in Los Angeles says whilst subway tiles are a classic style, they don’t add as much personality to a space as a tile like Zooey’s. ‘Tiles are a fun and low-lift way to add personality to a space,’ Persad says. ‘They also emphasize the inspiration you're working with (mid-century, Spanish, etc).’

(Image credit: Douglas Friedman. Design: Lucas Interior)

It is this element of artistic experimentation that makes Zooey’s tiles so fun. Founder of Arsight design studio, Artem Kropovinsky, reminds us that ‘using patterned tiles can really change a kitchen's ambience. Instead of just being a backdrop, they become an engaging centerpiece and a talking point.’

Of course, tiles like Zooey’s also have practical value. As a tile which features a beautiful repeat pattern and has color running through it, they have a functional advantage as a feature which will cover messes naturally made in even the least experimental of cook’s kitchen. Persad tells us that ‘they hide any food or grease stains and also are easy to clean. Just wipe away. They also create a moisture barrier between your wall and the water that is inevitably going to splash up from time to time in a kitchen.’

If you are looking to replace your subway tiles with a patterned style there are a few factors to consider, according to designers. This particularly pertains to a kitchen that already has lots of color, texture or pattern throughout as you don’t want your new tiles to overwhelm the space or make it look too busy. To avoid this, Julia Longchamps, Principal at Julia Longchamps Design located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, tells us to ‘keep with a consistent color palette that works with the rest of the home design.’ Hence Zooey’s kitchen is a design triumph - the patterned tiles are offset perfectly by muted cabinetry and neutral marble countertops.

Balance is key when adding patterned tiles. As Kropovinsky points out, ‘if the tiles have a vibrant pattern, it's wise to pair them with more muted decor elements. Conversely, if the rest of the kitchen has a lively theme, subtler tile patterns might be a better choice.’

(Image credit: Idha Lindhag)

In order to achieve the relaxed country meets contemporary feel of Zooey’s kitchen, follow Persad’s simple advice regarding scale and utility: ‘Larger tiles work best on the floor, whereas smaller are better for backsplash. And never use tile on countertops, it's just not sanitary because of the food and bacteria that can get trapped in the grout lines.’

If you’re redesigning your kitchen, start with choosing your tiles. Zooey’s kitchen shows that they really can add so much visually to the space, especially when the other more neutral fitted pieces work in perfect harmony.

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Don't just settle for white gloss! These expert tips for styling metro tiles will guarantee compliments from guests

Lilith Hudson — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 05:00:33 +0000

Metro tiles, otherwise known as subway tiles, have been a classic choice for kitchens and bathrooms since their inception. Timeless though they may be, however, you'd be forgiven for tiring of the typical white glossy brick layout.

The good news is, they're extremely versatile. Not only are there a plethora of different variations for an intriguing tile design, but the ever-growing market now offers plenty of options to experiment with size, color, grout, and surface finish. 'Like jeans and a T-shirt, metro tiles are a classic, but we are seeing designers and homeowners wanting to take some more chances with colors, textures, and patterns,' explains Deborah Osburn of clé tile.

If you want an intriguing tile idea that will guarantee compliments from guests, you'll want to hear these expert tips. Besides the trending metro tile formations, they offer advice on how to be bold with size, style, and scale for a bathroom or kitchen tile idea that wows.

How can you make metro tiles more intriguing?

(Image credit: Future)

If you think metro tiles are overdone, you're probably picturing a standard white brick formation, but there's a whole lot more to them than that. Their versatility makes them the gift that keeps on giving, with countless subway tile layouts to offer intriguing patterns on your wall or floor.

'Metro tiles are wonderfully diverse, and can be installed in a multitude of layouts to create a unique and characterful space,' explains Lee Thornley, founder of Bert & May. 'However, experimenting with angles and color is an easy way to take otherwise plain metro tiles and add personality and character.' Here are three tips to consider when deciding on a metro tile design.

1. Play with color

(Image credit: @Samuelheath for Bert & May)

By far one of the easiest ways to play around with your pattern is with color. By default, many of us opt for a single tile color across our entire space, but the possibilities for pattern are endless once you add more to the mix. 'We love to combine Metro tiles in different colorways to create bold stripes and unexpected patterns,' says Lee. 'This adds visual interest to your scheme and a personal touch to plain tiles.'

Consider a stripe that runs horizontally along your kitchen backsplash, or a vertical stripe in the center of one as a focal point. You could also try recurring stripes, or simply alternate your standard layout between two colors for a two-tone effect. Zigzags are also an option that works particularly well with a herringbone configuration, or you could give color blocking with a basket weave a go.

2. Experiment with size

(Image credit: Banner Day Interiors/Vivian Johnson)

The size of your tile is also a great way to experiment with something new. 'Most people think that subway tiles only come in a 2:1 ratio as the original 3x6 inch white ceramic tile created for the New York subway did,' says Deborah Osburn, founder of clé tile, 'but there’s no hard and fast rule about any of that'.

Slimmer variations have been particularly popular recently, offering a more elegant look that's great for heightening spaces when stacked vertically. 'Experimenting with scale can also give a contemporary edge to a traditional formation,' says Lee. To really play on this idea, oversized grouting can emphasize the size of your tile while offering a totally unique look. 'You could even play with the grout colors,' adds Deborah.

3. Don't just go for gloss

(Image credit: Sarah Southwell for Bert & May )

A surefire way to make a metro tile look unoriginal is to opt for gloss. Yes, it's a default choice for kitchen and bathroom tiles and it does have its practical benefits when it comes to cleaning, but a high-shine metro tile can look dull (figuratively speaking, of course).

'These days, subway tiles can come in a wide range of finishes,' says Deborah. 'They can be glossy, matte, or unglazed, and can even come in terracotta, brick, stone, and marble. By thinking a little more broadly, you can use the finish to make your installation more modern, more rustic and earthy, or even wildly sophisticated and glamorous.'

Matt's moment certainly isn't over, but the prevailing tile trend at the moment is an artisanal zellige style. These trending tiles, traditionally handcrafted in Moroccan from clay, feature variations in coloration and texture for a dimensional look that results in a rustic feel. They also come in both shiny and matt varieties. If you want the kind of tiled wall that stops guests in their tracks, they're a wise choice.

'For more visual interest, you can mix and match glazed and encaustic or marble finishes for subtle variation and an artful touch,' adds Lee.

What grout size should you use for metro tiles?

When it comes to grouting your metro tiles, a 1/8-inch grout line will give you a classic look, while a slimmer 1/16-inch grout line might be better for a more clean and modern look. Really though, the decision is all yours.

'What’s often overlooked is grout, the unsung hero of design,' says Deborah. 'Grout is an essential part of the whole “metro look”. The staggered grout joint is an essential part of the metro "tradition" and emphasizes the regularity and repetition of the shape, but grout joints can be narrow or wide, exactly matched to the tile, or a slight contrast.' You could even embrace an oversized grouting idea if you want to be bold.

All in all, don't just go for a default grout line. Incorporate it into your design if you really want tiles that win your compliments ever time.

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Horizontal or Vertical Tiles — Which Layout Works Better for a Small Bathroom?

Aditi Sharma — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 08:00:57 +0000

The way you position your bathroom tiles might feel like it's down to preference — and to some degree it is. However, the use of rectangular subway tiles means that when you factor in a contrasting grout, you're creating a pattern across your walls to some extent.

In a similar way to stripes in fashion, this can cause a visual effect that plays with your sense of proportion of a room — maybe making it look taller, maybe wider, depending on whether you choose horizontal or vertical tiles, and what your room's size and layout is.

So which bathroom tile idea is better for a small space? Well, the general rule of thumb is a vertical tile works great for a room with a low ceiling, a horizontal tile for one that's narrow. However, there's some important advice to consider alongside, as well as other options which offer the best of both worlds, as these experts explain.

Is it better to lay tiles vertically or horizontally?

(Image credit: NIna Magon)

As per experts, you can alter or manipulate the way your bathroom looks with the layout of the tiles. And in saying that, both the formats work. "As a rule of thumb, vertical tiles will feel more modern, and horizontal tiles will feel relatively more traditional," says interior designer Sara Schroeder of Charles Cunniffe Architects in Aspen CO. "Vertical tiles work especially well in spaces that have lower ceilings when you would like to achieve the impression that they are higher."

Alternatively, if you have a very narrow, small bathroom layout, the horizontal tiles can make the space feel more expanded on both sides. The laying of tiles side by side in rows can draw the eye across the space, creating the perception of more room.

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When should I use vertical tiles?

(Image credit: Tim Lenz. Design: Crystal Sinclair)

If you have a powder room or a small bathroom with a low ceiling, it's best to use vertical tiles as these will expand the space upwards.

"Running tiles vertically will add height to the room," advises Sarah Rosenhaus, principal and founder of Sarah Rosenhaus Interior Design. "A vertical pattern will draw the eyes up, giving the illusion of height."

One thing to note is that with tighter spaces, it is better to also think of the proportion of the tile to the room, and its grout lines. When you install tiles vertically, their joint lines tend to become more visible so it's best to use large format lines or neutral-toned grout lines, otherwise the room would look congested.

This format looks especially great with subway tiles, picket fence tiles, and vertical wavy tiles.

When should I use horizontal tiles?

(Image credit: Emily Keeney. Design: Office of Ordinary Architecture)

Choosing a horizontal format for small bathroom tiles would be ideal when you want to expand the space, width-wise. This specific layout will visually push the space and make it look wider and bigger.

This format works well with most types of tiles, but particularly with brick, mosaic, and herringbone tiles. One thing to remember is "in small bathrooms, choosing large-format tiles will make the space feel larger, especially if you're laying them out horizontally," says Nishita Kamdar, principal architect at Studio Nishita Kamdar.

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What color tiles work best in vertical and horizontal formats?

(Image credit: Bert and May)

If you're interested in making a small bathroom look bigger, it may not even be a question of horizontal or vertical tiles but more the color and the grout lines.

"It is a myth that dark colors will make a small bathroom look smaller," says Nishita. "The correct lighting and choice of tile will make even a small bathroom look dramatic. I prefer to not use very busy printed tiles in small spaces and instead use solid colors."

Using the same color grout as the tiles will also removes these prominent lines altgether, helping to reduce the effects of any optical illusions.

Should I use large or small format tiles?

(Image credit: Gavin Cater. Design: Bungalowe)

People are often duped into thinking a small bathroom or an ensuite calls for small tiles. In reality larger tiles expand the illusion as they require fewer grout lines making it appear more streamlined.

Mindy O’Connor, principal and founder of Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors, argues the tile size poses a more important contributor to the illusion of a larger space.

"The direction of the tile layout itself can affect the appearance of size in a space, but it is more likely that the amount of tile and how it is being used on the walls will have a greater impact," she says.

"Large tiles are best but we would not recommend an overly large format tile for a small space," warns Sara Schroeder. "There is much more than your tile orientation to think about as you are selecting tile — including pattern (on each tile), layout (of the tiles together), tile quantity, texture, and accenting required to achieve your dream installation."

When selecting your tile, calculate how many tiles can fit across your space. Both vertical or horizontal tiles should accentuate unbroken space in order to appear larger. Mindy advises calculating your tile size precisely to ensure they fit perfectly. "Rather than fitting tile in every open spot, design millwork carefully to minimize broken spots or awkward leftover areas for tile," she explains. This will have a large effect on the feeling of openness and continuity in a room.

In conclusion, whether you choose horizontal or vertical tiles, both can be beneficial in a small bathroom. It depends on how you want to boost the space's visuals. For narrow spaces, it's best to go in for a horizontal format, but if you want to give the bathroom more height, choose vertical tiles.

IKEA's new heritage prints are an easy shortcut to make a room look expensive – at under $30

Lilith Hudson — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 09:00:51 +0000

If there's one element of traditional design that we love at Livingetc, it's heritage prints. Pretty patterns with floral motifs may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to decorating a contemporary home, but an emerging trend for layering patterned textiles has certainly made itself known this season, and even IKEA is even jumping on the bandwagon.

A quick glance at the latest product collection from the Scandi-cool brand and it's clear they're embracing patterns. From bedding to curtains and everything in between, there's a host of floral fabrics perfect for spring; and of course, who better to make heritage-style prints feel modern than the world's biggest contemporary homeware store? We take a look at the best to buy right now to introduce the interior design trend into your own home.

(Image credit: IKEA)

In recent years, running in direct parallel to the minimalism movement, there's been a firm appreciation for a more maximalist style. One way that's manifested in our interiors is through pattern clashing, the intentional contrasting of playful, bold designs in a way that bypasses any sense of garishness.

This more understated approach to pattern is what IKEA gets just right. Take the TRÅGSPINNARE curtains shown above. The two-tone fronded design creeps up your wall to immerse the space in pattern without feeling overwhelming.

That still rings true when paired with the TUVSÄV cushion cover on the sofa, its design straight out of the William Morris handbook. Inspired by the rich botanical patterns found on 18th-century English wallpaper, these prints layer together perfectly to add a certain richness, warmth, and comfort to your space, as well as complimentary colorways to inspire further schemes.

Get the look

TRÅGSPINNARE curtains, IKEA

A genius way to introduce pattern into your space without relying on pillows or bedspreads, these room-darkening curtains master the art of British heritage prints. The heading tape allows you to attach your curtains directly to a rod, and it's even the same color as the curtains to keep things looking neat. View Deal

In a similar vein, the KÄRRDUNÖRT duvet set features the same earthy green base tone adorned with a rich floral pattern. Designed by Swedish designer Hanna Wendelbo, they're inspired by the intricate detail of Britain's heritage prints. 'The English Arts and Crafts movement is a source of inspiration for me,' she says. 'The patterns for the KÄRRDUNÖRT duvet cover set and TUVSÄV cushion cover are from sketches I made of flowers. They feel precious and timeless.'

When it comes to how to make traditional patterns feel modern, we suggest pairing them with modern touches such as accent lighting and matte black hardware for a contrasting effect.

Get the look

KÄRRDUNÖRT duvet set, IKEA

A William Morris 101, the symmetrical floral motif on the KÄRRDUNÖRT duvet set is a great way to introduce a subtle splash of color to your space. The earthy green tones are bang on-trend and complimented by the muted pink and yellow flowers for an elegantly beautiful botanical bedspread. View Deal

(Image credit: IKEA)

If you prefer a more pared-back approach to pattern, IKEA also offers some lighter prints on white backgrounds which are easier to integrate into neutral schemes. Pretty and patterned without slipping into lurid chintz, the SORGMANTEL duvet cover and pillowcase shown above have a delicate sage leaf print on white cotton sheets, turning your sanctuary into an instantly calming, botanical bedroom idea.

Die-hard fans of William Morris might be familiar with his iconic 'willow bough' print, something this duvet cover and pillowcase calls to mind. Used in an otherwise neutral space devoid of pattern, it adds a subtle hint of color and dimension.

Get the look

SORGMANTEL duvet set, IKEA

Pare back your pattern with the subtle SORGMANTEL duvet design. The sage-on-white fronded foliage print is a far more delicate take on the pattern trend - more suited to neutral, minimalist spaces - making it perfect for your sleep sanctuary. View Deal

(Image credit: IKEA)

If you've well and truly washed your hands of the sage green color trend, the SOMMARSLÖJA duvet set opts for a dreamy sky blue hue instead. Beautiful against the background of a striped headboard or floral wallpaper, it's ideal for a more delicate approach to pattern layering, and possibly the perfect bedspread as we head into spring.

Blending the traditional with the contemporary is one thing IKEA certainly does best, and thanks to our trusty friends at the Swedish powerhouse, embracing patterns in modern design has never been easier.

Get the look

SOMMARSLÖJA duvet set, IKEA

Like lying on a blue bed of forget-me-knots, the SOMMARSLÖJA duvet set departs from the green theme that's dominated IKEA patterned textiles thus far. Perfect for a spring shake-up in the bedroom (here's hoping blue skies will follow) View Deal

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7 inspiring layouts for subway tiles that all feel like brand new design trends

Ruth.Doherty@freelance.ti-media.com (Ruth Doherty) — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 08:00:13 +0000

The humble brick tile is a design classic, but did you know there are a host of interesting layouts for basic subway tiles that can add a contemporary update to your bathroon and kitchen ideas?

The subway tile first found popularity after it was used throughout the subways of New York in the early 1900s. It quickly became a sought-after, popular choice in pre-war homes thanks to its simple aesthetic, easy-clean properties and affordability.

'Tastes have evolved over the years, but the popularity of subway tiles remains, spurred on by the plethora of colors and finishes that have revitalized this classic style,' says Hannah Guilbert, Product Marketing Manager at Original Style. 'Depending on the tile you choose, these tiles can look equally at home in modern kitchens, bathrooms and hallways in traditional and contemporary homes.

'Not only are there an incredible number of subway tiles to choose from, once you have made your selection you’ll then need to decide how you want them to be installed. Whilst the traditional way to install bricks is in a standard offset pattern, there’s an increasing trend for laying them in a grid-like pattern, herringbone and other visually compelling patterns.

'Playing with angles and patterns is a brilliant way to add interest and a new dimension to your bathroom tile ideas. Even the simplest of schemes will stand out with these interesting layouts for subway tiles.'

Interesting layouts for basic subway tiles

'The classic running bond is extremely versatile as a quiet and often neutral backdrop, but when you want the tile to help transform a space, investing time in other layout patterns and arrangements that work with the elements in the room can really increase the cohesiveness of the total design,' says Mindy O'Connor, Principal of Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors.

See how you can shake up your subway tile game below...

1. Stacked horizontal

(Image credit: Banner Day Interiors/Vivian Johnson)

The stacked horizontal layout, also known as the horizontal stacked bond and demonstrated beautifully in the bathroom by Banner Day Interiors (above), is a modern take on the classic horizontal running bond.

It can be used to bring a fresh look to a shower room, kitchen backsplash or bathroom.

Sarah Rosenhaus, Principal and Owner of Sarah Rosenhaus Interior Design, says: 'Subway tile is such a classic and using them in non-traditional ways is an affordable way to make a statement.

'To get a more modern look from subway tiles, I love the gridded look when they are stacked. If you are feeling bold, add a light grey grout to give it some pop and if you are feeling really bold, use a tile and grout color combination like terracotta or a warm brown.'

Just as a vertical stacked bond can make a room feel taller, a horizontal stack layout is a great small bathroom tile idea as it can work to make the room feel wider.

Sarah confirms: 'Running tile vertically will add height to the room, while a horizontal pattern will open the room.'

(Image credit: Maestri Studio/Jenifer McNeil Baker)

2. Stacked vertical

(Image credit: Erika Jayne Design + Build/Jenn Verrier)

Stacking subway tiles vertically on top and beside each other is a good way to elongate a space as well as add visual interest.

This kitchen by Erika Jayne Design + Build above began with, and was centered around, the tile.

(Image credit: Erika Jayne Design + Build/Jenn Verrier)

Erika Chaudhuri, Principal of Erika Jayne Design + Build, says: 'The project had two goals: honor the mid-century style of the home and feature handmade tile by Heath Ceramics.

'We selected a matte finish Ogawa Green (a subtle blue-green) in 2"x9" tiles. Slightly narrower and longer than a traditional 3x6 subway tile, the elongated shape provides a more modern look.

'Stacking tiles (rather than staggering them in a brick pattern) provides a clean, contemporary look while drawing the eye upward to give the illusion of more height. The result is a purely mid-century vibe.'

3. Vertical brick bond

(Image credit: Interiors by Popov)

The vertical brick bond (also known as vertical running bond) is basically the classic subway tile layout turned 90 degrees.

'Often in a low ceiling situation we take advantage of the rectangular shape of the subway tile and lay it in a vertical running or stacked bond,' says Anna Popov, Principal and Founder at Ineriors by Popov. 'This allows us to emphasize the vertical line in the room. Emphasizing the vertical line in a room with a low ceiling creates a visual effect of elevating the ceiling and elongating the walls. The effect is subtle yet prominent.'

Speaking about the design above, Anna says: 'Some of the modern subway tile collections come in a variety of textures allowing designers to come up with some very creative ideas.

'We laid vertical bonds of textured tile in the bathroom above, and played with some LED lights to further emphasize the texture and the vertical brick bond pattern.'

Sarah Rosenhaus is also a fan of this layout, adding: 'A modern subway tile layout look I love is the offset stack. This gives you the movement of a traditional running bond with the modern feel of the stack.'

4. Herringbone

(Image credit: Original Style)

Herringbone is a classic design that dates all the way back to the Roman Empire, when it was used to build roads. It became particularly popular in interior design during the Art Deco period, and can be used on flooring, backsplashes, half walls or full walls for a timeless, elegant effect.

'This style of tiling is becoming increasingly popular and works well with both half tiles and brick style tiles,' says Hannah Guilbert. 'While this layout may look complex, it can be easily achieved when prepared and planned correctly.'

Hannah adds: 'Providing a simple yet beautiful visual interest, this subway tile layout can make a space appear bigger that it is - try tiling from the floor to the ceiling to help draw the eye along the length of the room.'

(Image credit: Interiors by Popov/Novikov Photography)

And Anna Popov loves to use a herringbone pattern in her design projects.

She says: 'A beautiful diagonal pattern can be achieved with a classic rectangular subway tile.

'Our three favorite patterns are herringbone, double herringbone, or a chevron pattern. With these three layouts there is a myriad of appearances and design solutions that can be achieved.

'Using contrasting grout will emphasize the pattern, making the wall very dynamic and prominent. While using a matching grout would achieve a very soft, subtle result.

'This is what we did in the above bathroom. We used a very soft-looking natural marble tile and laid it in a herringbone pattern with a matching grout for a seamless finish.'

5. Straight herringbone

(Image credit: Original Style)

The straight herringbone, also known as the step ladder, is a more modern take on the traditional herringbone pattern.

Original Style's Hannah Guilbert says: 'This take on the herringbone pattern has a more contemporary vibe with the tiles laid at a 90 degree angle instead of 45 degrees, creating a sharper edge.

'This layout can enhance the size of a smaller room, but laying tiles in this way also adds a visual impact, even if only used as a small splashback.'

And, if you want to push the design statement further, opt for a 90 degree herringoe layout.

'A vertical 90-degree herringbone can be a fresh take on the ever-classic and widely used 45-degree herringbone,' says Mindy O'Connor.

'This turns the whole pattern from the more traditional 45-degree angle on its side to an upright position with straight lines resulting in fewer cuts across the tile. This can work well in spaces with a lot of visible walls like larger showers.'

6. Double herringbone

(Image credit: Original Style)

If you love the herringbone layout but want something even more unique, make a design statement with a double herringbone pattern instead.

'For a more dramatic herringbone layout, place two tiles next to each other to create a double layer of tiles, and tile in the same way as you would a herringbone,' says Hannah Guilbert.

7. Basket weave

(Image credit: Original Style)

This basket weave is a classic pattern made up of rectangles and squares to create a woven basket effect, but you can also create a similar, more modern look with brick tiles.

'Creating this look is easier than you think,' says Hannah Guilbert. 'stack four to five tiles to create a large square (the square needs to be as wide as it is tall and will be dependent on the size of the brick tile and grout gaps), then alternate the block of tiles 90 degrees each time.'

How can I make my subway tile more interesting?

(Image credit: Erika Jayne Design + Build/Christy Kosnic)

There are myriad ways to make your subway tile more interesting, including changing the tile layout from classic to stacked, herringbone or basket weave, among others.

'Subway tile is a classic and classics are classic for a reason,' says Sarah Rosenhaus. There are a number of super affordable options that makes it accessible and there are so many creative ways you can install it to make it feel more personal. Subway tiles are also wonderful tiles that work with a variety of different styles, allowing for other elements to be the star of the show without sacrificing style.'

There's also a number of design tricks you can use to add interest to a classic subway tile layout, including mixing different sized subway tiles on the lower and upper wall.

'To mix multiple subway tiles within a space, focus on allowing a common thread to run through all materials,' says Erika Chaudhuri. 'In the image above, the warm grey tone of the large format subways is present in the smaller marble tiles. Despite the size and material difference, the tiles are installed in the same format (a traditional brick bond). This provides an additional sense of consistency.

'The two tiles are as alike (shape, color palette, installation format) as they are different (size, material, proportion). This subtle tension of similarities and differences is what creates a successful mix of tile.'

(Image credit: Crystal Sinclair Designs)

If you're a fan of maximalism in interior design, don't be afraid to pep up your subway tiles with a bold statement wallpaper, like in the beautiful bathroom by Crystal Sinclair Designs above.

Extra interest is added to the look with a vertical tile border between the brick bond layout and the wallpaper for a clever finish.

Another way to make your subway tile more interesting is to play with grout colors to create a seamless or bold look.

Original Style's Hannah Guilbert explains: 'To add further detail, you can experiment with grout colors. Matching the grout to the color of the tile will help to create a seamless feel. A contrasting grout color, meanwhile, will draw the eye to the shape of the tile and the pattern layout (as seen below).

(Image credit: Chris Snook)

What is the most popular subway tile layout?

(Image credit: Interiors by Popov/John Granen)

The most popular subway tile layout is the classic horizontal brick bond, also known as the horizontal running bond.

It's an enduring layout that offers a timeless, elegant aesthetic and pairs well with other decor styles thanks to its simplicity.

'Also known as the classic brick bond, this popular layout see’s tiles laid in a 50:50 stack style to create the traditional brick layout,' says Hannah Guilbert. 'Using an oversized brick or even a large format 23" by 12" tile is a great way to add a fresh twist to a classic style.

'Using large format tiles will also help to minimize the visual impact of grout, and gives the tiles a more seamless appearance.'

Anna Popov designed the elegant kitchen above, and says: 'A prime example of a classic application called brick or running bond was used in this kitchen backsplash.

'The handmade beautiful subway tile has an uneven surface which creates a textured appearance, adding interest to an otherwise very classic choice.'

What is the easiest subway tile pattern to install?

'The stack bond pattern is one of the easiest tile patterns to install,' says Hannah Guilbert. 'The tiles are aligned to form a basic repeating grid. The overall aesthetic is a clean, modern look that will bring any kitchen or bathroom up to date.'

Can I use mosaic tiles on the floor? Expert advice you need to know before making your decision

Rebecca Foster — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:15:05 +0000

Getting to grips with what kind of tiles can be used for flooring and which can't is difficult if you're not in the know. One question that often crops when it comes to a bathroom design in particular? Whether or not mosaic tiles can be used on the floor.

The quick answer is absolutely yes, but when it comes to choosing mosaic for a bathroom tile, especially for a shower floor, there are some factors to keep in mind, from the material you chose and how they're laid to their ongoing maintenance needs.

If you want to add pattern, depth and character to your home interiors, installing a mosaic tiled floor could provide a fast track to achieving this design goal. But first, let’s get to grip with the basics – what type of installation actually constitutes a mosaic tiled floor?

Typically, units ranging from 1/2 - 2" in length fall into the ‘mosaic’ category. 'Anything larger than this is essentially a small tile rather than a mosaic, but if the pieces are on a mesh backing, it could still be considered mosaic,' says Rob Whitaker, creative director at Claybrook.

Can I use mosaic tiles on a shower floor?

(Image credit: Kingston Lafferty Design)

'Yes, mosaic tiles are an excellent choice for bathrooms,' says Becky Russell, CEO at Dublin-based Kingston Lafferty Design. 'There are many that are slip rated and the smaller size of the tile makes them perfect for tiling into the falls of the shower without break lines.'

Mosaic tiles also offer a blank slate to create patterns and shape across the floor surface. According to Rob from Claybrook, this style of flooring is especially effective in small bathrooms when it comes to adding a distinctive, eye-catching feature. 'They’re easier to use around obstacles like exposed pipework than trying to cut larger tiles. Plus, they can provide a little grip underfoot in potentially wet areas prone to getting slippery.'

There are plenty of options when it comes to tile surface texture, too. 'If people want to move away from the hard lines of a porcelain tile, the encaustic mosaic tile ages in a more subtle way, giving more depth to the design as the years go on,' says Genevieve McGill, creative director at Foreign Bear Studio, an architectural and design practice based in Hackney, East London.

Are mosaic tiles a slip risk?

(Image credit: Brent Darby. Design: Yoko Kloeden Design)

On the whole, porcelain and marble tiles are safe to use on the floor, though glass isn’t the best material choice as you run the risk of sharp edges. Glass also presents a slip hazard when used in the bathroom.

'Most mosaics can be used as a bathroom floor tile providing the floor is supported and the mosaics are fully bedded,' says Lee Reed, head of design at Easy Bathrooms. 'As mosaics use more grout than other tiles, it does provide an extra layer of grip underfoot.' In fact, the surface texture of a mosaic tiled floors makes them ideal for use in shower areas. In this project by Yoko Kloeden Design, hexagonal tiles have been laid in the shower, contrasting from the basketweave pattern of mosaic flooring outside the shower enclosure.

For peace of mind, double check your tiles achieve the R11 Anti-Slip rating for domestic use – but slip-rating isn’t the only factor you’ll need to check against your manufacturer’s guidelines. 'Always make sure that the tiles you choose can withstand the weight of a person walking across them without cracking,' says Alex Epstein, lead interior designer at Annapolis-based Purple Cherry Architects.

What's the best way to install mosaic tiles?

To make sure your installation looks beautiful, there are several things you’ll need to get right when the tiles are first laid. 'Ensure the tiles are laid as flat as possible, without any trip hazards or annoying lips to stub toes on,' says Leo Wood, interior designer and company director at London-based Kinder Design. 'Check which type of mosaic flooring you’re using, too. Some are more suitable than others for use on the floor.' When it comes to ceramic vs porcelain tiles, for example, the former is more durable for floors.

If you’re using mosaic floor tiles in the bathroom, water drainage is also a key consideration. Units should be laid at the right angle to ensure water splashes and excess water can drain away effectively.

Does it matter where in the house they're being used?

(Image credit: Ellen McDermott_Foussana from Stone Source. Design: OAD Interiors)

While the bathroom is likely the first place you’d think about installing a mosaic-tiled floor, that doesn’t mean they can’t be used elsewhere in the house. According to Yoko Kloeden, creative director at London-based Yoko Kloeden Design, the hard-wearing, slip-resistant nature of this floor type makes it ideal for kitchens, laundry rooms and entryways. 'One of the main things is to ensure your tiler has the skill to lay the design you need to have laid,' she advises.

In this project by New York-based OAD Interiors, blush-coloured Foussana tiles from Stone Source have been laid in the entrance hall. Though simple, the uniform pattern of the tiles adds texture and character to the space.

If installed in sheets, it’s possible that the tile pattern may buckle and not lie correctly across the floor. 'It’s important to speak with your vendor and make sure that the mosaic selected can be installed in large areas,' says Alex from Purple Cherry Architects.

Is mosaic flooring a trend right now?

(Image credit: Alloy Workshop)

According to Delia Kenza, director at Delia Kenza Interiors based out of Brooklyn, the answer to this question is a resounding, ‘yes’. 'People are using more mosaics because they’re interested in creating homes with more texture and depth,' she says.

The opportunity to introduce color, pattern and personality is what gives mosaic-tiled floors the edge. They don’t have to span the entire width of the surface, either. For instance, in this bathroom renovation project by Charlottesville-based Alloy Workshop, bold primary colors stand out against a crisp, white background of uniform white tiles. Standout blocks of color, laid in irregular geometric shapes, have been used to establish pattern and highlight the location of fittings.

Is mosaic tile flooring easy to clean?

Thanks to the sheer amount of small tiles that make up a mosaic floor, plus the large amount of grout between them, a slightly uneven surface can be the result. In some scenarios, this has the potential to make the floor harder to clean. Depending on the color of your tiles, it’s more likely that dirt trapped in the grout lines will show up more. 'Grout protector needs to be applied yearly. Plus, cleaning with a tile/grout cleaner is required regularly to ensure water and grit don’t penetrate or damage the grout,' says Lee from Easy Bathrooms. This grout cleaner from Amazon is a great buy for the job.

According to Lee, mosaic floors are likely to require a bit more TLC than surfaces finished with larger tiles. 'All tiles require good maintenance however, I’d always recommend mosaics get more regular treatment than normal tiles as they use more grout, which can crack and lift,' he says.

Where can I buy tiles from online?

Home Depot

Everyone's favorite DIY store has a surprisingly broad tile choice to consider for your bathroom reno.

Wayfair

You might not expect to be able to find tiles on Wayfair, but there's plenty of innovative options if you don't mind not seeing samples before buying.

Lowes

For your everyday porcelain and ceramic tiles, Lowes has a great selection to choose from in modern styles.

Designers love this beautiful new tile trend for mixing gloss and matte together – here's how to get it right

Lilith Hudson — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Is there anything more striking than a beautifully tiled kitchen or bathroom floor tile? We don't think so. The sheer amount of options in the market – from different styles and patterns to various tile types – allows us to express ourselves in a fun, quirky, and colorful way. In recent years, geometric designs have been all the rage, but have you ever considered mixing gloss and matte tiles in your home?

Well, the latest tile trend encourages us to do just that, and for all the right reasons. This simple yet intriguing idea mixes the two contrasting tile finishes to produce astonishing results. Typically, when mixing and matching tiles in a space our instinct is to choose the same style, just in differing shades, shapes, or a smattering of patterned options, but the visual impact of juxtaposed matte and gloss tiles can create a dynamic, contemporary look that cleverly plays with lighting in your space.

'In 2023, the combination of matte and gloss tiles of the same color is sure to be trending,' says Diane Hyde, marketing manager and tile expert at Craven Dunnill. 'This creates a unique design with an understated patterned effect where the gloss finish catches the light, creating a sense of space and contrasting the neighboring matte tiles.'

The experimental look was a standout feature at the Cersaie tile exhibition in Bologna last month, and we're pretty sure we'll see plenty of designers embrace the look in the year ahead.

Here, we've asked some for their tips on how to replicate the look so you can experiment with the style, too.

What are the aesthetic benefits of mixed gloss and matte tiles?

(Image credit: German Saiz / Sierra + de la Higuera)

Before we delve into the details on how to get the look, let's first consider the aesthetic benefits of mixing gloss and matte tiles. Classically elegant uniform tiles are always a safe choice, so you might be nervous to commit to such a bold kitchen or bathroom floor tile idea. Why mix two finishes and risk clashing them when you could just opt for a simple yet nonetheless effective design instead?

According to Lesley Taylor, interior designer and founder of The Baked Tile Company, several ways embracing this new tile trend could benefit your space. 'The aesthetic benefits that come from mixing gloss and matte tiles boils down to the wonderful contrast between the two,' she says. 'This adds a really interesting dimension that brings detail to space without having to rely on a pattern.'

Due to the contrasting appearance of gloss and matte tiles, pairing them can accentuate their individual qualities. Next to a gloss tile, a matte one looks richer and even more textured. Conversely, a matte finish makes the gloss look even glossier. 'What you're doing is heightening the aesthetic quality of each one of them by putting them together,' says Lesley.

As she also notes, gloss and matte tiles used alongside one another in a space can add depth and dimension. This is thanks to the changes in light perception. Light will bounce off reflective gloss tiles to give a glowing effect while matte tiles absorb it, resulting in a soft, duller appearance. When used next to each other – especially with abstract, geometric-shaped shaped tiles – the tiles introduce dimension to your wall or floor that will look as though it ebbs and flows.

What should the ratio of gloss and matte tiles be?

(Image credit: Baked Tile Co. )

If you're sold on the idea of gloss and matte tiles together, whether, for floor tiles, bathroom wall tile, or a kitchen backsplash, there are a few things you ought to consider before applying them in your own home. Firstly, there's the question of ratio. Should you have an equal number of each or an imbalance?

As Lesley explains, this very much depends on the look you're trying to create. 'Gloss and matte look equally as good with a 50/50 split in a fairly repetitive, ordered layout as they do as a random spattering of one finish amongst its dominant rival.' The bottom line is ratio comes down to personal preference.

There's also the question of whether you want a more contemporary or traditional look. 'Glossy tiles add elegance and sophistication to a design, perfect for drawing focus, whilst matte tiles’ lack of sheen creates a modern, industrial feel,' adds Diane of Craven Dunnill. 'The balance depends on which aesthetic you prefer and want to shine most within your design.'

A uniform arrangement of rectangular gloss and matte tiles in a running brick formation will produce a more traditional feel. Randomly interspersed matte tiles on the other hand will result in a more abstract and thus modern look.

'If you want a look that’s not quite so formulated, I’d suggest a spattering of either gloss or matte kitchen or bathroom tiles,' says Lesley. 'That way, the fact that you've got less of the gloss or less of the matte makes it more powerful because your eyes become accustomed to something when it repeats regularly across your floors or walls. But when you've just got one or two, they can have more power.

Should you arrange them in a pattern or randomly?

(Image credit: Baked Tile Co. )

The answer to this question will likely inform the ratio of your tiles (or vice versa), but knowing whether to opt for a pattern or a more abstract idea can be tricky. What do you picture as the notion of gloss and matte? Is it a formulaic pattern of gloss tiles like a diagonal stripe, or is it a smattering of colored random matte tiles in a sea of white gloss squares?

The truth is, any arrangement has its unique qualities, however, certain designs lend themselves better to different styles. Lesley suggests using a smattering of random tiles for a more rustic look, 'whereas, in an older property where you want to achieve a more traditional look, putting together a checkerboard effect of gloss and matte tiles would look amazing.'

In general, uniform patterns will look more traditional while experimental arrangements will create a more contemporary feel. Think about it – a perimeter line of glossy subway shower tiles amongst an otherwise matte wall has a sophisticated, classic look about it, while a mix of gloss into matte (as shown above) is quirkier. (This example by the Baked Tile Company reminds us of computer pixels!)

'You can mix matte and gloss in a randomised pattern to subtly enliven classic subway tiles,' suggest Diane. 'If you prefer more consistency, create a pattern, alternating finishes in stripes or checks, or use gloss tiles as a border. For a mural effect, consider a gradient feature wall, creating a soft ombre by starting with glossy tiles at the bottom, gradually working upwards into matte. The options are endless.'

Lesley's advice? If you're creating something with a more contemporary twist, go for something less ordered and regular. 'An offset design is almost always going to have a more contemporary feel,' she says.

Should you keep the colors the same?

In short, whether or not you keep the colors of your glass and matte tiles the same is completely up to you, but a monochromatic look can be effortlessly impactful in its simplicity.

'Combining matte and gloss tiles is a beautiful, restrained way to add texture and variety whilst keeping with a sleek monochromatic color scheme,' says Diane. 'This is perfect for a kitchen backsplash, or a fireplace surround as the softness of matte tiles adds contrast, allowing the glossy tiles to shine without overpowering the space.'

The main takeaway from us is to stick with a monochromatic scheme if you want to maintain an element of cohesion, but don't be afraid to experiment! Whichever ratio or pattern you decide to arrange your matt and gloss tiles, it's sure to produce beautiful results.

6 expert tips for buying tiles online - designers on how to avoid expensive mistakes

jacky.parker@ti-media.com (Jacky Parker) — Sat, 27 Aug 2022 15:00:53 +0000

With these tips for online tile shopping, you can make the best decision for your home and budget. Choosing tiles for your bathroom, kitchen or flooring is one of the more interesting aspects of a home renovation. Pinning images of favorite tile designs and deciding where to put them is fun and creative.

The practical elements can be less so and this is where some of us can get tripped up when online tile shopping. Tiles come in many different materials, some suitable for certain areas and some not. These materials can vary hugely in price too.

It pays to be clued up about the pros and cons of tile types, as well as what you need and what you don't from the outset. Tiles are heavy, so returning them is not always easy. So whether you're planning to stick to the latest bathroom tile trends or hunting for the perfect entryway flooring, here's what experts suggest.

6 tips for online tile shopping

(Image credit: Future / Simon Bevan)

1. Always order samples first

(Image credit: Future / Anna Stathaki)

Placing an order of tiles without seeing them first is risky. The tiles may not look as you imagined in the space. Seeing colors on a screen is never the same as seeing them in real life, as the full color spectrum is not available.

The available light - or lack of it - in a modern bathroom or kitchen will change the color of the tiles. You want to lay the tiles in will also affect how the colors and finish look. So never buy tiles without seeing and touching them first.

'Tile samples are usually free so ordering cut samples is a no-brainer,' says Amanda Telford, tile expert at CTD Tiles. 'You can often order a full-sized option too if you feel you need to see a larger surface.'

2. Consider a cheaper material

(Image credit: Bert & May tiles at Fired Earth)

Ok, so we're not asking you to get a degree in tile composition, but it's worth knowing the pros and cons of the different materials offer. Depending on where you intend to lay them, it's possible a less expensive version may suffice.

Encaustic tiles are made from cement and their color comes from pigments which are mixed in, rather than from a surface glaze. These tend to be handmade artisan tiles, with slight variations as part of their charm, and although beautiful, are a pricier option.

Porcelain tiles are extremely hard wearing. They are virtually non-porous, so are easy to clean and maintain. They're especially good in bathrooms, as well as outside as they're frost-proof. They can also be screen-printed to resemble wood, marble, stone and other materials.

Ceramic tiles are less dense than porcelain, so less hard wearing. However, this is fine if you're choosing tiles for walls. Some can also be used on certain floors and can be up to half the price of similar designs in porcelain.

Stone and marble tiles are quarried and cut natural materials with beautiful nuances in texture and tone. So are more expensive than ceramic or porcelain.

Some tiles will need need sealing, and possibly re-sealing, so it's worth finding out about any maintenance required.

'Check the material of your tiles carefully before you order, and make sure it is suitable for the room you want to use them in,' says Harriet Goodacre, tile expert at Topps Tiles.

'For example, natural stone tiles need sealing so are more upkeep in wet areas, making them less suitable when wondering how to tile a bathroom floor. Porcelain tiles are a great all-rounder as they are extremely hard wearing – you can also find ones with a high slip resistance for wet room and outdoor use.'

3. Factor in the delivery cost

(Image credit: Future / Alexander James)

It goes without saying that tiles are heavy. This means shipping may cost more than you expect. Some companies are transparent about shipping costs upfront, offering free delivery if you spend over a certain amount, or with prices staggered accordingly.

Other companies calculate shipping once you're at the check out. To avoid nasty surprises, call to get a quote and factor this in if you're comparing costs across different companies.

Take a leaf from interior designers and draw up a project estimate spec sheet with details and costs including delivery, before deciding which to order, if budget is a big factor.

4. Combine tile types

(Image credit: Future / Rei Moon)

If you've fallen in love with an expensive tile, consider the size of the area you wish to cover. Do you need to tile the whole floor or wall with these premium pieces? Or could you tile a section and mix them with a cheaper option like a plain white or subway tile?

'You can mix tiles with other materials such as wood for flooring too,' says Hayley Robson, creative director at Day True. 'Then you can have a splash of colour without having to cover the whole surface with the same tile.

'If you are mixing tiles, it is a good idea to work the pattern out beforehand so you know who many to order of each.

'Layering your tiles in different styles but in the same color palette, adds texture to your interior and frames your space and means you can vary the price point of your tile, making a big impact with your design.'

Super stylist Lucinda Chambers recently told Livingetc about how she tiled her powder room with inexpensive green tiles, topped off with a less budget-friendly row of black tile beading.

5. Check room measurements and tile sizes

Firstly, makes sure you measure the room correctly, and check the size of the tiles you're considering. 'Tiles come in a huge range of styles and sizes, from tiny mosaics to large stone slabs,' says Harriet Goodacre, tile consultant at Topps Tiles.

'While it might seem natural to tile a small room with smaller tiles, this might not have the effect you're looking for. Larger tiles mean less grout lines which can make small rooms appear larger.

'When measuring an irregular shaped room, divide the area into segments and work them out individually. Then add all the measurements together to get the area. Measure doors and windows too, then subtract that from the total.'

6. Allow for cutting and wastage

(Image credit: Future / Chris Tubbs)

It may sound counterintuitive to order extra tiles but this can in fact prevent expensive mistakes, like a patchy bathroom.

'Tiles are like wallpaper and have specific batches, meaning shades can differentiate slightly between batches,' says Amanda Telford at CTD Tiles. 'A common mistake is under ordering, which happens when customers don’t allow for breakages and cutting wastage.

'If you don’t order enough tiles, you’ll then have to try and match up the exact same shade later which can be tricky. We advise customers to order 10% more tiles than they need.

'This allows for any breakages and cutting issues and provides spares for a later date if you need them if any alterations are made.'

'It's always worth requesting the batch codes, so that if you do run out you have the same batch and color to work with,' adds Hayley Robson at Day True.

Ceramic vs porcelain tiles – a look at which is better for a bathroom in 6 design scenarios

Aditi Sharma — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 11:32:18 +0000

If you're having the ceramic vs porcelain tile debate, it can be complicated to wrap your head around – after all, aren't they essentially the same thing? Due to how they're made, there are differences between the two, and when it comes to comparing them in different situations, they each have their advantages over the other.

Largely, porcelain tiles are ceramic that have been dry pressed into molds under high pressure and fired at extremely high temperatures. This makes them more dense and strong. Both are great for bathrooms, however, it's the type of bathroom and its use that matters when it comes to selecting the tiles.

When it comes to bathroom tile ideas, we've conducted a close comparison between ceramic and porcelain. Take a look at these six scenarios to know which of the two would work better.

6 scenarios to compare ceramic and porcelain tiles

Ceramic or porcelain isn't always your first choice in selecting tiles. 'The great thing about designing a bathroom is the unlimited choice in tiles nowadays,' says interior designer Ann Marie Cousins, founder of AMC Design. 'From patterns, and block colors to different textures, the world is your oyster.'

But while color, pattern and style are key, there are some functional elements that are important too for a practical, modern bathroom. 'The thing to remember for bathrooms is that tiles need to be anti-slip, suitable for high foot traffic, and able to survive in a wet space,' adds Ann Marie.

But which type of tile rates highest for these key criteria?

1. Which tiles are best when you're renovating a bathroom on a budget?

(Image credit: MKCA. Photo credit Max Burkhalter)

When it comes to a reno, not everyone is looking to splurge. A beautiful, modern bathroom can be transformed with just eye-catching tiles. Usually, while porcelain tiles aren't super costly, they are generally more expensive than ceramic. If you’re on a tight budget, ceramic will fit the bill.

'You could even go in for a combination of porcelain and ceramic tiles,' say Rudraksh Charan and Priyanka Khanna, founders and architects at 42MM Architecture. 'Porcelain slabs are superior to ceramic slabs in durability, while ceramic tiles give a larger variety in design at a lower cost. For a budget-based bathroom, the durability and water-resistant nature of tile is highly recommended in the floor and shower area.'

'However, a patterned and colored backsplash for dry area walls can help deliver a good design at minimal expense,' the architects add. 'While designing a space on a budget it is extremely important to understand the overall durability of the product and view the budget not just at the point of creation but throughout the lifespan of the space.'

Another important factor to consider when you're designing on a budget is the size of the tile as to how much it will cost to tile a bathroom.

'It is often the case that the smaller tiles can be expensive as you’ll need more of them. Plus, they're likely to be more labor-intensive to lay them,' says Ann Marie. 'If you're decorating on a budget, opt for larger tiles on the floor and walls. This can be cheaper but also for installation as the tiles are easier and quicker to lay than lots of small, individual ones.'

'With tiling, prep and good workmanship are key, and once you’ve chosen a great product, ask for recommendations and be prepared to wait for good trades,' Ann Marie advises.

2. Which of the two is more water-resistant?

(Image credit: Heju)

According to the Tile Council-North America Inc, porcelain tiles absorb less than 0.5% of moisture. This is because it is naturally dense, which means it’s harder to penetrate, ideal for bathroom flooring, and especially walk-in showers, as it makes these tiles practically waterproof.

'Although porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles share many similarities, both are clay-based and kiln-fired, but there are few differences in ingredients and production methods,' says architect Aparna Kaushik. 'The major difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles is their water absorption rate. Porcelain tiles are less porous than ceramic tiles making them better for bathrooms and wet areas.'

3. Which tile is better in a high traffic area?

(Image credit: Wrightson Stewart and Barbara Bailey. Photo credit Kylie Hood)

The good news is that both ceramic and porcelain are good for high-traffic areas, especially as a small bathroom flooring option. However, porcelain is denser and offers long-term resistance to scratches, so it makes for a slightly better option. Through-body porcelain, where the color on top of the tile goes all the way throughout the tile’s body, is especially scratch-resistant. Households with children and pets especially do better with porcelain’s durability.

'Porcelain tiles are tough and easy to maintain when it comes to designing a bathroom that receives high traffic,' says Aparna. 'Simply washing them will keep them in good shape. Porcelain tiles will remain the same with regular cleaning and will not harbor bacteria like some other porous materials, thus making them easy to maintain over time.'

'If you love the look of both tiles, then in a high traffic area, choose porcelain for the floor, and go for ceramic for bathroom wall tiles,' adds Ann Marie.

4. When renovating an old, traditional home, which tile should you go for?

(Image credit: Heidi Marfitt)

If you own a period home and you plan to purchase new tiles, it is worth asking yourself if you'd like to create a similar look or give the home a modern push. When it comes to style, there are some practical and technical points to consider apart from issues of safety and light.

For bathroom tiles, think about whether you want them to reflect that vintage style or simply acknowledge it in some subtle way? You could also choose bathroom floor tiles that they can be laid over an existing floor, particularly useful if you live in an apartment, and they are inherently slip-resistant because of all the grout.

An important consideration in choosing tiles while restoring the home is their longevity – in period homes, it is difficult to update the property every year so you want to choose something that will last another generation.

'The life of a tile will depend on how you look after it and how it is laid,' says Ann Marie. 'It is worth doing your research before buying tiles to find out how to properly look after and maintain them. It is the case however that thicker, denser tiles tend to be stronger as they can withstand movement better than narrower tiles, but it is best to assess the room first and go from there.'

5. When designing a luxurious, spa-like bathroom which tile is a better choice?

(Image credit: Essajees Atelier)

For spa bathroom ideas, have the tiles as the top priority. After all, you want to set the right mood from the moment you walk into the space. Before you choose the tile, decide what type of spa atmosphere you are going for. Would you like a zen vibe or more like a Tuscan space? Just your tiles can help you accomplish that.

'For a luxury spa space, porcelain might be a winner. The larger tile sizes can give that zen calm feel with fewer grout lines,' says Jennifer Morris, founder of JMorris Design.

6. Which tile is better for a walk-in shower?

(Image credit: Nick Smith)

'We recommend using a porcelain tile for your bathroom floor for a water-resistant, durable room foundation,' says Amanda Telford of CTD. 'However, selected glazed porcelain tiles can be used on feature walls.'

'Textured porcelain tiles with anti-slip properties are ideal for wet room floors as well as being great for underfloor heating,' Amanda adds. 'You might also consider matt mosaics with the extra grout lines to provide additional slip-resistant properties.'

'If you want to use ceramic tiles in a wet area, proper and good quality grouting has to be ensured,' adds architect Aparna Kaushik.

Which are cheaper, porcelain or ceramic tiles?

Whether you are going to layout a small bathroom or a large one, do a little research before you zero in on the tiles you want. Usually, it is difficult to find a quality porcelain tile for under $3 per square foot. The high-end ones easily surpass $5 per square foot. Ceramic, on the other hand rarely costs more than $4 per square foot, and can offer affordable styles under $2 per square foot.

However, do note that not all porcelain tile is costly, but usually, if you’re on a tight budget, ceramic will fit the bill.

'In comparison to machine-made ceramic tiles, the cost of ceramic and porcelain can be closer,' says Molly Torres, founder of DATE Interiors. 'Be advised that if you need porcelain to be cut in the field it can increase your labor price because it is harder to cut.'

5 ways to pick the perfect tile trend for your home, according to interiors experts

Lilith Hudson — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 06:00:49 +0000

We all know there's more to tiles than plain old glossy white squares, but with a myriad of shapes, colors and designs to choose from, how do you know you're choosing the right ones for your home?

In fact, the thought we should be giving to our tiles runs deeper than their appearance alone. There are a variety of different types of tile, from porcelain and marble to picket and craquelure. Each one has its own properties and features that can make them better suited to certain spaces within the home.

A lot is changing right now in the world of tiles. While geometric patterns have dominated kitchens and bathrooms for the past few years, tile trends point towards a more earthy and natural feel. Some of us are feeling bolder too: according to a study by Atlas Ceramics, searches for lemon yellow tiles are on the up.

Not only is it hard to keep up with the tiles of the time but unlike choosing a paint color, it's a lot harder to test tiles on your walls or floors before you commit to what can be quite an expensive project.

Whether it's bathroom floor tile ideas or tiles for your kitchen wall, you want to know you're making the right choice. So, if you're looking to incorporate tiles into your interiors, we've assembled a handy guide to choosing the right tile type, size, shape and color with the help of some tiling experts.

1. Think about the type of tile for your space

(Image credit: Madeline Harper)

There's a lot more to tiles than you might think. Ceramic tiles are the most common tile on the market due to their versatility and because they're usually more affordable, but their closest cousin is the porcelain tile. But what's the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?

Both look very similar in appearance and both are made using a clay mixture which is then fired in a kiln, however, the primary difference lies in the way they're crafted. Porcelain tiles are fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles which makes them stronger and more durable.

Because of their quality, they have a heavier weight which can make installation pricier too. Both are strong, reliable tiles however, making them great all-rounders. But for outdoor areas, or floors with heavier footfall or furniture, you might want to consider porcelain tiles.

'A ceramic tile is a little bit softer than porcelain,' explains Lesley Taylor, interior designer and founder of the The Baked Tile Company. 'Because of this, you generally use them indoors. They're suitable for most areas of the home but for heavy duty floors you would use porcelain because it's a lot more robust.'

Conversely, ceramic tiles may work best on walls because of their lighter weight. Glazed or polished tiles look great on the walls and they have that shiny, clean appearance we all long for in our modern kitchens and bathrooms. (Better still, they're super easy to clean!) However, these sorts of tiles won't be the best option for a floor as they become slippery when wet.

Lee Thornley, founder of Bert & May, is in agreement when it comes to the hardiness of porcelain tiles. 'They’re incredibly durable, even in high-traffic areas, are hard and non-porous, and easy to maintain.' However, he warns anyone looking to tile a space to consider whether the type of tile needs sealing to be made water resistant, as is the case with encaustic tiles.

For some design inspiration, considering mixing gloss and matt tiles together in your space to add dimension and texture.

2. Consider the size of your room

(Image credit: Madeline Harper)

Although we're true believers that tiles can work in any space, too many tiles can make you feel like you've lost your way on the subway.

To avoid tiles looking too lurid, think about the size of your room. Modern bathrooms are generally smaller spaces, so floor to ceiling tiles might be a bit too dazzling. In the washroom pictured here using tiles designed by Claire Zinnecker for Clay Imports, the tiles are only bought half way up the wall. The shell design is a quirky detail that add character to the space, but too many would not only wash the color, but it could make the space feel too enclosed.

As Lesley notes, this is especially relevant when it comes to the use of patterned tiles. 'You should choose your pattern depending on the size of the room that you're tiling because certain patterns work better in a smaller space,' she says. 'If you want to embrace a pattern but in a more subtle way, you can wrap a pattern tile up a wall behind a vanity unit or wrap the same tile finish on the floor into your shower tile while keeping the other walls simple.'

Lee recommends trying a combination of patterned and plain tiles for a more subtle look. 'Setting patterned tiles within plain tiles is a great way to create interest within the scheme, without overwhelming the space,' he says.

3. Don't limit tiles to bathrooms or kitchens

(Image credit: Baked Tiles)

There's no denying that tiles are great for bathrooms and kitchens. They're easier to clean, help to add texture, and they're entirely waterproof. But, while valued for their utility, tiles are first and foremost a design product and in that respect, they should be treated like so. Restricting such a versatile design material to two rooms of the home doesn't allow tiles their true potential.

It's something Lesley agrees upon. 'I think that's a complete waste of an opportunity!' she says. 'Tiles bring character to a room, they reinforce a style or color scheme, and they should be treated like any other decorative product such as wallpaper or paint.'

Traditionally, tiles make a great addition to a fireplace to add some color or pattern to a living room. They can also be used as a statement wall in a bedroom, or as a mosaic floor design in an entryway. 'You could also use tiling as a headboard, which creates an exciting and unexpected bedroom feature, or even as a table-top,' says Lee.

In places like the kitchen or bathroom, tiles usually have a colder feel, but to give them a warmer and more distinguished look, Lesley suggests giving attention to the smaller details. 'It's not just about the tile you choose, but it's the space that you allow around the tile,' she says. 'That is important because it actually affects the way that tile looks.'

'If you're wanting to create a wonderful Moroccan vibe and you were using a spacer, you would completely ruin the look. So you need to butt joint those by pushing them together, and it gives it a very uneven artisanal feel.'

Your tile and grout combination shouldn't be overlooked either. 'I love when clients go bold with a colored grout or introduce texture with a handmade look,' adds interior designer Claire Zinnecker.

4. Experiment with earthier tones

(Image credit: Madeline Harper)

For the past few years, muted pink and blue geometric tiles have been all the rage. To achieve a more classic and timeless look, black and white tiles will always prevail. However, the recent tile trend is all about more natural, earthier tones.

'Earth and jewel tones are having a moment in both the paint and tile world,' explains Claire. 'It's a great way to add fun, color and interest to the old white and grey kitchens and bathrooms. People are bringing their personality to their tile decisions and I am here for it.'

It's not all about color either. According to Lesley, there's been a rise in demand for tiles that mimic natural materials. 'There are some beautiful tiles that emulate natural stone and some fantastic porcelain tiles that look exactly like timber,' she explains. 'There's this wonderful Scandi vibe going on right now so to achieve a Scandinavian design vibe - or a retro, mid-century modern style - you could put porcelain or ceramic wood-effect products on a wall to dress the room with that look and feel.'

5. Try a mural design

(Image credit: Baked Tiles)

Repetitive patterns can be a feast for the eyes, but they're exactly that - repetitive. A long entryway with the same design over and over can get - well - a bit boring. Thankfully, there's a solution to the problem. If you want all the benefits of a patterned tile but a bit more pizazz, why not embrace the mural trend.

'With the murals, the pattern flows across the floor with a repeating pattern just like a gorgeous piece of fabric,' says Lesley. 'It's a softer, more fluid approach to pattern.'

Although beautiful, the designs are usually quite busy so they're likely to work best in a smaller space. Use them to make a statement and become the focal point of a room, such as a kitchen backsplash. Don't detract from the beauty of the design with the wrong grout choice either - choose a tone that will blend seamlessly between the tiles so as not to disrupt the pattern.

Original cement tiles and luxurious fabrics sing in this cool Catalan apartment

Karine Monié — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:47:19 +0000

With its restaurants, art galleries and the Picasso Museum, the vibrant atmosphere of El Born - one of the most historic neighbourhoods in Barcelona - convinced a couple from New York City to purchase their own modern pied-à-terre that they could frequent to enjoy the Spanish lifestyle.

Spread over 125 square metres, the apartment occupies the first floor of a protected building from 1910. Because of the historic nature of the building, the renovation had to be gentle and subtle, to protect the soul of the place.

Designer Jaime Beriestain led the makeover of the interior with the objective of honouring the owners’ passions for the city, contemporary art and mid-century furniture.

As a starting point, the interior designer put all his attention on understanding the couple’s habits and tastes to create an apartment that would perfectly fit their needs. ‘My American clients dreamt of this flat in Barcelona’, remembers Beriestain. ‘I took my inspiration from Spain and its Mediterranean culture and traditions, which I tried to reflect through the art, colours and textures.’

‘The goal was to design a comfortable contemporary dwelling for American clients with a very different perspective than Europeans’, he says.