Tiles are trendy, large-format tiles have dominated the bathroom market design for some time. However, there is a subtle shift underway: a wider variety of sizes and styles are making a strong comeback.
tile frieze with lotus and grapes from Egypt Wikipedia
Tiles originated in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt around 4000 BCE. Early civilisations shaped clay into flat pieces, dried them in the sun or kilns to create durable, waterproof coverings for temple, tombs and palaces. In Egypt they were used for decorative purposes. Ceramic tiles are one of the oldest forms used for decorative art.
Tiles have been used for centuries inside and outside of buildings.
image via IG
When decorating your new home or refreshing the bathroom, you can choose a classical tile, either plain or with a simple pattern. These tiles will survive every trend and remain timeless. White subway tiles are a perfect example of this enduring choice. Use them in bathrooms and kitchens when decorating in a classic, country, or romantic style. Even in the industrial style this type of tiles will be a perfect match.
Victoria tile Sekelskifte - on the right Heritage Tile
When decorating with those classical tiles there are several options to finish them off and bring the whole work to refinement. They will provide the perfect finishing touch to complete your vintage-style bathroom and enhance its authentic character. Those small details can make all the difference.
tiles on the left Pixel 04 Ceramika.Shop - image on the right via IG
And even those simple tiles can easily transform your space into a modern bathroom. A major advantage of a basic tile is that they’re often budget-friendly, all you need is a bit of inspiration and creativity to make them stand out. Just a few color drops of color can make a noticeable difference. Alternatively, you can create an entirely different look by using a colored grout, this is a great way to add a pop of color, especially well suited to a kid’s bathroom.
There are companies that produce a simple tile available in a wide range of colors. Or you can can choose different tones of one single color to create a subtle, graduated wall effect.
image on the left via IG - picture on the right by Marcus Nilsson
Classic mosaics have been used since ages, in historic buildings, churches and classical homes. We can give it a more contemporary twist and get inspired but the trendy terrazzo: cut up the tiles and install them to create this terrazzo look. You can get very colorful or go for a look that would fit a Parisian bistro. Here you can find end of series tiles, mix and match them.
Large format porcelain tiles with the look of marble are everywhere these days, and I must admit they are quite impressive, I’ve used them in several projects with great result. They come in a variety of sizes and widths, so you can easily install them from ceiling to floor for a seamless effect. They are available in 6 and 9 mm thickness, and more recently they are also available in 2 cm, which is excellent for use of countertops that require a greater durability.
kitchen image via IG
One of my favorite tile, and possibly my number one choice, is the zellige tile. They are handcrafted, and the subtle variations in color and texture give them a uniquely beautiful, artisanal look. That said, zellige is not the right tile for everyone; you need to appreciate those small imperfections. If you love the look but would prefer a more consistent, finished appearance, there is good news: several companies now produce tiles that emulate the zellige aesthetic without the irregularities. I wrote a blog post about zellige tiles some time ago, you can check them out here.
Pairing marble with those zelliges tiles is a perfect combination of a beautiful natural material with the subtle imperfections of those handcrafted tiles. The advantage of using marble is that it allows you to neatly finish the niche where you keep your shower gel and shampoo. Every slab of marble is unique, and zelliges come in many shades, so you can easily find the perfect combo.
tiles on the left Ceramica I Szklo - on the right interior design by Heju
The time when tiles were used only in bathrooms and kitchens is behind us. Today tiles are finding their spot in many other rooms as well. There are striking 3D tiles that immediately draw the eye when you enter the room; use them to decorate the area around the fireplace. Treat a single wall as an art wall with patterned or textured tiles to create a visual interest. A kitchen island covered all around in tiles adds a modern look that feels refined.
In so many ways, tiles are like fashion, trends come and go, colors follow what you see on runways and in magazines, yet sometimes you want something just a bit more couture - a distinctive texture, an unusual shape, or a color that really pops. Tiles should reflect your style, they’re an integral part of the overall look of your home. Make them the star of the room.
Pigmented clay tile on the left Lofa Ceramics - on the right marbled clay tiles Fornace Brione via IG
Those clay tiles will also serve as the focal point in the room. Here, the pigments or minerals are carefully infused into the clay., giving each tile a unique character. No two tiles will be the same, each shows different, irregular veining and subtle variations in tone. The movement within the tile becomes a part of the material, adding depth and a sense of organic life..
image on the left via Arquitecturaviva - on the right via Pinterest
Using tiles outdoor is not new, we can see them used in many countries and cultures, often covering entire facade with either plain or hand-painted tiles. They are becoming popular to be used now as a fresh alternative to classical outdoor finishes.. Graphical and colorful, these tiles bring texture and add visual interest to to create eye-catching exteriors.
How to use tiles:
classical shape and color for timeless look
use simple shape and play with coloured grout or accent colors
create a bistro look, use end-of-series and make your terrazzo floor
big slabs are still around
handmade tiles
combine tiles with natural stone
use them in unexpected ways
outdoor
As I said earlier: zelliges paired with natural stone are my favorite. What about you?
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