Decorator's Address Book: 12 interior designers on the best places to shop for tiles

This comprehensive guide highlights 15 top online retailers where consumers can purchase unique tiles for various home improvement projects, ranging from kitchen and bathroom renovations to creating decorative accents. The article emphasizes that tile selection doesn't have to be limited to traditional or neutral styles, encouraging readers to explore statement-making options available online. The guide stresses several important considerations for online tile shopping. It advises ordering 10 to 20 percent more tiles than initially calculated to account for potential damage, mismatches, or other unforeseen issues during installation. Additionally, it strongly recommends ordering samples, which typically cost between $1 and $10 per tile plus shipping, to ensure the chosen pattern and color align with expectations when viewed in the actual home environment with its specific lighting conditions. This crucial step helps prevent dissatisfaction with online purchases. The featured retailers cater to a wide range of budgets and design preferences. AllModern, a well-known furniture and decor source, also offers an extensive home improvement section dedicated to flooring and tile, including options for floors, backsplashes, bathrooms, and showers. Wayfair provides a large selection of tiles alongside its furniture and home accessories, with strong customer service and frequent inventory updates, though this also means availability can change rapidly. Tile Bar is lauded for its gigantic selection across all price ranges and offers inexpensive samples, though it provides less expert guidance. Tilezz stands out for its creative and unusual tile shapes, such as fish scales, scallops, and chevrons, available in stone, ceramic, porcelain, and glass, offering both unique designs and budget-friendly options. Motawi Tileworks specializes in decorative tiles, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Collection, ideal for integrating into fireplaces, kitchen backsplashes, or for use as standalone decor. Menards, a home improvement store, provides an endless array of ceramic, glass, porcelain, slate, and mosaic tiles, complete with a buying guide to assist in selection. Overstock, known for affordable furniture, also features a vast collection of floor, wall, and ceiling tiles at various price points, patterns, and colors, allowing users to filter by brand, finish, and material. The Builder Depot offers an enormous inventory of tile designs, specializing in diverse formats like subway, hexagon mosaic, and penny round mosaics. Home Depot, a staple for home improvement needs, provides a surprising range of inspired and colorful tile choices, including penny tiles and unexpected patterns, often at competitive prices. Artistic Tile is presented as a destination for high-style, statement-making tiles, including unique options like ombre fan tiles and those with semi-precious materials, supported by an online Tile Finder tool. Fireclay Tile, based in California, specializes in quality, artisan-made tiles, offering brick, tile, glass, and hand-painted designs, with the option to create custom pieces. Lowe's offers thousands of tile options in natural stone, marble, and porcelain, many of which are budget-friendly. Mission Stone & Tile categorizes its offerings by material (natural stone, porcelain, ceramic, glass, cement) and provides an inspiration gallery and free design consultations. Finally, Clé Tile, founded by artist Deborah Osburn, serves as an online marketplace for artisan tiles, featuring unique collaborations and styles, such as graphic, sculptural terracotta tiles. Floor & Decor is highlighted for its variety of simple to bold and colorful tile options, along with other flooring materials, allowing easy filtering by use and type. #OnlineTileShopping #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TileSelection #BathroomTiles #KitchenTiles #DecorativeTiles #HomeImprovement #ShoppingGuide

The Decorator's Address Book series, specifically in its October edition, focuses on identifying the top tile suppliers for kitchen renovations, a common challenge given the vast array of options from shiny zellige to retro patterns, sleek modern slabs, and handmade mosaics. Tiles are not just practical for preventing splashes and spills but also serve as a crucial element for introducing color, texture, and print into a kitchen space, making their selection a significant design decision rather than an afterthought. To assist homeowners and designers, this article compiles recommendations from expert interior designers on their preferred tile stores and suppliers. Several leading tile suppliers are highlighted for their unique offerings and customer service. Zia Tile is favored by designers like Abbie Naber and Luis Carmona for its wide variety, versatile neutral zellige tiles that offer timeless appeal, and exceptional customer service. Carmona specifically notes Zia's muted tones and slight matte texture, making their tiles suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, including outdoor kitchens and fireplaces. Fireclay Tile is another highly recommended vendor, praised by Mollie Ranize and Rebecca Ward for its extensive range of specialty products, including unique hand-painted tiles that add distinct color and texture. Ward also appreciates Fireclay's commitment to sustainability as a B Corp and their custom color program, which allows for precise color matching, enhancing design cohesion. Dijana Savic-Jambert further emphasizes Fireclay's outstanding quality, durability, and sustainable practices, including their use of Health Product Declarations (HPD) to ensure product transparency. Akdo's Kaleidoscope collection is singled out by Young Huh for its playful patterns and timeless black and white options, which offer designers flexibility for creative manipulation. Tile Bar is noted by Rebecca Ward for its comprehensive selection of staple and unique tiles, coupled with excellent customer service, fostering strong relationships with designers. Ann Sacks is recommended by Andrea Lackie for its diverse range, including natural stone, patterned ceramic, and durable porcelain tiles, along with reliable customer service. For readily available classic options and designer collections, The Tile Shop is a go-to for Briana Gershenzon, who highlights their Royal Satin marble for kitchen backsplashes. Nemo Tile + Stone is valued by Arianna Rosenberg for its durable and well-stocked products, particularly their elongated subway tiles from the Bond line in Cotton, which offer texture and depth while maintaining a neat appearance. Floor & Decor is identified as a secret resource by Briana Gershenzon for its affordable, in-stock natural stone options like Statuario marble tile, providing a luxurious effect for backsplashes even when natural stone countertops are not feasible. Heath Ceramics and Popham Tile are trusted by Sarah Jefferys for their quality and ability to elevate home aesthetics, offering a range from sophisticated to vibrant designs and custom configurations. Daltile is a versatile resource for Luis Carmona, providing accessible showrooms, a wide price range, and large-scale tiles that offer a clean aesthetic with fewer grout lines. Bedrosians is recognized for its quality and variety of color options and coordinating components, as highlighted by Briana Gershenzon, who recommends their Marin Ceramic Tile in Aloe Green Gloss for a fresh look. Villa Lagoon is praised by Alexandra Azart for its extensive patterns and customizable platform, allowing for unique color combinations. Lastly, Kristin Dittmar appreciates Decorative Materials for their exceptional selection of natural stones and knowledgeable team, while Bethany Adams recommends Clé Tile for both floor and wall applications, particularly their luxurious Belgian reproduction terracotta tiles and chic zellige for backsplashes. These expert recommendations aim to guide consumers in making informed decisions for their kitchen tile selections, emphasizing quality, style, and practicality. #KitchenTiles #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #TileSuppliers #ZelligeTiles #SustainableDesign #KitchenRemodel #DesignTrends #HomeDecor

This article explores nine emerging tile trends that are redefining stylish interiors for bathrooms and kitchens, moving beyond conventional choices like white metro tiles. The first trend, “The fash pack pick,” introduces the Pour collection, a collaboration between fashion designer-turned-ceramicist Henry Holland and Bert & May. These tiles, available in hand-poured and printed glazed styles, feature unique patterns inspired by the Japanese nerikomi technique, offering a marble-like aesthetic in natural hues like Mineral Blue, Rust, Rosemary, and Purple Brown. Each tile is unique due to the hand-poured pigment process. The second trend, “Modern delftware,” reinterprets classical blue and white Delft tiles with a 21st-century twist. Artists like Myrsini Alexandridi offer hand-painted tiles with Greek-inspired motifs, while Petra Palumbo presents designs featuring quirky illustrations such as disco balls and palm trees. Fired Earth also contributes with handmade, hand-painted contemporary interpretations of classic Delft designs, and the article suggests seeking out vintage options as well. “Alt stripes” is the third trend, advocating for bold use of stripes, including combining horizontal and vertical patterns in the same space. Grazzie Wilson of Ca’ Pietra explains how vertical stripes can make ceilings appear higher, while horizontal stripes on the floor can create a “rug effect” to zone areas, particularly around baths. The article highlights Carter Ceramic Rose tiles and Deck Chair in Rose for achieving this look. The fourth trend, “Tutti frutti,” embraces a playful mix of vibrant colors. The Rixo flagship store, refurbished by Cúpla, showcases this trend with randomly assorted glazed Moroccan zelliges from Otto Tiles. Interior designer Erin Brown’s California home features a similar joyful shower nook with nine different colors from Concrete Collaborative’s Strands x Solids range. Buchanan Studio founders' children's bathroom in London exemplifies this with pink, white, and yellow Battenberg cake tiles and a monochrome chequerboard floor, adding cheer to morning routines. “Unexpected … blue theory?” represents the fifth trend, evolving from the “unexpected red theory.” This involves incorporating flashes of blue, specifically International Klein Blue, into design schemes. Examples include patterned hydraulic tiles from Huguet, a collaboration with Alfredo Häberli, and electric blue tiles in a guest bathroom designed by To&From, described as “flamboyant, sexy, and full of possibilities.” The sixth trend, “The new neutrals,” focuses on tiles that mimic natural and pale materials like travertine and stone, promising enduring appeal. Creative director Rob Whitaker of Claybrook notes this trend. Examples include Pernille Lind Studio's use of diamond mosaic marble tiles in a Danish beach house, creating an opulent yet muted feel, and Bettencourt Manor’s beige and brown chequerboard bathroom with Nineties deadstock stone tiles. The article also highlights the return of brown, from rich chocolate glazed metro tiles in a Santa Monica bathroom by Kelly Wearstler to shiny reddish-brown tiles in a Sydney powder room by Tim Neve, showcasing its sexy and minimal potential. “Moody medleys,” the seventh trend, is illustrated by Paradowski Studio’s washroom design at Baba restaurant in Wroclaw. Here, wall-mounted red taps contrast with custom-made hazy pistachio green tiles from Palet, glazed with iron and copper oxide finishes, creating a rich, complex, and moody ambiance. “Marble remodelled” is the eighth trend, focusing on innovative uses of marble. Interior stylist Amy Adams used Ca’ Pietra’s Zen Marble Reed Mosaic tiles to craft a luxurious curved shower nook, paired with handmade Granito floor tiles from Mosaic Factory, offering a cocooning effect with a classic twist. Finally, “Mellow yellow” brings back the 1970s shade, ranging from buttermilk to acid yellow. Designer Hollie Bowden paired soft yellow mosaic tiles with chrome accents in a London flat, while Martin Brudnizki combined high-gloss yellow with dark marble in Paris's Le Grand Mazarin hotel. The Hôtel Château d’Eau mixes soothing pale yellow tiles with black, demonstrating the versatility of yellow in creating varied aesthetic impacts. #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #BathroomDesign #KitchenSplashbacks #HomeDecor #HenryHollandStudio #ModernDelftware #GeometricTiles #ColorTrends

Ceramic tiles offer a versatile and colorful alternative to standard home decor elements, moving beyond traditional applications like kitchen backsplashes and bathroom floors. This design approach integrates tiles into various aspects of home decoration, providing opportunities for personalization and artistic expression throughout a living space. For instance, ceramic tile house numbers introduce a vibrant and distinctive facade to a home, contrasting with conventional options and complementing other ceramic elements in exterior design. Functional ceramic pieces, such as trays, combine utility with aesthetic appeal, making them practical additions to any room. These items serve a dual purpose by offering both visual interest and everyday functionality. Similarly, ceramic plant stakes with playful sayings or designs, like those encouraging watering, infuse a touch of whimsy into plant displays, whether indoors or outdoors. This thoughtful integration of ceramic art elevates mundane items into decorative statements. Decorative ceramic tiles can be collected over time and displayed as an evolving art collection, particularly in spaces like kitchens where they can be appreciated daily. Many such pieces are sourced from specialized galleries, allowing homeowners to curate a unique and personal collection that reflects their taste. The flexibility of ceramic art also extends to wall decor, where framed tile murals featuring nature themes or other motifs add a unique dimension and texture to walls, transforming them into focal points. Beyond standalone pieces, ceramic art is incorporated into more permanent installations, exemplified by custom tile fireplaces. These installations serve as central features in a home, reflecting the homeowner's individual style and the artist's craftsmanship. The permanence of such installations is often cited by artists as a rewarding aspect of their work, allowing their creations to become integral parts of a living environment. Artists like Laurie Eisenhardt specialize in creating unique ceramic pieces that blend functionality with a whimsical, fairytale-like aesthetic. Her work includes intricate welcome signs and wall sculptures that incorporate practical elements such as vases, adding both color and texture through floral arrangements. Eisenhardt also demonstrates a layered approach to decorating by displaying her work alongside other ceramic accents, creating dynamic visual arrangements. In her own home, she mixes tiles from various artists, including framed Motawi pieces and mosaic tiles by Marcia Hovland, to create a rich and eclectic display. Another example of personalized tile integration is seen in ceramic nightlights with intricate cutouts, such as those depicting landmarks like the Mackinac Bridge. These pieces offer a subtle yet engaging source of light and decoration. Tiles with regional themes also make thoughtful gifts, especially for hosts in areas like northern Michigan, providing a locally inspired souvenir or decorative item. Ceramic flower frogs further exemplify how small ceramic pieces can add flair to floral arrangements, whether used in indoor vases or outdoor planters. For homeowners, collecting decorative tiles over time allows for the gradual development of an extensive and personalized collection. This approach can be seen in homes where tiles gathered over years are displayed together, contributing to a unique and evolving decor. This highlights the adaptability of ceramic art in creating a home environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and deeply personal. #CeramicTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileArt #FunctionalArt #PersonalizedHome #WallDecor #ArtisticInstallations #WhimsicalDesign

Britt and Damian Zunino, founders of the architecture and interiors firm Studio DB, highlight their distinctive approach to design, focusing on details that transform spaces. Their personal New York City residence exemplifies this philosophy, featuring a kitchen island clad in burnished brass and a primary bedroom adorned with Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster. However, it is their innovative use of tile that consistently captivates. Their debut book, *Drawn Together*, showcases numerous projects where backsplashes, shower walls, and kitchen floors are elevated through imaginative tile selections. Five notable tile moments from Studio DB's portfolio are presented. The first is a dainty Delft-inspired vent hood in a Duchess County, New York home. The modern tile from BDDW, with its bucolic hand-painted motifs, creates a timeless and narrative-rich ambiance, reflecting the serene landscape. Britt describes this choice as love at first sight, appreciating its unique, artisanal quality that feels both fresh and deeply rooted. The second example is a non-boring black and white kitchen backdrop designed for clients with an extensive art collection and a preference for graphic patterns. The millwork is kept crisp white to allow the stone detailing and concrete tiles to stand out. Damian explains that the tiles, designed by India Mahdavi for Bisazza, introduce a casual touch with concrete, which is then paired with the more formal Paonazzo marble. The cohesive black and white palette ensures the mixed materials work harmoniously. Next, a color-drenched tub features Elisa Passino Studio’s handmade tiles. Britt notes that these tiles, with their bold colors, whimsical shapes, and lively arrangement, introduce a playful yet sophisticated charm. This is balanced by the large-scale aggregate of the Antica marble, creating a dynamic interplay and a touch of tension between the elements. An apartment with an expansive scale showcases a large-format lava backsplash. Damian details that this backsplash is made from hand-painted lava stone from Made a Mano, which possesses a subtle reflective quality. The countertop is crafted from Calacatta Gold marble, contributing to the luxurious feel of the space. Finally, a kid-proof geometric tile design is featured in a child’s bathroom. Britt explains that the choice of geometric shapes, sourced from Fireclay, brings a playful element suitable for a child's space. The deep blue color of the tiles adds a touch of sophistication, while the timeless Paonazzo marble used for the floor tiles ensures durability and an aesthetic that will age gracefully as the child grows. These examples demonstrate Studio DB's commitment to thoughtful material selection and their ability to create spaces that are both functional and visually stunning. #TileDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #StudioDB #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #LuxuryInteriors #MaterialSelection #DesignInspiration

The article explores the extensive world of tiles, showcasing how they can transform interior spaces beyond mere functional covering into significant design elements. It highlights that tiling does not need to be mundane and can instead introduce flair and character to a room, drawing inspiration from diverse cultural aesthetics such as Moroccan and ancient Egyptian designs. The discussion extends beyond conventional metro tiles, emphasizing the broad spectrum of available options in terms of shape, texture, and finish. Interior design experts Jordan Cluroe and Russell Whitehead of 2LG Studio advocate for using tiles to architecturally define spaces rather than solely as decorative details. They explain that materiality, akin to color, is a fundamental component of their designs, which they leverage to build the structural integrity of a scheme. For instance, they suggest tiling an entire chimney breast from floor to ceiling to create a powerful textural statement. Similarly, in conventional areas like showers, they recommend extending tiles across a full wall, from floor to ceiling, rather than limiting them to only the wet zones. This approach integrates the material seamlessly into the room's volume, thereby imparting a strong structural foundation to the space. The designers also share insights from a recent London project where they successfully combined square and oblong tiles with both matt and gloss finishes. Despite a simple color palette, they achieved visual interest by blending various laying patterns and finishes, encouraging readers not to shy away from experimenting with different textures and shapes within a single space. The article acknowledges the wide price range for tiles, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious, handcrafted selections. For those prioritizing British craftsmanship, companies like Craven Dunnill Jackfield, known for its work in London Tube stations, and deVOL, a kitchen maker and ceramicist producing crackle-glazed tiles, are highlighted. The article then presents a curated list of ten diverse tile options, providing details on their style, origin, and approximate pricing. This selection includes Bert and May’s Monsaraz tiles, which offer a blend of neutral tones with a touch of red, and their Tivissa Verde, featuring a delicate green and white dot pattern, both inspired by antique designs and suitable for indoor or outdoor use. DeVOL's handmade crackle-glaze tiles are presented as a premium British option. For those seeking affordability and a handmade aesthetic, Tile Mountain’s light blue gloss tiles come in varied shades. Moroccan-inspired designs are represented by Fiesta, a satin-finish tile from Porcelainsuperstore, and Claybrook Studio’s Moulay Pumice, which draws from traditional zellige tiles. Additional options include Poitiers gloss metro tiles in various colors, Rosalina Honed Marble tiles for a luxurious touch, and Deck Chair porcelain tiles with summery stripes. For vibrant aesthetics, Indigenous offers handmade terracotta glazed wall tiles in a rainbow of hues, while Otto Tiles & Design provides encaustic cement tiles with a 'Wes Anderson' aesthetic, handcrafted using sustainable methods. Finally, Balineum’s Egyptomania collection, a collaboration with artist Louis Barthélemy, features handpainted ceramic tiles that offer a contemporary interpretation of ancient Egyptian frescoes, catering to those seeking unique and artistic expressions in their tiling choices. #TileDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Materiality #ArchitecturalDetail #CeramicTiles #PatternedTiles #SustainableDesign

House Beautiful has launched a new collection of ceramic wall and floor tiles in collaboration with Homebase, offering an on-trend and affordable way for homeowners to update their living spaces. The collection features a timeless palette of versatile shades, including deep greys, chalky blues, warm ochres, and soft pinks, designed to complement various interior styles. Ian Penney, Business Unit Director for Room Solutions at Homebase, highlights that tiling is an effective method for a simple refresh, noting that the new range includes diverse patterns, bright shades, and bolder colors in various shapes and sizes. He emphasizes that tiles are an excellent way to introduce character into kitchens and bathrooms. The collection includes two primary lines: The Cube collection and The Aurelia Collection. The Cube collection consists of square porcelain tiles available in two sizes and six finishes. The larger 45 x 45 cm format offers two distinct patterns: 'Windmill' in blue and black, and the monochrome 'Boho.' These richly colored tiles are suggested for high-traffic areas such as entrance hallways or even urban back gardens. The smaller 20 x 20 cm format features a modern 'half and half' pattern with an encaustic effect, creating a chalky matte finish. These tiles provide extensive design flexibility, allowing for symmetrical geometric shapes like diamonds or diagonal patterns. An example showcases blush pink Cube tiles used in a bathroom, beautifully accented with brass. Due to their porcelain composition, these tiles are durable and suitable for any space, including busy kitchens and hallways. Key features of the Cube collection include suitability for both wall and floor applications, interior and exterior use, mix-and-match color options, a slip-resistant finish for enhanced safety, and availability in packs of 7 or 13, with prices starting from £18.20 per pack. The Aurelia Collection features glossy kit kat tiles characterized by a unique glaze finish and textured surface. Available in eight rich colors, from bold kingfisher teal to soft sage green, these 7.5 x 30cm brick-sized tiles are ideal for creating contemporary features. The versatility of kit kat tiles allows for various laying patterns, such as the modern brick bond, which is showcased effectively in warm ochre tones in a kitchen setting. Other patterns like herringbone or chevron can also be achieved. These tiles are compact enough for a neat kitchen splashback yet impactful enough to create an entire feature wall. The Aurelia collection is designed for interior wall use, offering a high-shine impact with its reactive glaze. Like the Cube collection, colors can be mixed and matched. Each pack contains 22 ceramic tiles, priced at £25 per pack. The entire range of tiles is accessible both online and in select Homebase stores, providing convenient options for customers looking to enhance their home decor. #TileCollection #HomebaseTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #WallTiles #FloorTiles #CeramicTiles #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign

This article explores fifteen innovative and creative ways to utilize tiles in home decor, moving beyond traditional applications. It highlights how tiles can be a versatile element in various rooms, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. The piece begins by acknowledging the balance required in selecting tiles, considering factors such as color, style, shape, placement, resilience, and ease of cleaning. It emphasizes looking for innovative uses, clever laying patterns, and unexpected placements to elevate interior design. One featured idea is creative wall paneling using wood-effect ceramic tiles from Mandarin Stone, offering a durable alternative to traditional wall panels, particularly in high-traffic areas like kitchens. These advanced ceramic tiles can convincingly mimic premium materials such as solid wood or marble. Another suggestion involves arranging two-tone square tiles into a striking zig-zag pattern to create a feature wall in small bathrooms, as demonstrated by Homebase. The article also presents the concept of matching mixed materials, where House of Hackney offers tiles that coordinate with soft furnishings like curtains, lampshades, chairs, and carpets, enabling a cohesive maximalist scheme. For small bathrooms, a tiled pedestal can provide an attractive foundation for a basin sink, with the potential for recessed storage on its sides, as shown by Ca’Pietra and the London Basin Company. Illustrated tiles, featuring whimsical designs by artists like Sasha Compton for Ca’Pietra, are presented as a way to introduce color, pattern, and depth. A creative faux rug effect, using tiles from Bert & May, can be implemented under freestanding baths, dining tables, or as runners in hallways and up stairs, allowing for customizable patterns and trims. Claybrook Tiles' glossy two-tone stripe patterns, like the Fellini tile, are highlighted for their visual impact, especially when combined with a squiggly paint effect. Wraparound murals, such as those from Surface View, are discussed as a method to cover entire walls or rooms with large-scale botanical motifs, creating an immersive outdoor feel while offering splash-proof durability. The article challenges the traditional exclusion of hard surfaces from soft spaces like living rooms and bedrooms, illustrating how patterned tiles from Mandarin Stone can introduce visual interest below eye-level, especially when paired with soft rugs or underfloor heating. A feature wall in a kitchen or bathroom using creative checkerboard patterns from Fired Earth is presented as a playful and nostalgic alternative to paint or wallpaper. Tiles with uneven surfaces, exemplified by Homebase's crackled tiles, are noted for their unique light-reflecting qualities and the ability to create an unbroken wash of color when laid without grouting. The piece also revisits retro tiled chimneys, showcasing a design from 2LG x Maitland & Poate that evokes the aesthetics of the 60s and 70s with vibrant, undulating wave patterns. Bespoke indoor/outdoor tiled benches from Otto Tiles offer integrated seating for terraces or conservatories, allowing for recessed storage and customizable finishes. Lastly, tiles are suggested as a framing device for arches or alcoves, where luxury tiles can be used sparingly to create a link between spaces, as seen with Mandarin Stone's marbled veins. The article concludes by mentioning the effectiveness of using matching tiles on a smaller scale around a bathroom to achieve cohesion and maximize space, referencing examples from Claybrook Studio. #TileDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CreativeTiling #BathroomTiles #KitchenTiles #WallPanelling #PatternedTiles #TiledMurals

This article serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to purchase kitchen tiles, aiming to simplify the often-overwhelming selection process. It acknowledges that kitchen tiles are a crucial design element, offering a practical way to infuse style and personality into a kitchen space. With a vast array of designs, shapes, and colors available in the market, the article addresses the common challenge of identifying reliable sources for high-quality, durable, and aesthetically pleasing tiles. The guide focuses on five prominent brands and retailers in the US market: Wayfair, deVOL Kitchens, Fireclay Tile, Lowes, and Ann Sacks. For each recommended retailer, the article provides an overview of their offerings, highlighting their unique selling points, product diversity, and specific types of tiles they excel in. Wayfair is presented as a comprehensive online marketplace, offering an extensive selection of kitchen tiles categorized for easy navigation, including wall, floor, backsplash, and accent tiles. It features a wide variety of tile makers, ranging from classic white metro tiles to unique mosaic patterns, with standout options like fluted tiles and reimagined fish scale designs. The article also includes specific product recommendations from Wayfair, such as the Tile Market Fluted Porcelain Wall Tile, Bond Tile Polished Ceramic Subway Wall Tile, and The Tile Life Porcelain Patterned Wall & Floor Tile, detailing their advantages and potential considerations. deVOL Kitchens, known for its timeless kitchen designs, is introduced as a source for handmade kitchen tiles that meet high-quality standards. While their range is smaller, it emphasizes unique, handmade pieces like classic white metro, subway, green glazed, and lace market tiles, which provide a vintage feel due to their slight color variations. The article notes that deVOL's tiles are a luxurious option, delivering exceptional quality, particularly effective for backsplashes or as eye-catching features around cookers or fireplaces. Featured deVOL products include Emerald Green London Tiles, Cream Subway/Border Tiles, and Sepia Lace Market Tiles, each with their pros and cons. Fireclay Tile, manufacturing handmade tiles in California, is highlighted for its dedication to tiles and its customer-friendly website filtering system. Its categories include ceramic, brick, glass, handmade, and mosaics, showcasing beautiful designs and high-quality finishes. A key feature of Fireclay Tile is its custom service, allowing customers to design bespoke tiles that can color-match existing elements. Examples provided are Rosemary Kitchen Tile, Carolina Wren Gloss Tile, and Rocky Mountains Brick Tile, with notes on their sizing, installation, and suitability for different kitchen styles. Lowes is presented as a retailer with a vast selection, offering over 500 results when searching for kitchen tiles. The focus of Lowes' offerings includes natural stone-style tiles, such as marble-inspired designs and natural porcelain looks. The article mentions quick search features and in-depth filtering options to narrow down choices by finish, size, look, and installation type. Lowes' collection is noted for its versatile statement tiles suitable for both floor and wall use, with popular choices being marble-look tiles, classic brick-style designs, and organic-finish tiles. Specific Lowes products highlighted are Satori Pearl White Glossy Ceramic Subway Tile, American Olean Marble Manor Calacatta Subway Tile, and allen + roth Marbella Decor Weathered Tile, along with practical considerations like chemical resistance and installation. Finally, Ann Sacks, recognized for its expertise in tile and stone, is described as a brand synonymous with kitchen tiles, focusing on timeless designs and natural materials. Its website categorizes tile types efficiently, including a section for reimagined Terracotta tiles that blend traditional charm with modern appeal. Ann Sacks is also known for collaborations, such as with Studio McGee, and offers an inspiration section for design ideas, particularly emphasizing glossy and colorful subway tiles. Examples from Ann Sacks include Idris Field Tile, Canyon Lake Field Tile By Studio McGee, and Benton Aletta Mosaic, discussing their timelessness, installation effort, and design suitability. The article concludes by affirming that these retailers offer a wonderful selection for various interior design styles, whether for decorative backsplashes or durable kitchen wall designs. #KitchenTiles #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #TileBrands #KitchenRenovation #HomeDecor #DesignTrends

Kelli Fontana, a creative director and designer, has collaborated with The Tile Shop to launch her debut tile collection. Fontana, who has managed West Bay Homes with her husband Richard Vogelgesang for over two decades, has extensive experience in interior projects and considered product design a natural progression for her career. The collaboration with The Tile Shop, a company known for its partnerships with various designers and brands, provided Fontana with the opportunity to translate her design philosophy into tangible materials. Fontana describes her personal aesthetic as "classic, bold and whimsical," a philosophy she applied in developing the collection. She focused on three core pillars to define her approach to product design. The collection features three distinct designs: Tommas, Patina, and Inlay Proper, each embodying aspects of her signature style. Tommas represents classicism, Patina offers a bold, vintage glam, and Inlay Proper brings a whimsical and ornate element. The Tommas design features large-format, matte-finished ceramic wall tiles with raised, rounded fluting. Available in Carrara, which mimics Italian marble, and a soft white Classico, these tiles can be installed horizontally or vertically. Fontana named this design after her father, Thomas, and describes it as a foundational, masculine style that is both quiet and powerful in its simplicity. It is designed to add sculptural dimensionality and elegance to any space, akin to a Roman column. Patina tiles are designed to make a bold statement and reflect light, creating the illusion of extra space. These mirrored tiles come in three colorways: Gilded (amber gold), Siren (silver-tinged), and Eclipse (smoky blue-gray). Fontana suggests using the Gilded colorway for an entire bathroom to maximize its impact, or the Siren colorway as a backsplash to bring natural light and outdoor views into areas lacking windows. She emphasizes that while mirrored tiles can evoke a disco aesthetic, their application is key to achieving a sophisticated look. The lightly weathered finish of Patina tiles adds a sense of history, making them versatile for various interior styles, from contemporary to rustic, and ensuring their enduring appeal. Inlay Proper, the third design in the collection, provides a gorgeously ornate contrast. These 8-inch-square porcelain tiles feature a floral and leaf motif, translated from Fontana’s Bone Inlay wallpaper series. While classical and dramatic, the delicate blooms and winding vines impart a whimsical quality. Fontana envisions these tiles enhancing kitchen floors, foyers, four-season porches, and powder rooms. The palette includes neutral colorways like Florence Lace (white marble-look with silvery leaves), Naples Beach (warm taupe with white), and Eden Ode (rich veined black with beige), allowing them to complement diverse settings from beach houses to city apartments. Fontana expressed her satisfaction with the collaboration, highlighting The Tile Shop's accessibility and support in personalizing the collection. The designs are intended to function both individually and cohesively, with colorways and sizes chosen to integrate seamlessly with a broad range of other tiles. Fontana has numerous ideas for future collections, aiming to further explore her classic, bold, and whimsical approach with her partner, The Tile Shop, which is conveniently located near her. This partnership underscores The Tile Shop’s strategy of working with local talent and designers who bring a unique vision to their product lines. #KelliFontana #TheTileShop #TileCollection #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #HomeDecor #DesignCollaboration #ArchitecturalMaterials #HomeFurnishings

Choosing tile for a home is a significant decision, as it represents a permanent fixture that influences the aesthetic and functional aspects of a space. Unlike paint or fabrics, which can be easily changed, tile choices endure, requiring careful consideration during the selection process. The designer Caitlin Wilson, drawing from her extensive experience, offers five key tips to navigate this important decision. The first tip emphasizes understanding the desired feel of the space. Wilson, a pattern designer, advocates for embracing a theme or inspiration. She illustrates this by describing her guest bathroom, where she aimed for an English-inspired cottage feel. To achieve this, she combined ceramic tiles with marble accents featuring warm green and blue veining, creating a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. This approach highlights the importance of aligning tile choices with the overall design vision for a room. The second piece of advice focuses on ensuring that the chosen tile complements the surrounding rooms, especially when incorporating patterns. Wilson suggests playing with scale to avoid overwhelming the space. In areas with busier wallpaper, she opts for larger-scale, more monochromatic palettes and clean-lined floor tiles. This strategy helps balance intricate patterns with quieter tile selections. She also notes that neutrals can extend beyond traditional whites, creams, or grays, citing her use of a sophisticated blue marble as a neutral element that adds color without being overpowering. Wilson's third tip addresses the best material for the application. She notes a growing trend in using marble, particularly for backsplashes, and highlights its natural durability for high-traffic areas like entryways, breezeways, mudrooms, and hidden kitchens. For porcelain, she points out the vast array of textures, patterns, and colors available, as manufacturers can use molds to create intricate designs, borders, and trims. She provides an example of using a pearl liner and clover trim in a bathroom shower to evoke the look of curtains, demonstrating the creative possibilities with porcelain. The fourth tip centers on sourcing reputable suppliers. Wilson acknowledges the increasing availability of marble and tile from various retailers but stresses the importance of choosing reliable sources. She recommends established companies like Ann Sacks and Walker Zanger, known for their variety, customization options, and consistent quality. While big box stores might offer cost savings, she warns about potential inconsistencies in quality, such as sharp edges in mosaic tiles, and advises against them for intricate designs. Furthermore, she emphasizes the need to select skilled craftspeople for installation, especially for creative tile work, to ensure precise placement and alignment. Finally, Wilson advises considering the timeless appeal of the chosen tile. She draws inspiration from a 1920s apartment bathroom with mint-green subway tile and a pink border, which she found enduringly cool. In her own home, she adopted a fresh interpretation of the Art Deco aesthetic for her baby’s bathroom, using a vintage-inspired recycled glass mosaic with a matte finish in shades of pink and periwinkle. This design creates a classic trellis pattern that guests often admire for its refreshing pop of color and pattern, demonstrating that timelessness can also incorporate playful and unique elements. #TileSelection #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #CaitlinWilson #DesignTips #MaterialChoice #TimelessDesign #PatternPlay #ReputableSourcing

Tiles offer a versatile and functional medium to enhance interior spaces, providing a departure from traditional decorative elements like paints, wallpapers, and artworks. They introduce color, texture, and can alter the visual proportions of a room when applied in innovative ways, thereby anchoring a home's design narrative. This exploration delves into nine creative applications of tiles, moving beyond conventional uses to inspire unique and fresh interior aesthetics. One approach involves retrofitting focal points, such as transforming a fireplace. Tiles can meticulously recreate the character of a stone fireplace, as demonstrated by the use of bluestone tiles to achieve an earthy, rustic appeal that appears original to the structure. Another method is to integrate storytelling through painted tiles. Custom or curated hand-painted tiles, perhaps featuring musical symbols within an illuminated arch, can inject a whimsical narrative into a modern kitchen. For those seeking a simpler yet impactful design, the power of grout can be harnessed. Employing contrasting or colored grout lines with simple tiles like metro tiles can emphasize their geometric forms and add a new dimension to the design, providing structure while maintaining material uniformity. Tiles can also be instrumental in creating distinct zones, such as a conversation pit around a fireplace. By lining a recessed area with tiles, a sense of containment and coziness is established, even within a larger room, drawing from existing architectural features to merge practicality with comfort. Beyond traditional surfaces, tiles can frame architectural elements. For instance, using green tiles with curved edges to outline a bedroom door jamb offers a modern and unexpected alternative to conventional door trim, introducing visual interest and unique materiality. For a grander decorative statement, tile murals offer a rich and textural focal point. Whether bespoke or part of a series, these murals can transform an ordinary wall into an artistic centerpiece, preserving and highlighting historical elements or introducing new visual narratives. Kitchen islands, often central to the space, can be reimagined with tiles. Tiling an island, especially with materials like Zellige tiles, adds texture and color, elevating it into a significant architectural and visual feature that avoids monotony and adds dynamism to the kitchen's design. Furthermore, tiles can create decorative borders for flooring. Instead of uniform application, chevron-patterned tiles can define the edges of a room, framing its dimensions and repurposing remnants of older layouts while maintaining a consistent flooring pattern. This technique can refresh stone or wood flooring, adding a decorative touch. Each of these applications showcases how tiles can be used creatively to imbue homes with personality, ranging from subtle enhancements to bold design statements, challenging traditional perceptions of tiling and unlocking new design possibilities. #TileDecorating #HomeInteriors #CreativeTiling #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #FireplaceTiles #TileMurals #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeRenovation

The article outlines the seven leading tile trends for residential projects in 2021, as identified by the organizers of Coverings, the largest stone and tile show in the United States. These trends are influenced by a shift towards wellness design and increased time spent at home due to the pandemic, emphasizing natural elements, comfort, and ease of maintenance. The insights are drawn from the combined perspectives of North American, Italian, and Spanish porcelain and ceramic exporters. One significant trend is Biophilia, focusing on natural and untreated wood-look ceramic tile designs. This trend aims to create serene environments and a strong indoor-outdoor connection, aligning with the broader wellness design movement that has gained momentum amidst the pandemic. Another emerging trend is Spa Style, which complements biophilia by incorporating soft blues, greens, and textured neutrals. These tones and textures are intended to evoke natural elements like sky, forest, sand, and sea, fostering a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere indoors. The muted color palettes are crucial for achieving this tranquil effect. Oversized tiles represent a practical and aesthetic trend. These large-format ceramic tiles, available in dimensions up to 5.25 feet by 10.5 feet and various thicknesses, simplify home maintenance, a key aspect of wellness design. They are increasingly used for countertops, shower walls, and large design applications, with hexagonal oversized tiles adding geometric interest. Stone Cold refers to tiles designed to mimic natural stone, such as marble. Advances in printing technology allow for realistic book-matching veins, enhancing the authenticity of these porcelain imitators. Unlike natural stone, these porcelain alternatives are non-porous and low-maintenance, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Retro Concrete Inspirations highlight tiles that replicate the look of vintage concrete. These low-maintenance options feature playful patterns, providing creative opportunities for personalization in home design. Given the growing demand for personalized spaces as a wellness trend, these concrete-look tiles are expected to play a significant role. Updated Terrazzo introduces contemporary interpretations of traditional terrazzo styles. This trend, which frequently reappears, brings a vibrant and energetic feel to both indoor and outdoor areas. It encompasses various forms, from oversized flecks to fine patterns and small tiles to large slabs, offering diverse retro-inspired design choices. Finally, High Gloss tiles cater to those desiring dramatic glamour in their interiors. While visually striking, this trend requires considerable upkeep due to its reflective surface. Additionally, applying a slip-resistant protective coating is advisable, particularly in wet areas like bathrooms, to ensure safety. This trend, unlike others, prioritizes aesthetic drama over low maintenance or natural tranquility. #TileTrends #ResidentialDesign #HomeDecor #WellnessDesign #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #InteriorDesign #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign

The article presents insights from Denver interior designer Laura Medicus, focusing on her top six tile recommendations for kitchen and bath renovations. It addresses the common challenge of decision paralysis faced by homeowners due to the vast array of finish options available, particularly in tile selection. Medicus emphasizes the importance of selecting timeless and functional designs over fleeting trends, drawing from her extensive experience in real-life home projects. Medicus advocates for classic styles, suggesting that natural stone floors paired with simple ceramic wall tiles consistently deliver appealing results. She also encourages bold tile applications, advising against limiting accent tiles to small niches. Instead, she recommends using accent tiles across entire walls in showers and extending kitchen backsplashes all the way up to the ceiling to create significant design impact and 'breathing room.' Before making any tile selections, Medicus guides her clients to consider the tile's intended function within the space, such as whether it needs to provide color, pattern, or texture, which helps narrow down the choices. The first tile highlighted is Surface Art’s Victoria II Tile, described as an affordable, handmade-looking subway-style option with an uneven, glossy surface that adds subtle interest without a distinct pattern. Medicus recommends using this versatile tile on entire walls, especially opposite or next to windows, to capitalize on its light-reflecting qualities. For styling, she suggests pairing the classic white tile with softer grout colors like Custom Building Products' Bleached Wood #545 for a warm look or Platinum #115 for a cool tone, enhancing its handmade aesthetic. Next, Cosa Marble Company’s Handmade Porcelain Tile is featured for its crackle finish, available in various colors, standard subway sizes, mosaics, and trim pieces. This tile is praised for offering a traditional or luxurious look at a reasonable price, adding texture and subtle dimension to baths or kitchens. Medicus finds it suitable for both vintage spaces aiming to amplify their character and contemporary settings needing a touch of handmade charm, particularly recommending its use for large shower walls without obstructions. Sabine Hill Cement Tile is presented as Medicus's preferred cement tile, known for its extensive range of patterns, colors, and configurations, including solid cement tiles. While acknowledging the need for multiple sealing applications to prevent staining, she suggests its use around fireplaces or as an accent wall in showers. A notable styling tip includes utilizing Sabine Hill's online customization tool to experiment with patterns and rotations, allowing clients to personalize their designs. Jeffrey Court’s Mod Herringbone Mosaic Tile, specifically from their Cubist line, is introduced as an excellent accent tile made of natural stone, available in Thassos, Bardiglio, and Nero Marquina. This tile is ideal for special backsplashes and fireplace surrounds, with Medicus noting its reflective quality that creates a 'fancy' appearance, especially when positioned opposite large windows. She advises arranging the tile sheets so that the herringbone lines are vertical for optimal visual effect. Black Slate Floor Tile, such as MSI’s Montauk Black Slate and PetraSlate’s 6” Ebony Hexagon tile, is recommended for its classic, non-trendy, and affordable natural stone appeal. Despite its uneven surface, Medicus uses it extensively for floors in entries, kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms. She suggests various styling options, including simple rectangular formats or a 4-by-12-inch herringbone pattern with light grout for a stunning finish. The article features an example of the Ebony Hexagon tile used effectively in a bathroom. Finally, Large-Scale Picket Tile, like Bedrosians’ Reine, is highlighted for its distinct shape, good price point, and availability in several colors. Medicus favors this tile for kitchen backsplashes and shower surrounds, considering it a classic yet currently trendy shape that offers a slight deviation from standard rectangular tiles. She suggests horizontal placement for kitchen applications and vertical for showers, noting its compatibility with hexagonal floor tiles due to its angled ends. The article concludes by providing contact information for Laura Medicus Interiors and the various tile suppliers mentioned. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TileSelection #KitchenRenovation #BathroomRenovation #DesignTips #LauraMedicus #TimelessDesign #TileStyling

This blog post highlights current offers and discounts on a range of flooring and tiling products, aiming to help customers refresh their homes with stylish and durable options without exceeding their budget. The available products include various types of flooring, such as engineered wood, laminate, and luxury vinyl, as well as wall and floor tiles made from ceramic and porcelain. These offerings cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements for different areas of a home. The flooring selection features laminate options in different thicknesses, ranging from 8mm to 12mm, with varying AC ratings of 4 and 5, indicating their durability. Popular styles include wood effect finishes, with specific products like Wickes Salerno Light Grey Oak, Wickes Hayfield Grey Oak, and Wickes Venezia Light Oak laminate flooring. Luxury vinyl flooring is also presented, exemplified by Novocore Natural Oak, providing a resilient and visually appealing alternative. Engineered wood flooring, such as W by Woodpecker American Light Oak, is available for those seeking a more premium wood aesthetic. For tiling needs, the article showcases both ceramic and porcelain wall and floor tiles. Examples include Wickes Lava Bone Matt Glazed Porcelain tiles in different sizes (600 x 300mm and 595 x 595mm), Wickes Luna Light Grey Ceramic tiles, Wickes Everest Steel Porcelain tiles, and Wickes Mason Grey Matt Porcelain tiles. These tiles come in various color families, including beiges, browns, creams, and greys, and offer styles such as marbled stone effect, stone effect, and wood effect to complement different interior designs. Suitability is specified for different areas, with some tiles and flooring suitable for all indoor areas, including wet rooms, and others for living areas, kitchens, and bathrooms. The blog also addresses practical considerations through a Frequently Asked Questions section. It confirms the availability of samples for both flooring and tiles, allowing customers to evaluate products before making a purchase. It clarifies that all discounted items are new and maintain high-quality standards. Additionally, it informs customers that grout and tile adhesive are typically sold separately unless explicitly stated in the product description, providing essential information for project planning. The overall goal is to present a comprehensive overview of discounted flooring and tiling solutions, emphasizing variety, quality, and affordability for home improvement projects. #FlooringOffers #TileDiscounts #HomeRenovation #LaminateFlooring #PorcelainTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeImprovement