7 Tile Stores in Westchester for All Your Home Project Needs

This article explores three contemporary tile trends that can enhance the aesthetic and functionality of homes in Westchester. The discussion draws on insights from local design professionals, providing practical advice for homeowners considering updates to their living spaces. The endless possibilities within tile selection are addressed by focusing on specific, on-trend styles. The first trend highlighted is the use of striped tiles, particularly for making a bold statement in areas such as bathrooms. Annie Mennes, a designer from Garrison Foundry, exemplifies this trend by detailing a bathroom project that utilized a 12-inch grid with 1-inch by 1-inch ceramic tiles in a clover green shade from Fireclay Tile. This approach emphasizes the potential for geometric patterns and vibrant colors to create visually impactful designs within a home setting. The second trend focuses on textured or fluted porcelain tiles, offering a more subtle yet sophisticated aesthetic. Dave Gasch, President of Terra Tile and Marble in Briarcliff Manor, notes the increasing availability of these textured options across newer porcelain tile lines. These tiles introduce a three-dimensional element without necessitating additional colors, making them suitable for shower walls and vanity backsplashes where depth and tactile quality are desired. Examples provided include the Century Medley Prince Deco Optic and Grespania Malmo Cipres, showcasing various sizes and price points for these textured options. Finally, the article delves into the resurgence of natural stone through waterjet mosaics. Leah Ervi, showroom manager at Artistic Tile, Inc. in White Plains, explains how these intricate designs combine stone, porcelain, or glass to create unique patterns like checkerboards and waves. Natural stone is celebrated for its organic beauty, rich textures, and earthy tones, which contribute warmth, character, and durability to kitchens, baths, patios, and entryways—qualities that manufactured materials often cannot replicate. Specific examples of waterjet mosaics from Artistic Tile include Michelle Gerson Slide, Palazzo Ducale, Decadence by Donghia, Mandala, and Metamorphosis by Ryan Saghian, with varying price ranges illustrating the breadth of options available within this trend. These examples collectively demonstrate how natural stone can be integrated into modern home designs in an innovative and visually appealing manner. Overall, the article serves as a guide for Westchester homeowners seeking to update their interiors with current tile trends, offering a curated selection of styles and insights from industry experts. It aims to simplify the decision-making process by showcasing distinct trends that cater to different aesthetic preferences, from bold and graphic to subtle and textured, and to those favoring organic and intricate natural materials. #HomeDesign #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #WestchesterHomes #BathroomRenovation #KitchenBacksplash #NaturalStone #PorcelainTile #TexturedTiles

Tiles are an essential element in home decor, particularly in practical spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, where they effectively combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. They offer diverse colors and patterns, enabling the creation of beautiful and durable designs that can withstand daily wear and tear. This article, part of the 'Decorator's Address Book' series, gathers recommendations from twelve interior design experts on their preferred sources for browsing, sourcing, and purchasing tiles for various projects. The featured designers share their go-to vendors, covering a spectrum from well-known brands to artisan tile makers, ensuring options for different budgets and tastes. Tama Bell of Tama Bell Design highlights Fireclay Tile for its extensive color palette, varied shapes and sizes, and customization options, which allow for unique color combinations. Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight favors Cle Tile for its wide array of cement tiles, available in various shapes, colors, and sizes, including custom options. He particularly values their uneven texture, which adds depth and interest to any space, noting that many of Cle Tile's products are handcrafted and made-to-order, offering personalized color selections and unique imperfections. Ami Mckay of Pure Design Inc expresses her admiration for Tiles of Ezra and other handmade tiles, emphasizing their timeless quality and organic beauty that improves with age. Kathy Kuo of Kathy Kuo Home and Mindy O'Connor of Melinda Kelson O'Connor Architecture & Interiors both commend Ann Sacks for its reputation for high-quality, beautiful tiling options suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, available in diverse materials like porcelain, ceramic, concrete, and stone. O'Connor specifically praises Ann Sacks' Savoy line, crafted by Japanese artisans, for its simple yet versatile options, crisp edges, and subtle color variations, which provide a sophisticated look at a reasonable price point, all while being produced in a waste-conscious manner. Becky Shea of Becky Shea Design prefers artisanal vendors such as Cle Tile, Fireclay Tile, Tabarka Studio, and Zia Tile, appreciating their unique flair, handcrafted quality, and organic aesthetic. She notes that these artisans bring sustainability, timeless craftsmanship, and innovative patterns to their creations, enhancing visual appeal and supporting traditional artistry. Luis Carmona of Verde and Mollie Ranize of Dmar Interiors are strong advocates for Zia Tile, highlighting its ability to add character and depth to designs through various materials like ceramic, cement, and limestone. They appreciate Zia Tile's diverse range of types, rich colors, and shapes, noting its quality, ease of engagement, and versatility across different home styles. Natalie Rebuck of Re: Design Architects also endorses Zia Tile for its beautiful, unique, and affordably priced options, which she has successfully sourced for various projects. Lauren Lerner of Living with Lolo recommends Bedrosians for its broad selection of in-stock items, efficient shipping, and varied price points, catering to different client needs and budgets. Shelagh Conway of Triple Heart Design values Clay Imports for its unique and handmade tiles, particularly their Relief Mudcloth Cowrie tile, which adds fun, freshness, and visual interest to projects. Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA praises Studio GdB from the Netherlands for its cutting-edge methodology involving computer-controlled glaze application, allowing for quick changes, a wide assortment of patterns, extensive colors, and seamless sample delivery. She also notes the tiles' thinness, which simplifies installation and enables their application on various surfaces. Finally, Mindy O'Connor also commends Heath Ceramics for its sustainably handcrafted tiles, produced in California since the 1960s. She highlights their unmatched color glazes, which offer depth and beauty in large applications, and their versatile field tiles that come in many shapes and sizes, making them suitable for diverse spaces. The article concludes by emphasizing that tiles, whether artisan-made or from well-known stores, are a reliable investment that brings character and longevity to any design scheme. #InteriorDesign #TileSelection #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #ArtisanTiles #DesignTrends #HomeImprovement

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

Terra Tile & Marble, a family business with a presence in Briarcliff Manor, Millwood, and Fishkill, has roots tracing back to Alcora, Spain, a prominent center for ceramic art and tile production. Manuel Gasch, the founder's father, learned the tile trade in Spain and brought his expertise to America in 1973. He initially operated as an agent, selling tiles from Spanish factories to tile stores across the U.S. In 1989, Manuel established his own warehouse in Ossining, importing ceramic tile containers for wholesale distribution. Seeking to expand into the retail market, Manuel opened the Terra Tile & Marble showroom and warehouse in Briarcliff Manor in 1993. His son, Dave Gasch, who now serves as president, began his involvement with the business at a young age, working in the warehouse and later in sales during college. Upon graduating from Villanova in 2000, Dave joined the company full-time. Under his leadership, the company has experienced significant growth and diversification. Initially, Terra Tile & Marble primarily sold ceramic and marble tiles imported from Spain and Italy. The company expanded its product offerings to include mosaics and launched its stone countertop division in 1998. Further expansion included opening a showroom in Fishkill in 2000 and building a warehouse in Millwood in 2006, which houses a slab yard and stone fabrication facilities. The company serves a diverse clientele, including architects, builders, interior designers, homeowners, and over 175 wholesale tile-and-stone dealers on the East Coast. Dave Gasch assumed leadership of the business after his father's passing in 2016. His mother, Susan, continues to manage administrative aspects. Over the past five years, the countertop business has seen substantial growth, driven by investments in newer machinery and an expanded inventory of stone slabs from Brazil and Italy. The company prides itself on its extensive stock, ensuring immediate availability for customers and contractors, making it one of the largest stocking tile importers in Westchester, offering a wide array of ceramic, marble, slate, and wood-look tiles. Dave Gasch actively monitors industry trends by attending trade shows in Italy and Spain and collaborating with tile manufacturing representatives. A notable trend is the increasing size of tiles, evolving from traditional four-by-four or six-by-six inches to two-by-four feet, three-by-six feet, and even larger. The company now specializes in giant porcelain slabs, which enable the creation of seamless showers that mimic statuary marble with enhanced durability and minimal grout lines, often featuring book-matched seams. Color is also re-emerging in home design. While bright colors are being incorporated, they are often limited to a single wall in bathrooms, with popular choices including blue, aqua, and green, balanced by white or muted tones elsewhere. This approach extends to kitchens, where bolder colors might be used for an island, complemented by subdued perimeter colors. An example is a glossy Mediterranean-blue subway tile installed as a focal point above a cooktop, contrasted with white countertops and cabinets. In countertops, white quartz, an engineered stone with marble-like veining, remains the most popular choice for kitchen fabrication. However, there is growing demand for quartzite, a durable natural stone that offers the aesthetic of marble. Gasch observes a trend towards bolder and busier natural stone choices with more movement in countertop designs. The success of Terra Tile & Marble is attributed to its strong local presence and commitment to servicing the community, as many of Dave Gasch's neighbors in Armonk are also his customers, underscoring a regional focus on home investment and care. #TerraTileMarble #FamilyBusiness #TileDesignTrends #CountertopMaterials #HomeRenovation #WestchesterHome #InteriorDesign #StoneFabrication #CeramicTile

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 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

This article explores the diverse world of tiles and identifies key suppliers in the market, both local and international, offering various types of tiles to meet different consumer and project needs. The market presents a wide array of tile types, including ceramic, porcelain, vitrified, glazed, elevation, quartz stone, quarry, mosaic, pebble, Islamic, and glass tiles, catering to a broad spectrum of aesthetic and functional requirements. Several reputable tile suppliers are highlighted, each bringing unique offerings and strengths to the construction and interior design sectors. Ideal Ceramics, a prominent Kenyan supplier with over 30 years of experience, specializes in ceramic and porcelain tiles. Ceramic tiles are favored for their affordability, ease of installation, and variety of designs, making them popular among homeowners and affordable-housing developers. Porcelain tiles, known for their high quality, durability, and low water absorption rates, are suited for heavy-duty applications and offer a lifetime guarantee. Al Khaleej Ceramics Co. LLC, operating since 1996 under the brand name Grannitto, is a pioneer in manufacturing ceramic and porcelain tiles. They are recognized for their commitment to quality, utilizing advanced technology in their Dubai facility to ensure products meet BN, ES, ISO, and SASO standards, with a global production capacity of approximately 50,000 m2 per day. CTM Kenya, with over 15 years of experience in the African market, manufactures its signature 'Kilimanjaro tiles' designed for high-traffic areas, available in both matt and anti-slip finishes suitable for indoor and outdoor use. They also stock specialty anti-slip tiles for bathrooms and laundry areas. Cristol Ceramics, with 15 years of market presence, is known for its popular ceramic floor and wall tiles, valued for their availability, affordability, and diverse color options that seamlessly integrate with various project color schemes. Their focus on creativity and customer understanding has enabled them to serve a wide range of clients including prisons, banks, hotels, churches, schools, factories, and residential apartments across Kenya. PERGAS GROUP, although new to Kenya, brings over 20 years of international experience with a head office in the Middle East. They offer advanced technologies and high-quality construction materials, including wooden and glazed porcelain tiles, catering to evolving client preferences. Saj Ceramics, a leading East African supplier for two decades, manufactures all its products locally in Athi River, Nairobi, using Italian technology. They specialize in custom-made ceramic and porcelain tiles with digital printing options, available in various sizes, styles, and colors to suit different room dimensions, themes, utilities, and budgets. Azuvi, through continuous development in formats and designs, provides ceramic solutions for architectural applications, including facades, flooring, cladding, countertops, and furniture. Their product range features timeless shades and pleasant textures, offering versatile materials for unique combinations, with a strong emphasis on elegant and avant-garde ceramic decors like Peak, Stria, Dexa, and Montana. The article also provides essential guiding principles for consumers when selecting tiles. These factors include the intended use of the tile, such as durable options for heavy-traffic areas and anti-slip finishes for wet environments; the size of the space, where larger tiles are recommended for bigger areas to minimize joints and cutting; budget considerations, balancing cost with durability, as ceramic tiles are generally more affordable than porcelain; the importance of high quality for long-term value; and the availability of tiles for large projects and future maintenance or repairs. #TileSuppliers #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #BuildingMaterials #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ConstructionIndustry #FlooringSolutions #KenyanMarket

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

Motawi Tileworks, founded by formally-trained ceramicist Nawal Motawi, specializes in handcrafted ceramic art tiles that combine charming surface motifs with traditional craft techniques. The company's tiles draw illustrative inspiration from Mid-Century design, Art Nouveau, and the Japanese block printer Yoshiko Yamamoto, moving beyond conventional single-color creations. Each tile undergoes a meticulous, hands-on production process. It begins with a block of clay, known as a pug, which is pressed into a plaster mold to form a tile sheet. Following this, a Motawi Tileworks artisan carefully trims, smooths, bisque fires, and glazes the tile. The glazed tile is then fired a second time before undergoing a final quality-control check. This process ensures that every tile is treated as an individual work of art, despite being modular pieces that can be mixed and matched to create diverse arrangements. Many installations feature a few statement tiles framed by solid or alternating colors, allowing for a personalized aesthetic. Nawal Motawi’s journey began with a desire to create the kind of tiles she envisioned, leading her to establish her own studio after an unfulfilling experience at another tile company. She started by producing tiles in her garage and selling them at local farmers' markets. As the popularity of her tile art grew, Motawi focused on acquiring essential business knowledge, attending conferences to learn about manufacturing, pricing, and business development. She invested in state-of-the-art equipment and eventually transitioned her team to a lean, Toyota-style production system to optimize efficiency and avoid excessive inventory. This strategic business approach proved successful, leading to significant growth for Motawi Tileworks. The company now generates $2.7 million annually and was recognized as one of Forbes’ 25 Small Giants in 2017. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Motawi Tileworks offers workshops for those interested in learning about tile making and hosts free weekly public tours, allowing visitors to observe their craft firsthand. The company's success highlights the blend of artistic vision and sound business practices in creating a thriving craft enterprise. Motawi Tileworks continues to create distinctive art tiles with surface designs influenced by various art history movements, providing decorative wall solutions that enhance any room. The focus on handcraftsmanship ensures each piece contributes to a unique and artistic interior design element. #ArtTile #CeramicArt #HandcraftedTiles #MotawiTileworks #HomeDecoration #ArtNouveau #MidCenturyDesign #TileMaking #AnnArbor

This article highlights eight prominent tile suppliers and shops in Singapore, catering to homeowners embarking on renovation journeys. It emphasizes the versatility, stain resistance, and easy maintenance of tiles as a popular flooring option, suitable for both walls and floors. Each supplier is introduced with their unique offerings, specializations, and contact details, including addresses, opening hours, and telephone numbers. Lian Seng Hin, an industry veteran, is noted for its creative holiday-themed tiles, globally sourced products, and affordability. They also offer unique designs like mix-and-match vintage printed tiles and specialized collections such as Talos Living Tiles, which improve indoor air quality, and GuardTec Antimicrobial Tiles, effective in killing bacteria. Their multiple outlets in Balestier, Ubi, and Boon Lay make them accessible across Singapore. Soon Bee Huat specializes in vintage-inspired patterned tiles, allowing homeowners to incorporate classic aesthetics into their homes. Beyond traditional patterns, they also provide eclectic shape tessellations and modern designs like Schegge and Bubble collections, adding diverse visual and glossy effects. They operate from Changi, Tampines, and Jurong East, offering a wide range of choices for various design preferences. Malford is recognized for its expertise in porcelain tiling and flooring, providing a large selection of Italian tiles known for their durability, stain resistance, and lasting shine. They also offer Korean vinyl flooring as a cost-effective alternative for those looking to refresh their floors without extensive renovation, backed by a 25-year warranty. Their showroom is located in the Ruby Industrial Complex. Hafary boasts one of the largest selections of tiles, featuring diverse styles, including textured fluted wall panels from their Stripes Wall tile collection, which add sophistication. Their niche offerings include the Yohen Border mosaic collection, inspired by traditional Japanese pottery, providing a tranquil aesthetic. Hafary further enhances customer experience with a dedicated mobile app for easy catalog access and operates a large showroom in Eunos Avenue. White Horse Ceramic focuses on old-school European-print and retro tiles, allowing for unique interior design statements. Their offerings can infuse a Victorian-era charm or a retro vibe suitable for feature walls, and they provide interior design assistance through their Ceramic World concept room, with outlets in Ubi and Choa Chu Kang. diModa offers a curated range of European-style tiles, mainly sourced from Kajaria Eternity, a leading global manufacturer. They feature Spanish and Italian-inspired designs, including marble and granite tiles, known for their classy finish. A significant advantage offered by diModa is their free consultation and architectural advice, helping customers make informed decisions from their showroom at Oxley-BizHub. Earth Stone specializes in Terrazzo tiles, a style that has seen a resurgence for its blend of sleekness, classic appeal, and geometric elements, particularly suited for bathrooms and kitchens. They also provide engineered stone tile collections, prioritizing durability. Their operations are based in Defu Lane, catering to those seeking robust and stylish flooring solutions. Finally, Rice Fields is a boutique showroom known for its trendy and bespoke collections from various designers, offering unique styles like carved shapes and dotted tiles that provide an elevated, designer touch. Their colourblock mosaic tiles add a glossy and vibrant element to walls, with their showroom located on Henderson Road. The article concludes by encouraging readers to explore these suppliers to find tiles that transform their spaces into comfortable and aesthetically pleasing homes. #TileSuppliers #SingaporeHomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FlooringOptions #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #VintageTiles #TerrazzoTiles #EuropeanStyleTiles

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

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

L'esperance Tile Works, founded by Linda Ellett and co-owned with her husband Don Shore, specializes in tile restoration, custom tile work, and the creation of original and contemporary tile designs. Located outside of Saratoga Springs, the company has been involved in numerous historic restoration projects across the country, including those in state capitols and iconic structures like the Columbia University and Ocean Parkway subway stations for the Metropolitan Transit Authority. Linda Ellett's expertise spans historical accuracy and artistic innovation. A notable example of their restoration skill involved re-creating a missing tile for a century-old fireplace in a California home. Working from a grainy 1902 catalog image of a reclining Roman soldier panel, Linda meticulously crafted the missing head and chest tile. This process required careful consideration of factors such as clay shrinkage and glaze darkening during firing to ensure a perfect match in both line and color with the original two tiles. Beyond restoration, L'esperance Tile also creates unique custom pieces. An instance of this is the New York fossil-themed kitchen backsplash, developed for a retired earth science teacher. Inspired by the New York state earth science Regents study guide, Linda designed various fossil motifs, including trilobites, which were first carved in wax and then used to make plaster molds for the clay tiles. These fossil designs proved popular, with the New York state fossils becoming best-selling holiday ornaments during one Christmas season. The tile-making process at L'esperance Tile begins with carving designs into wax panels, often sourced from melted church candles, with added colorant to enhance detail. These designs are then set in plaster to create molds. Clay blocks are pressed to remove air and form ribbons, which are then sliced into tiles. After initial drying and smoothing, plain field tiles proceed directly to the kiln, while decorative tiles are pressed with Linda's plaster molds before firing. The tiles are subsequently glazed and re-fired. The glazing process requires precision, as glaze colors change significantly during firing. The company demonstrates this precision when tasked with matching 100-year-old tiles for a client in Louisiana, meticulously testing shades of blue under various lighting conditions. L'esperance Tile, which moved from Albany to Rock City Falls 12 years prior, offers both decorative and field tiles. While they do not maintain a showroom at their Rock City Falls location, their products are available locally through Green Conscience in Saratoga Springs, via their Etsy shop for art tiles, and on eBay for seconds and overruns. They also sell directly through their website. The company has a national presence through Waterworks, a high-end bath and kitchen design showroom, for whom L'esperance produces the "Vintage" line. #TileWorks #HistoricRestoration #CustomTile #CeramicArt #HomeDecor #ArtisanCraft #NewYorkFossils #TileMakingProcess #InteriorDesign

This blog post focuses on tile adhesives, presenting a comprehensive guide to their selection and application for various tiling projects. It highlights the importance of choosing high-quality adhesives to ensure a strong and lasting bond for both floor and wall tiles. The article emphasizes that proper adhesive selection is crucial for achieving professional and long-lasting results in any tiling endeavor. The content outlines the diverse range of tile adhesives available, categorizing them by type, size, brand, color, and suitability for different surfaces. Types include adhesive primers, powder adhesives, ready-mixed adhesives, ready-mixed adhesive & grout combinations, and tile matting. The available sizes range from 1 kg to 20 kg, along with liquid volumes from 1 L to 10 L, catering to projects of varying scales. Popular brands featured are EVO-STIK, Homelux, Mapei, and Ultratrade, each offering specialized products within the adhesive category. Color options such as beige, grey, natural, and white are provided to match different tile and grout aesthetics. Furthermore, the adhesives are specified for their suitability for floors, walls, or both, ensuring users can select the correct product for their specific application. The article also includes a section dedicated to frequently asked questions, addressing common concerns and providing practical advice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals. This includes detailed guidance on how to remove existing tile adhesive, offering methods such as using a heat gun, adhesive removers, or scraping tools, while stressing the importance of proper ventilation and safety precautions. A significant portion of the FAQ section is dedicated to calculating the required quantity of tile adhesive. It advises users to measure the surface area, consult manufacturer guidelines for coverage rates, and consider purchasing a slightly larger amount to account for potential wastage or installation errors. Information on drying times is also provided, noting that drying can vary based on adhesive type, room temperature, humidity, and adhesive layer thickness, with a general timeframe of 24 to 48 hours for most products. Finally, the post showcases a selection of tile adhesives from prominent brands like UltraTrade, Mapei, and EVO-STIK, including various formulations such as standard set, rapid set, flexible, and waterproof options. It also lists related products like tile trims and bath seals, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the offerings for a complete tiling project. The article aims to equip readers with the necessary knowledge to confidently select and apply tile adhesives for a successful and durable tiling finish. #TileAdhesives #TilingProjects #HomeImprovement #ConstructionMaterials #DIY #Mapei #EVOSTIK #UltraTrade #WallTiles #FloorTiles

Tiles are an essential element in completing the look of any bathroom or kitchen, offering versatility in decorative application from floors to walls. While standard subway tiles are common, a vast array of creative options exists, including ceramic, cement, and glossy designs. This article provides a curated selection of 13 unique and stylish tiles available at The Home Depot, demonstrating that achieving an impactful design does not require splurging on imported options or compromising on style due to budget constraints. The featured tiles cater to a variety of aesthetic preferences and functional needs. For those seeking an understated yet impactful finish, the Palace White Porcelain Mosaic Tile offers a light crackle effect and can be used both indoors and outdoors to impart a modern and elegant feel. To introduce a pop of color, the Red Blaze Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile, with its unglazed finish and subtly textured surface, provides a vibrant brick red hue ideal for earthy-inspired interiors. Moroccan flair can be achieved with the Revival Ring Encaustic Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile, showcasing a lively pattern. For a classic yet refreshed look, the Monterosa Beige Porcelain Floor and Wall Tile presents a blush-toned marble aesthetic, which can be complemented by a similarly-hued backdrop for a cohesive color scheme. Geometric tile trends are highlighted with the Twenties Diamond Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile, featuring a matte finish in charcoal, grey, and white, capable of transforming any space. A bold statement can be made with the Catalina Green Lake Ceramic Wall Subway Tile, offering a dynamic color twist on the traditional subway tile design. Retro pink tiles are making a comeback, and the Crystalline Square Pink Porcelain Mosaic Tile provides a monochromatic, textured option suitable for both floors and walls. When plain ceramic tiles lack visual interest, the Geomento Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile offers a sleek color block design, perfect for kitchen backsplashes or neutral bathroom floors. The Kings Espiga Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile creates an optical illusion-like effect, aligning with geometric tile trends and suitable for dramatic shower installations. A simple yet soothing pattern is found in the Handspun Blue Line Art Ceramic Wall Tile, which can transform a bathroom into a Grecian-like paradise with its blue-and-white palette. The Marissa Carrara Ceramic Mosaic Tile, though seemingly standard, offers an opportunity for creative expression when paired with a vibrant, contrasting grout color. For contemporary spaces leaning towards a monochromatic theme, the Ostrich Grey Honed Quartzite Floor and Wall Tile is a strong contender, ideally paired with concrete finishes for countertops and backsplashes. Finally, the Revival Spectrum Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile, with its vibrant color and pattern play, is designed to enhance the walls of a light-filled kitchen, proving that a little pattern can go a long way in design. #HomeDepotTiles #TileTrends #KitchenRenovation #BathroomMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CeramicTiles #MosaicTiles #GeometricTiles

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