Exciting Ways to Decorate With Tiles
The simple tile is, in fact, anything but. It’s a hugely versatile and practical design, available in a bewildering array of shapes, colours and patterns. Tiles are manufactured in a variety of materials too, from ceramic and porcelain to glass and natural stone, each with its own unique properties.
And while we tend to think of tiles as belonging on the walls of a bathroom or kitchen, or perhaps making up a hard-wearing floor, their range of uses is far broader than that – as these ideas will demonstrate.
See beyond the square
Rectangular and square tiles are the usual go-to option, but why not seek out something more angular? Hexagonal tiles are a great alternative and their six-sided shape will dictate the free-form design of any room.
Give a fireplace extra funkiness
Tiles have long been used as a decorative and practical addition to a fire surround. Victorian cast-iron fireplaces, for example, typically feature a run of patterned tiles on either side of the grate. Consider using mosaics to completely cover a chimney breast, a perfect modern alternative.
Inset with wood
Combine tiles with timber to create a floor that’s rich in texture and tone. Entryways are a common area to do just this and tiles are the most common choice as they are hard-wearing and easy to clean. Creating the right transition isn’t as hard as you think though; just make sure you consider the colour and thickness of the product.
Go for wall-to-wall pattern
Tiling the walls and floor in a small narrow kitchen creates a uniform look. Take this concept to the max with a bold, patterned design. By flowing pattern across almost all the surfaces, it will help create a really strong statement.
Work in lots of angles
Spice up simple ceramic tiles in white or grey by choosing exciting geometric shapes, such as hexagons or Moroccan inspired designs. On the floor, brick-effect tiles can be arranged in a herringbone pattern for a parquet effect. The lines create movement and variety without disrupting the rest of the room.
Build a bedhead
Your bedroom should be your safe haven – a place for you to relax, unwind and get a great night’s sleep. Sometimes that means a new mattress and sometimes, it just comes down to having a great bedhead.Tiling the wall behind the bed is an original idea and a smart way to introduce colour and texture to a bedroom. Mosaics, metro tiles and brick-effect tiles are great options.
Create a streamlined effect
In a kitchen, take wall tiles onto end panels and even worktops for a cohesive, wraparound look. Panels on kitchen islands are also being tiled in mosaics, helping to it in with the rest of the room.
Freshen up a trad tile idea
OK, so tiling an entrance hall isn’t exactly a new idea, but using a really bold pattern feels very fresh and contemporary. The patterned tile is a modern take on the classic Victorian encaustic tile, which were typically laid in hallways.
Lay a faux floor
Love the practicality of tiles but love the look of wood? No problem. Beautiful wood-effect tiles are both hardwearing and practical, perfect for bringing the warmth and character of wood into your space.
