Choosing tile for your home can be one of the most exciting and transformative parts of the design process. Tiles not only add a functional surface to your spaces but also serve as a design statement, enhancing the character of your home. With a wide array of materials, styles, customizations, and artistic options available, finding the right tile can feel overwhelming—but that's where an interior designer comes in.
Learn how to select the perfect tile for each room in your home, covering everything from material options and customizations to working with designers and balancing functionality with aesthetics.
The Role of Tile in Interior Design
Tiles are more than just a durable flooring or wall solution; they’re an essential design element that can transform a room. Here’s why tile is a favorite among homeowners and designers:
- Versatility: Tiles can be used on floors, walls, backsplashes, and even ceilings.
- Durability: Quality tiles can withstand heavy use, moisture, and temperature changes, making them ideal for high-traffic and wet areas.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Tiles come in a variety of materials, colors, and patterns, offering endless design possibilities.
- Ease of Maintenance: Most tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for busy households.
Why Work with an Interior Designer When Choosing Tile?
An interior designer can guide you through the overwhelming number of options, ensuring your tile selections complement your home’s style, layout, and functionality. Here’s how a designer can help:
- Tailored Recommendations: Designers consider your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences to recommend tiles that align with your vision.
- Creative Design Ideas: A designer can suggest unique layouts, patterns, or combinations that you might not have considered.
- Access to Exclusive Vendors: Designers often have access to unique tiles from artisans or suppliers not available to the general public.
- Technical Expertise: They’ll ensure the chosen tiles meet practical needs, such as slip resistance in wet areas or heat tolerance for fireplaces.
- Coordination: Designers manage the logistics of ordering, shipping, and installation, saving you time and stress.
Kell Architects can make it happen for you. Send us an inquiry about your project and let’s discuss what opportunities there are for interior design in your project.
Exploring Tile Materials
The type of tile you choose depends on the room’s purpose, traffic level, and design goals. Here’s a breakdown of popular tile materials and their best uses:
1. Ceramic Tiles
- Features: Affordable, versatile, and available in a range of colors and patterns.
- Best For: Bathrooms, kitchens, and walls.
- Pros: Easy to clean, lightweight, and budget-friendly.
- Cons: Less durable than porcelain, prone to chipping.
2. Porcelain Tiles
- Features: Dense, durable, and water-resistant.
- Best For: High-traffic areas like entryways and bathrooms.
- Pros: Long-lasting, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than ceramic.
3. Natural Stone Tiles
- Features: Timeless and luxurious, made from materials like marble, granite, slate, or travertine.
- Best For: Living rooms, bathrooms, and outdoor patios.
- Pros: Unique patterns, eco-friendly.
- Cons: Requires sealing, higher maintenance, and can be costly.
4. Glass Tiles
- Features: Reflective and translucent, adding depth and brightness to spaces.
- Best For: Backsplashes, shower walls, and accent areas.
- Pros: Easy to clean, visually striking.
- Cons: Prone to scratching, not suitable for floors.
5. Cement Tiles
- Features: Handmade and customizable with intricate patterns.
- Best For: Statement floors, feature walls, or outdoor spaces.
- Pros: Durable, customizable designs.
- Cons: Requires sealing and maintenance.
6. Metal Tiles
- Features: Sleek and modern, often used as accents.
- Best For: Kitchen backsplashes or decorative details.
- Pros: Reflective, easy to clean.
- Cons: Can scratch or dent over time.
7. Mosaic Tiles
- Features: Small tiles arranged in intricate patterns or images.
- Best For: Accent walls, backsplashes, or showers.
- Pros: Highly decorative and versatile.
- Cons: Time-consuming to install, can be pricey.
Choosing Tile for Each Room
Different rooms have unique functional and aesthetic requirements. Here’s how to pick the right tile for every space:
1. Kitchen
- Functionality: Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials like porcelain, ceramic, or glass.
- Style Tips:
- For floors, opt for tiles with a matte finish to hide dirt and reduce slipperiness.
- Use subway tiles or patterned mosaics for backsplashes to add visual interest.
- Consider large-format tiles for a modern, seamless look.
2. Bathroom
- Functionality: Moisture resistance is key, so porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone are ideal.
- Style Tips:
- Use small mosaic tiles on shower floors for better grip.
- Add texture or pattern to walls with herringbone or hexagon tiles.
- Consider underfloor heating beneath tiles for a cozy touch.
3. Living Room
- Functionality: Natural stone or wood-look porcelain tiles are popular for durability and warmth.
- Style Tips:
- Use large tiles to create an open, airy feel.
- Incorporate tiles with subtle veining or texture for a sophisticated touch.
- Accent walls with textured tiles can serve as a stunning focal point.
4. Bedroom
- Functionality: Bedrooms benefit from softer, warmer aesthetics like wood-look tiles or muted tones.
- Style Tips:
- Use tiles as an accent behind the bed for a chic headboard effect.
- Consider matte finishes to create a calming atmosphere.
5. Outdoor Spaces
- Functionality: Opt for tiles designed to withstand weather and moisture, such as porcelain or stone.
- Style Tips:
- Use slip-resistant tiles for patios and pool decks.
- Natural tones and textures blend beautifully with outdoor surroundings.
Customizations and Artisan Options
Tiles are an opportunity to express your personal style. Here’s how to customize your tile choices:
1. Handmade Tiles
- Work with artisans to create one-of-a-kind designs for backsplashes, accent walls, or entryways.
- Handmade tiles often feature slight variations, adding charm and character.
2. Custom Patterns and Layouts
- Experiment with unique layouts, such as chevron, herringbone, or basketweave patterns.
- Combine tiles in different shapes or sizes to create dynamic visuals.
3. Color and Finish
- Choose vibrant, bold colors for a playful look, or stick to muted tones for timeless elegance.
- Opt for glossy finishes for a reflective effect or matte for a subdued aesthetic.
4. Artistic Installations
- Commission mosaic artwork or tile murals to make a bold statement.
- Use tiles to create geometric or floral motifs on floors or walls.
Balancing Aesthetics with Functionality
While tiles are a design element, they must also meet the practical needs of the space. Keep these considerations in mind:
1. Durability
- High-traffic areas require hardwearing materials like porcelain or stone.
- Consider the tile’s PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating, which indicates its strength and suitability for different areas.
2. Slip Resistance
- For wet areas like bathrooms and patios, choose tiles with a higher slip resistance rating.
3. Maintenance
- Select materials that suit your lifestyle; for example, natural stone requires more upkeep than porcelain.
4. Size and Scale
- Large tiles can make small spaces appear bigger, while smaller tiles work well for intricate designs.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Tile
- Test Samples: Always request samples to see how tiles look in your space under different lighting conditions.
- Think Long-Term: Choose timeless designs that won’t feel dated in a few years.
- Work with Professionals: Collaborating with an interior designer and a skilled installer ensures the best results.
Selecting tile for your home is a rewarding process that blends creativity with practicality. By working with an interior designer and understanding the unique qualities of different tile materials, you can create beautiful, functional spaces that reflect your style. Whether you’re choosing bold mosaics for a backsplash or durable porcelain for high-traffic areas, the right tile can elevate your home’s design while standing up to the demands of daily life.
So, dive into the world of tiles with confidence, and let your creativity shine through every room of your home! Kell Architects can make it happen for you. Send us an inquiry about your project and let’s discuss what opportunities there are for interior design in your project.