Patterned floor tiles and wall tiles are having an interiors moment and there’s no doubt in my mind that this trend looks set to stay. From intricately ornate mosaics to the inherent charm of natural stone, there seems to be a style for everyone. Patterned floor tiles and wall tiles can help you make an instant style statement and these could be perfect if you’re craving an Insta-worthy look in your home. But do you know how to choose the right ones? With so many colours, shapes, designs and sizes to choose from, it can be tricky to find the best tiles. You’ll also need to consider the material, because this can make them more suited to certain rooms, walls and floors in your home. So, follow my guide on how to make the right choices with the help of a leading tiles expert.
Material matters
Finding the best material type for your tiles will depend on where you plan to use them. If these are for your floor, you’ll need to consider their durability and slip-resistance so porcelain could be your preferred choice. If you’re looking for wall tiles, your options will be greater and some patterned floor tiles may also be suitable for walls for continuous design appeal and a contemporary aesthetic. Richard Skeoch at leading independent tiles specialist Hyperion Tiles joins me to go through some of your material options to help you make the right decision.
Porcelain patterned floor tiles & wall tiles
Porcelain tiles are made from dense natural clay, which has been fired at extremely high temperatures, and they are renowned for their outstanding durability. Richard explains: “These tiles are less porous than ceramic versions, for example, so they will absorb less water, which makes them suitable for rooms with fluctuating temperatures. Kitchens and bathrooms are ideal as are other areas with high footfall, such as living rooms. This material can also make a great choice underfoot and even outdoors – the right tiles could be perfect for a garden patio or front path.Porcelain patterned floor tiles and wall tiles are also easy to maintain. You won’t require any special sealing and they are simple to clean.”
Are there any downsides? You probably won’t be able to install these yourself. You’ll need a professional to do the honours because they are difficult to cut through. They can also be tricky to lay out due to their weight and density. The good news is you can find experienced flooring professionals to install them. So you can feel confident that they will do a good job.
Ceramic tiles
This form of tile is made using a heated kiln – the firing of the tile draws out moisture and these tend to be light-weight. Whether you choose porcelain or ceramic, you’ll find plenty of design options – some styles can also replicate the look of marble, wood and stone. Richard adds: “Ceramic versions can make fantastic wall tiles because they are softer and easier to cut. They tend to cost less than porcelain and will absorb more water than their porcelain counterparts. Ceramic patterned floor and wall tiles come in a variety of intricate patterns. However, they can be prone to cracking in extremely cold weather. So they may be less suited to patios or garden paths, for example.”
Glass tiles
This material can make a great choice because they are recyclable making them a sustainable solution for the home. You can find some of these tiles are made from recycled materials, too. Richard comments: “The beauty of glass is its ability to make a space feel larger and lighter. In the form of patterned floor and wall tiles, these can help to bounce light around a room. You’ll also find they’re easy to maintain as you can keep them clean with soapy water. Their non-absorbent properties make them a great choice for a room with high humidity, such as a bathroom.”
Natural stone patterned floor and wall tiles
If you love natural stone, you may feel nothing can compare to the real thing. And this material can make a great choice for patterned floor tiles and wall tiles because it’s incredibly dense and beautifully hardwearing. Natural stone also tends to age beautifully which gives it its innate charm and inherent beauty. From limestone to marble (one of my favourites!), you’ll find there’s plenty to choose from. Depending on the stone you choose, they will require some form of sealing. Marble, for example, is naturally porous and resealing with specialist products may be necessary from time to time.
Richard says natural stone tends to harness bespoke features, such as veining or shells, for a distinctive finish. He adds: “Every piece is unique so you can be guaranteed that each stone tile will be filled with character. It can also be used in a variety of settings, residential and commercial. Think floors, paving and even staircases. for example – natural stone will certainly stand the test of time.”
Encaustic tiles
Otherwise known as cement, you’ll discover there are a whole host of colours and patterns available. Mineral pigments are mixed and poured into a mould and they are cured at room temperature with a coloured layer on top. As a result, you’ll find a huge variety of colours and patterns available for your home. So, the patterned layer is inlaid into the body of the tile. Richard explains their benefits: “These tiles have a high thermal mass so they hold their temperature well. They are also highly versatile. So, you could install encaustic patterned floor tiles, which flow from indoors to outside living areas.”
Choosing the rooms for your patterned floor tiles and wall tiles
Kitchen cool
Patterned floor tiles and wall tiles can make a bold choice for the heart of your home. Choose whether to install them on the floor for instant impact and/or make a statement with a stylish splashback. If you’ve chosen plain kitchen cabinets, you can contrast these with a bold pattern underfoot. This will help to elevate the space, whether you’re looking for classic or contemporary appeal. You could also try co-ordinating the look with matching splashback wall tiles and patterned floor tiles.
“If you’re looking for a focal point in your kitchen, patterned floor tiles and wall tiles can instantly help you’ “explains Richard. He adds: “A busy pattern will make your flooring and walls stand out whereas a more subtle style could enable these aspects in your kitchen to blend in. If you’re looking for a cohesive design with depth, simply pick a central colour (your cabinets or perhaps the walls) with a few accent shades.”
Living room luxe
You could consider choosing patterned floor tiles. These could be more cost-effective than alternative methods and they will be a lot easier to clean and more hygienic than carpet, especially if you have pets. Wall tiles can also work well in this room. Cladding a chimney breast is a wonderful way in which to use pattern and implement style. This can create an accent or feature wall where the fireplace takes centre stage. Even tiling the hearth can add instant depth to your design and create a cost-effective finish in a living room. Richard says: “Patterned tiles can highlight key architectural areas and this is no exception in a living room. They will instantly draw the eye. You can also use them with an accent colour, which will tie in with the rest of your room decor. “
Patterned floor tiles and wall tiles in the bathroom
For maximum impact and creative flair in a bathroom or cloakroom, patterned tiles are perfect and there are plenty of ways in which to use them. Choosing one pattern to cover the floor or walls or even both will certainly pack a punch. Decide whether you’re looking for a seamless flow in this room or you could try pattern clashing for an ultra-contemporary, maximalist finish. A feature wall can look extra special if you pick the right pattern and I think mosaics will instantly add drama.
Richard adds: “In a bathroom or cloakroom, your patterned tiling options are almost endless. From tiling in a shower area to define that space to creating a dedicated splashback about your basin, the choice is yours. From a practical perspective, they are easy to clean and the right tiles will be slip and water-resistant.”
Bedroom bliss
Consider creating a headboard with patterned tiles or simply use them to create a statement wall in a bedroom. Richard adds: “Patterned floor tiles in a bedroom may be more common in warmer climes. However, our British summers are getting so much hotter, which means a tiled floor could be a welcome benefit underfoot. Make sure you install underfloor heating for the colder weather and you’ll be covering all bases.”
If, like me, you suffer from allergies, these will make a great alternative to carpets. Allergens can no longer get caught up in carpet fibres and your flooring will be super-easy to keep clean. If you feel the need for some softness under your toes, simply add an area rug. Choose the right size so it can fit snugly underneath and around your bed.
Garden goals
Outdoor tiles have to cope with a lot. From extreme temperatures to the sun’s harsh rays, you’ll want some which are durable, safe underfoot and long-lasting. Patterned floor tiles can really come into their own on a front path or patio. These will instantly add the wow factor to your outside space. In addition, they will make a more durable and long-lasting alternative to a patterned garden rug.
Look for tiles for your patio, which are UV-resistant or they will fade in the sun. Make sure the internal ones you choose are made for outside use, too. If not, you may find some internal tiles come with external options. Here, the tile will be denser than its counterpart to accommodate outdoor use. Some tiles will need sealing, such as encaustic which could stain easily. Also, consider your colours wisely – lighter tiles, for example, are more likely to show up all the dirt. Think about whether you want to create a seamless flow from indoors to outside – patterned kitchen tiles may lend themselves just as well to your outdoor space. Check this with your designer first.
AD: This is a joint collaboration between Richard Skeoch at Hyperion Tiles and Style & Decor. I would like to thank Richard for his expert advice and for taking part in my blog.
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