There are an almost infinite number of options to choose from when it comes to ceramic tiles — textures, patterns, colours, finishes — that make it is easy to feel lost. If there is a tile out there for every taste and budget, there is also one that is tailor-made for each room of the house!
Indeed, those who believe that all tiles are created equal will no doubt be surprised to learn that their characteristics and style can play a major role in the quality and practicality of the end result. Come see for yourself!
IN A SMALL ROOM
Did you know that depending on the size of a ceramic tile you choose you can make a room look larger (or smaller) than it really is? Is your entryway wide but shallow? Choose rectangular tiles and lay them lengthwise to draw the eye out and create the illusion of depth. Conversely, lay them widthwise to bring in a long corridor-style entrance. Here’s another tip: mix big tiles and small floors. For example, a tiny powder room with floor tiles so wide that they all partially hidden will look distorted. On the other hand, a wall will appear larger if it is covered in several oversized squares of porcelain tiles.
IN THE LIVING ROOM
If there is one room in the house in which tiles are not commonly used, it’s the living room. Yet it can be that little eye-catching je ne sais quoi it needs. For example, create a textured wall with tiles that imitate the look and feel of concrete or wood. Or make a statement by framing the couch with bold colourful tiles. Here’s a tip! Choose tiles with a matte finish for a relaxed atmosphere.
IN THE KITCHEN
Cooking is dirty work and despite all our best intentions, it is impossible to avoid splashes and spills … especially near the stovetop! A backsplash is therefore indispensable and must be easily washable. So, forget about matte finishes that will stain and absorb dirt. What’s particularly trendy right now are mosaic tiles made up of differently sized circular pieces. Very sophisticated!
IN THE BATHROOM
The most obvious room in the home in which you will find tiles is the bathroom as they are water-resistant. There is an endless array of patterns and colours to choose from. And everything goes: herringbone or subway, matte or glossy, coloured or black. Be daring and embrace the ombre trend! For example, cover the wall behind the freestanding bathtub in a series of tiles that start black at the floor and fade to the lightest grey when they reach the ceiling.
IN A CHILD’S BEDROOM
Porcelain tiles are impact and moisture resistant, which is perfect for a room in which little ones run around! In a bedroom or playroom, it is recommended that you use models that are easy to clean, such as glossy finishes, and that hide dirt thanks to patterns, textures or colour combinations. However, tiles should be avoided as a flooring material in these rooms because of their hardness (unless you also lay down area rugs).
IN A BORING ROOM, USE CERAMIC TILES
Tiles can also bring a dull or drab room back to life. Stores offer lots of bold colours and creative shapes as well as neutral-toned tiles that can add interest to a classical room thanks to their raised or embossed texture. Another way of energizing an otherwise soberly decorated room is to use different styles of tile all in the same tone, or, for example, to lay the same tile over the floor and wall, but on each surface use a slightly contrasting hue.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to the part tiles can play in interior decorating. And taking a gamble always pays off!