The post 20 Space-Maximizing Small Bathroom Tile Ideas for 2025 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>1. Create an Expansive Look with Large-Format Tile
Large-format tile requires fewer grout lines, which makes a small space feel more cohesive. Featured on the floor and half-wall of this bathroom, the Livingstone Melange tile creates the illusion of an expansive space by maintaining an almost continuous design. Shop our wide assortment of large-format tile for more big ideas.
2. Play Around With a Bold Pattern
A powder bathroom is generally smaller, less frequently used and more guest-facing than your primary bathroom, making it the perfect space to experiment with bold colors and patterns. Here, the Nikki Chu Zulu Graphite tile adds a playful element to this small bathroom, while the modern sink vanity and fixtures maintain an elevated design. Explore our wide assortment of patterned tile to find the style that expresses your unique personality.
3. Mix Looks for Added Interest
Want to make your small space feel invigorating? Mixing tile styles or materials gives your eye more to focus on, providing a stimulating start to your day. This cool, contemporary bathroom demonstrates how to layer looks without feeling too busy. Though there are five separate tiles (not including trim), there are only three colors: blue, taupe and white. The use of white grout in the grid-stacked Look Avio subway tile creates a visual throughline to the white wall and shower floor tiles and the white geometric lines featured on the Ragno Taupe Matte floor tile.
4. Small Bathroom Ideas on a Budget
You don’t need to spend a lot for a major room refresh. Achieve big-impact style on a small budget with The Tile Shop’s newly expanded collection of tiles under $7. Handmade-look, wood-look, large-format and more–you’ll be surprised at the wealth of design possibilities available for any price range. This fashionable bath, designed by @homewithhay, features the Cool Blue wall tile. Priced at just $6.99/sq.ft., this handmade-look tile is both on trend and within budget.
5. Visually Elongate Your Space with Diagonal Picket Tile
Inherently dynamic and energetic, diagonal lines create the illusion of a wider room. When installed diagonally, picket tile disrupts the symmetry of your space–perfect for adding interest to a minimalist design. We love how this bathroom wall maintains subtlety by pairing the Lanse Matte Black Picket tile with black grout.
6. Create a Space that Connects You With Nature
If stepping outside gives you a mood boost, bring that serotonin-inducing scenery indoors with nature-inspired colors, materials and designs. Even if your bathroom isn’t large enough for live plants, incorporating a botanical pattern–like the Morris & Co. Hawkdale Willow Olive tile–can offer some of the same benefits as actual greenery. For more ideas on bringing the beauty of the outdoors into your home, check out this guide to biophilic design.
7. Keep Your Space Versatile with White Subway
Effortlessly chic and timeless, white subway tile is the white tee of interior design–it goes with everything! You can dress up this classic by pairing it with a mosaic or patterned tile, just like @alexandria.by.design did in this space featuring the Asteri floor tile. The simple black-and-white color scheme makes the space easy to update as styles and tastes change. Simply swapping out the shower curtain can completely alter the bathroom’s aesthetic.
8. Create a Wallpaper Effect with an Ornate Pattern
A confined space makes your walls more susceptible to moisture and inevitable bathroom messes. A beautiful (and easy-to-clean!) patterned tile will protect your space from floor to ceiling while providing a stylish wallpaper look. An ornate design, like the Cheverny Blanc tile featured here, achieves delicate artistry with superior durability.
9. Visually Soften Your Space With Curved Tile
Tile is an inherently hard material, and the straight edges and sharp corners of squares and rectangles can feel rigid. A curved shape–like a penny round tile or the Wave Grey Owl tile shown here–creates the illusion of softness by offering your eye smooth, pillowy lines to focus on. This can make your small space feel cozy and comfortable.
10. Small Bathroom Floor Tile Ideas
If you’re getting maximum usage from your small bathroom, you want a floor tile that’s durable, easy to maintain, and still makes your space feel luxurious. Ultra-luxe and super robust, marble-look porcelain or ceramic tile is the perfect blend of style and strength. With a wide range of bold to delicate-veined looks to choose from, our ever-expanding selection of marble-look tile offers something for everyone.
11. Tile Your Floor In Black & White
Simple and stylish, black-and-white tile pairs well with virtually any design. Whether you choose an elegant marble mosaic or a geometric pattern, this classic color scheme is a great foundation for both a fancy and fun-loving space. This gorgeous powder room, designed by @andreak_covelladesigns, features the Marble Star porcelain floor tile. The intricate design and textured stone appearance add interest without detracting from the beautiful floral wallpaper, antique cabinetry and Victorian painting.
12. Create a Winning Design
Checkerboard is a timeless trend that doesn’t require a lot of space to make a big impression. Virtually any two similarly sized square tiles (or halved rectangular tiles) can create a design checkmate. We love this elevated version, designed by @MaryLauren, featuring the Arctic White and Bandung Gris Acid marble tiles.
13. Small Bathroom Shower Tile Ideas
Add needed storage and style with a shower niche. Because niches take up such a small amount of real estate, they’re a great place to experiment with a tile–like a bold pattern or mosaic–that might overwhelm the rest of the room. You can also coordinate your niche with a backsplash or accent wall to enhance the design of your space.
14. Tile the Tub
In a small space, it’s even more important for your design to feel cohesive. Using tile to visually align your tub apron with the floor and/or wall will help hide its bulk. This space, designed by A Glass of Bovino, creates unity by featuring the Firenze Calacatta marble on the shower wall and tub.
15. Tile the Ceiling
Another great bathroom tile idea for small showers: if you’re dealing with a low shower ceiling, consider extending the tile to cover overhead. The Splendor Blanco tile used throughout this shower, designed by Coco & Jack, makes the small space feel larger, and the vertical stack provides the illusion of height.
16. Create a Custom Design
A small space is a great place to showcase your design skills. This boho-chic bathroom, designed by I SPY DIY, demonstrates how a little creativity can go a long way in crafting a space that feels uniquely you. The Villa Warm White and Warm Grey subway tiles are arranged in a custom layout, perfectly complementing the space’s eclectic aesthetic. Get your creative juices flowing with more globally inspired ideas in this guide to boho-chic design.
17. Drench Your Space In Marble
This guest bathroom, designed by Nikki Chu, proves that your space doesn’t need to be large to be luxurious. We love how she went all-in with floor-to-ceiling Ashford Carrara. Since the space is limited, this opulent look is achievable on a less-than-extravagant budget. Explore marble tile to find elegant natural stone collections, featuring coordinating field tiles, mosaics and trim pieces.
18. Go for a Vintage Vibe
If your bathroom is left over from the last century, embrace its vintage charm! This bathroom, designed by Yellow Brick Home, maintains the classic pink sink and chrome fixtures but updates the tile with period-appropriate white subway tile and black pencil trim. The Hampton Niles marble mosaic floor tile features a black-and-white basketweave–a slightly modern twist on a classic design.
19. Make a Statement Wall
When working with a small space, it can be helpful to focus attention on one wall. Designer Kelli Fontana subverts expectations by making the wall the reflective element in this stylish powder room. The clever use of the Antique Mirror Bevel tile allows the window to become the focal point, while still providing the opportunity for a quick lipstick check.
20. Go All Out With a Mosaic Tile
An intricate mosaic tile creates a sense of flow and rhythm, making your space feel larger. A marble mosaic, like the Alison Victoria Elia Polished tile shown here, features distinct variations in veining and color from piece to piece, offering lush appeal and lively visual texture. Shop our wide selection of mosaic tile in a variety of styles and materials to achieve this stunning look.
Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of bathroom tile for a wealth of popular styles, or explore even more bathroom tile ideas. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.
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]]>The post 9 Elegantly Crafted Handmade & Handmade-Look Tiles appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>Zellige Tile
What is Zellige tile? Crafted in Morocco, each of these tiles is shaped and glazed by hand resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind look. These tiles come in a variety of colors and shapes, including the popular star and cross shapes, bringing old-world charm to contemporary design.
Zellige Gloss
Available in alabaster, black, dark grey, light grey and white, each of these 4″ x 4″ square tiles is handcrafted creating naturally uneven lines and variances in surface color. The effect on these walls is absolutely stunning! These handmade Moroccan tiles are great for creating an unexpected moment like this recessed shelf or to liven up a kitchen backsplash (below). These tiles are also available in 2″ x 6″ rectangles and 2″ x 2″ square mosaic.
Zellige Charcoal Chabone Cross and Star
This classic Zellige pattern will transform your space with old-world sophistication. Install the cross and stars in contrasting finishes for a unique, but subtle pattern, as shown here with gloss crosses and matte stars.
Handmade-Look
Do you like the look of handmade tiles, but want a little more continuity? Get the unique character of handmade tiles with less variance in color and size (and a lower price-point) with handmade-look tiles.
Riad
These 4″ x 4″ square tiles–available in white, sand and grey–mimic the square Zellige tiles, with uneven edges and variation in color and surface texture, but the differences are not quite as pronounced as in the true handmade tiles. If you like your lines a little more straight and your color a little more uniform, you can’t go wrong with the Riad tile. We love how Rachael Jackson used the Riad White and Grey to create a stunning checkerboard pattern in her kitchen remodel.
Splendours
The Splendours takes subway tile up a notch with perfectly imperfect character. This tile comes in a variety of colors (as well as the traditional white) to suit your style. For an added twist on a classic subway, try the elongated-hex-shaped picket tile.
Marrakesh
The Marrakesh tiles will add a wonderful sense of movement to your walls. Available in white, blue and green, the natural color variation in the tiles makes for beautiful kitchen backsplashes (as evidenced below) but we also love how ISPYDIY created a checkerboard pattern for their shower wall.
Look
Available in dark blues, green and white, the Look elongated handmade-look subway tile comes in bold colors with an artisanal appearance that will add texture and charm to your space. We love how the variations in color add character to this kitchen island.
Track Stack
The slight shade variation in the Track Stack mosaic tiles creates an artisanal look even as the long thin tiles align with beautiful symmetry. If you’re loving this look, check out the Track Stack Navy Blue tiles.
Annie Selke Artisanal
The Annie Selke Artisanal Blue tile shown used in this shower features slightly uneven surfaces for a handcrafted look and unique charm. The slight imperfections add character, but this tile is still even enough to create almost straight lines.
Argile
Embrace quiet luxury with the Argile matte subway tile. The slight variations in tone and texture create a handcrafted look that pairs well with the soft, marble-look Livingstone Melange tile.
You can find even more inspiration on Instagram and our Customer Room Gallery where our tiles are used in a variety of real spaces! Or, if you’re looking for some guidance on an upcoming project, set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.
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]]>Porcelain and Ceramic
Porcelain and ceramic tile have excellent heat transfer properties and are generally thin, which will make your floor heat faster. Porcelain tile is less porous than ceramic, making it more water resistant. For areas prone to wetness, such as bathrooms, entryways and mudrooms, porcelain tile is a perfect choice.
Natural Stone
Natural stone, like travertine and marble, is a great option for a heated tile floor. Natural stone tiles tend to be slightly thicker than porcelain and ceramic, so it might take them longer to heat up. The upside is, that they will retain the heat longer than man-made tiles.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl tile works well with in-floor heat, and it’s easy to install, making this the perfect choice for a DIY project. If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to wood or stone, luxury vinyl tile is a great option.
Have a question about installing an in-floor heating system? We’ve put together some in-floor heat FAQs and a comprehensive guide to in-floor heating systems.
Ready to get your feet toasty with in-floor heat? Set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.
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]]>Handmade & Handmade-Look
Look
Look Avio Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Look Bianco Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Look Blu Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Look Oliva Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Tribeca
Tribeca Basalt Porcelain Wall Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Tribeca Grey Whisper Porcelain Wall Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Tribeca Gypsum White Porcelain Wall Tile – 2 x 10 in.
Tribeca Basalt Porcelain Trim Tile
Tribeca Grey Whisper Porcelain Trim Tile
Tribeca Gypsum White Porcelain Trim Tile
Jerica
Jerica Bianco Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.
Jerica Ceniza Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.
Jerica Marron Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.
Jerica Mix Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.
Pattern
Morris & Co.
Morris & Co. Pure Net Cloud Grey Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.
Morris & Co. Pure Net Linen Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.
Morris & Co. Pure Net Black Ink Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.
Laura Ashley
Annie Selke Flora
Annie Selke Flora Barely Blue Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 18 x 18 in.
Annie Selke Flora Coconut Milk Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 18 x 18 in.
Annie Selke Flora Vapor Blue Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 18 x 18 in.
Mosaics
Collodi
Hex Matte Collodi Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 1 in.
Miscellaneous Mosaics
Legno Athens Stone and Glass Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile
Livingston Arabescato Basketweave Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 12 x 12 in.
Energy Hex White Porcelain Mosaic Wall Tile – 1.5 in.
Blue Twilight Brick Glass Mosaic Tile – 1 x 2 in.
Penny Round Cloudy Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile
Mozart Crackle Porcelain Mosaic Wall Tile
Palermo Bianco Stone Hex Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 3 in.
Zellige Light Grey Gloss Ceramic Mosaic Floor and Wall Tile
Sampson Mosaic Marble Wall and Floor Tile
Wood & Stone-Look
Crossline White Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 6 x 23 in.
Sandstone Dark Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 6 x 23 in.
Sandstone Grey Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 6 x 23 in.
Marble
Find even more inspiration in our Customer Room Gallery or on our Instagram! If you’re ready for your next project, check out our free design services to welcome these stunning tile designs into your home. Shop the featured products online or in-store today.
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]]>The post 6 Major Design Trends for 2022 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>Warm Neutrals
One of the most prominent overall themes we’re seeing in 2022 is the embrace of soft, comforting elements–and color is no exception! While bright whites and cool-toned greys are tried-and-true options, there’s been a definite shift towards warmer, richer color palettes recently. Creamy whites, taupes, beiges, and browns are quickly becoming the new go-to hues for the cozy, inviting atmosphere they instantly lend to any space.
Nature-Inspired
With many of us spending increased time at home, it has become more important than ever to bring elements of the outdoors in. Intricate floral patterns like those displayed in our Morris & Co Pure Net tiles give a nod to the charm of the English countryside, while options from our Laura Ashley and Annie Selke collections feature a variety of grounded, earthy tones and beautiful botanicals. Create an oasis-like bathroom with soft blues and muted greys that evoke the calming sense of the ocean, or achieve an invigorating atmosphere with bold greens and leafy prints that speak to the lush essence of a tropical rainforest.
Dive into the trend of coastal-inspired blues and greens for even more ideas!
Artisanal Handmade-Look
One of our favorite recent trends that is only growing more popular in 2022, handmade-look tile brings an effortlessly whimsical feel to any design with its unique artisanal style. Beautifully imitating the nuances found in tile that’s authentically crafted by hand, such as uneven surface texture and color variation, this style creates one-of-a-kind dimension and interest while maintaining a softer overall appearance.
Learn more about the special characteristics of handmade-look tile, and see some of our favorite spaces featuring it, here.
Sculptural
If you’re looking for an easy way to create a striking focal point, sculptural tile is your answer! While it’s true that sculptural/3D tile has been around for a number of years, it’s certainly having a moment in 2022 as designers and DIY-ers are embracing texture and utilizing tile as a true artistic element like never before. With styles ranging from bold geometric patterns to gentle flowing waves, you’re sure to find the perfect option to achieve that wow-factor.
We have a more in-depth breakdown of the sculptural tile trend here, where you can also see it used in a range of unique spaces.
Organic Shapes
Continuing the theme of soft and comforting elements is the use of more organic shapes. Whether it’s through tile installations, structural designs, fixtures or decor pieces, you’re sure to see more curved lines, rounded shapes and arched details this year. In contrast to ultra-modern design that offers a sense of order and structure with crisp lines and rigid elements, organic shapes tend to feel approachable and harmonious by representing a more natural state, instantly easing the atmosphere in any room.
Keep an eye on our new arrivals as we have a number of gorgeous tiles coming (very!) soon that fit this trend perfectly.
Custom Patterns
As more and more people are reinventing their style and taking creative risks–which we love to see–the final trend we’re highlighting for 2022 is custom tile patterns. The sky truly is the limit when it comes to the one-of-a-kind designs you can achieve – all you need is a little creativity!
If you’re looking for help getting started, we’ve got an entire blog post dedicated to our favorite custom tile patterns that’ll be sure to spark some inspiration.
That’s a wrap on these six major trends for 2022! We hope you’re feeling inspired and energized to try something new in your next design. If the last few years taught us anything, however, it’s the importance of having a home that brings you joy, comfort, and inspiration. So keep in mind that the ultimate design trend is creating a space that reflects you. Cheers to more beautiful, meaningful spaces in 2022!
You can find even more inspiration on Instagram and our Customer Room Gallery where our tiles are used in a variety of real spaces! Or, if you’re looking for some guidance on an upcoming project, set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.
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]]>The post 2020 Tile Trend: 3D Sculptural appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>Lots of 3D tiles incorporate geometric designs. By mixing and matching the different faces of the Tangram series, you can create an entirely unique patchwork look.
Sweeping movements make for a soft, serene landscape, perfect for relaxing in the bath after a long day.
Flora and fauna-inspired motifs bring a natural quality to 3D tiles. We love how this leaf design comes to dramatic life on a black accent wall.
A straight-stack pattern modernizes this matte sculptural tile.
A marble look brings a wink of tradition to this otherwise of-the-moment 3D subway tile.
Ready for a bold statement?! Just add color! Blue is a serene color that is well-loved in home design.
If you’re looking for a subtle way to add interest to your space, opt for a beautiful-yet-simple 3D tile, like the Charm Diamond.
The neutral hues of the Akros Elis Iris create a distinctive, one-of-a-kind shower while still creating that calming, at-home spa experience.
Get the look of an intricate mosaic with fewer grout lines when you utilize a large-format tile like this one.
Complete a bold sculptural look with coordinating trims, accents and finishing pieces. Learn how to layer your look with trim pieces and profiles here.
What do you get when you combine geometric, metallic and sculptural effects into one tile? A stunning statement wall that’s sure to wow.
Is there any tile more perfect for an eye-catching cocktail bar?
A natural stone mosaic blurs the lines between traditional and contemporary.
Ready to find a 3D tile that speaks to you? Schedule a design consultation today!
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]]>The post 16 Tiled Laundry Rooms We Love appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>Even with dark cabinets and floors, the natural light and a whimsical wallpaper brighten the mood in this room.
If you’re all about a light-and-airy color scheme, look no further! Charming wood accents bring a soft, earthy feel to the space.
Who wouldn’t want to look at a colorful, pretty floral pattern while sorting darks and lights? (If floral tile is more your style, check out our post on the topic!)
We’re sensing a floral theme. And it makes perfect sense. What better way to add a sense of openness and light than channeling the bounties of the outdoors?
A rainbow of colors, florals and bright, crips white—this laundry room checks all the boxes. Check out more transformations like this one from the spring 2019 One Room Challenge™ .
This more monochromatic color scheme still manages to brim with life and joy due to greenery and a lively mosaic. If you like how these trim pieces flatter the mosaic, learn more about layering on our blog post.
Bold patterns, ample storage and smart design. It’s fair to say we’re experiencing laundry room envy.
A different twist on laundry room design, this space uses rich earth tones and molded cabinetry to define a traditional space.
We love the mix of shapes and patterns in this space! A black-and-white color scheme balances the statement wallpaper effortlessly.
A transitional laundry room is perfect for incorporating contemporary touches with more traditional elements.
Patterned and encaustic tiles add modern farmhouse flair to room.
This space proves once again that black and white are always a classic color combo.
A softly patterned floor is the perfect complement to bold cabinets and fixtures.
Not a fan of wallpaper? Take the bold patterns onto the floor instead!
Rustic style meets modern amenities in this cozy farmhouse laundry room.
With vintage touches like these, we’re not sure we’re seeing a laundry room or an antique store.
Inspired to do some laundry? OK, that’s a stretch. Inspired to design a better laundry room? That’s better. Schedule your one-on-one design consultation today.
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]]>The post Guide to Tile Finishes appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>Types of finishes
Finishes, or different effects on the surface of a tile that alter its appearance, are generally divided into ceramic, porcelain and other man-made tiles vs. stone categories because of the different ways the materials can be treated. First, we’ll explore the processes that define stone finishes and then look at man-made tiles.
Stone
Stone tile with a polished finish has been passed under a series of polishing wheels with increasingly finer pads using water and polishing compound to assist in the process. This results in a smooth and shiny tile, perfect for adding a touch of luxury and glamour to formal and traditional spaces. Marble is a one type of stone that is often polished.
Satin finishes are produced through the same process as polished but using fewer polishing wheels. This lends a softer and less shiny appearance to the tile, the perfect balance between polished and honed.
Honed tiles go through the same process as polished and satin but with even fewer wheels that result in a smooth matte finish. This is the most casual finish of the three, reflecting very little light and contemporizing a design.
For a brushed finish, stone is run under wheels with metal bristles to achieve an orange peel-like finish. Benefits of a brushed tile are that its texture provides softness, it handles wear and tear and has a relaxed character.
To obtain a tumbled finish, tiles are put into large drums filled with aggregate and shaken. The aggregate wears down the surface of the stone, giving it a rough surface and more rounded edges. Tumbled stones offer increased traction, hide imperfections and flawlessly coordinate with rustic décor.
We’re going au naturel with this one. With natural finish stone tile, what you see is what you get. Nothing is done to the surface of these tiles, and, besides being cut to size, they’re just like they looked when they were quarried. Natural tiles give an authentic and outdoorsy look to your space. Slate is a common example of a natural finish stone.
Filled and unfilled are not exactly finishes, but they alter the surface of a tile so they’re worth mentioning and defining here. Filled stone has its natural crevices and holes filled with an epoxy resin mixed with stone dust in a color that closely resembles the stone’s natural color. This makes the tile easier to clean and install. Unfilled stone is left in its natural state, voids and all. This allows you to choose to fill it with the grout color of your choice or leave it in its rustic, raw state for a unique look.
Here, you can see the difference in appearance of an unfilled travertine compared to a filled travertine. Bucak Silver Honed Unfilled Travertine, on the left, has visible holes and crevices on its surface, whereas Bucak Light Walnut Honed Filled Travertine, on the right, has a lighter colored compound filling in these areas.
Ceramic and Porcelain
Polished tiles are double fired, first with the desired pattern or color and then with a clear coat. Afterwards, they go through the same polishing process as stone, passing under polishing wheels with water and polishing compound. Lastly, the tiles are sealed to retain their appearance. Stone-look porcelain or ceramic tiles are often in polished finishes to mimic the look of natural stone.
A glossy finish is different from polished in that it is created with a glossy glaze instead of a polishing wheel process. Depending on the texture of the tile, gloss glazes can pool in areas, creating thicker and thinner areas of glaze and variations in coloring.
Matte tiles are covered in a non-shiny glaze that is applied with an ink jet machine or in a waterfall stream glazing method. This process yields tiles with a flat finish that do not reflect light and offer a contemporary look.
Multifired tiles are one of the most exciting technological advancements in the industry in recent years. They’re so interesting, we devoted a whole blog post to them! These are tiles that go through more than two firings in a kiln, usually to give them 3-D texture, metallic finish or another interesting effect that is not possible with just one or two firings.
An anti-slip surface is perfect for tiling in wet areas like bathrooms, entryways or mudrooms. They’re also great if aging in place is a consideration in your home. A fine grit or sand is added to a matte glaze to create a rough, gripping texture on the tile.
Textured tile is made by pressing materials into a mold that give a textured effect, such as that of natural stone or wood. Then it’s glazed and fired to achieve the desired look. The below tile is actually a porcelain that has been textured to look like a tumbled stone.
Congratulations! You’ve just completed a crash course in natural stone and man-made tile finishes. If your head is spinning, don’t worry. Our tile experts are waiting in your local store to help you design your next project and choose your perfect tile. Schedule a design consultation or stop in today.
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]]>The post Maximalism: More is More appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.
]]>White walls, minimal decor, subtle colors—you won’t find any of these in a maximalist space! Some people say that less is more, but maximalists believe the opposite. More color, more texture, and more boldness define this style. Simplistic, neutral design has reigned for years, and, inevitably, some people are ready for a change. Say hello to maximalism.
Contrary to what you might think, maximalism is more than just having a lot of stuff. Some of the hallmarks of maximalist design are:
- Patterns and prints
- Bold colors
- Ornateness
- Layering
- Lots of textures
- Artwork (especially different styles and mismatched frames!)
- Mixing design styles, like boho (it shares a common theme of excess), English, vintage, mid-century modern, Victorian and art deco
- Books, books and more books
The style is an updated twist on classically exuberant English interiors updated for the 21st century with bright colors, contemporary patterns and modern accents. The legendary club Annabel’s in London perfectly embodies this blend of classic Britishness and modern maximalism.
So, what do we love about maximalism? It allows you to express every side of your personality at once. If you’ve ever felt torn between styles or couldn’t define yours in one word, maximalism may be for you. (Indecisive friends, unite!) This design style allows you the freedom to fill your home with items that you love, instead of worrying about fitting them into a style box. Loving your decor is key—random items will not bring the same joy as a personalized, curated collection.
Enough talking about maximalism—let’s see some of our favorite looks! As far as maximalist designs go, this one is pretty minimal! (Stay with us.) The bold, patterned tile and dramatic color scheme definitely fit the style, yet the symmetry of the space and overall glam theme reign in it.
This bathroom takes boho-chic to the next level with a bright geometric tiled floor and lots of fabulous decor pieces. Black accents throughout the room (can we talk about that chandelier?!) bring cohesion to the space without dulling it down. This gorgeous transformation took place in just six weeks as part of the Fall 2019 One Room Challenge™.
We couldn’t just share one photo of the home that sparked the idea for this blog post! House Beautiful’s 2019 Kitchen of the Year was a maximalist dream come true with no explanation needed. Read our spotlight on Michelle Nussbaumer’s amazing design for more photos of the space.
This kitchen is a good reminder that each surface is an opportunity to create a work of art.
A much different approach to maximalism, this bathroom establishes a blue-grey color palette and sticks to it while varying the tone and playing with patterns.
This bright and colorful bathroom proves that maximalism doesn’t have to be dark and dramatic.
Back to the drama, an art-inspired tile is perfect for creating an accent wall that makes a statement.
Multiple patterns work hand in hand when they pull from the same warm color palette in this beautiful bathroom that was also featured in the One Room Challenge.
Maximalist spaces don’t need to hit every hallmark on our list. Here, an oversized, bold pattern is enough to stand out.
Another One Room Challenge contender was this glamorous gold-and-black laundry room. The opulence just draws you in (which is good when you’re trying to force yourself to do the laundry!)
Here’s another case of a stand-alone maximalist tile. The vivacious purple veining in this Milas Lilac marble tile collection and the mix of shapes deliver dynamic style.
Dip your toe into maximalism by just choosing one extra-bold feature.
Drama, patterns, metallic finishes and more—as they say with maximalism, more is more.
Feeling inspired to paint your grey walls fuchsia yet? Whatever your design goals are, we’re here to help you achieve them. Schedule a design consultation with an in-store tile expert to get started. And don’t forget—sometimes more is more!
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