1. Horizontal Straight Stack

This contemporary layout features neat lines that draw the eye across the width of the wall or floor, making your room appear wider. The simple design can be created with any rectangle tile, including subway tile. Here, bands of Coco White matte and glossy tiles add a stylized touch to the bathroom wall; mixing finishes is an excellent way to elevate a simple layout.

2. Vertical Straight Stack

Just like the guards at Buckingham Palace, these “soldier stacks” stand firm and tall. Installing tile vertically creates the illusion of height in your space. Vertically stacked subway tile will make your space feel contemporary, while rectangular large-format tile makes your space feel both taller and more expansive.

“Horizontal and vertical straight stacks are my favorite tile patterns for bathrooms because they present a clean and fresh look. It’s important to have a polished design in your bathroom.” –Kirsty Froelich, The Tile Shop Director of Design

Pro Tip: Combine vertical and horizontal stacks for a stunning, custom design.

3. 1/2 Offset Brick Lay

There’s a reason why 1/2 offset is one of the most traditional layouts. The simple enhancement of offsetting stacked tiles by 50% is visually appealing and helps hide any imperfections in the installation. Use subway or rectangle tile to achieve a classic brick-lay look, or square tile for a chic offset design.

4. 1/3 Offset Brick Lay

The stair-step effect in this pattern is created by offsetting each tile by 1/3 of its length. We recommend using a 1/3 offset when designing with tile that is 8 x 16 in. or larger. Shop large-format tile to achieve this stylish design on your floors or walls.

5. Herringbone

Install large or small rectangle tile at a 45-degree angle to create a dynamic herringbone pattern. You can enhance the vertical and horizontal zigzag movements by incorporating different colors, finishes or a contrasting grout color.

6. Double Herringbone

A double herringbone is created by connecting two rectangle tiles. This layout is less common because it can be difficult to perfect. However, when executed correctly, as seen in this contemporary bathroom designed by Friedman General Contracting, the results are stunning!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to consider your grout color! A contrasting grout will accentuate your layout, while a grout that matches the tile results in a subtler design.

7. Chevron

Like herringbone, a chevron pattern creates a dynamic, zigzag design. However, this layout is created by connecting the angled ends of specially cut tiles, rather than installing rectangular tiles diagonally. The result is a fashionable V-shaped silhouette.

8. Grid

A tried-and-true design, this layout is created by simply arranging square tiles in a grid formation. It is ideal for patterned tile, especially when the pattern is enhanced by grouping four squares together, as it is on the Kelli Fontana Inlay Proper Florence Lace tile shown here.

9. Diagonal

Similar to the grid pattern, this layout consists of rows of square tile. However, as it is installed at a 45-degree angle, this pattern makes your floor or wall appear wider. We love how Timber Trails used this layout to add a contemporary twist to the classic checkerboard design. You can achieve a similar look using diamond-shaped tile.

10. Versailles

Named after the French Palace of Versailles, this classically elegant pattern consists of rectangles and squares of varying sizes. While the Versailles pattern is commonly used for floor designs, it’s also striking on walls.

11. Hex

The six-sided, honeycomb-shaped hex is a surprisingly versatile tile shape. Available in small mosaic formats and larger field tiles (up to 13 x 14 in.), all hexagon tile adheres to the same layout. However, the uniformity of similarly-sized hex tiles allows for custom patterns. Here, Beginning in the Middle created an elevated polka dot effect by adding Back Marquina hex to their Firenze Carrara hex design.

Ready for a room refresh? The Tile Shop is here to help! Explore tons of unique tile combinations in real spaces with our Tile Visualizer, or schedule a free design consultation with our tile experts to get a jumpstart on your next project.

The post Tile Patterns and Layouts appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Go Bold With a Geometric Pattern

Want to make your floor the focal point? A bold geometric pattern is sure to be a show-stopper. Tie it into other design elements in the room through color or pattern, or use white tile or paint on the walls to keep the floor the main feature. Whether you choose bold colors like the encaustic-look Artisan Tiare tile or a black-and-white design, the clean lines of a geometric tile will make your bathroom feel neat and orderly.

Embrace Ultimate Luxury With Marble

Nothing is more luxurious or unique than natural stone, and no stone exudes elegance quite like marble. Most of our marble collections include tile in a variety of sizes and shapes so you can match a square or rectangular tile with a mosaic to create distinction on the floors while still maintaining cohesion in your space. Designer Nikki Chu has done just that in this bathroom covered in floor to ceiling Ashford Cararra. We love how the smaller format hexagon floor tiles provide some relief from the large-format wall tiles. Read A Step Inside: Nikki Chu’s Neutral-Luxe Total Home Reno for more of her design philosophy and inspiring spaces.

Create a Coastal Chic Vibe

Want a bathroom that radiates beach vibes year-round? Our Summeland by Jeffery Alan Marks tiles, inspired by the California Shoreline, will infuse your bathroom with warm and inviting coastal charm.

Extend the Floor

Tile doesn’t need to stop where the floor ends. If you’re loving your floor tile, take it up the tub or shower wall. The Laura Ashley Sunflower tile on this tub wall is an unexpected detail that adds charm and character to this bathroom. View more spaces featuring tile inspired by the iconic British brand here.

Play With Scale Using Large-Format Tiles

Want to make a small bathroom appear bigger? Large-format tiles require fewer grout lines, making your floor feel more cohesive and your space more expansive. The 24 x 47 in. Aqua Blu tile used in this bathroom designed by Rashida Banks makes this bathroom feel luxuriously spacious.

Add Elegance With Marble-Look Tiles

If you like the look of marble but not the price point, porcelain marble-look tiles, like the Tresana Blanco used in this gorgeous bathroom designed by Brooke Pavel, are a durable and cost-effective alternative that’s sure to dazzle. We have a wide variety of marble-look tiles ranging from crisp white to black. Choose soft, subtle veining or go dramatic with thick, bold hues. Whatever style, marble-look tiles will add a touch of class and elegance to your floor.

Create Vintage Charm With Penny Rounds

Small and neat penny rounds are as classic as they are chic. We have a wide selection of penny rounds, mounted on a mesh backing for easy installation. Choose a pre-made pattern or create your own using the wealth of colors available. The delightful pattern below designed by Timber Trails was created using the Penny Round White Gloss and the Penny Round Cloudy tiles.

Keep it Simple With Black and White Patterns

If you want to infuse color in your walls, mirrors or fixtures, a simple black and white tile floor pattern will complement rather than detract from the rest of your room. The Cloth Black and White tile used in this bathroom designed by Zig & Co. adds to the whimsical character of the room while allowing the bright colors and fun butterfly-patterned wallpaper to shine.

Marvel With a Beautiful Mosaic

Mosaics don’t just make for gorgeously intricate floors, the small tile pieces also require more grout lines, which provides more traction on floors prone to wetness. Mosaic tile comes in a wide variety of shapes–from hexagons to basketweaves to petals and more–and comes on a mesh backing for easy installation. Choose a mosaic in a mix of colors, like the Modena tile in this shower designed by Nikki Chu, to add exciting detail to your floor.

Create a Classic & Classy Checkerboard

If you want to add character to your floors, a checkerboard pattern is a style that is simultaneously sophisticated and fun. The alternating tiles create a dynamic movement that will enliven your floors with energy and playfulness. Whether you use traditional black and white, a muted white and cream or a bold color paired with a pattern, checkerboard tile is a versatile classic that’s always in style.

Mix Colors and Patterns

Have a wallpaper you love for your bathroom? Pair it with a patterned floor tile. When you keep to the same color palette, you can play with patterns and not clash. A lot is going on in this bathroom designed by Zig and Co., but keeping everything in blue, green and white maintains an intentional design scheme.

Keep it Neutral

If bright and bold isn’t your style, don’t be afraid to embrace a neutral color palette. Beige doesn’t have to be boring–a fun shape and subtle pattern can add interest to a floor without becoming overwhelming. We love how the Blot Noon Hexagon tile creates a pattern that’s as appealing as it is calming.

Create a Natural Look With Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Want the natural look of wood in your bathroom, but are afraid it will be difficult to maintain in a room prone to wetness? Luxury vinyl flooring is an easy-to-maintain, 100% waterproof flooring option that will mimic the look of natural wood and stone. It is also easy to install, making it a great option for a DIY project. We have luxury vinyl flooring in a wide variety of wood and stone styles, so you can get exactly the look you want.

We hope one of our favorite trends for 2023 sparks an idea for your next project! If you end up using one of these ideas, or a great bathroom floor idea of your own, we hope you will share it with us by tagging us on Instagram–we love to see your tile creations!

You can find even more inspiration on 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.

The post 13 of Our Favorite Bathroom Floor Tile Ideas for 2023 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

What is Cement Tile?

1. Cement tiles are, of course, made of cement. Cement is similar to stone in that it has to be sealed, and it is very long lasting. Cement tiles are thicker than average and made by hand.
2. Cement-look tiles are made of ceramic or porcelain. These are a great lower cost option to achieve an authentic look that is still very durable.

Now that we cleared that up, let’s talk about how cement tiles are made.

How Are Cement Tiles Made?

Cement tiles are made from a combination of marble dust, pigment and cement. Similar to natural stone, each tile is made by hand and takes between three and five minutes to make. What sets cement apart from other types of tile is that the pigment is pressed into the surface in a patterned mold instead of just being a thin layer on top. This means the coloration penetrates the surface of the tile, so if it wears down over time, the color will still remain and the pattern will not be impacted. The video below is a great overview of this process.

Care and Installation Tips

Inspired to design a work of art with cement tile? There are a few quirks specific to cement tile installation that are important to know before you begin.

• Thickness: Cement tiles are thicker than average, so plan ahead! A threshold piece can be used to smoothly transition between cement tile and another flooring surface.
• Soaking: Cement tiles are absorbent and should be soaked in water before they are installed. This keeps the tiles from pulling moisture out of the mortar which would prevent it from curing properly.
• Sealing: It’s important to seal your clean and dry cement tiles after they’re installed to ensure they last.
• More information on installing cement tiles can be found here.

Historically Inspired Designs

Today, cement tiles take many forms and come in various materials. Due to their long and rich history, many designs seen today are based on those from the past. Explore some of our favorite historically inspired designs below.

The fresh, crisp colors below liven up this white kitchen.

The hand-painted look of the tile below adds to its authentic, old-world appeal.

Not ready to jump into all-over pattern? A backsplash highlighted with a frame is the perfect accent.

Modern farmhouse style is a popular look that benefits from the rustic appearance of cement tile.

We love a fun shower space! This accent wall from floor to ceiling livens up this spacious shower.

This tile design feels like it’s right out of an old European church. We love how Timber Trails Homes picked a shade of blue from the tile to paint the cabinetry, coordinating this mudroom from top to bottom. Sturdy porcelain is perfect for protecting the floor from laundry spills and tracked-in messes.

Think beyond the backsplash and shower. Cement tile takes this fireplace to another level and functions as a stunning focal point in this living room.

“A tiled fireplace is the perfect place to get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of style. A little pattern goes a long way!”—Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

Star is one of our most popular tiles and for good reason! It’s versatile enough to pair with rustic wood-look tiles as well as contemporary hexagons while maintaining vintage appeal.

Contemporary Designs

As manufacturing processes evolve, so do designs. Now, the selection of cement and cement-look tiles is even broader than ever and encompasses many contemporary designs. If bold colors and geometric designs are more your style, explore some of our picks below.

This tile is definitely not one you would have found in 18th century Europe, and that’s one of the things we love about it. This thoroughly contemporary tile incorporates a geometric design and bright, bold colors.

A soft, contemporary grey patterned floor tile is the perfect complement to this preppy and traditional space.

We’re fans of a bold look, and this one fits the bill. This dramatic cement tile with its green leaf pattern creates an unforgettable floor.

If you want to dip your toe into cement without using an all-over pattern, mixing solid-color cement tiles with patterned tiles is a great way to get the best of both worlds.

“A checkerboard, random design or tiled rug are all attractive mix-and-match options for solid and patterned tiles.”—Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

There’s something serene and calming about the ocean-blue hues of Blu Widow Hex.

Black-and-white tile is a design staple. Make it uniquely yours with this statement-making diamond pattern.

Combination

Do all cement-style tiles neatly fit into one of these two categories? Of course not! Some of the most interesting designs are a blend of old-world and contemporary styles, patterns and colors. Here are some of our favorites.

A black, white and grey color scheme updates a traditional design, blurring the lines between old world and contemporary.

A traditional design in unexpected colors lends a beautiful floral look to this bathroom.

There’s no shortage of interest in this arabesque tile. Soft traditional shapes combine with bold lines and hues to keep design lovers on their toes.

A historically inspired design plus on-trend wood look equal a stunning transitional style.

Explore more of our cement/cement-look and patterned tile now!

Ready to get started? Let our selection wow you in person—visit your local store today!

The post Style Guide: Cement & Cement-Look Tile appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

We hope to inspire you with some of our favorite customer-designed kitchen backsplashes below!

Patterned Play

Patterned, or “ooh, that’s fun!” tile is getting very popular for the added personality and style that it brings to a space. Take the tile all the way up to create the effect of wallpaper on a statement wall that goes beyond function.

In this fresh kitchen below, glossy subway tile covers the wall and textured patterns with copper accents stun. We are obsessed with the old-world-look Flow tiles that uniquely resemble tin (available in lots of colors, too!).

If you like to dabble in creativity and want to design a truly unique space, divvy up the various colors of mosaics for a one-of-a-kind tile pattern. Your guests will be in awe, and your space will reflect your unique personality (and creative skills!).

Subway Style

Who can argue against a classic subway tile with dark grout to really make it pop? This timeless look still shines and is especially breathtaking with floating shelves on display.

Opt for an artisanal subway tile if you’re looking for a glossy glow that styles well with a modern farmhouse look. Don’t forget the dog!

While we love a classic white subway tile, we adore a pop of color with these rectangular fan favorites! This bouncy blue is a relaxing, yet lively, hue that adds interest to the otherwise white space. For a modern addition, consider an accent with metallic penny rounds that peek out and customize this backsplash.

Modern Mosaic

Mosaic tile, a tiny collection of beautiful tiles, are a go to when it comes to tiling this typically smaller space. Bring a burst of personality into your space with these unique tile options, from penny rounds to hexagons, in an array of colors.

“These itty bitty pennies brought in a subtly glamorous, glossy grandeur to the space—a little razzle dazzle, if you will.”—Jessica Brigham

We love how large this kitchen looks with the expansion of penny round tiles up to the top of the wall. The continuity and sleekness of the white mosaic and coordinating grout makes this kitchen light and bright while infusing texture.

“Fact: installing tile from countertop to ceiling was the best choice I ever made.”—Jessica Brigham

Looking for a perfect example of a small backsplash that adds significant glamour? Look no further. The Victoria Grey Harlow chevron mosaic adds dimension with color variation and overall brings a gloss and shine to this small space while ultimately keeping the walls clean and covered.

Check out the way this wall sparkles! A modern grey mosaic with shape and texture will instantly amplify any kitchen space.

This cool and calm space is simply breathtaking. The Glass Snow Napier mosaic is a combination of glossy and frosty finish, invoking modern style in this crisp, contemporary kitchen.

Did you know that The Tile Shop offers the largest selection of tiles in the U.S.? Let us help you bring your tile backsplash ideas to life and bring personality to the kitchen. Schedule a free design consultation to learn more about customizing your space. Want fresh inspiration every day? Don’t forget to follow @thetileshop on Instagram!

The post Customer Favorites: 10 Backsplashes We Love appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Featured: Tanagram Branco 3-D

Designs and trends are constantly evolving, allowing for the ultimate expression of creativity and imagination. One trend we’ve seen pushing the boundaries of ingenuity, artistry and self-expression is geometric tile. We’re going to highlight our favorite geometric tiles and how to use them to their full potential.

“Geometric shapes hold an energy pattern, and scientists did some experiments which say certain geometric shapes can affect matter around them. It’s simply because when a human looks at a shape, they instantly receive energy from their brain.” – Tom DeLonge, musical artist

The extravagant movement, iconic shapes and energetic patterns of geometric tile allow you to make a statement in any space. These tiles aren’t just an addition to a design – they ARE the design. Geometric shapes include squares, rectangles, triangles, polygons, hexagons, diamonds, pyramids and more. With so many different variations and shapes in geometric tile, the possibilities are endless!

Featured: Estrela Jeans Matte 

Featured: White Hex, Black Hex, and Hex Matte White with Black Flower

Categorizing Geometric Tiles

Geometric Patterned Tile 

Stunning designs can be printed on tile to add an artistic flash to any space. Glamorous patterns have universal use. You can either cover a wall to make a bold statement or display a small statement as a piece of art.

Featured: Outline White Gold AC 

Some printed patterns are made to complement modern spaces while others are created to wow viewers. The geometric tiles above define a wall with an elegant yet subtle diamond pattern. In contrast, the bold and bright pattern on the image below almost demands (and deserves) attention.

Featured: Artisan Tiare

Patterned tile can bring a very artistic and contemporary look into your home. The tile below creates a 3-D effect by using two different colored triangles and rhombuses to create a geometric structure.

Featured: Rowallan Encaustic Square Pattern

Geometric Shaped Tile

While most tile like subway or square tile only has four sides, geometric shaped tile brings tile design to a whole new level. Shapes like hexagons, diamonds and rhombuses stand out compared to standard rectangular formats. Geometric shapes can be either 2-D or 3-D. The front cover of our 2018 design book contains a very fresh, modern 3-D pattern. Yara Metal Silver Hex ceramic wall tile is unique because not only is the shape a hexagon, but the tile contains several different 3-D triangles for extra texture and augmentation.

Featured: Yara Metal Silver Hex

Geometric Mosaics

Mosaics are small pieces of tile that are intricately placed together on a mesh sheet to create stunning patterns—that’s what makes these mosaics so unique. Not all mosaic designs are the same. Check out the lavish, Nova Hex Graphite mosaics in the image below. The mosaic pattern is created by repeating stretched hexagons to add glamour and dimension.

Featured: Skyline Marquina Mosaic

The pattern on this next image shows a mosaic from the Legno Limestone collection. This design presents a stylish look with its wood-like texture and variety of shapes.

Featured: Legno Geometric

Ways to Use Geometric Tile

The Center of Attention 

When people want to make a bold statement, they might use a big collection of art, flashy furniture or even a bright-colored tile or wallpaper. While those are all great options, geometrically patterned tile is your key to making a show-stopping space. Cover your floor or wall with tile to make a bold, eye-catching presentation.

Featured: Star Olive/Grey Encaustic

Subtle Accent Displays

Don’t let the boldness of geometric tile intimidate you. Many people turn away from geometric patterned tile and layouts because they think it might be overwhelming. But patterns can be displayed as an accent piece if you aren’t committed to the full effect. Kirsty Froelich, The Tile Shop design manager, loves adding small statement displays to rooms because it adds a dash of emotion and color.

“You don’t need to be scared of using geometric tile and patterns. They are a great opportunity to add something exciting that won’t overpower the features in a space. – Kirsty Froelich

Featured: Alato Beachwalk Chevron Glass Mosaic

Display a geometric accent piece in your shower or on the side of a bathtub or island countertop. “Accents give you a chance to add unexpected artistry,” Froelich said. As seen above, these geometric displays are ideal for people who only want a subtle but stunning statement.

A Lively Greeting

Incorporating geometrically patterned tile is wonderful in an entryway. Fun and spirited patterns give guests an immediate welcoming impression. West Bay Homes perfectly completes a modern farmhouse design with the vintage, symmetric Star series.

Image from West Bay Homes. Featured: Star

Modern Elegance

Solid-white tile is a great choice for creating a clean, modern presence. The White Hex tiles below create a chic, fresh feeling without an overbearing display.

Featured: White Hex

Create Your Own Masterpiece

A current trend is to create your own geometric designs and shapes with tile. This trend attracts the bold and brave designers. Every concept you explore is a statement and your very own work of art. The Connect series in the image below was made to mesmerize. The small triangular pieces allow you to create extravagant designs for a modern twist. This method of using geometric tile guarantees originality and personalized taste and vision.

Featured: Connect Tri 

“Styling with geometric shaped tiles gives you more flexibility and freedom to make whatever you want.” – Luke Crownover, Tile Shop product manager

Whether a bold, patchwork arrangement of patterned tiles, an elegant kitchen backsplash or a simple display of white hexagons, geometric tile will always be the ultimate tool to express yourself. Inspired by what you see? Schedule a design consultation to achieve your next vision with geometric tile.

Source of Tom DeLonge quote: Spin Magazine

The post Self-Expression Through Geometric Tile appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.