Customizing Your Space

We’re sharing our best practices for layering tile to show you how you can take your space to the next level. The look below incorporates a combination of trim pieces and mosaics to transform a simple picture frame into an exquisite focal point.

Since this bathroom uses the Firenze Carrara marble collection throughout, the untrained eye may see it as quite simple. Look carefully at the transitions, and see if you can identify how many trim pieces are actually used to accomplish this sophisticated design.

Incorporating different shapes and sizes from the same tile collection can carry this elevated look through to other areas of the room, such as the backsplash, half wall and shower (photo top left). By sourcing all of the pieces of a collection from the same stone quarry, each piece complements the others for stunning variation that isn’t overbearing. If you have a focal point, repeat the same design element in other areas, like a shower niche (photo top right).

Thoughtful Transitioning

It’s important to think about how each part of your space will work together to form a unified environment. Utilizing trim pieces between different materials, sizes, shapes and textures of tile can create the perfect transition.

Dimensional tile can create dramatic depth and texture, but it can also leave an uneven edge when paired with other selections (top left photo). Incorporating transitional trim pieces will offer a seamless solution from one style to the next. Similarly, they can be used on the floor to separate different areas within a space – the top right photo displays a subtle transition, while the photo below incorporates durable curb pieces for a more prominent separation from shower to floor.

For tiles that vary in size, double up somersets and run them vertically for the greatest impact.

Using transitions is also the perfect way to emphasize an accent tile in your design. In the photo below, layered trim pieces instantly elevate the Brushed Bronze with Glass Metal Mosaic backsplash, while coordinating beautifully with the surrounding ceramic subway tile.

Each trim piece has its own unique characteristics that make it perfect for specific uses.

Coordinating Finishes

Pictured below is an example of how trim and profile pieces can provide an opportunity to coordinate with fixtures. In cases where there’s no need for a transition or storage solution, metal profiles can be used in between tiles as a unique accent that can coordinate with other design elements, such as faucets or lighting.

Layering trim and profile pieces can make every tile design better by adding dimension and interest. It shows that the design has been thoughtfully curated and has the finishing touches that elevate the space from basic to beautiful.

When And Where To Layer Tile

4 Design Plans With Layered Tile

Need ideas for your next remodel? Here are a few examples of design plans that incorporate tile trim and profile pieces. Bring them into your local store or schedule a design consultation to discuss dimensions, quantity, styles and more.

Learn more about layering in our comprehensive guide to trim and accessories. Ready for the next step? Schedule a design consultation with a tile design expert today!

The post Guide To Layering Tile Trim And Profiles appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Annie Selke Flora

The botanical pattern on the Annie Selke Flora tile perfectly embodies a lush casualness. This pattern pairs well with a cream, tan or white tile like the Annie Selke Artisanal White.

Laura Ashley Wicker

The whimsical geometric flower design on the Laura Ashley Wicker tiles captures the leisurely fun of summer. The pale, slightly weathered colors appear as if they’ve been pleasantly sun-kissed, which will give your space warmth and character.

Azul

The glossy raised turquoise and white patterns on the Astron and Aura Azul tiles reflect the light like shimmers on the water, giving these tiles a gorgeous coastal feel that will bathe your room in seaside splendor.

Star Black

Create a charming starscape with the Star Black tile from Fired Earth Ceramics. This slightly rustic design, reminiscent of hand-painted folk art, will evoke the pleasure of summer stargazing year-round.

Morris & Co. Pure Net

The Morris & Co. Pure Net tiles are delicate and ornate, with soft, faded hues that will add charm to your room. Explore all three colorways and more of The Morris & Co. Collection, inspired by iconic wallpaper designs.

Gold Window Hex

The Gold Window Hex Encaustic tile captures the cheerfulness of a bright sunny sky. The deep blue and gold hues in this tile will saturate your space with the radiance of summer.

Summerland by Jeffrey Alan Marks

The Summerland Collection by Jeffrey Alan Marks exemplifies the California beach lifestyle. The captivating hexagon tile feature faded linen patterns inspired by Mark’s coastal chic aesthetic.

Annie Selke Tulip Mosaic

The elegant mother-of-pearl flowers in the Annie Selke Tulip Mosaic bring gorgeous detail to a shower or bathroom. See more Annie Selke tile in use in our tour of her Palm Springs Desert Oasis.

Decora Ornament Blue

The fresh, soft blues of the Decora Ornament Blue encaustic-look tile invoke a clear-blue summer sky, especially when used as flooring in a blue room like this one designed by Kelli Fontana of West Bay Homes, explore more of her designs in our tour of her Sun Coast Estate.

Laura Ashley Leaf and Sunflower

Some patterns are better together. The Laura Ashley leaf mosaic creates beautiful detail in this shower niche and coordinates nicely with the colors in the Laura Ashley Sunflower tile. The beautiful blues and botanical designs evoke both a lush field and a clear summer sky.

Inspired to add touches of summer to your home? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more whimsical patterns in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

The post Simply Splendid Summer-Inspired Patterns 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.

Laura Ashley Sunflower

The latest addition to our exclusive Laura Ashley designer collection, the Laura Ashley Sunflower tiles offer the poppy energy of endless sunflower fields, complemented by boho-style details and a lightly weathered finish.

Explore more gorgeous patterns from the Laura Ashley tile collection with this roundup of 15 Laura Ashley Spaces We Love.

Amazonia

Transport yourself to a tropical rainforest with the sun-drenched botanicals in the Amazonia collection. Featuring three stunning colorways with lush leafy prints, watercolor lines and a sun-faded appearance, these tiles are perfect for creating a relaxed and refreshing ambiance.

Annie Selke Flora

With sprawling fern leaves in a faded white hue, the fresh Flora tiles from our exclusive Annie Selke collection embody organic beauty at its finest.

Learn more about one of our favorite 2022 design trends – bringing nature-inspired elements indoors, here!

Terrazzo Bianco

With a pattern of colorful fragments that resemble broken bits of sea glass, the Terrazzo Bianco tiles can make every day feel like a laid-back beach day.

Maiolica Series

Reminiscent of the iconic whitewashed and cobalt blue buildings scattered across the islands of Greece, the tiles in our Maiolica series will instantly transport you to the Mediterranean coast. Embrace the look even more by mixing and matching the small porcelain squares to create a whimsical patchwork effect.

Discover more dreamy interiors featuring coastal blues and greens here.

Star Olive & Grey

While the Star Olive & Grey is designed for use on both walls and floors, this cement tile is the furthest thing from an ordinary wallflower. The punchy geometric pattern displays vivid olive green flower petals, perfect for breathing fresh energy into a space.

Annie Selke Speckle Goldleaf

Radiating summery vibes with a glamorous twist, the Annie Selke Speckle Goldleaf showcases the golden warmth of the sun complete with a glitzy metallic finish.

Seen above in the kitchen of Annie Selke’s Palm Springs Desert Oasis, the tile’s mirrored gold splatters reflect sunny natural light for a true show-stopping moment.

Villandry Azure

Pressed and painted by hand, the Villandry Azure cement tile boasts a charming artisanal style complete with a color palette reminiscent of a stony shoreline. Pair it with warm wood and soft textures for a relaxed boho look, or make it an eye-catching focal point by incorporating it into a design that leans more contemporary.

Shop our assortment of cement tiles to find the best option for your space.

Alato Beachwalk Chevron

Designed to mimic the contrasting appearance of seashells, the Alato Beachwalk Chevron mosaic showcases the imperfect beauty that can be found along a seashore. With a neutral color palette of blacks, greys and beiges, this mosaic is fabulous for creating a captivating element of dimension.

Shop our assortment of nearly 1,000 unique mosaics here.

Officially yearning for an endless summer? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more whimsical patterns in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

The post Our Favorite Summer-Inspired Patterns appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

The Laura Ashley Wicker matte porcelain tile features an intricate geometric pattern that’s sure to make your space stand out. The moody Charcoal color creates beautiful contrast against the light cabinetry in this kitchen, while the pattern offers an eye-catching focal point.

The soft Dove Grey color is an excellent flooring option in this bright rainbow bathroom, adding subtle interest without taking away from the bold wall design.

Loving the rainbow wall? Click here for At Home with Ashley’s best tips on how to design with color.

Baby blue cabinets and gold hardware pair well with the tiled floor to create a space that feels fresh and inviting!

For a more energizing design, the Sea Spray color is a playful option that instantly brightens up this gorgeous living room.

This mudroom is the perfect combination of function and beauty, thanks to the pretty (and durable!) tiled flooring and sleek navy cabinetry.

Speaking of mudrooms… this crisp space shows the difference in atmosphere that can be achieved depending on color palettes. While the above mudroom is moody and cozy, this space is bright and refreshing.

Perfect for modern farmhouse style, the floor tile brings this space to life with an elegant pop of pattern.

We’re absolutely swooning over this boho bathroom. The mix of patterns and a cozy color palette create an ideal atmosphere to relax and unwind.

Featuring a Laura Ashley Heritage Collection geometric print, the Mr Jones matte porcelain tile makes a statement with a more traditional pattern that’s both contemporary and timeless.

One of our favorite uses of this tile is as a fun design element on fireplaces. Check out the many unique styles it can create!

See more of our favorite tiled fireplace designs here!

The Mr Jones pattern adds a lovely touch of elegance to this rustic-inspired space.

The tiled backsplash offers just the right amount of color and pattern to maintain a neutral palette while adding some visual interest to this light-and-airy kitchen!

Turn your laundry room into a place you actually want to spend time! The porcelain tile is a breeze to clean while adding a winsome look and feel to your space.

See more from West Bay Homes and learn about the designer behind the brand, Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, in this Q&A.

We can’t wait to see the new Laura Ashely tiles in action! View the full collection here, and be sure to tag us @thetileshop in your next project to be featured.

The post 15 Laura Ashley Spaces We Love appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

“While we might be great at communicating, we are not always great at agreeing on architecture and decor,” Cristin said. “Zach is from the mountains and loves modern design and rustic elements. I’m from a small town in South Carolina and love all things southern, traditional and cozy.”

Kitchen

As we look through the rest of their mountain home, we think it’s safe to say they did an amazing job at deciding every design detail.

How gorgeous is the Meram Blanc Carrara Marble backsplash? The stone’s white undertones and light-grey veining beautifully unite with the white cabinetry and reclaimed wood accents.

Laura Ashley Laundry Room

The combination of black cabinetry and light-toned tiles creates a stunning contrast in Cristin’s laundry room.

This backsplash is so charming, we just had to include a close-up view! Patterned backsplashes are a great way to add a personalized statement in your home.

Love this look? Check out the rest of our Laura Ashley collection!

Porch Palace

Disclosure: If you get porch envy easily, then you might want to skip this section. From stunning views to charming decor, this space has it all!

“I thought it would be fun to embrace the bohemian trend,” Cristin said. “I decided to mix several patterns of textiles to pair with our simplistic furniture and keep everything neutral and inviting.”

See all of Cristin’s modern-neutral porch decor here.

Mudroom

Before Cristin visited The Tile Shop, she wanted a small, dark slate-looking floor tile for the mudroom. But to her surprise, the in-store inspiration helped Cristin choose a tile that best fit the smaller space.

“The larger sized Nain Negro really helps open up this narrow space. The tile has the look and feel of slate, but it’s actually a durable porcelain tile,” Cristin added.

“The in-store tiled displays really helps you gauge different sizes and colors and how it will look in your space,” said Cristin.

Master Bathroom

“The Tile Shop helped me tremendously with this space as we had to decide what patterns and sizes would best complement each other and how much tile we would need for the shower and floor,” Cristin said. “I also learned all about niches in the shower wall, polished edging, Dural systems and all finishing pieces when designing a bath.”

Welcome to Hampton Carrara heaven! From herringbone patterned floors to offset pattern shower walls, this master bath shines with elegance.

Guest Bath

“Our guest room is downstairs in what I lovingly refer to as man land—this is where all of Zach’s favorite rooms are,” Cristin explained. “We wanted the bathroom to be dark, moody and rustic.”

Children’s Bath

While the other bathrooms in the house showcase lavish marble appeal, Cristin wanted a clean, simple and affordable tile design for this last space. Luckily, she didn’t have to sacrifice her style and was able to achieve her goal with the stone-look tile flooring. Calacatta Bianco unites the durability of porcelain with the stunning look of marble.

Looking for design inspiration or DIY tile installation tips? From inspiration and tile samples to free design services, we’ll partner with you for every step of the way.

Follow Cristin Cooper on Instagram for lifestyle tips and home décor inspiration.

The post Cristin Cooper’s Mountain Hideaway appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Where to use fireplace tile

Tile can be used on fireplace hearths and surrounds. The hearth, which can be level with the floor or raised above it, is the floor in front of the fireplace. The fire itself is contained to the firebox, and the fireplace surround is the area around the firebox. The surround may go all the way to the ceiling or just around the firebox and may or may not include a mantle. This is the place you are most likely to see tile used. Tile cannot be used inside a wood-burning fireplace, only approved brick and other materials. Altogether, the fireplace is an opportunity to make a statement or define a focal point in the room.

6 styles to consider

One of the hardest parts of tiling is deciding on your perfect style from endless options. We may be guilty of offering too much inspiration, but we’ve rounded up our favorite fireplaces into six themes to help simplify your search.

1. Small-Scale Patterns

A tile with a small pattern or a small-scale mosaic is ideal for making a small fireplace into a focal point. Don’t forget to consider the material and finish. Matte tile is casual and soft, glossy tile reflects the light and glass tile glamorizes a space with even more sparkle.

The crisp, white fireplace tile combined with the white walls and molding are a simple and clean backdrop for fun decor pieces to take center stage.

This fireplace stands apart stylishly with white marble subway tile that creates striking contrast against the dark navy walls.

This rustic fireplace serves double duty, not only separating the kitchen from the living space but also serving as a decorative focus in both rooms.

2. Cement & Cement-Look

Whether contemporary, old world, geometric or romantic, cement and cement-look tiles certainly liven up a fireplace. Pick a pattern you love, and enjoy an eye-catching and unique centerpiece.

This transitional fireplace is a delightful combination of traditional cement-look tile and a clean, contemporary mantle that satisfies all tastes.

A lively cement-look tile from the London series sets the modern farmhouse scene in this quaint home.

3. Floor to Ceiling

Impact is the ultimate goal with a floor-to-ceiling tiled fireplace. These jaw-dropping installations speak volumes.

This stunning fireplace is perfect parts rustic, contemporary and chic.

One way to make your fireplace unforgettable is to situate it in an unexpected place. This one gets bonus points for being enjoyed from the tub and the bedroom on the other side of the wall.

File this fireplace under “statement maker.” A soft, neutral grey tile becomes a focal point when it’s installed to the second-floor ceiling of this grand room.

4. 3-D

Taking your fireplace tile to the next dimension delivers a tactile, textural quality. Use a dimensional geometric tile for the ultimate contemporary statement.

A metallic fireplace tile is always a good idea—just imagine how the dimension and texture of this multifired tile shine when the fire is lit.

Elegant and refined, these soft flowing lines create dimension replicating that of calming coastal waves.

5. Trim Firebox

For a smoother transition between your fireplace surround and firebox, use trims and layering pieces to dress up the design and soften the hard edges.

A Somerset trim tile artfully frames this firebox while adding architectural detail.

The addition of trim to this stunning fireplace instantly elevates the whole look.

6. Architectural

Textured, dimensional architectural tiles are not just for rustic designs! For spaces from traditional to contemporary, these natural stones retain a neutral color scheme while adding touchable dimension.

It’s easy to see why our best-selling architectural tile, Claros Silver, is such a hit—classic grey shades and warm tans are universally appealing.

This centerpiece fireplace displays one of the perks of our architectural tile collections. We carry out corner pieces so your design can truly be three dimensional.

Excited to try something new? Visit our fireplace tile ideas page or our fireplace tile Pinterest board for more inspiration or find a store to get started today!

The post Our Favorite Fireplace Design Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Contrasting Colors

Boldly contrasting colors are a sure way to make a big impact. Dark and light tones play off of each other, making each stand out even more. Below, the dark backdrop also serves to highlight the sleek lines of the contemporary tub.

Contrast goes glam with this dramatic display that plays up sumptuous style.

Contrast can be created with color combinations beyond black and white. In a warmer take on the style, a wood-look floor balances grey and white walls with tons of welcoming textures.

Monochromatic Mix

If you’re dreaming of a clean monochromatic color palette, try incorporating different finishes, sizes, shapes or materials on the walls and floors. This adds dimension, texture and interest to a design while keeping it clean. You can also include functional and safety features this way. Here, a glossy ceramic wall tile is an easy-to-clean option that protects the backsplash from spills. The coordinating porcelain floor tile is durable and transitions between the surfaces smoothly in the same soft grey color palette.

“People always ask me, ‘If I use ceramic on the floor, don’t I have to use it on the walls?’ The answer is no! Mixing it up creates a more interesting space.”—Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

This space demonstrates a perfect example of using mixed materials (also known as “fusion.”) With ceramic wall tile, porcelain shower wall tile, porcelain floor tile and marble trim pieces, all of these different materials unite in a cohesive way and in a monochromatic color palette to portray a serene spa bathroom.

We love how these floor and wall tiles are so different from one another in finish, shape, size and material yet coordinate flawlessly. The space works because the color palette is soft and neutral and hints of organic materials add warmth and interest.

Here, the similar polished finish of the ceramic subway wall tile and the marble shower pan tile unifies the shower’s style. A framed marble mosaic is an added touch of elegance—fusion at its finest!

Varying the shape of your wall and floor tiles is another way to add interest in a monochromatic design. From the mix of porcelain and ceramic to the distinct shapes, there is so much to entice the eye in this cream laundry room!

This is a great example of fusion. The materials on the walls and floor could not be more different, consisting of real wood, wood-look porcelain and a slate and porcelain mosaic, but they all have a similar rich hue that ties them together.

Coordinated Collections

One of the easiest ways to ensure your design flows together is using the same collection or series on walls and floors. One of the great things about The Tile Shop’s stone collections is the sheer number of different shape, size and trim options. Collections are also sourced from the same quarry, so, while no two pieces are ever the same due to natural variation, you never have to worry about different tiles coordinating.

This space uses the same stone, Milas Lilac, on every surface, so there’s no fear about the tiles not coordinating. By using many different shapes (we’re not even sure we can count them all!), distinct zones are established, subtly distinguishing the shower from the vanity area.

To make designing a coordinated space even easier, we’ve extended it beyond stone. Our proprietary Fired Earth ceramic and porcelain collections, like the Carrara Gris floor tile below, coordinate with our marble collections, too. This makes adding a special designer touch even easier. Handmade Weekly elevates her fusion design beautifully here, with a marble-look ceramic tile and a unique statement marble mosaic. Marble trims polish the look to perfection.

Patterns That Pop

One of our most popular wall and floor tile combinations is patterned and non-patterned tile. For the bold at heart, there’s nothing better than an accent wall or floor brimming with striking shapes. Paired with a neutral color, the overall effect is delightful. This hexagon shape, duplicated in the floor tile, garners just enough attention to set this shower apart.

Here, a boldly patterned floor is softened with a coordinating, neutral wall tile.

White subway tile plus a bold, old-world style encaustic is always a good idea.

Tone on Tone

One sure way to demonstrate a cohesive look between floors and walls is to pick a neutral or color from one surface and use it on the other. The soft grey wall tiles below perfectly reflect the same mottled grey in the pattered floor.

The unique ombre effect on this Annie Selke floor tile presents the opportunity to pull two different colors onto the wall design.

This concept does not have to be all or nothing. A hint of color, like the beachy brown in the floor tile that’s also found in the chevron stripe on the wall and shower, goes a long way towards tying this room together.

This kitchen plays with a number of different colors, but choosing the backsplash subway tile in hue plucked from the floor tile ensures that the space feels cohesive.

Multiple patterns can get tricky but this space strikes a perfect balance. Surrounding this floral art glass splashback with a neutral frame and a subway tile in a color that is duplicated in the floor tile, the patterns do not compete.

Eclectic

Rules are made to be broken, right? Sometimes a design that doesn’t follow any of these rules or even breaks them just works. Here are some of our favorite eclectic combinations that don’t follow the guidelines. Here, pattern, wood look and a bold subway tile create the perfect modern farmhouse nook.

Bold geometric shapes on the walls and floors and exaggerated contrast?! This look is bold, but the black-and-white palette keeps it clean.

Here’s another example of a bold pattern paired with multiple colors. The grey color is reflected in the patterned tile, and the wood-look floor acts as a neutral that balances the space.

There are dozens of different wall and floor tile combinations. It just depends on your desired overall effect—whether it’s eye-catching contrast, calm coordination or eclectic patterns. Ready to take the next step? Schedule a design consultation or stop into a store to talk to a tile expert and get started!

The post Tried-and-True Wall and Floor Tile Combinations 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!

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