Are you looking to add a statement feature to your home – maybe something a bit more than a fresh coat of paint can provide? The bold pattern tile look is very popular right now, and homeowners have really shown their creativity on where to utilize this medium. Tiles aren’t just for floors anymore!
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From straight line geometric to floral patterns, there is sure to be a tile to match just about any home style and design preference. In fact, I incorporated some fun patterned tile into a recent bathroom Makeover Takeover!
WHAT ARE THEY
These tiles feature bold, graphic patterns. Typically, they will have patterns that when positioned next to one another, and sometimes rotated, form an even larger, repeating design.
The origins of this type of tile style can be traced back as far as Medieval times. During that era they were called ‘inlaid tiles’, and later – in Victorian times – Encaustic tiles. Essentially, Encaustic tiles are created by using two to six different colors of clay. The clay is arranged in a pattern before firing. Because the pattern is not simply painted on the surface of the tile, it will continue to be present even as the tile wears.
Today’s patterned tiles are made primarily from cement, but there are less expensive varieties in both ceramic and vinyl.
WHERE/HOW TO USE THEM
There are plenty of unique applications for these stunning tiles.
Bathrooms
Tiles are a wonderful flooring option for bathroom applications because they are resistant to moisture/water. In small rooms, such as bathrooms, these bold tiles generally will not be competing with other design elements.
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Laundry Rooms
Who doesn’t need a little excitement and style when tackling the laundry?
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Kitchen
Tiles make a wonderful backdrop on kitchen walls or floors. They might also be fun to use on counter-tops, perhaps on a center island.
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Entry/Foyer/Mudroom
Set an inviting tone to your entryway and let guests see a sneak peek of the fun and style they can expect to see in the rest of the house.
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Patterned tile is wonderful at camouflaging dirt and grime.
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Hallway
Hallways get a bad reputation of being boring and lifeless. With the addition of a sea of pattern, this hallway could not be any more interesting!
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Stair Landing
Add a bit of pizzazz to those boring stairways. Doesn’t this landing just seem to come to life with the tile work?
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Focal Point
Let eyes focus on a featured item in your home, such as a special alcove, the fireplace, or even a piece of furniture!
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WHERE TO BUY
A large variety of retailers are now selling these tiles at reasonable prices. Click on the links below for access to some of my favorites!
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Be sure to also click on over to this post for a comprehensive shopping guide!
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS HOME DESIGN TREND
As a lover of simple geometric patterns, this is a trend that I can totally get on board with! My caution to anyone wanting to incorporate these unique tiles is this: use them sparingly. I personally feel that the boldness of the tiles can make a large space covered in them seem too busy, even dizzying.
I also would advise that colors are pulled from the tiles to use in the rest of the space. This will help to provide balance between elements.
Finally, be sure that you choose a color and pattern of tile that you love – they surely aren’t the easiest things to replace!
