Finding The Right Tile Style

November 10, 2019

There’s a lot to be said about tile. This indoor/ outdoor finishing option has been around longer than most others out there, and it continues to evolve into the modern age of interior design and decor. While kitchens and bathrooms are certainly the main stage for tile, they’re not the only show for this finishing option. Aside from its stunning aesthetic, tile is highly functional, easy to clean and can withstand wear and tear like a boss.

Tiles are definitely among my top choices when renovating a home. Here are some tile trends to look out for as you plan your next home renovation project.

Coloured, glazed tile is among my favourite trends for the year ahead. The candy-coated finish is so luscious and touchable.

Aesthetically, this style breathes new life to a tired kitchen or outdated bath, and from a stylist’s perspective, I love this product’s versatility. It has the capacity to go from fun to luxurious to minimalistic to modern, depending on colour and the decor elements surrounding it. This type of tile is among my top picks for backsplashes and bathrooms. I also love it for small powder rooms in a saturated, jewel-toned hue that delivers big impact on a small scale (and budget!). Glossy and gorgeous, these tiles are definitely on my must-have list this year.

 Next on my style radar is patterned tile. Now, this trend is not for the subtle decorators at heart. Think bold geometric shapes coupled with vibrant colour palettes, all competing for your attention. This tile trend screams “more is more,” and makes a great addition to simple, uncluttered spaces in need of a truly fabulous focal point. Use it in a living area as a pleasantly unexpected finishing option.

While you may not immediately recognize its name, you’ve definitely come across this tile type once or twice. Encaustic tile is a patterned product featuring different coloured clay in patterns. It’s popular for its “handcrafted” artisan aesthetic and vibrant hues, often boasting a distinctly classic or “retro” look that instantly evokes the feeling of “home,” perfect for front foyers, kitchens and laundry rooms. One of the best sources to start your exploration of tile products in the GTA is SS Tile & Stone. Here, they will also help navigate and educate you on what is trending but also how best to install.

When selecting your tile, take a cue from geometry, art, nature or whatever else floats your boat. Tiles come in an endless array of shapes, colours and materials, ranging from organic to contemporary. Think beyond the simple square grid, and consider different layouts (think herringbone!) and grout colour to make it yours.

Encaustic tile is the modern “throwback” tile trend to watch.

Let tile stand out as a feature in your home, rather than as a background element. You’ll love it for its fashion, and you’ll keep going back for its function and durability. With all the amazing options out there, the hardest part will be choosing which one you love the most!

RED BARRINUEVO

Toronto-based, award-winning Interior Stylist, Red Barrinuevo is an Interior Decorator and Principal of Redesign4more, servicing clients in Toronto and the GTA. The firm’s known for enhancing and creating stylish yet functional spaces through their creative home staging, interior styling services, and design services.  www.redesign4more.com.