Earlier this year we crafted the ultimate Beginners Guide To Flooring, which included material choices like ceramic tile, among others. But ceramic tile, as you likely know, is not only for your floors. In fact, you can get super funky, fresh, and stylish with both ceramic and porcelain tile throughout your home. And, your opportunities are endless. Tile is often seen in kitchens, bathrooms - really, any room with running water. This is due to their water resistance and incredible versatility. Most folks remain fairly traditional in their ceramic tile flooring styles, some extravagant, we like a happy medium - but we also love how creative tile has become - particularly in color, pattern, and design!
So, let’s get the rundown on ceramic tile. First, let’s dive into the history of tile.
Ceramic tile has been used on walls and floors, both exterior and interior, since its known inception in Egypt sometime around 4000 B.C. - although similar use of tile has also been linked to the Assyrians and Babylonians and may, indeed, have been used prior to 4000 B.C.. If you’ve traveled throughout Europe, you’ve likely seen the use of tile in old cities in destinations throughout Italy, France, Spain, and beyond. In fact, in Pompeii, a once affluent and bustling Roman city in Italy that was decimated by the explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., the use of ceramic tile was at the core of their culture, art, and design aesthetic. Homes are covered in gorgeous mosaic tile flooring that survived both an extreme volcanic eruption and thousands of years buried beneath volcanic debris. Talk about strength and durability… Porcelain tile, also a fantastic option, although typically a bit more expensive because it is denser and less porous, was first seen in China during the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907).
Interested in the differences between porcelain and ceramic tile? Check out this blog we found!
Both porcelain and ceramic tile have long been a preferred building and design material which, in 2023, is making a fantastic comeback. It never really went away, but with new digital social platforms like Instagram REELS and TikTok, consumers have a more intimate view into the use of tile within home remodel designs. So what’s hip and cool? A lot. Check it out!
Tile Color
Oh my, do we love color! Strategically including color within your tile can do several things to your space. Not only will it add character, utilizing color in the right way, can help you to feel motivated, excited, passionate, or even… hungry? That's right - the psychology behind color is wild. Have you ever noticed a unique color pattern at a restaurant? There will, of course, be cultural influence within design, but we’ll use an Italian restaurant as an example - it seems we’re on a bit of an Italian kick so we’re going with it! A lot of times restaurants will utilize white as it emotes cleanliness, organization, purity - and who doesn’t want those exact feelings when eating at a restaurant? You’ll also see the use of red, which brings feelings of love, passion, and power. Whatever the color, there is a physiological impact.
Color, whether on your walls, within your tile, or even in the art you place in your space, should be taken into consideration. We recently ran into a great article that features everything you need to know about tile and color. Check it out here! You can thank us later!
In the meantime, check out some of the tile color choices our clients landed on!
Tile Designs
Designs in tile have also elevated in the last 10 - 15 years. We now see a lot more design influence and representation from countries such as India, Mexico, Italy, and more. We also see cultural influences from native americans and more recent design eras such as mid-century modern, bohemian, and art deco. All patterns within your tile will give your home a certain design aesthetic that you can carry through to your paint choices, wall-paper, furniture, art, and even appliances. We do love a bold color choice when installing a new oven range.
If you’re a bit shy, try to elevate your tile design in spaces such as your laundry room, mudroom, and powder room. Or, if you don’t know where to start, that’s where we come in. We’ll educate you not only on the functionality and durability, but also on the design.
We have some favorites from our almost 20 years in business. Check out some of the unique tile designs we’ve installed for our clients!
Tile Patterns
There are many tile patterns to consider when choosing the direction to go for your home. And while some are very purposeful for design, our favorites are:
Herringbone
V-shaped rows placed at a 45 degree angle.
1/3 Offset
Each tile offsets the tile below by one-third. (photo example)
Grid Stacked
Stacked in a grid pattern with straight lines. (photo example)
Stacked Vertical
Stacked vertically in a pattern making the room feel taller.
Chevron
Slight v-shape where the shorter end of the tile lines up with a mitered 45-degree joint.
Check out some of the designs in our galleries below!
Even though we are far from when the Egyptians created ceramic tiles back in 4000 B.C., we can still be as elegant, creative, and bold as they were in their designs. Our recommendation for your home remodel is to always have fun. Your home is your sanctuary, your piece of art. Much like the Egyptians, and the Chinese, who culturally made bold design statements, you too have the opportunity to have complete control over the way your home speaks to you, and your guests. So, make a statement. Have at it!
And when you’re ready to begin your home remodel journey, we’d love to help. Contact us today!
