5 Head-Turning Tile Styles for Backsplashes and More
If plain subway tile would derail your bold decorating vision, these dashing tiles can help you arrive at a brilliant solution
Look, I like classic white subway tile just as much as the next person, but after spending several years in tile design, I soon realized that tile can be so much more than a neutral backdrop. The way different tile types are made, colored and conceptualized opens up a sea of possibilities. But in simpler terms, unique tile is a great way to add zesty color, pattern, texture and personality. Here are five of my favorite anything-but-boring tile styles.
Metallic tiles. Metallic tiles add some shine in unexpected places, such as shower walls, kitchen backsplashes and fireplaces, and can even just be wall accents. Tiles are available in an array of metals, including bronze, copper, titanium and stainless steel, as well as different surfaces finishes, such as brushed, polished and textured. Crosses, basket weaves, herringbones, rocks and dots are just a few of the shapes in which these shiny treasures can be found.
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See more on metallic tiles
Cement tiles. Typically highly patterned with floral or Moorish geometric motifs, these tiles go by many names, such as cement tiles, Victorian tiles, Cuban tiles, hydraulic tiles and Mission tiles. They’re not made by firing, as most tiles are, but rather by compressing colored cement in molds. These beauties are not only durable but also nonslippery, environmentally friendly and completely customizable.
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See more on cement tiles
Moroccan tiles. Capturing natural beauty in geometric form, Moroccan tiles often rely on symmetry and repetition to create intricate patterns. Traditional hand-pieced tile, called zellij, is often brightly colored and complex. However, not all Moroccan tile is busy or even colorful. Sumptuous arabesque shapes, solids, fish scales and carved tiles also add to the mix. Whatever the shape, size or color, Moroccan tiles will add some spice to your space.
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See more on Moroccan tiles
Mosaic tiles. This ancient art form can be used in your home to create any design of any color you desire. Before tackling a mosaic project, understand the basic types of mosaic and how they’re created and installed. The direct method involves pressing tile (or anything really — broken dishes, seashells etc.) onto a layer of adhesive. In the indirect method, the entire mosaic is created and then set into position. Computer-generated mosaics can be customizable, large-scale installations, while premade options cut down on lead time.
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More: How to Add a Kitchen Backsplash
See more on mosaic tiles
More: How to Add a Kitchen Backsplash
See more on penny tiles