Tiles are the silent backbone of interior design, determining not only the aesthetics but also the functionality of a space. While tiles may seem decorative, their selection can dramatically influence a room’s mood, maintenance, and longevity. Choosing the right tile is a craft, especially in the vibrant city of London, where architectural styles vary and history mingles with modernity. This guide is your companion in navigating the vast world of tiles.
1. Identify the Purpose
Choosing the right tile starts with understanding the space it will occupy. A beautiful tile in a showroom might not suit your space. Here are factors that can guide your decision:
Location
- Bathroom: Given the moisture and potential water splashes, non-porous tiles that prevent slippage, such as textured ceramic or porcelain, are ideal. With London’s diverse architectural heritage, visiting a specialised bathroom tiles store can offer options that harmonise with contemporary and traditional homes.
- Kitchen: Here, resistance to stains and ease of cleaning take precedence. Glossy tiles might be appealing but can also show stains and splashes easily.
- Living Areas: This space offers more freedom in tile selection, allowing homeowners to focus on aesthetics, comfort, and durability.
Usage
- Floor: These tiles need to withstand foot traffic, the weight of furniture, and everyday wear and tear. Porcelain, renowned for its strength, often becomes the top choice.
- Wall: Wall tiles can be thinner and more decorative. They don’t face the same stresses as floor tiles so that you can play with materials, textures, and designs.
Ambience
- The tile choice can transform the mood of a room. Lighter shades can create a feeling of space, while bold patterns or darker shades can add warmth and character.
2. Material Matters
Tiles are crafted from various materials, each bringing a unique touch to a space.
- Ceramic: A classic choice, ceramic tiles are crafted from clay and then kiln-fired. They come in two types – glazed and unglazed. While glazed tiles have a shiny finish, unglazed ones have a natural, rustic look. They are ideal for walls and indoor areas but are resistant to stains and moisture.
- Porcelain: A subtype of ceramic, porcelain tiles are more durable due to their denser construction. They’re especially suitable for floors and high-traffic areas. In places with temperature fluctuations, like London, porcelain’s low moisture absorption rate makes it less likely to crack.
- Natural Stone: Think granite, marble, or slate. These tiles bring a touch of nature indoors. While undeniably beautiful and luxurious, they require sealing to prevent moisture absorption.
3. Colour and Size
The colour and size of a tile can dramatically influence a room’s perception.
- Light Colours: For smaller spaces or rooms with limited natural light, light-coloured tiles reflect light, making a room appear spacious and airy. Whites and beiges are perennial favourites.
- Dark Colours: Deep hues like charcoal, navy, or chocolate add depth and drama to a space. In larger rooms, they can create a cosy atmosphere.
- Tile Size:
- Large Tiles: Suitable for spacious rooms, they give a modern, seamless look. Fewer grout lines mean easier cleaning.
- Small Tiles: Offer a more detailed, intricate appearance. They’re perfect for feature walls or decorative borders.
4. Tile Finish and Texture
The finish of a tile doesn’t just impact its appearance – it plays a pivotal role in its functionality and safety, too.
- Matte Finish: These tiles are non-reflective and can conceal smears, watermarks, and dust quite well. They offer better grip, making them ideal for bathrooms and outdoor spaces. Their subdued look works well in rustic or minimalist decors.
- Glossy Finish: Lustrous and shiny, polished tiles are perfect for smaller rooms as they reflect light and make spaces appear more prominent. However, they can be slippery when wet and are best used on walls or in low-moisture areas.
- Textured or Anti-slip Tiles: Safety first! Bathrooms, outdoor patios, or any area prone to moisture should consider anti-slip tiles. Their textured surface provides additional grip, reducing slip hazards.
- Hand-painted or Designer Tiles: If you wish to introduce an artful touch to your space, hand-painted tiles can serve as centrepieces or decorative borders. Each piece tells a story, adding a layer of uniqueness to your home.
5. Maintenance and Durability
Tiles are a long-term investment. Beyond aesthetics, think about longevity and upkeep.
- Porosity: Tiles with low porosity resist water absorption, making them less prone to staining and bacterial growth. They’re ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. Research or consult bathroom tiles specialists for options combining style with low maintenance.
- Grout Lines: Thinner grout lines are trendy and easier to clean. They also lend a seamless appearance to the room. But, the choice of grout colour is equally essential. While lighter grouts look clean and classic, they can show dirt easily. Darker grouts are forgiving in this aspect.
- Tile Hardness: The PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating indicates the tile’s durability. Tiles with a higher PEI rating are designed for areas with heavy foot traffic. Always check the PEI rating when shopping, especially for spaces like hallways or commercial areas.
- Natural Stone Tiles: While they exude luxury, they also demand care. Being porous, they can stain easily. Regular sealing is required to maintain their beauty.
POSTED BY 
