Decorative tile has expanded well beyond the shower wall, extending past the bathroom walls and kitchen backsplash to the fireplace surround, household flooring, accent wall and even outdoor living space. Designs can incorporate tile to make a statement, add color, provide interest and offer ease of maintenance, all at the same time.
While subway tile has enjoyed a resurgence due to the interest in historic home restoration and its clean look, designers are delivering far more options to clients than ever before. Whether the goal is to add personality, color or texture, there are a seemingly endless array of options to meet homeowner needs.
Among the trends in tile right now are:
- Textures remain hot, with everything from ribbed looks to undulating surfaces that beg to be touched.
- Marble looks that deliver a clean, classic design include veining in a range of colors, including the standard gray.
- Porcelain and ceramic continue to lead the way due to their range of designs and easy maintenance.
- Bright colors and patterns are a way to add pops of color to neutral designs.
- Shapes go way beyond subway tile rectangles, with diamonds, arabesques, circles and lantern shapes garnering attention.
- Handmade, cement and hand-painted tiles add decorative patterns to kitchen and bath spaces.