Trendy or Traditional Tile and Stone

Tile and Stone Trends
Of the entire palette of materials available to me, tiles offer the most options for creativity. Now, more than ever, their diversity is huge. Not only do tiles come in a wide variety of textures and colours, they are available in more sizes than ever before.

The most popular format for 2013 is the rectangle. Kitchen splash tiles now come in a variety of elongated rectangular shapes. It used to be that the 3" x 6" subway tiles were all the rage. Now you see 4" x 12", 6" x 18" or even 2" x 18" sizing.

Floor tiles are often as large as 24” x 36”. The rectangular forms are usually used to create a horizontal, linear effect on walls, with accents and borders used vertically. On floors they are sometimes staggered for abrick-like effect, but a herringbone and chevron pattern can also look spectacular. For 2013, rectangular tiles are mostly being stacked rather than staggered, for an ultra-modern, grid-like effect.

Floor tile surfaces are smoother now with rectified edges, which allows for a much tighter grout joint.
Wall tiles are now trending to highly textured and 3 dimensional. I love the look of wavy, sculptural tiles on a fireplace or backsplash. They also look sensational on an entire feature wall or as a bed headboard.

Many ceramic and porcelain tiles mimic the look of slate, marble and limestone. The newest trend, though, is to simulate wood,leather, linen, fabric, wallpaper, alligator skin and even sisal carpet! Inroads in ink-jet technology have enhanced the aesthetics of tile by creating less repetition of graphics.

Glass tiles have also become increasingly popular. They usually come in a smaller mosaic format, whether round, rectangular or square, in a wide array of vibrant colours. They can be used as accents combined with larger tiles, or alone to create a spectacular shimmering effect.

Tiles with a brushed steel, nickel, bronze or copper surface are being used as borders and inserts, both for floors and walls. Some metallic tiles are now also available in a larger format for floors.
Accent tiles are now being seen in a mixture of materials - stone, glass, metal, all be combined in a single trim piece. It's like wall jewelry to dress up a field tile.

Aside from the vibrant colours of glass, most tiles are in neutral earth tones. Crème brulee, charcoal, warm white, concrete grey and walnut are especially popular.
Classic white and cream marble looks are also big, especially those withsubtle veining, such as Cararra and Calacatta.

Tiles are an inherently green product. They are made of natural substances and have the longest life cycle of any floor covering choice. When installed correctly a tile floor will last a lifetime.

If you’re looking to do a tile project, come see me at Surdel Carpets, Flooring and Design Centre. We have a huge selection of the latest looks. We carry tiles by Mohawk, Daltile, Tierra Sol,Centura, Euro, Julian, and more. I can help put it all together for you as well as coordinate the tile installation.