The Tile Style File

Tiles are one of the most durable, hard wearing solutions for any floor or wall. Available in endless styles and sizes, tiles are incredibly practical and also a play a large part in creating the style and theme of your home.

Lindy Evans from Windemere Interiors says it's important to consider tiles as an important design element of the overall home. "Tiles should be considered just as important as all the other design elements and therefore incorporate them in the theme of the home along with paint colours, cabinetry finishes, fixtures, furniture. Tiles, unlike furniture and fixtures are an expensive fix if you make the wrong choice, you need to make sure you will be happy with the result for years to come."

Tiles are practical and stylish for every room of the house and there are an enormous range of styles and materials to choose from. Generally, there are two main types of tile - ceramic and porcelain. Both are fantastic and durable tiles, the difference is in how they are created.

Ceramic tiles are primarily made from clay with a glazed design surface. This type of tile is easier to cut and therefore more economical to install. Porcelain tiles are generally made entirely from the design composition resulting in a denser material, however special tools are required to cut the tiles so the installation may be more expensive.

A few hints about tiles from Windemere Interiors

• Large tiles make a space feel larger. Laying them vertically will make the space feel taller while laying them horizontally will make it feel wider.
• Rectified Tiles have a straight edge and are laid with a thinner grout giving a more seamless finish. Fantastic for a sheeted effect.
• Stone tiles create a lovely, natural resort style feel. They are naturally porous though so have them sealed every 12 months to keep in top condition.
• Ensure you choose a grout that complements or contrasts the tile, depending on the look you are after. Choose white grout for light coloured tiles if you are after a seamless flow effect or for a dramatic effect, contrast darker tiles with white grout.

Inspiration Gallery