Design
Key decisions like selecting the material and size must come before considering color or finish.”
W ith the growing variety of tile options available, choosing the right one for your next project can feel overwhelming. Key decisions like selecting the material and size must come before considering color or finish. Since tiles are often used in high-traffic areas, it’s important to evaluate maintenance requirements and suitability for stain-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. Additionally, measuring the area ensures you select the proper shape, pattern, and color. Considering these factors in advance will streamline your tile selection process and make designing your space much simpler. HISTORY OF TILE Understanding the history of tile helps us to better understand it and its intended use. Tile is believed to have originated around 1000 B.C. in China and Egypt. It was designed to be decorative and to have a practical purpose. During this period, tile was made from sand, clay, and even rocks, but the tiles were not glazed. When glazing (enamel coating) came along in the ninth century, it was a game changer, increasing tile’s popularity and demand because glazing made tile “water impermeable.” By the 18th century, machines that pressed dry clay together made tile more accessible and even more popular. In 1870, the U. S. started producing its own tiles. By the early 1900s, tile was becoming so popular that during the building of the New York Subway, tile was used as a design element, giving birth to the ever-popular “subway tile.”
aesthetic and functional qualities to suit different design needs. GLASS. Glass tiles are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. They offer a clean and sleek design that works especially well in modern spaces. Their reflective surface enhances the contemporary feel, making them a staple in creating a polished, minimalist look. MOSAIC. Made from small pieces of glass, metal, stone, porcelain, marble, or travertine, mosaic tiles add intricate detail and visual interest. They are an excellent choice for vintage-inspired designs, such as modern farmhouse interiors. TRAVERTINE. A hallmark of Tuscan- style design, travertine is a limestone tile. With its rustic charm and natural shades of rust, brown, and tan, they bring warmth to any space. CERAMIC. Crafted from a combination of clay, minerals, and water, ceramic tiles are fired in a kiln for durability. They are available in a multitude of shapes and sizes, making them one of the most versatile options on the market. CEMENT. Created from a combination of water, sand, and cement, these tiles are similar to ceramic tiles in function but offer a more robust look. This tile works great in modern, industrial, and even rustic designs. MARBLE. This tile is a natural stone that features unique natural veining. It is ideal for bathroom and kitchen backsplashes. With its sophisticated and classy look, this tile will help tie any traditional design together. SPACE REQUIREMENTS When selecting tiles for a specific room, it’s essential to consider the
Tile Talk! THE RIGHT TILE STYLE AND COLOR TRANSFORM ANY SPACE, SEAMLESSLY BLENDING INTERIOR DESIGN WITH THE ARCHITECTURAL ESSENCE OF YOUR HOME.
MATERIAL Tiles come in various styles and materials, each offering unique
MICHELE VAN DER VEEN
8 | think realty magazine :: january - february 2025
thinkrealty.com | 9
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