1. Horizontal Straight Stack

This contemporary layout features neat lines that draw the eye across the width of the wall or floor, making your room appear wider. The simple design can be created with any rectangle tile, including subway tile. Here, bands of Coco White matte and glossy tiles add a stylized touch to the bathroom wall; mixing finishes is an excellent way to elevate a simple layout.

2. Vertical Straight Stack

Just like the guards at Buckingham Palace, these “soldier stacks” stand firm and tall. Installing tile vertically creates the illusion of height in your space. Vertically stacked subway tile will make your space feel contemporary, while rectangular large-format tile makes your space feel both taller and more expansive.

“Horizontal and vertical straight stacks are my favorite tile patterns for bathrooms because they present a clean and fresh look. It’s important to have a polished design in your bathroom.” –Kirsty Froelich, The Tile Shop Director of Design

Pro Tip: Combine vertical and horizontal stacks for a stunning, custom design.

3. 1/2 Offset Brick Lay

There’s a reason why 1/2 offset is one of the most traditional layouts. The simple enhancement of offsetting stacked tiles by 50% is visually appealing and helps hide any imperfections in the installation. Use subway or rectangle tile to achieve a classic brick-lay look, or square tile for a chic offset design.

4. 1/3 Offset Brick Lay

The stair-step effect in this pattern is created by offsetting each tile by 1/3 of its length. We recommend using a 1/3 offset when designing with tile that is 8 x 16 in. or larger. Shop large-format tile to achieve this stylish design on your floors or walls.

5. Herringbone

Install large or small rectangle tile at a 45-degree angle to create a dynamic herringbone pattern. You can enhance the vertical and horizontal zigzag movements by incorporating different colors, finishes or a contrasting grout color.

6. Double Herringbone

A double herringbone is created by connecting two rectangle tiles. This layout is less common because it can be difficult to perfect. However, when executed correctly, as seen in this contemporary bathroom designed by Friedman General Contracting, the results are stunning!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to consider your grout color! A contrasting grout will accentuate your layout, while a grout that matches the tile results in a subtler design.

7. Chevron

Like herringbone, a chevron pattern creates a dynamic, zigzag design. However, this layout is created by connecting the angled ends of specially cut tiles, rather than installing rectangular tiles diagonally. The result is a fashionable V-shaped silhouette.

8. Grid

A tried-and-true design, this layout is created by simply arranging square tiles in a grid formation. It is ideal for patterned tile, especially when the pattern is enhanced by grouping four squares together, as it is on the Kelli Fontana Inlay Proper Florence Lace tile shown here.

9. Diagonal

Similar to the grid pattern, this layout consists of rows of square tile. However, as it is installed at a 45-degree angle, this pattern makes your floor or wall appear wider. We love how Timber Trails used this layout to add a contemporary twist to the classic checkerboard design. You can achieve a similar look using diamond-shaped tile.

10. Versailles

Named after the French Palace of Versailles, this classically elegant pattern consists of rectangles and squares of varying sizes. While the Versailles pattern is commonly used for floor designs, it’s also striking on walls.

11. Hex

The six-sided, honeycomb-shaped hex is a surprisingly versatile tile shape. Available in small mosaic formats and larger field tiles (up to 13 x 14 in.), all hexagon tile adheres to the same layout. However, the uniformity of similarly-sized hex tiles allows for custom patterns. Here, Beginning in the Middle created an elevated polka dot effect by adding Back Marquina hex to their Firenze Carrara hex design.

Ready for a room refresh? The Tile Shop is here to help! Explore tons of unique tile combinations in real spaces with our Tile Visualizer, or schedule a free design consultation with our tile experts to get a jumpstart on your next project.

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1. Select the Best Bathroom Tile Floor Material

With so many options for man-made tile (including luxury vinyl flooring) and natural stone—selecting the right material often depends on your desired look, your overall project budget, and your preferred level of maintenance. Here are some of the benefits of our most popular bathroom floor materials.

Man-Made:

Man-made materials include clay, vinyl, cement, glass and any other material that is not naturally occurring. In this section, we’ll discuss our most popular man-made materials for bathroom floors: porcelain, ceramic and luxury vinyl flooring.

Porcelain & Ceramic

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are made of clay that has been glazed and fired in a kiln. While porcelain tile, made from a stronger clay and fired at a higher temperature, is slightly more durable, both porcelain and ceramic floor tiles are robust enough to withstand typical bathroom traffic. In addition to being waterproof, these tiles are scratch- and stain-resistant, making them an excellent choice for bathroom floors. Available in a wide variety of shapes, patterns and finishes you can find porcelain and ceramic tiles to complement virtually any design. These tiles can even mimic the appearance of other materials; wood-look or marble-look tiles offer natural beauty with superior durability and easy maintenance.

From left to right: 1. Featuring: Truewood Beige. Design & Photography by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven. 2. Featuring: Enredo Steel Dark Brown, Dark Stainless Steel Somerset and Quartzite Patagonia. 3. Featuring: Invisible Grey, DURAL Black Matte and Nord Ris Hex.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Waterproof, scratch- and stain-resistant luxury vinyl flooring offers the timeless appearance of natural wood and stone with unparalleled durability and hassle-free maintenance. With an affordable price point (styles start at just $1.79 per sq. ft.) and easy installation, luxury vinyl is a great option for budget-conscious or DIY projects. Plus, since all luxury vinyl styles are compatible with in-floor heat, you can create a space that looks and feels extravagant.

Note: Vinyl is a waterproof material; however, standing water can seep through the seams of your luxury vinyl planks and tiles. Ensure proper installation and promptly clean large spills to help prevent damage to the subfloor beneath. Not recommended for use in showers or wet rooms.

Pro Tip: DIY with confidence using our How to Install Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring guide.

From left to right: 1. Featuring: Cyrus Plus Fauna. 2. Featuring: Marmoreal Cement Silver Grey.

Natural Stone:

Unlike porcelain and ceramic tiles, stone is mined from the earth in large pieces and then cut into individual tiles, revealing inherently unique variations in color and veining. The Tile Shop’s stone collections include field tiles as well as coordinating mosaic and trim pieces, making them an excellent choice for a luxurious whole-bathroom remodel.

At The Tile Shop, you can find natural limestone, quartzite, slate and granite tiles, but here we’ll focus on our two most popular stones for bathrooms: marble and travertine.

These tiles are available in four distinct finishes:

Tumbled: A rough, textured look created by tumbling the stone with rocks.

Brushed: A textured look is achieved by combing the stone with a wire brush.

Honed: A smooth, matte finish.

Polished: A smooth, shiny finish with a sleek surface.

Marble

When choosing marble tile, the main considerations are color, finish, and shape. Available in a wide variety of colors–white, beige, and even green and black–marble floor tile can achieve virtually any aesthetic. Whether you like a rough, textured appearance or a smooth matte finish will determine whether you choose tumbled, brushed or honed marble. Polished marble tends to be slippery when wet, so if you prefer this shiny finish, consider a marble mosaic tile, which provides more grout joints for greater traction.

Pro Tip: Regularly treat your marble tile with made-in-U.S.A. Superior Enhancers and Sealers to keep it looking new.

Clockwise from top: 1. Featuring: Arctic White, Bandung Gris Acid, Riad White, White Pebbles (Small) and Arctic White Skirting. Design and photography by @MaryLauren. 2. Featuring: Arctic White. Design by Annie Selke. Photography by Bethany Nauert Photography. 3. Featuring: Meram Blanc Carrara, Verano White and Meram Blanc Carrara Somerset. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer. 4. Featuring: Firenze Carrara Hex. Design and Photography by The Grit and Polish. 5. Featuring: Siberian Pearl. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

Travertine

A type of limestone characterized by its formation in natural springs, travertine features rich veining and color variation, with shades ranging from brilliant silver to warm beige to black. Available in the same four finishes as marble, travertine tile has seen a resurgence in recent years thanks to its warm, earthy tones.

Pro Tip: Stretch your bathroom budget by pairing a natural stone floor with a stone-look porcelain or ceramic wall tile.

Right to left: 1. Featuring: Atlanta White, Claros Silver, Claros Silver Barnes, Claros Silver Threshold, Claros Silver Skirting and Claros Silver Hex. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting. 2. Featuring: Claros Silver. Design & Photography by Coco & Jack.

2. Select the Best Style of Flooring for Your Bathroom

Both man-made and natural stone tiles are available in a wide range of styles. From hexagons and penny rounds to checkerboards–when it comes to design, there’s no wrong choice. Virtually any floor tile will meet the functional requirements of your bathroom. Ultimately, it comes down to your individual taste. Here are some of our most popular styles to consider.

Large-Format Tile

Since it requires fewer grout lines, large-format tile makes any space feel more cohesive and expansive. Defined as any tile with one side greater than 15″, large-format floor tiles are available in styles up to 48″ x 48″. The majority of these tiles are porcelain, as the strength of this material reduces the risk of cracks and breakage, ensuring smoother installation and superior durability. Cement and stone looks are especially popular in this format, as the large tiles create the appearance of a single, seamless slab.

Left to right: 1. Featuring: Softcement Graphite, Noir Honed Hixton, Noir Honed Threshold, Noir Honed Limestone, Alvarado Matte and Livingstone Nero. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting. 2. Featuring: Argile Matte White and Livingstone Melange. Design by Nikki Chu

Patterned Tile

Delicate florals, abstract shapes and textile-influenced designs are all represented in our wide selection of patterned tile. Whether bold or subtle, a pattern can reflect your personality and set the tone for your space. Explore our patterned tile collection to discover the perfect tile for your style. 

Pro Tip: “If there’s a tile that stands out to you but you’re having second thoughts because it may be too bold or too colorful, a powder bath is the perfect place to experiment.” – Nikki Chu, Celebrity Designer

Clockwise: 1. Featuring: Nikki Chu Zulu Graphite. 2. Featuring: Tribeca Gypsum White and Jeffrey Alan Marks Summerland Miramar. 3. Featuring: Imperial Bianco Bevel Gloss, Laura Ashely Leaf Cloud Blue and Laura Ashley Sunflower Charcoal with Cloud Blue.

Mosaic Tile

Besides offering beautifully intricate designs, the small pieces that make up each sheet of mosaic tile feature more grout joints per square foot, which adds traction to your floors. This makes mosaics perfect for wetrooms, showers and primary bathroom floors. While more grout joints require more cleaning and regular sealing, the results are stunning.

Mounted on mesh sheets for easy installation, this highly versatile tile is available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, materials and styles. Some mosaics, like penny rounds and small hexagons, allow for custom designs by mixing colors in the same size and shape. When you select marble or travertine mosaics from The Tile Shop’s natural stone collections, you can choose from a variety of matching field tiles and trim to complete your bathroom design.

Pro Tip: Achieve a highly designed look by using your bathroom floor mosaic to create matching accents, such as a sink backsplash or shower niche.

Right to left: 1. Featuring: Penny Round Gloss White and Penny Round Cloudy. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer. 2. Featuring: Meram Blanc Carrara Polished Niles with Grey. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer. 3. Featuring: Hampton Carrara Cardine, Hampton Niles, Noir Hixton and Hampton Carrara Threshold. Design and Photography by Mas Means More.

Subway Tile

Sleek, chic and highly versatile, subway tile consistently ranks as one of our most popular tile styles. While commonly used on walls, subway tile is just as stylish on bathroom floors. The wide range of colors, materials (stone and man-made) and sizes (from petite 2″ x 6″ to long, skinny 4″ x 24″) make this tile compatible with virtually any contemporary or traditional design style. Its versatile rectangular shape can be installed in a variety of layouts, such as brick-lay, straight stack or herringbone. Check out this guide to subway tile layouts for more ideas.

Clockwise: 1. Featuring: Coco White Matte. 2. Featuring: Coco Canvas Matte. 3. Featuring: Victoria Grey Dark.

Zellige Tile

Handcrafted by artisans using centuries-old techniques, Zellige tile is renowned for its authentic character and perfectly imperfect appearance. Available in petite subway, square and mosaic styles, the Star and Cross shapes are the most popular floor designs. These unique shapes reflect traditional Moroccan design and can be installed in alternating glossy and matte finishes to create subtle interest.

Note: part of Zellige tile’s handmade appeal lies in the slight variations in size, thickness and surface texture from tile to tile.

Pro Tip: For a slightly more uniform (and budget-friendly) floor tile, try the handmade-look Kasbah Cross and Star tiles.

Clockwise: 1. Featuring: Zellige Alabaster Gloss, Zellige Charcoal Chabone Cross Gloss and Zellige Charcoal Chabone Star Matte. 2. Featuring: Pisa Oro Matte, Kasbah Cross Terracotta, Kasbah Star Bone, Coco White Matte and Coco Canvas Matte. 3. Featuring: Kasbah Cross Terracotta and Kasbah Star Terracotta.

3. The Best-to-Clean Bathroom Flooring

Whether cleaning the bathroom is a chore you love or dread, chances are you want it to go as smoothly and effortlessly as possible. Easy to clean, stain resistant and waterproof, tile is perfect for bathroom floors. Whatever style or material you choose, a good broom and a mop will be enough for daily cleaning. However, you’ll occasionally want to do a deeper clean to address build-up in your grout joints. Large-format tile has the fewest grout joints, while mosaics have the most. Natural stone will also require extra maintenance, including regular sealing and special cleaning.

Pro Tip: A dark-colored grout will hide the appearance of dirt.

Featuring: Siberian Pearl. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

We hope this guide helps you select beautiful and durable bathroom flooring. Explore our Bathroom Flooring Ideas and shop bathroom floor tile for more inspiration. Have more questions? We’re always here to help! Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, or schedule a free design consultation to get started.

The post How to Choose Bathroom Floor Tile appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Floor Tile: Quarry Grey Field

This no-nonsense tile is a favorite for commercial and outdoor spaces. Unlike our other man-made porcelain and ceramic tiles, this tile is unglazed, making it less likely to show chips and scratches. If you’re looking for a cost-effective and durable tile for a high-traffic mudroom or patio, the Quarry Grey Field tile (also available in Red) is an excellent choice. Shop our vast selection of floor tile to find the style to fit your space.

Marble-Look Tile: Tresana White Polished

One of our most popular categories, marble-look tile combines the luxurious beauty of natural stone with the durability and easy maintenance of porcelain and ceramic tiles. This year, warm-toned marble looks–like the Tresana White tile with its subtle brown veining–were among your favorites.

Subway Tile: Imperial Bianco Gloss

White subway tile remains an interior design staple, so it’s no surprise that the Imperial Bianco Gloss tile topped the category. This sleek, chic subway tile is versatile enough to complement a range of design styles, like this bathroom, designed by Jessica Bigham, which pays homage to 1930s Hollywood. Shop our wide selection of subway tile to find styles to fit your space, whether contemporary, retro or anything in between.

Handmade-Look Tile: Tribeca Gypsum White

Perfectly imperfect handmade-look tile mimics the uneven surface and tonal variations found in authentic handmade tiles but at a fraction of the cost. The greater consistency from tile to tile also makes installation easier. With its warm white color and worn edges, the chic Tribeca Gypsum White tile–inspired by the trendy Manhattan neighborhood of Tribeca–was your favorite artisanal-style tile of 2024.

Mosaic Tile: Hex Matte White with Black Flower

The retro-inspired Hex Matte with Black Flower tile was your favorite mosaic of the year, and we can see why! This funky, versatile tile pairs with so many styles and colors, offering a wealth of design possibilities–whether for an all-black-and-white space (like this graphic shower) or as a backsplash in a kitschy kitchen.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Timber Ridge Cashmere

A favorite among DIYers, luxury vinyl flooring is available in a variety of easy-to-install wood-, stone- and cement-look planks and tiles. The Timber Ridge Cashmere features realistic woodgrain details characteristic of high-quality wood-look luxury vinyl flooring, making it a perfect option for great rooms, kitchens or mudrooms.

Marble: Arctic White

Continuing the 2024 trend for warm neutrals, the Arctic White Brushed 12″ x 24″ tile topped the marble category. This extremely rare stone, sourced from a single Turkish quarry, is a Tile Shop exclusive. Use this tile to create a lush, luxurious design in your great room, kitchen or bathroom–like this opulent spa bath designed by Annie Selke. For more beautiful and unique looks, shop our wide selection of marble tile.

Slate: Adoni Black

Perfect for rustic outdoor installations or for adding natural texture to contemporary bathrooms or kitchens, slate remains one of our most popular stone tiles. The dark and expressive Adoni Black slate 8″ x 24″ was the fan-favorite slate tile. Shown here in the small Versailles pattern, this stone tile features ridge-like striations that create a distinct earthy texture. Shop our full assortment of slate tile to find organic looks for your space.

Travertine Tile: Legno

Travertine is a type of limestone formed by mineral springs. Available in a range of shades–from brown to beige to black–travertine tile features bold veining and color variations, creating rich, expressive designs. The top-selling Legno 12″ x 24″ tile, with its warm beige and white tones, showcases the softer side of this natural stone

Trim Tile: Hampton Carrara Polished Somerset

A Somerset (a Tile Shop-exclusive trim piece similar to a pencil trim, but with a rounded edge) provides a sleek transition between two surfaces–whether between two tiles or between a tile and a painted wall. The Tile Shop specially sources trim pieces, including Somersets, to coordinate with our most popular stone tile collections. The Hampton Carrara polished Somerset will complete your Hampton Carrara tile design or add a stylish accent to ceramic, porcelain or glass tile, as demonstrated in this beautiful bathroom. Finish your tile design with our wide selection of trim tile, available in a variety of styles and materials.

Discover more fan-favorite styles when you shop our best-selling tiles!

Let 2025 be the year you create the space of your dreams! The Tile Shop is here to help every step of the way with tile, tools and helpful advice to take your project from design to completion. Visit your local Tile Shop to get started.

Explore the other entries in our 2024 Year In Review Series:

Top 10 Bathrooms of 2024

Top 10 Kitchens of 2024

Top 10 Before and Afters of 2024

The post Year In Review: Our Top-Selling Tiles of 2024 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Wood-Look Tile Pros

Superior Durability

No need to worry about splinters–wood-look porcelain and ceramic tiles can withstand the wear and tear of everyday living for years, even in high-traffic areas. These man-made tiles are made from clay and fired in a kiln at high temperatures, making them resistant to scuffs and scratches from shoes, pets and furniture.

Easy Maintenance

Tile makes cleanup a breeze! Porcelain and ceramic wood-look tiles require little more than a mop, broom or vacuum to keep them looking like new. Unlike hardwood, porcelain and ceramic tiles don’t require regular sanding or refinishing. While you will need to clean the grout periodically, the materials are relatively inexpensive, and the process is easy to do on your own.

Water Resistance

Porcelain tile offers superior water resistance, making it ideal for areas where wood isn’t typically used, such as bathrooms and showers. It’s also an excellent choice for outdoor spaces, as its high-density composition can withstand the elements, even in regions with freeze-thaw conditions. Note: Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for outdoor tile installation.

Style

Man-made wood-look tile offers styles you won’t find in nature, including patterns, colors and surface textures. For example, the current trend of fluted wood-look tile features raised “fluted” surfaces, adding a tactile element to your design. The textured wood look is becoming increasingly popular for walls, especially shower walls, due to its ability to stimulate the senses and create a stronger connection with nature.

Cost

The Tile Shop offers wood-look porcelain and ceramic tiles for under $3 per sq. ft., while natural hardwood typically ranges from $5 to $15 per sq. ft. If cost is a consideration in your renovation, consider durable and easy-to-install luxury vinyl flooring, which offers a wide range of wood-look styles starting at just $1.79 per sq. ft.

Wood-Look Tile Cons

Authenticity

While technological advances have made the wood-grain details on tile nearly indistinguishable from the real thing, it still doesn’t fully replicate the natural look and texture of hardwood. However, wood-look tile is a great option for extending your wood design from the great room to high-traffic, high-spill or damp areas like a mudroom, kitchen or bathroom.

Installation

The tools and materials needed to lay tile (and the possible cost of hiring a professional) may make installation more expensive than hardwood. However, for a low-cost, DIY-friendly alternative, consider wood-look luxury vinyl flooring, which offers many of the same benefits as porcelain and ceramic tile but with easier installation.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of wood-look tile to find your perfect style. Want to tackle your reno yourself? We have a vast resource of How-To Articles to help you every step of the way. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

The post Wood-Look Tile Pros & Cons appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Enhance the Spaces that Elevate Your Day

When approaching any design, it’s important to assess what you value so you know where to invest. If you don’t have the budget for a whole-home makeover, start with the spaces where you start your day, or the rooms where you spend the most time. You probably begin your day in your kitchen or bathroom, where you make coffee and take a shower. Choosing a design that will invigorate you in the morning will help you start your day off right.

2. Invest In What You Love

Do you adore the look of real marble? Have you fallen in love with a beautiful mosaic or gorgeous pattern? If your budget doesn’t allow for you to use your dream tile throughout your space, try incorporating it into your design in smaller ways. A shower niche or picture frame provides a limited format that will make your decorative tile the focal point.

3. Mix Marble-Look Tile with Real Marble

Wondering how to update bathroom tiles on a budget? Mixing marble-look tile with real marble tile is a great way to achieve an affordable bathroom tile design. This luxurious bathroom features the Volkas marble tile ($23.89/sq. ft.) throughout, but if you’re working within a budget, you can still get this look with the Volkas porcelain tile ($5.09/sq. ft.). The realistic veining and coloring of the man-made tile mimics the appearance of the higher price-point marble tile. You can elevate your design by incorporating real marble trim and accent pieces. The Elia Honed by Alison Victoria tile, used for the accent wall in this bathroom, makes a stunning shower niche (as shown in the above photo).

4. Choose an Affordable Alternative

Here’s a budget shower tile idea: choose an affordable alternative to your favorite tile. Compare the Cool Blue tile ($6.99/sq. ft.) in this shower to the Marrakesh Blue tile ($13.29/sq. ft.) used for the kitchen below. Both tiles feature the color variation and uneven surface texture characteristic of handmade-look tiles. The difference is the Cool Blue tile comes in a 12″ x 24″ pre-scored sheet, giving the appearance of individual tiles, but making for easier installation. We love how this shower embraces the features of this tile, using wider grout joints between the sheets as an innovative design element.

5. Stay True to Your Aesthetic

Even if you’re working within a budget, you want to make sure you’re staying true to your preferred style. This chic industrial bathroom designed by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes features the Softcement Graphite tile, an affordable floor option at only $5.99/sq. ft. The cement look is perfectly keeping with the moody aesthetic of this bathroom.

Whether you’re looking for budget shower tile ideas, or a kitchen refresh that doesn’t break the pocketbook, you’ll find tile for every budget and style at The Tile Shop. Find a local store or schedule a free design consultation to get started on your project! For more advice, watch as our Director of Design Kirsty Froelich explains how to choose tile for your budget.

The post Top 5 Tips for Luxury Tile Design on a Budget appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

An essential element of your tile design, trim will elevate your space whether you’re finishing a tiled edge or framing an elegant focal point. We sat down with Kirsty Froelich, Director of Design at The Tile Shop to demystify the process of choosing trim. Read on to build your confidence in choosing the finishing element to your design.

What is your approach to designing with trim?

I approach design with trim the same way I do when accessorizing a bedroom or living room, by adding layers. For example, in a bedroom you finish the bed with decorative pillows, a bedskirt, ect. The layered pieces add depth and visual interest. I apply this theory when designing with tile. You need a trim piece to finish off transitions (where two different finishes come together such as tile to painted wall), so I like to layer in pieces that will work with the overall design.

This shower niche is a great example of a layered trim border using a marble barnes and metal trim pieces.

What is the most important thing to keep in mind when

choosing trim pieces for a transition?

Ask yourself, do you want the transition to stand out or do you want it to look seamless? If you want it to stand out, select a different material or color from your main tile. If you’re looking for a seamless transition, choose a trim piece that matches your main tile.

Two examples of transitional edge. The bathroom on the left uses a REL (round edge long) tile to finish the border, matching the subway tile backsplash. The image on the right uses a marble barnes for a contrasting edge between the mosaic tile and the painted wall.

How do you approach creating a focal point with trim and

what are the benefits to creating a focal point in a space?

Creating a focal point with tile is a great way to draw attention to an area. It’s the main point of interest and is the element that first catches the eye when you enter a room. A successful tile focal point is proportional to the space you’re designing. You can add emphasis to your focal point by adding trim around it–this will make it stand out. For example, layering trim pieces around a decorative tile in a picture frame will add dimension and frame the tile.

This “picture frame” features a mosaic tile with a layered trim border. A perfect focal point for this elegant shower.

How would you advise someone to approach choosing their trim?

I think trim details are often overlooked or an afterthought. I would say, make sure you’re integrating them into the design process. This is one of the reasons why we show a variety of trim throughout our showroom vignettes. Look at the different pieces and applications to see what appeals to you. Do you want a more contemporary trim with a square edge, or do you like the softness of a rounded piece? Take time to explore the options at the same time you’re selecting your tiles.

“I approach design with trim the same way I do when accessorizing a bedroom or living room, by adding layers.”

–Kirsty Froelich, Director of Design

Do you have a favorite trim piece?

I do! I absolutely love our somerset trim pieces. It has a rounded surface and petite size, so it softens transitions and adds dimension without bulk. It’s available in a variety of materials, so it’s easy to design with. I especially love our marble somersets and decorative edging pieces. They’re a sophisticated and thoughtful way to edge tile.

This beautiful picture frame features a marble somerset tile border.

We hope you feel more confident approaching your design. Explore our wide selection of trim and accessories to find the right finishing piece to your tile design. Want more in-depth instruction? Read our comprehensive Guide to Layering Tile Trim and Profiles. And if you need more guidance, schedule a free design consultation. Our tile experts are always on hand to help you achieve your dream space.

The post How to Elevate Your Space with Trim appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Elegant & Expansive Large-Format Marble Look

Large-format marble-look tile are everything you love about marble, but more durable and easier to clean and maintain–a great option for a bathroom. The Invisible Grey tile features bold grey and gold veining, adding movement and interest to this chic modern bathroom designed by Gray Space Interiors.

2. Use 3D Tile For Walls that Pop

Sculptural or 3D tiles will pop off your walls, creating great visual texture. This chic powder room designed by Beth Diana Smith Interior Design features the Cell Light Gold AC tile. The raised abstract gold pattern makes for a unique, vibrant design. If you loved this extra-dimensional style, shop our full selection of 3D tiles to find a design to fit your space.

3. Create a Large-Format Herringbone

This elegant bathroom designed by Timber Trails uses the Siberian Pearl marble tile to create an oversized herringbone design. The zig-zag pattern of the tiles and combined with the soft beige veining of the marble gives this space a wonderful sense of movement. Shop our assortment of large-format rectangular tiles to achieve this effect.

4. Use Cement-Look Tile for Industrial Design

Industrial design is expanding from its urban roots and making its way into suburban homes. Case in point, this ultra-chic bathroom designed by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. The large-format Softcement Graphite tile infuses this space with the cool look of a cement loft.

5. Create a Slab Look with Marble Tile

Large blocks of stone can creates timeless, elegant and chic walls, but can be expensive and difficult to install. Get the look of a stone slab with large-format marble tile. This gorgeous marble backsplash uses the 12″ x 24″ Calacata Evora Honed marble tile. The effect of the oversize tiles with their fewer grout joints gives this space an expansive look similar to what you would get from a single block of marble.

6. Easy Handmade-look tiles

Handmade is made easy with the Cool Blue large-format wall tile. This 12″ x 24″ tile features pre-scored grout joints for easy installation. This tile gives the appearance of many smaller tiles, but the fewer grout joints makes the upkeep a breeze and the variation in tone and surface texture give this tile a true handmade look.

7. Authentic Wood-Look Tiles

Large-format tiles can mimic the look of real wood with long, skinny wood-look planks or decorative square wood looks like the Viggo Nogal Wood-Look porcelain tiles shown here. The realistic woodgrain texture will give your space all the elegance of organic material with the easy-to-clean, scratch- and water-resistant quality of porcelain. Shop our full assortment of wood-look tiles to achieve this effect.

8. Fabulous Fluted Tile

This luxurious dining room designed by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang truly reflects her bold, elegant and whimsical style. The fluted Tommas Classico (from our exclusive Kelli Fontana collection) is designed to add visual texture through the shadows each raised flute casts as the light moves through the room. This unique marble-look tile is also available in Tommas Cararra, which features subtle grey veining.

9. Create a Calming Space with Textured Wood-Look Tile

Wood-look tile emulates natural material, connecting your space to the outside world with the serotonin-inducing sensations of a walk in the woods. This botanical benevolence is perfectly expressed in the soft, earth tones and elegant fluting of the Nidus Decor Mix tile. The cool and calming shower that looks as if it belongs in a wilderness retreat or chic spa.

10. Rusted Metal-Look Tile

The Rust Green Geometric Luster tile has a worn appearance for a modern industrial look. The large-format of this tile make the floor look as if it’s made of large pieces of metal. If you love this chic and unique look, explore this tile’s other colorways: Brown and Ivory.

We hope you found these ideas on how to create expansive and cohesive spaces with large-format tile. Ready to tackle your room reno? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more large-format tiles in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

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1. Brick Lay

A classic tile design, brick lay (sometimes referred to as running board) mimics a traditional brick stack. Characterized by the horizontal offset tiles, this design manages to be understated while still looking chic. The brick lay wall design shown here using Brick x Brick by Alison Victoria Petal, is soft and charming but subtle enough not to take the focus away from the decorative shower niche.

2. Horizontal Stack

If you’re someone who wants everything neat and orderly, then consider a horizontal stack. The crisp vertical and horizontal lines create a structured grid pattern. Alternating double rows of Coco White Glossy and Coco White Matte enhance this simple design and add unassuming interest to this lovely modern bathroom.

3. Vertical Offset

Stand out with a vertical offset subway pattern. Long, skinny vertical stripes will create the illusion of height, perfect for a short shower space. This gorgeous shower shows how turning your tiles ninety degrees can give your space a fresh, modern look.

4. Vertical Straight Stack

Tall, neat and chic, the vertical straight stack is the perfect layout for a highly organized modern design. We love how this vertical straight stack creates nice well-ordered rows that extend and accentuate this bathroom backsplash.

5. Herringbone

Add movement to your space with a herringbone design. The diagonal lines take the eye through your space and add width and depth. The Coco Canvas Matte tile used on this spa floor proves that this design can be as tranquil as it is energetic.

6. Grid Stack

Can’t decide between vertical and horizontal? A grid stack is the best of both worlds. Use three to four tiles (depending on width) to create a square and install them in alternating vertical and horizontal stacks. This cool, modern shower uses the Look Avio handmade-look tile; the variation in the green-blue color and glossy finish creates a vibrant, undulating surface.

Bonus: Combine Designs

Combining subway layouts is a great way to highlight an area in your space–like a sink or a stove backsplash–or create an accent on your wall. Here are three stunning spaces that combine two layouts for a wonderful visual effect.

And One More Design Idea–Picket Tile!

A modern take on subway tile, picket tile is gaining popularity for its neat stacks and fine angles. This shower uses black and white picket to create an ultra-modern space that still maintains the unassuming quality of traditional subway tile. Shop our full selection of picket tile to find a design that fits your style.

Inspired to incorporate one or more of these subway tile layouts in your reno? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more stylish subway layouts in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

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What are Zellige Tiles?

Carefully crafted by skilled artisans in Morocco, every piece in the Zellige collection embodies true organic beauty with striking variations in color and surface texture. Adhering to traditional processes of hand-molding, hand-cutting and hand-glazing, each tile showcases one-of-a-kind character.

History of Zellige Tiles

Thought to be influenced by Byzantine mosaics, handcrafted Zellige tiles originated in North Africa in the tenth century. The process of molding, hand chiseling and glazing the tiles has changed little in the last seven centuries.

How Zellige Tiles Are Made

The key to making Zellige tiles is high-quality clay. All of our authentic Zellige tiles are made using clay from the northeastern Moroccan city of Fez. The clay is mixed with water and sent through a filtering machine to remove any impurities. Newly cleaned, the clay is moved to pools for three days for water to filter through and then left out to dry for another three days.

Once it is ready, the clay is placed in brick-shaped molds for three to six days resulting in rock-clay bricks that are passed through rollers to thin and smooth them. The clay bricks are then cut with molds to achieve the final shape. Only then is the clay fired in the kiln for 12 hours at 900 degrees celsius. After the clay has been fired, it is hand chiseled by a skilled artisan to achieve an angled edge for easier installation. They are then hand-painted and glazed and placed in holding racks to dry.

Designing with Zellige Tiles

Zellige tiles are ceramic and can be used on walls, floors and in wet areas. The hand-chiseling and hand-glazing process will result in tiles that are uneven and vary in surface color and surface texture. Embrace these imperfections! It is the tile’s one-of-a-kind quality that makes Zellige tile authentically luxurious.

Our Zellige collection tiles are available in a variety of shapes, including: square, petite subway, mosaic and cross and star. The bathroom below displays the variation in tone among a single colorway (Alabaster) and how glossy and matte Star and Cross tiles can be installed together for added interest.

Ready to embrace these perfectly imperfect tiles? Shop our Zellige Collection to find tile to fit your style. For even more inspiration and information, set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.

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