1. Keep it Simple…and Chic!

A backsplash staple, white subway tile is a timeless classic with endless versatility. This modern farmhouse kitchen, designed by Esslinger Design Co., features an Imperial Bianco Gloss tile backsplash behind open wood shelves. The simple brick-lay tile provides a neutral background, allowing the dark green range hood and brass swing-arm sconce light fixtures to stand out. If you love this cozy-chic style, check out our guide to modern farmhouse design.

2. Create a Stylish Slab Look

A backsplash crafted from a large block of stone is a popular feature of high-end design, but you can achieve this look on a more modest budget with large-format tile. These supersized tiles (up to 48″ x 48″) mimic the appearance of a single piece of stone while offering the durability and easy maintenance of ceramic or porcelain. As demonstrated in this contemporary kitchen, a counter-to-ceiling backsplash featuring extra-large marble-look tile makes your space feel expansive as well as elevated.

3. Show Off Your Style with a Graphic Pattern

Patterned tile offers the ornamentation of wallpaper with the superior protection of ceramic or porcelain. Perfect for adding design to a mess-prone backsplash, patterned tile can easily be stretched to the height of your wall to further celebrate your style. This fashionable kitchen features the graphic-patterned Nikki Chu Tangier Graphite tile. The eclectic hand-drawn print is bold in its simplicity, adding definition to the space while allowing flexibility to swap out accessories and change paint colors for easy updates. Discover more unique, fashion-forward designs in our exclusive Nikki Chu collection.

4. Display Your Taste with Diamond-Shaped Tile

When your tile covers a large area, choosing a design that creates a sense of movement and rich visual texture not only makes your space feel more expansive but also adds interest. This can be achieved through pattern, shape or material. This beautiful kitchen features the Africa Tempesta Polished Wheaton tile, a diamond- and chevron-shaped mosaic made from vividly veined marble. The zigzag pattern, combined with the grey and beige veining, draws the eye up the wall, creating the illusion of height and adding a touch of luxury. Shop diamond-shaped tile for more brilliant designs.

5. Tile the Range Hood

When you have a tile as elegant and expressive as the Firenze Calacatta marble subway tile, you’ll want to display it without interruption. That’s exactly what Christie Juncaj did in her magnificent contemporary kitchen. By using the tile to disguise the range hood, the kitchen maintains a cohesive appearance from the counter to the ceiling and across the wall.

6. Showcase Mid-Century Modern Design

Even if you don’t have an A-frame house, you can embrace the simple sophistication of mid-century modern style with The Tile Shop’s new Stoneware collection from Fired Earth. Featuring a sleek elongated subway format in five retro-inspired colorways, these tiles celebrate the best of 20th-century design. Here, the Stoneware Rainwashed tile runs along the expanse from the counter to the tip of the angled ceiling, creating a vibrant statement wall that feels contemporary while evoking a vintage appeal.

7. Marvel with a Mosaic Tile

Perhaps counterintuitively, a small-format mosaic tile can have the same space-widening effect as a large-format tile. The petite pieces provide visual texture that draws the eye across a space, adding depth and a sense of movement. This charming kitchen, designed by @dwellwithmichelle, features the Hex Matte White with Black Flowers mosaic. The repeated retro floral pattern guides the eye up the wall, while the open shelving makes the space feel light and airy.

8. Create a Work of Art

A tall backsplash allows for creative use of the space behind your stove or kitchen sink. Take advantage of the expanse by showcasing a beautiful patterned or mosaic tile within a tiled picture frame. Using trim to “frame” the decorative tile, this design technique elevates your space while providing a pleasing focal point you can admire while cooking and cleaning. This elegant transitional kitchen features the Morris & Co. Pure Net Cloud Grey tile, framed by a double layer of Firenze Carrara Somerset trim.

9. Achieve Artisanal Excellence

Zellige tile is handcrafted using ancient techniques, ensuring that each tile is authentically unique. Showcasing this singular tile from counter to ceiling creates a one-of-a-kind backsplash that celebrates artistry. This chic kitchen, designed by Fox Homes, features the Zellige White Gloss tile. The square format aligns with contemporary design, while the traditional craftsmanship connects it to the past.

10. Embrace English Cottage Style

Put the kettle on and take in this charming kitchen backsplash featuring the Laura Ashley Wexbord Fresh Green tile. With a whimsical floral motif inspired by historic prints from the iconic British brand’s archive, this patterned tile is made to be displayed. We love how it pairs with white cabinets, but a bold blue or sunny yellow would look equally delightful. As enamored with this style as Mr. Darcy is with Elizabeth? Click here to discover how to bring English cottage design into your home.

11. Showcase Your Stove

If your kitchen cabinets cover most of your counter-to-ceiling space, the area behind the stove might be the only place to showcase this design trend. However, even this limited space can deliver big results, as is evident in this stylish kitchen designed by Georgia Pepperberry Interior Design. The Liria Negro tile adds a pattern that helps to highlight the stove and the dark copper range hood. The use of white subway tile below the white cabinets prevents the room from feeling too busy and ensures the stove remains the star of the show.

12. Make “Hex-Cellent” Choices

The six-sided hexagon is a classic tile shape that’s surprisingly versatile. Available in a variety of sizes, colors and materials, hex tile offers a wealth of possibilities and timeless design. This contemporary kitchen features the Royal White polished marble hex tile. The stone’s natural tonal variation, combined with the tile’s shape, gives the backsplash a sense of movement that draws the eye up the wall.

13. Tile Above the Cabinets

Your wall cabinets don’t have to define your backsplash. This elegant kitchen takes the Cheverny Blanc patterned encaustic tile to the ceiling by tiling the space above the cabinets. The result is a stunning statement wall that maintains a sense of continuity.

14. Go Retro

An expanded backsplash offers a unique opportunity to showcase your style. This groovy kitchen, designed by Total 360 Interiors, embraces flower-power ideals with the Star Olive/Grey Encaustic tile. The bold, bright geometric floral pattern exudes 70s vibes, while the modern stainless steel appliances and sleek white cabinets ground this space firmly in this century.

15. Create Contrast

Contrasting colors–whether they be classic black-and-white or contemporary neutral-and-bright–add depth to your space. This chic kitchen, designed by Timber Trails, features Noir Amalfi limestone tile installed with contrasting white grout. In addition to complementing the white cabinetry and window frame, the white grout lines highlight the tile’s classic brick-lay pattern. By extending the tile to the ceiling, the designer enhances the dramatic effect of the stark contrast.

16. Find Historic Inspiration

Popular in the Victorian era, tin tiles were embossed with decorative patterns, adding both texture and visual interest. The 19th-century-inspired Victoria Gris Fonce tile (also available in Blanco) features the characteristic raised pattern in a durable ceramic format. Here, You Neek Designs updates Victorian aesthetics for a contemporary kitchen. The tin-look tiles behind the stove are flanked by white subway tile, another popular style of the era. However, the Annie Selke Artisanal White tile’s handmade look and the horizontal straight-stack layout add a modern twist. Extending the subway tile behind the open wooden shelving makes this design feel fresh.

17. Add Movement With a Herringbone Pattern

If you love the sleek, chic silhouette of subway tile but want a more dynamic design, consider installing your favorite tile in a herringbone layout. The zigzag pattern of this classic format evokes a sense of movement by drawing the eye both up and across the space. We love how this backsplash, designed by Twigg + Lu Design Company, uses the Look Oliva subway tile as both a backsplash and window frames.

18. Choose Classically Chic Chevron Tile

Another classic tile pattern that adds dynamic interest, chevron tile offers the same zigzag as herringbone, but with tiles specially cut to form the characteristic V-shape. This elegant kitchen, designed by Accent on Cabinets, features the Bianco Puro Honed Chevron tile. The luxurious white marble enhances the sophistication of this gold-accented white kitchen.

19. Add Rustic Details

You probably wouldn’t put real wood behind your stovetop, but wood-look porcelain or ceramic tile offers the contemporary rustic aesthetic of a cabin in an easy-to-clean, flame-retardant material. Available in a range of realistic designs–like the distressed Colonial Wood White Brillo tile shown here–wood-look tile makes your kitchen feel rugged without sacrificing modern conveniences.

20. Reflect Your Style

Glass tile’s naturally reflective surface adds brightness and depth to your space. This contemporary kitchen, designed by Riemer Kitchens and Fine Cabinetry, features the Winter Morning glass tile. The light playing across the surface makes the small backsplash feel more expansive. While it looks amazing in this bright and open kitchen, glass tile would also help illuminate a space that doesn’t receive much natural light.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style. If you’re up to tackling a DIY project, check out our guide on how to tile your backsplash yourself. 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 20 Counter-to-Ceiling Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Contrasting Colors

Dark and light or neutral and bright, contrasting colors add drama and dimension to a space. Drastic color contrasts allow each tile to stand out in relation to the other, resulting in a space that both stimulates and soothes the senses. Here are a few of our favorite spaces that use contrasting colors to stunning effect.

Black and White With Charm All Over

This modern colonial bathroom, designed by Chris Loves Julia, demonstrates just how elevated a simple black-and-white color scheme can be. The floor features a custom design using Hex Matte Black and Hampton Carrara Tumbled Hex tiles. The uniform shapes of similarly sized hexagon and penny round tiles allow for creative designs and borders, which are even more striking when using contrasting colors. The dark floor is juxtaposed with the subtly grey-veined white marble wall tile, and the addition of the slim black pencil trim provides a visual throughline that ties the design together.

Bold and Neutral

A bright, bold color will make your wall or floor pop, and that color becomes even more vibrant when contrasted with a neutral element. This kitchen features the Zellige Turquoise Gloss subway tile paired with the Arbour Lowlands Summer Oak luxury vinyl plank. The beige wood-look tones of the floor complement the brilliant jewel tones of the wall tile, and the mix of warm and cool colors gives the space a contemporary feel. For more durable, easy-to-install flooring options, shop our newly expanded wood and vinyl offerings.

Color Blocking

Add interest to your tile design by color-blocking two contrasting colors. This chic shower features one black wall and one white wall, creating the illusion of depth, which helps the small space appear larger. The black-and-white patterned Jeffery Alan Marks Summerland Toro floor tile keeps the space feeling cohesive.

2. Monochromatic Mix

Contrast naturally adds depth to your design, but if you prefer the clean look of a monochromatic space, you can create interest by incorporating different finishes, sizes, shapes and materials. Here are three tile designs that prove a limited color palette can still be lively.

White on White

Crisp and clean, white is an invigorating shade that works in virtually any space. This beautiful bathroom, designed by @lifewithmadisonm, showcases white tile in two distinct styles. The shower walls feature the Regent Bianco handmade-look subway tile, while the floor is adorned with Calacata Brilliante marble-look tile. The slight variations inherent to handmade and handmade-look tiles add subtle visual texture, while the striking grey veining on the marble-look tile lends depth to the space. If you love the look of an all-white room, shop our wide selection of white tile.

Color Drenched

Embrace a bold hue to create a vivid tableau. A gorgeous green, beautiful blue or radiant red adds personality to your space. This lush shower pairs the Alison Victoria Gem marble mosaic tile with the Marradi Calacata Emerald marble-look tile. Though both tiles feature expressive veining, they are distinct in shape and tone, creating visual interest while maintaining color harmony.

Neutral Territory

A neutral color palette is the perfect recipe for tranquility. If you like an all-over creamy look, like this serene beige-on-beige shower, use texture and shape to keep your calming neutrals stimulating. The subtle mix of travertine and marble stone tiles adds just enough variation in tone and texture to create interest, while the framed Arctic White Large Herringbone tile wall detail and the Claros Silver square mosaic floor tile provide a sense of movement.

3. Coordinated Collections

One of the easiest ways to guarantee your design flows together is by using tile from the same collection or series on both walls and floors. A main benefit of a Tile Shop stone collection is its variety of shapes, sizes and trim offerings. All the tiles within a Tile Shop stone collection are sourced from a single quarry, so while natural variation ensures no two pieces are ever the same, your overall design will remain cohesive.

Marvelous Marble

Nothing symbolizes luxury quite like marble. This exquisite stone comes in a wide range of colors, from black and white to beige, grey and even red. Here, Calacata Evora marble tile is used to create a sumptuous bathroom featuring eight different field, mosaic and trim tiles–all crafted from the same stone. The use of varying sizes and shapes elevates the design by creating a sense of movement and refinement. The mix of grey and beige veining in the classic white marble makes it a popular choice for both contemporary and traditional styles.

Lush Limestone

Limestone is a naturally occurring stone formed from calcified coral and shells. Our limestone collections feature several stunning colors, including brown, tan, black, and the shimmering grey tones of the Silver Mist collection showcased here. With the use of subway and hex mosaic tiles in the shower, along with large-format tile for the main floor, this elegant bathroom, designed by Chris Loves Julia, demonstrates how to utilize different sizes and shapes within a single collection to create distinct yet cohesive spaces.

Timeless Travertine

Travertine, a type of limestone formed in mineral springs, is a rich stone distinguished by its naturally earthy tones. Shades of brown, grey, beige and silver (both alone and in combination) can be found in our travertine tile collections. Here, Legno travertine, with its soft beige tones and smooth veining, creates a relaxing atmosphere. Notice how the Wheaton mosaic, used as a focal point on the wall, maintains symmetry with the Double Chevron mosaic floor tile.

4. Patterns That Pop

One of our most popular wall and floor tile combinations is patterned and non-patterned tile. For the bold at heart, there’s nothing better than an accent wall or floor brimming with striking shapes. Delicate, floral, abstract or geometric–shop our wide assortment of patterned tile to find a style to suit your taste.

Botanical Beauty

A nature-inspired pattern will fill your space with serotonin-boosting outdoor vibes (bonus points if it includes colors found outside, like the Annie Selke Flora Vapor Blue tile shown here). This charming bathroom demonstrates how to feature a patterned tile without overwhelming the space. The colors in the floor tile are reflected in the blue sink vanity and the Annie Selke Artisanal White subway wall tile. By maintaining a simple color palette, the space feels elegant yet full of personality.

For more ideas on infusing your home with nature-loving vibes, check out our guide to biophilic design.

Pattern and Color

Pulling a color or two from your patterned tile will ensure your design coordinates. However, if you choose a black-and-white patterned tile, like the Cloth Black and White tile shown here, you can pair it with virtually any hue. We love how the Glass Royal Blue Amalfi tile pops against the black-and-white design, and how the black hardware and white grout lines create a visual throughline between the shower walls and the bathroom floor.

Wallpaper Effect

A patterned wall tile provides the look of wallpaper with all the durability and easy-to-clean properties of ceramic or porcelain–perfect for mess-prone spaces like kitchen backsplashes, bathrooms or entryways. This fashionable kitchen features the Nikki Chu Tangier Graphite tile. Bold enough on its own, this patterned tile is paired with the black Iconic Steel floor tile and the Nikki Chu Luxor Winter White subway tile (on the kitchen island). If you love this global, eclectic style, shop our exclusive Nikki Chu Collection.

5. Tone on Tone

One way to ensure a cohesive look between your floors and walls is to coordinate the tones of your tiles. This involves choosing a color from one tile and carrying it through to another. The result is floors and walls that complement each other without exactly matching. Here are a few spaces that exemplify this concept.

Beige on Beige

Tiles that offer shade variation are perfect for the tone-on-tone concept. This elegant bathroom, designed by @jessicasmithhomedesign, pairs the Coco Canvas Glossy wall tile with a marble checkerboard floor featuring Royal Satin White and Avorio Fiorito tiles. The undulating surface of the handmade-look subway tile spans creamy whites to light tan tones, which are reflected in the white and beige floor.

Rust on Rust

Here, the crisp white background and expressive rust-colored veins of the Pisa Oro Matte tile are echoed in the Kasbah Cross Terracotta and Star Bone floor tiles. While a single white, beige or grey tile would capture the tones of the unique marble-look wall tile, selecting the most vibrant shade creates an invigorating space. While nothing beats the singular luxury of real marble, some ceramic and porcelain marble-look tiles offer colors and designs you won’t find in nature, such as blue, green and gold.

Warm and Cool

Sometimes, multiple tones can be carried through from one tile to another. This welcoming entryway pairs the Organic Clay Taupe wall tile with the Jerica Ceniza floor tile. While one is dark and the other light, both of these handmade-look subway tiles feature a mix of warm brown and cool grey tones. The combination of the two creates a subtle visual texture that makes the space feel fresh and contemporary.

6. Eclectic

Even tile rules are meant to be broken! While tried-and-true combos make for beautiful and unique spaces, good design can be found in the least expected pairings. Here are a few of our favorite eclectic tile arrangements.

Singular Looks

The Alison Victoria Brick x Brick Petal tile and the Terrazzo Nero Macro tile are an unconventional couple that forms natural harmony in this sweetly chic bathroom, designed by Yellow Brick Home. The brick-like texture of the wall tile and the terrazzo-inspired floor tile, with its pattern of glass- and marble-look fragments, each contribute their own visual appeal. While the colors and textures are neither matching nor dramatically contrasting, their warm tones and singular styles make an interesting complement.

A Reflection on Texture and Pattern

This opulent space, showcasing tile from our exclusive Kelli Fontana Collection, is a wealth of texture and pattern. The Patina Siren Mirror wall tile provides a smooth, reflective surface with striking aged details, while the Tommas Carrara fluted marble-look wall tile lends texture to the space. Paired with the Inlay Proper Naples Beach floor tile, with its elegant leaf pattern, these tiles come together to create a rich, romantic tableau. Though each piece in her collection is distinct, celebrated designer Kelli Fontana conceived of all her tiles to work together for a classic, bold and whimsical aesthetic. Explore all of our exclusive designer collections for complementing tiles that form eclectic designs.

Shape and Movement

There are many ways to add a sense of movement to your tile design, as evidenced in this exceptional space. Though the three prominent tiles are aesthetically distinct, each brings its own visual flow. The center tile stripe features the Trois Bandes tile, with its black-and-white diamond pattern forming a horizontal zigzag. This movement is directionally mirrored by the organic woodgrain detail in the Amazon Amendoa tile, while the half-hexagon shape of the Tory Black mosaic floor tile reflects the diagonals in the patterned tile. The result is a space that could feel random but has enough visual throughlines to maintain cohesion.

Whether you seek a dramatic contrast, a soothing monochromatic space or a distinct ecelctic pairing, there are as many wall and floor combinations as there are tiles at The Tile Shop (literally thousands!). We hope these classic designs have inspired your next project, and if you need a little more guidance, be sure to schedule a free design consultation or visit your local showroom–our tile experts are excited to help you create a space you’ll love.

The post Tried-and-True Wall and Floor Tile Combinations appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Celebrate the Classics

Founded in 1861 by William Morris, Morris & Co. continues the renowned British designer’s mission of bringing beauty to everyday life. The Morris & Co. St. James Farringdon Grey tile, shown here, features warm grey coloring and an ornate pattern derived from the wallpaper commissioned in 1881 for the grand staircase of London’s St. James Palace. Though originally designed for the aristocracy, this lovely tile–also available in Pure Cloud (light blue) and Wandle River (bright blue)–embodies the casual elegance and vintage appeal of a well-appointed English cottage. If your sensibilities lean toward the sophisticated, explore all the historic patterns available in our exclusive Morris & Co. collection.

2. Add a Touch of Whimsy

From King Arthur to Mary Poppins and Harry Potter, the British have a long tradition of creating classic characters and fanciful worlds. A spoonful of decorative whimsy brings the cheer and charm of imagined places into your very real spaces. This endearing kitchen backsplash features the Laura Ashley Wexbord Midnight tile (also available in Fresh Green). The petite floral motif is based on a 1981 pattern from England’s iconic Laura Ashley brand. Full of delicate geometric botanicals, classic colors and unique shapes, the Tile Shop-exclusive Laura Ashley collection brings the best of British design to American homes.

3. Embrace Elements of Cottagecore

The on-trend cottagecore style is akin to English country cottage in many ways, but while English cottage embraces an abundance of patterns, cottagecore takes a more serene and rustic approach to the rural aesthetic. Combining traditional tile styles with playful patterns helps to tone down some of the busyness associated with the English style (though feel free to be busy if that’s your cup of tea!). This bathroom, designed by I SPY DIY, pairs the Splendor Blanco wall tile with the Laura Ashley Mr Jones Charcoal floor tile. The white, handmade-look subway tile, arranged in a classic brick-lay layout, is common in cottages and farmhouse design, while the patterned floor tile adds a distinctly English country touch.

4. Tile Your Floor in Natural Stone

Marble, slate and travertine offer natural beauty that elevates any design. Tumbled stone adds rustic appeal to your floors, while polished or honed stone creates a more sophisticated aesthetic. This pleasant bathroom, designed by @sposadesignllc, features the Hampton Delray marble mosaic tile. The basketweave pattern, reminiscent of traditional handicrafts, is complemented by a border of Hampton Carrara polished marble, making this floor feel both homey and high-end. The marble tile, paired with the blue-painted wood wainscotting and floral wallpaper, creates a space that exudes the cozy elegance of a posh cottage.

5. Add Traditional Molding Details

Common in English cottages, molding is a decorative detail often found where the wall meets the floor, ceiling or door and window frames. Available in a range of durable and stylish natural stone and man-made materials, skirting, cornice, capital and Barnes tiles allow you to incorporate these traditional trims, even if they aren’t original to your home. The wall in this bathroom is divided by Hampton Carrara Barnes and Legno Luce Somerset trim tiles, creating a classic chair rail feature. Though traditionally used to protect walls from dining room chairs, it is employed here as a transition between the Annie Selke Tulip mosaic tile and the Hampton Carrara subway tile wainscoting.

6. Create Cozy Spaces with Warm Neutrals

Bright colors have a place in an English country cottage home, but that doesn’t mean you need to surround yourself with rainbow hues. Warm neutrals, especially when used in patterns, evoke a sense of comfort associated with this style. This mudroom, designed by West Bay Homes, features the Laura Ashley Wicker Dove Grey floor tile. The tile’s soft greige background and white geometric floral pattern complement the burnt orange accent wall and white cabinetry, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere.

7. Favor Florals

No English cottage is complete without a well-tended garden. Bring the botanicals indoors, and fill your home with year-round cheer with a floral-patterned tile. This vibrant backsplash, designed by Colleen Primm Design, features the Genius tile. The continuous design creates the look of wallpaper while offering the superior durability and easy maintenance of porcelain. If you find a floral motif as enchanting as Mr. Darcy, shop our wide assortment of patterned tile.

8. Add Texture With Victorian-Inspired Tiles

Popular in Victorian homes, tin tiles featured ornate patterns punched into the metal to create a raised surface design. You can achieve this antique look in a more durable ceramic format with the Victoria tiles, available in Blanc (shown here) and Gris Fonce (oxidized copper). With their raised pattern and weathered appearance, these tiles add texture and vintage appeal to your space. We love how this chic kitchen pairs the tile backsplash with white and light green cabinets, but these tiles would also look stunning with cottage-style open shelving or rustic wood cabinets.

9. Use Wood-Look Tile for a Cottage Feel

A wood floor is a quintessential cottage element. Achieve this aesthetic in every area of your home (even mess- and water-prone areas) with durable, water-resistant and easy-to-clean porcelain or ceramic wood-look tile. This charming dining room, designed by At Home with Ashley, demonstrates the versatility of this tile. The blonde wood tones of the Baltimore Beige tile are in harmony with the botanical wallpaper and fireplace yet would complement a range of styles. Find more durable, affordable and easy-to-install wood alternatives in our wide assortment of wood-look luxury vinyl flooring. Or, for naturally beautiful floors in less moisture-prone areas, explore our newly expanded selection of engineered hardwood.

Whatever your style, The Tile Shop is here with tile, tools and expert advice to help bring your dream space to life. Explore stunning tile ideas for every room, or schedule a free design consultation to get started.

The post Tile for Every Style: English Country Cottage appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Elevate the Everyday with Marble

Luxurious and unique, marble takes even a simple design to the next level. This beautiful backsplash designed by Timber Trails features the Firenze Calacatta Amalfi tile to accentuate this space. The use of the white with grey and taupe veined marble with the white cabinets elevates what could be a very basic kitchen design. Check out our 20 Creative Kitchen Backsplash Ideas to Pair With White Cabinets for more kitchen inspo.

2. Mix Finishes

If you’re using subway tile for a whole wall, you can create a distinct backsplash moment by mixing glossy and matte finishes. This serene bathroom features the Coco Canvas matte tile with a stripe of the Coco Canvas glossy tile that extends from behind the sink and into the shower. The use of multiple layout designs (vertical and horizontal stacks) creates extra interest, but if this change in direction is making your brain hurt, you can achieve a similar effect with just the use of glossy and matte. The light reflecting off the glossy tiles will create a natural distinction.

3. Make a Point With Picket Tile

Like the neat stacks of subway tile but looking for a modern twist? This elongated hex tile gets its name from the fence posts it resembles. We love how this tile creates naturally fitting off-center stacks. The long Lanse Matte White Picket tile shown here creates length to this bright modern bathroom backsplash, but picket tile comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Shop our full selection of picket tile to find you style.

4. Horizontal Stack

Everything is in its place in this chic drink station designed by Style Jam. The deep, rich color of the Imperial Kelly Green Bevel gloss tile installed in a neat horizontal stack is accentuated by the contrasting white grout. This tile is contributing a lot to this compact space, the horizontal pattern give this small space the illusion of width and the glossy finish reflects the light for added brightness.

5. Glass Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas

Easy to clean with a reflective surface, glass subway tile is a great choice for a backsplash, particularly if you want to add some light under a counter or range hood. This elegant kitchen designed by Timber Trails features the Antique Mirror Bevel glass subway tile. The reflective surface lends light and glamour to this cooking space. Read more about the design decisions behind this charming house.

6. Embrace the Perfectly Imperfect

Every tile in our Zellige collection is formed, painted and glazed by hand, including the new petite subway tiles like the Zellige Dirty Blue Gloss tile shown here. The slight variations in size, surface texture and color create a backsplash with completely unique character. Shop our full assortment of Zellige tile, or if you like this look, but want a little more reliability in size and texture, shop handmade-look subway tiles.

7. Herringbone Pattern

Part of subway tile’s appeal is the ability to change the style completely depending on which layout you choose. The herringbone pattern is a classic layout that will give your space a sense of movement as it zigs and zags across your backsplash. Choose a long, skinny subway tile, like the Tribeca Gypsum White tile shown here, to add the illusion of length to your space. For more design ideas, check out this guide to 6 Classic Subway Tile Layouts.

8. Keep It Straight (Stack)

Another favorite layout, the straight stack is neat, orderly and very modern. This chic bathroom features the Coco White glossy handmade-look tile. The subtle variations in size, surface texture and coloring add interest, while the vertical stacks create orderly, gridded lines lend a sense of harmony to this space. We love how this design uses a slightly darker grout with the white tiles to accentuate the tidy lines of this design.

9. Subway Tile Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

If your kitchen backsplash extends behind your stove, you can use your layout design to create distinction between your spaces. This modern kitchen backsplash pairs a classic brick lay tile design with a herringbone design to highlight the cooking space. We love how the herringbone creates movement between the stovetop and range hood, but this layout could also work by mixing a vertical offset with a vertical straight stack or horizontal and vertical stack.

10. White Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas

Classic and classy, white subway tile can make for surprising designs. Whether you choose an unexpected layout design, or stick to a basic brick lay, you can create an unexpected backsplash with your grout and accessories. A contrasting black or grey grout will add drama to your design, and you can add dishes or flowers to enliven your space. This subway tile backsplash designed by At Home With Ashley shows how you can use white subway tile as a reprieve from a more colorful space. You can even switch out your accessories with the seasons or your mood!

11. Create Contrast

A dark subway tile with a white grout–or vice-versa–will add instant drama to your space. This sleek and chic modern kitchen uses the Noir Honed Amalfi subway tile with a crisp white grout. The white cabinets and counters keep this space from becoming too dark, but we love how this simple black and white color scheme adds character to this room. Shop our wide selection of pro-rated grout to achieve this look.

12. Add Dimension with Beveled Tile

Beveled tile’s raised surface will give your space elegant dimension. Even a white beveled subway tile, like the Imperial Bianco Bevel tile used in this elegant kitchen designed by The Wray Design Co., adds a slight quirky element to your design. Shop the Imperial Bevel tiles in all their color ways to get this effect on your backsplash.

13. Alternate Your Stacks

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your layout. The alternating horizontal and vertical subway stacks used for this chic kitchen backsplash create a unique and unexpected design. The calming grey tones and reflective surface of the Coco Amber Grey Glossy tile adds brightness and interest to this kitchen. While this design accentuates the high wall, this backsplash idea would also add the illusion of height to a more confined space.

Ready to update your backsplash? Shop our wide assortment of subway tile to find the right style for you.

It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more stunning subway tile layouts in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

The post 13 Sleek & Chic Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Customizing Your Space

We’re sharing our best practices for layering tile to show you how you can take your space to the next level. The look below incorporates a combination of trim pieces and mosaics to transform a simple picture frame into an exquisite focal point.

Since this bathroom uses the Firenze Carrara marble collection throughout, the untrained eye may see it as quite simple. Look carefully at the transitions, and see if you can identify how many trim pieces are actually used to accomplish this sophisticated design.

Incorporating different shapes and sizes from the same tile collection can carry this elevated look through to other areas of the room, such as the backsplash, half wall and shower (photo top left). By sourcing all of the pieces of a collection from the same stone quarry, each piece complements the others for stunning variation that isn’t overbearing. If you have a focal point, repeat the same design element in other areas, like a shower niche (photo top right).

Thoughtful Transitioning

It’s important to think about how each part of your space will work together to form a unified environment. Utilizing trim pieces between different materials, sizes, shapes and textures of tile can create the perfect transition.

Dimensional tile can create dramatic depth and texture, but it can also leave an uneven edge when paired with other selections (top left photo). Incorporating transitional trim pieces will offer a seamless solution from one style to the next. Similarly, they can be used on the floor to separate different areas within a space – the top right photo displays a subtle transition, while the photo below incorporates durable curb pieces for a more prominent separation from shower to floor.

For tiles that vary in size, double up somersets and run them vertically for the greatest impact.

Using transitions is also the perfect way to emphasize an accent tile in your design. In the photo below, layered trim pieces instantly elevate the Brushed Bronze with Glass Metal Mosaic backsplash, while coordinating beautifully with the surrounding ceramic subway tile.

Each trim piece has its own unique characteristics that make it perfect for specific uses.

Coordinating Finishes

Pictured below is an example of how trim and profile pieces can provide an opportunity to coordinate with fixtures. In cases where there’s no need for a transition or storage solution, metal profiles can be used in between tiles as a unique accent that can coordinate with other design elements, such as faucets or lighting.

Layering trim and profile pieces can make every tile design better by adding dimension and interest. It shows that the design has been thoughtfully curated and has the finishing touches that elevate the space from basic to beautiful.

When And Where To Layer Tile

4 Design Plans With Layered Tile

Need ideas for your next remodel? Here are a few examples of design plans that incorporate tile trim and profile pieces. Bring them into your local store or schedule a design consultation to discuss dimensions, quantity, styles and more.

Learn more about layering in our comprehensive guide to trim and accessories. Ready for the next step? Schedule a design consultation with a tile design expert today!

The post Guide To Layering Tile Trim And Profiles appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Cool-Blue Backsplash

Blue is a charming and versatile hue that pairs well with white. The uneven surface texture and color variations in the Marrakesh Blue tile complement the white cabinets and window frame in this kitchen with beautiful texture and movement. If you like this color pairing, explore our wide assortment of blue tile.

2. White Subway

White subway tile is a classic and timeless choice. If you’re worried white on white will make your kitchen feel like the middle of a snowstorm, try pairing it with colorful accessories. We love how At Home with Ashley uses color in this charming kitchen, but even small accessories like a red bowl or green tea kettle will pop against white subway tile, and can easily be switched out to fit the seasons or your mood.

3. Make Waves

Curved lines bring a softness and an elegant sense of movement to this kitchen. The Wave Old Cream tile features a warm sand-colored neutral for a contemporary look that pairs well with the handleless white cabinetry. If you like this flowing design, shop the Wave tile in all four colorways: Blue Reef, Grey Owl, White and Old Cream.

4. Geometric Black & White Pattern

Want a modern backsplash for your white cabinets? A geometric black-and-white patterned tile is a great way to add interest without overwhelming with color. This graphic diamond-patterned tile is a bold statement and will look stunning with bright-colored accessories.

5. Mirrored Tile

The Patina Siren Mirror tile brings brightness and depth to this elegant contemporary backsplash, designed by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. We love how the tile helps to highlight the dinner and serving ware behind the open shelving, but this tile would also look great as a stove backsplash. Shop our exclusive Kelli Fontana collection for more classic, bold and whimsical tile ideas.

6. Bold Pattern

The simplicity of white cabinets allows for a pronounced approach to your tile, if that’s your style. A striking, graphic pattern like the Nara Arabesque shown here, will showcase your fun and bold aesthetic.

7. Nature-Inspired Beauty

Colors found in nature–think warm neutrals, vibrant greens and cool blues–are the hallmark of one of our favorite style trends: biophilic design. The Zellige Dirty Blue tile features undulating blue and green tones for a unique and expressive look that pairs well with the more muted white cabinets. For more ideas that will infuse your space with serotonin-inducing vibes, check out our guide to biophilic design.

8. Charming Handmade-Look Tile

Perfectly imperfect handmade-look tile will add charm and character to your kitchen. The variations in color and surface texture in the Marrakesh Off-White tile shown here create beautiful movement that gives this backsplash a customized, designed appearance.

9. Chic Chevron

Create gorgeous movement with a neat, geometric chevron tile. These elongated V-shaped tiles naturally move the eye through the room. We love how the grey veining on this marble tile adds visual texture, but a solid color chevron will create an interesting graphic element–for an even more dramatic effect, try pairing it with a contrasting grout.

10. White Picket Tile

Subway tile with a twist, picket tile is a new design trend that is here to stay. The elongated hexagon shape creates unique visual interest while providing the orderliness of stacked subway tile. If you love this trend as much as we do, take a look at our full assortment of picket tile.

11. Add a Tile “Picture Frame”

Created by “framing” a patterned or mosaic tile with trim pieces, a picture frame is an excellent way to display a favorite tile, while maintaining a more neutral overall theme. Here, the Siberian Pearl Somerset and Stainless Steel Metal Somerset tiles are layered around the edge of the Cybele Grey patterned tile.

12. Stand Out with 3-D Tile

3-D tile juts out of the wall creating natural shadows and a wonderful sense of dimension. You can use color, but if you decide to keep your kitchen monochromatic, like the one shown here using the Tangram Asas Bronco 3-D tile, the multi-dimensional shapes will make your backsplash really pop.

13. White Marble Subway

Subway is popular for its versatility–it comes in a wide variety of sizes, colors and materials. White subway tile is one of our most popular tile styles, but if your style is elevated traditional, marble subway tile like the Firenze Calacatta Honed Amalfi shown here is at once luxurious, elegant and timeless. The dark veining creates an especially striking backsplash for black granite countertops and white cabinets.

14. Marvelous Mosaics

Mosaic tile combines shapes, colors and sometimes even materials to create a beautiful tableau that will make your kitchen a masterpiece. The Sampson Mosaic tile with its basketweave pattern gives this backsplash an elevated traditional look that’s at once intricate and simple.

15. Gorgeous Grey

Grey and white are a naturally elegant combination. We love how the Retro Perla tile creates a soft, understated moment in this kitchen designed by Timber Trails. If you love how this grey backsplash looks with white cabinets, explore our full assortment of grey tiles, to achieve this beautiful aesthetic.

16. Historic Patterns

Endlessly versatile, white cabinets complement both contemporary and traditional styles. For a classic look that’s experiencing a modern resurgence, consider a historic pattern from our exclusive Morris & Co. collection. The Morris & Co. St. James Wandle River tile, shown here, features an iconic pattern derived from the 1881 wallpaper design commissioned for St. James Palace in London.

17. Classic & Chic Hexagons

Hexagons are a classic shape that’s very much on trend. The Royal White Hex tile shown here is both stylish and playful with the grey and sable brown veining that creates a wonderful sense of movement.

18. Captivating Shapes

Unique shapes are a fun way to add a little personality to your kitchen backsplash. From scalloped fan shapes to cross and star shapes to elegant leaf shapes, like the Laura Ashley Leaf Dove Grey shown here, a uniquely shaped tile will add character and charm to your kitchen backsplash.

19. Stone Slab

Create a slab look with a large-format stone or stone-look tile like this gorgeous 12″ x 24″ Calacata Evora honed marble tile. Large-format tiles require fewer grout lines so you can achieve the popular slab look–the effect of a single piece of stone like marble or granite–at a fraction of the cost. Large-format marble tiles will infuse your backsplash with a look of luxury, but for an affordable option that’s also durable and easy to maintain, try a porcelain or ceramic marble-look tile.

20. Dramatic Contrast

Create a definite mood in your kitchen by installing a black backsplash with your white cabinets. The Noir honed limestone amalfi tile used in this kitchen designed by Timber Trails is as refined as it is striking. This tile makes the room appear too dark but the white cabinets make this space feel light and airy just as the dark tile creates the illusion of extra depth.

We hope we gave you some ideas for pairing tile with your white kitchen cabinets. For even more inpso, check out these 13 Beautiful Kitchen Backsplash Ideas.

Ready to install or renovate your kitchen backsplash? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more whimsical patterns in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

The post 20 Creative Kitchen Backsplash Ideas to Pair with White Cabinets appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Emerald Leaf-Shaped Mosaic Bathroom

Biophilic design is all about bringing the outside in to improve your mood and connectivity with the natural world. The Costa Emerald Mix tile with its leaf shape and deep greens, surrounds this bathroom in dopamine-inducing color and organic beauty. This tile would also look stunning as a backsplash or accent wall.

Bold Sapphire Backsplash

This glossy, sapphire tile adds depth and dimension to the kitchen backsplash. We love how the rounded edges of the shapes soften the hard edges of the tile. The Wave Blue Reef tile looks stunning in this kitchen, but we could easily see how it would create an amazing water-focused moment in a bathroom or shower.

Green Gem Bar Back

The Gem by Alison Victoria tile creates a stunning moment as an accent to this bar back. The deep green with soft white veining is an elegant complement to the gold and white wallpaper. We love how the scalloped edges of this tile add interest to this backsplash.

Blue Jewel Patio Table

Tile doesn’t have to be relegated to walls and floors. The Track Stack Navy Blue makes for a beautiful moment on this custom-made coffee table. This deep blue tile is amazing when it captures the light, creating a stunningly bejeweled moment on this patio.

Charming Blue-Hued Bathroom

The variations in surface texture and color of the Marrakesh Blue tile reflect the light creating a charming, bejeweled moment in this elegant bathroom designed by I Spy DIY. We’re obsessed with how this turquoise tile brings to mind both a tranquil sea and a shimmering gem.

Marvelous Marine Bar

This beautiful bar designed by Style Jam has us green with envy. We love how the Color Mind Marine tile captures the light, creating a beautifully bejeweled moment. The horizontal stack with white grout creates neat lines that complement the symmetry of the shelves and sconces.

Shades of Jade Accent Wall

The deep jade coloring of the Look Avio tile makes a charming accent wall in this dining room. This perfectly imperfect handmade-look tile features an undulating surface for gorgeous movement along the wall and color variation that gives it the appearance of an actual gem.

We hope you were inspired by these beautifully bejeweled spaces. You can find even more inspiration on Instagram and our Customer Room Gallery where our tiles are used in a variety of real spaces! Or, if you’re looking for some guidance on an upcoming project, set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.

The post 7 Absolutely Stunning Jewel-Tone Spaces appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Chic Rust Hues

The Artisan Tiare tile is used to great effect in this bathroom designed by Kate Pearce Vintage. The rust, cream and charcoal colored pattern makes this space feel calm and inviting. The warm colors make us want to relax in a hot bath on a cool fall day.

Apple-Red & Pink Blossoms

The deep red and pastel pink pairing gives this bathroom floor, designed by The Gold Hive, an unexpected twist. The Imperial Sienna Hex gives off serious fall vibes, while the addition of the Pink Hex makes this a tile design that’s sure to please year-round.

Rich Autumn Neutrals

Not all of fall is bright, it’s also the time when we start to embrace more muted, warm neutrals. We love how the flecks of dark brown and light beige in the Terrazzo Bianco Macro create the effect of falling brown leaves against a winter-white background.

Brilliant Harvest Gold

The lustrous Patina Gilded Mirror by Kelli Fontana tile perfectly complements the Splendours Brown tile with its undulating surface texture and glossy finish. Like our favorite fall colors, they combine shine, warm tones and a slightly aged appearance.

Vibrant Crimson Shades

The deep, shiny red of the Imperial Sienna Gloss tile is the epitome of autumn. We love how the warm tones and reflective surface of this tile are at once calming and invigorating. Switch out the shower curtain and accessories in this room, and this is a tile that can transition through the seasons.

Falling Orange Stars

The rust-orange pattern of the Star Oxide tile evokes the feeling of softly falling leaves. This tile is great for a backsplash or accent wall, like this over-the-sink moment, for just a hint of autumn.

Warm & Cozy Tones

Bold veins of gold, brown, grey and ochre create a calming neutral palette in this luxurious marble-look bathroom designed by Nikki Chu. The warm colors create a relaxed feeling, like being wrapped in a comfy blanket on a crisp fall evening.

Are you ready to embrace a fall color palette for your next home reno? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more whimsical patterns in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

The post 7 Spaces That Celebrate Fall appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

What is Cement Tile?

1. Cement tiles are, of course, made of cement. Cement is similar to stone in that it has to be sealed, and it is very long lasting. Cement tiles are thicker than average and made by hand.
2. Cement-look tiles are made of ceramic or porcelain. These are a great lower cost option to achieve an authentic look that is still very durable.

Now that we cleared that up, let’s talk about how cement tiles are made.

How Are Cement Tiles Made?

Cement tiles are made from a combination of marble dust, pigment and cement. Similar to natural stone, each tile is made by hand and takes between three and five minutes to make. What sets cement apart from other types of tile is that the pigment is pressed into the surface in a patterned mold instead of just being a thin layer on top. This means the coloration penetrates the surface of the tile, so if it wears down over time, the color will still remain and the pattern will not be impacted. The video below is a great overview of this process.

Care and Installation Tips

Inspired to design a work of art with cement tile? There are a few quirks specific to cement tile installation that are important to know before you begin.

• Thickness: Cement tiles are thicker than average, so plan ahead! A threshold piece can be used to smoothly transition between cement tile and another flooring surface.
• Soaking: Cement tiles are absorbent and should be soaked in water before they are installed. This keeps the tiles from pulling moisture out of the mortar which would prevent it from curing properly.
• Sealing: It’s important to seal your clean and dry cement tiles after they’re installed to ensure they last.
• More information on installing cement tiles can be found here.

Historically Inspired Designs

Today, cement tiles take many forms and come in various materials. Due to their long and rich history, many designs seen today are based on those from the past. Explore some of our favorite historically inspired designs below.

The fresh, crisp colors below liven up this white kitchen.

The hand-painted look of the tile below adds to its authentic, old-world appeal.

Not ready to jump into all-over pattern? A backsplash highlighted with a frame is the perfect accent.

Modern farmhouse style is a popular look that benefits from the rustic appearance of cement tile.

We love a fun shower space! This accent wall from floor to ceiling livens up this spacious shower.

This tile design feels like it’s right out of an old European church. We love how Timber Trails Homes picked a shade of blue from the tile to paint the cabinetry, coordinating this mudroom from top to bottom. Sturdy porcelain is perfect for protecting the floor from laundry spills and tracked-in messes.

Think beyond the backsplash and shower. Cement tile takes this fireplace to another level and functions as a stunning focal point in this living room.

“A tiled fireplace is the perfect place to get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of style. A little pattern goes a long way!”—Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

Star is one of our most popular tiles and for good reason! It’s versatile enough to pair with rustic wood-look tiles as well as contemporary hexagons while maintaining vintage appeal.

Contemporary Designs

As manufacturing processes evolve, so do designs. Now, the selection of cement and cement-look tiles is even broader than ever and encompasses many contemporary designs. If bold colors and geometric designs are more your style, explore some of our picks below.

This tile is definitely not one you would have found in 18th century Europe, and that’s one of the things we love about it. This thoroughly contemporary tile incorporates a geometric design and bright, bold colors.

A soft, contemporary grey patterned floor tile is the perfect complement to this preppy and traditional space.

We’re fans of a bold look, and this one fits the bill. This dramatic cement tile with its green leaf pattern creates an unforgettable floor.

If you want to dip your toe into cement without using an all-over pattern, mixing solid-color cement tiles with patterned tiles is a great way to get the best of both worlds.

“A checkerboard, random design or tiled rug are all attractive mix-and-match options for solid and patterned tiles.”—Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

There’s something serene and calming about the ocean-blue hues of Blu Widow Hex.

Black-and-white tile is a design staple. Make it uniquely yours with this statement-making diamond pattern.

Combination

Do all cement-style tiles neatly fit into one of these two categories? Of course not! Some of the most interesting designs are a blend of old-world and contemporary styles, patterns and colors. Here are some of our favorites.

A black, white and grey color scheme updates a traditional design, blurring the lines between old world and contemporary.

A traditional design in unexpected colors lends a beautiful floral look to this bathroom.

There’s no shortage of interest in this arabesque tile. Soft traditional shapes combine with bold lines and hues to keep design lovers on their toes.

A historically inspired design plus on-trend wood look equal a stunning transitional style.

Explore more of our cement/cement-look and patterned tile now!

Ready to get started? Let our selection wow you in person—visit your local store today!

The post Style Guide: Cement & Cement-Look Tile appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.