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.

Zellige Tile

What is Zellige tile? Crafted in Morocco, each of these tiles is shaped and glazed by hand resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind look. These tiles come in a variety of colors and shapes, including the popular star and cross shapes, bringing old-world charm to contemporary design.

Zellige Gloss

Available in alabaster, black, dark grey, light grey and white, each of these 4″ x 4″ square tiles is handcrafted creating naturally uneven lines and variances in surface color. The effect on these walls is absolutely stunning! These handmade Moroccan tiles are great for creating an unexpected moment like this recessed shelf or to liven up a kitchen backsplash (below). These tiles are also available in 2″ x 6″ rectangles and 2″ x 2″ square mosaic.

Zellige Charcoal Chabone Cross and Star

This classic Zellige pattern will transform your space with old-world sophistication. Install the cross and stars in contrasting finishes for a unique, but subtle pattern, as shown here with gloss crosses and matte stars.

Handmade-Look

Do you like the look of handmade tiles, but want a little more continuity? Get the unique character of handmade tiles with less variance in color and size (and a lower price-point) with handmade-look tiles.

Riad

These 4″ x 4″ square tiles–available in white, sand and grey–mimic the square Zellige tiles, with uneven edges and variation in color and surface texture, but the differences are not quite as pronounced as in the true handmade tiles. If you like your lines a little more straight and your color a little more uniform, you can’t go wrong with the Riad tile. We love how Rachael Jackson used the Riad White and Grey to create a stunning checkerboard pattern in her kitchen remodel.

Splendours

The Splendours takes subway tile up a notch with perfectly imperfect character. This tile comes in a variety of colors (as well as the traditional white) to suit your style. For an added twist on a classic subway, try the elongated-hex-shaped picket tile.

Marrakesh

The Marrakesh tiles will add a wonderful sense of movement to your walls. Available in white, blue and green, the natural color variation in the tiles makes for beautiful kitchen backsplashes (as evidenced below) but we also love how ISPYDIY created a checkerboard pattern for their shower wall.

Look

Available in dark blues, green and white, the Look elongated handmade-look subway tile comes in bold colors with an artisanal appearance that will add texture and charm to your space. We love how the variations in color add character to this kitchen island.

Track Stack

The slight shade variation in the Track Stack mosaic tiles creates an artisanal look even as the long thin tiles align with beautiful symmetry. If you’re loving this look, check out the Track Stack Navy Blue tiles.

Annie Selke Artisanal

The Annie Selke Artisanal Blue tile shown used in this shower features slightly uneven surfaces for a handcrafted look and unique charm. The slight imperfections add character, but this tile is still even enough to create almost straight lines.

Argile

Embrace quiet luxury with the Argile matte subway tile. The slight variations in tone and texture create a handcrafted look that pairs well with the soft, marble-look Livingstone Melange tile.

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 9 Elegantly Crafted Handmade & Handmade-Look Tiles appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

The third and final One Room Challenge™ reveal post is here! It has been so much fun to watch these spaces transform and to have the opportunity to work with such amazing designers. Is anyone else getting a serious itch to renovate their entire house or is that just us? Without further ado… let’s get into the remaining five spaces from the Spring One Room Challenge™!

Renovation Husbands

Starting us off with a bang is Stephen and David of Renovation Husbands! They took on an ambitious project tackling their master bedroom, closet and bathroom spaces. Even more impressive is that they did everything themselves!

What was once a storage space became the master bathroom of their dreams! Their design style flows seamlessly throughout the spaces, making each feel unique yet cohesive all at the same time.

Our shower was to be large, built-in, elegant, and most importantly, intentional. Intentional is [sic] word that we use all of the time when approaching a design – every aspect should look like it was done on purpose. 

– Stephen & David

And intentional it is! Every detail was perfectly executed. Inspired by Sarah of Room for Tuesday, they continued each aspect of the room throughout the shower. Any chair rail, baseboard or crown piece was continued into the shower to create a space space that felt cohesive all the way down to the tile and wood trim pieces.

Stephen and David visited our showroom in Watertown, MA. They were assisted by Leoni, the store’s Assistant Manager: “We had ambitious plans and needed help from someone who was up for the challenge. Thankfully we were paired with Leoni. Leoni knows tile, and she knows what The Tile Shop has to offer. She took all of our questions seriously and provided us with amazing information on the process.”

From the moment they took on this project, Stephen and David knew that marble was the tile they wanted in their shower. They searched for the perfect marble that didn’t have too much yellow, consistent grays and was honed. They ultimately decided on our Firenze Carrara marble which offers beautiful variation making it a highly sought after stone.

They used our Wedi Shower System to easily create their custom shower. Made out of high density foam, the system allows you to easily waterproof your shower and prepare it for tiling!

Its foam is super lightweight and can be cut so much easier than cement board. The entire thing is absolutely brilliant. We will definitely be using the Wedi System again. – Stephen & David

Without a doubt, they achieved the intentional space they set out to create while also creating something pretty beautiful, too! Check out their entire master suite here.

Coco & Jack

Next up is Steve and Alyssa Terpstra, the husband and wife team that is Coco & Jack. Ever since they moved into this house over three years ago, their master bedroom and ensuite has been on their to-do list, but there always seemed to be a room that took higher priority. This ORC seemed like the perfect time to finally cross it off their list.

Before, their bedroom and ensuite were functional but lacked their personality.

I’ve been thinking about how to redo our space for quite a while, and I really wanted it to feel collected and layered, with an over all neutral colour palette that still has a lot of depth to it. – Steve & Alyssa

Even though their ensuite is a small space, they were able to add a lot of different elements and textures throughout the space. They chose to use a mix of finishes that were both rustic and polished to create interest.

They chose finishes for the shower that would make the space feel open and bright since it is relatively small. For their floor tile, they chose our Claros Silver Travertine for its unfinished and rustic qualities. It contrasts the polished finishes that Steve and Alyssa chose for the rest of the space adding a more casual feel.

They chose to lay the Splendours White Subway tile in a vertical straight stack to make the shower feel taller. Our Splendours tile has gorgeous variation in color and an almost handmade look to it, which adds depth and texture.

It’s all in the details! They added a Hampton Carrara Marble Curb and shelf. It continues the neutral tones grounded throughout the space and gives the shower added functionality and a finished look. Arguably the star of the show, Steve built the aged brass frame for the shower door, which has us all wondering if Steve would build us one!

The Hampton Herringbone Marble mosaic tile adds a subtle pattern and continues the neutral tones from the rest of the space. If they thought their space was functional, it now is not only functional but even more so it is beautiful! Read about their entire One Room Challenge here.

Home Made by Carmona

From start to finish, Ursula Carmona executed each and every part of her bathroom and closet transformation making it a true DIY project. While challenging at times, the spaces that Ursula created are timeless and finally fulfill the plans she has had for the space since she moved in!

While the overall bones of the space stayed the same, you would never believe that these were once the same room!

I wanted to elevate the design in this room to be classy and sophisticated. Just because it’s not the biggest master bathroom doesn’t mean it can’t be loaded with modern luxury. – Ursula

To add a luxe look to this bathroom, I went with a honed Marble floor tile from The Tile Shop, in a herringbone pattern in the center, and a border around the edges. – Ursula

After some debate, Ursula decided to lay the floor tile in a herringbone pattern rather than playing it safe with a traditional staggered pattern. We are so happy she decided to go for it! The herringbone pattern complements the luxurious design that Ursula set out to achieve.

Elements from her closet continue across the hallway and into the bathroom. We are so in love with the wallpaper Ursula used in her closet. It adds the perfect amount of statement while still feeling classic.

There is no question that Ursula created a glam, luxurious bathroom and closet that is centered with classic features. Get all the details on the full spaces on her blog.

Beginning in the Middle

What originally seemed like a relatively straightforward project for Catherine and Bryan of Beginning in the Middle, quickly turned into much more, but are we so obsessed with the end result! For this season of the One Room Challenge, they chose to transform the attic master suite of their parents’ new, old cape cottage. When we say we’re ready to move in, we mean it!

I want this space to feel cozy, quaint, and classic with modern accents.  I’m leaning into the modern English cottage aesthetic here.  Think creamy neutrals, florals, modern lighting, and some planked walls/ceilings. – Catherine & Bryan

Initially, their plan was to add a bathroom without adding a dormer, but a few weeks in they began to reconsider. Adding the dormer would increase the bathroom space about 50 square feet of space. After a lot of consideration on whether it was worth it paired with the cost and timeline aspects of the challenge, Catherine and Bryan went for it! Now looking back, it made a huge difference.

They chose to use our Firenze Carrara Honed Marble which brings a classic and traditional feel to the bathroom. The grey veining contrasts beautifully off the white walls balancing the entire design.

The floor will primarily be the Firenze Hex tile, and we’ll use the Black Marquina Hex pieces to create the pattern. […] Having just a bit of black mixed with veiny white marble is going to add a really nice splash of contrast to the bathroom. – Catherine & Bryan

With some last minute changes due to COVID-19 and construction delays, there are a few finishing details left to complete the space. Read all about Catherine and Bryan’s 8-week transformation on Beginning in the Middle.

House of Hipsters

Her first time being a Featured Designer, Kyla, the brain behind House of Hipsters chose to take on her home office and gym. Her office seemed to be a place where furniture gets its chance but never seems to get a permanent spot. Let’s see what Kyla was working with!

It just wasn’t right…again. Being that I spend most of my time in this space, I want it to feel more welcoming and cozy…not cluttered and chaotic. […] More often than not it’s a dumping ground for sourced merchandise waiting to be cleaned, processed, and styled in the shop. – Kyla

A gorgeous space with plenty of natural light, Kyla’s office had great potential. Some fresh floors, new furniture and unique art makes this space truly one of a kind.

It was a last minute idea to add this arch connecting these two spaces and it turns out to be one of Kyla’s favorite details from the space. The Tresana Blanco large-format faux marble tile flows seamlessly in both rooms. It gives the space a glamorous feel without the added care of real marble.

After some thought, Kyla chose to install the Pixel 2 Black Ceramic tile without grout to achieve a cleaner look. We love the contrast between the Pixel 2 Black and the Tresana Blanco floor tile. If only every at-home gym looked this glam!

Here’s a closer look at the black tile. You can see it has a subtle metallic dot pattern that gives the wall some added texture and edginess. – Kyla

View Kyla’s entire One Room Challenge space!

If you’ve made it to the end of our part 3 reveals, congrats! We can’t wait for the next season of the One Room Challenge. In the meantime if you’re inspired to start on your own project, let us take the intimidation out of the equation. Make a free appointment to talk about your project, either in the store or with a remote consultation, anytime. Learn more here.

The post Spring 2020 One Room Challenge™ Reveal Part 3 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Our favorite part of the One Room Challenge™ is here – the reveal! As you know, we worked with fourteen of the twenty featured designers this season and trust us, the reveals are even better than we imagined. Our designers worked hard for eight weeks to completely transform their space and it paid off. Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s part one of our three part series taking a look at the ORC reveals.

Beth Diana Smith

Kicking the reveals off is Beth Diana Smith’s transformation of her kitchen and powder bath. First, lets take a look at her kitchen transformations over the years.

After significant water damage to her kitchen last year, Beth decided to tackle this redesign a little sooner than she had originally planned. She wanted to tackle the countertops, backsplash and hardware with her ORC space.

“Overall, I want the kitchen to feel a bit funky and reflect my aesthetic but I want the foundation (the more permanent items like the tile) to be neutral.” – Beth

While her renovation in 2014 also featured white subway tile, our Color Market Ceramic Subway Tile in Patagonia, puts a modern spin on an old classic. From the matte finish to laying it in a vertical straight stack pattern, the backsplash adds to the overall contemporary feel of the kitchen.

For her powder bath, she wanted it to be an experience, and we must say, she nailed it! With the tile touching all four walls with one wall tiled all the way to the ceiling, she achieved that bold and dramatic look she was aiming for.

“For my Powder Room I wanted the tile to scream my aesthetic, very bold and very funky. So I’m using The Tile Shop‘s Cell Ceramic Tile that I knew was the perfect fit as soon as I saw it.” – Beth

It was love at first sight for Beth and our Cell Light Gold Ceramic Tile, making it the perfect decorative tile to make a big statement in a small space. Paired with a deep wine shade on the walls and matte black fixtures, this bathroom perfectly fits Beth’s eclectic and fun style. View her entire One Room Challenge space here.

Liz Kamarul

Liz’s One Room Challenge had another challenge in of itself: to transform the kitchen repurposing what she already has. The before and after looks like a completely different space, which is proof that small changes make a big impact!

To many, her kitchen would be perfectly fine, but to Liz, it lacked the personality she loves to bring into her spaces. She has since made some updates, but it wasn’t quite perfect. This ORC was the perfect time to make it a whole lot more ‘Liz!’

Complete with a tiled kitchen island and a mural on the ceiling, her finished space screams Liz’s colorful personality and daring style, all the while trying to think of creative ways to use what she already had on hand. Her ORC wasn’t without a few trials and tribulations, though…

“Hot tip from a newbie who had to learn the hard way: mix up your grout in small amounts and work in small areas. Make sure the grout is smooth like cake mix and wipe it off as you go. It dries very quick!” – Liz

Our Color Market Ceramic Subway Tile was a popular choice this season and is featured in a few ORC spaces. Liz used the Color Market Tile in Army for her backsplash. The matte finish and natural texture gives an earthy feel to the space.

Check out her entire reveal on her blog!

Clark + Aldine

Danielle and Michael of Clark + Aldine set out to create a functional and purposeful kitchen, dining and living space for their family. The space has been completely transformed into a gorgeous open concept great room where their design personality flows seamlessly throughout. Let’s take a look at the space before…

This was not an easy task. To achieve the open concept look, Danielle and Michael had to do some serious demo to the space.

When selecting their backsplash tile, Danielle and Michael landed on our Splendours White Ceramic Tile, specifically being drawn to the way it reflects light. To add another twist, they added pieces of our DURAL Chrome Plated Trim randomly throughout the pattern.

One of our favorite parts of their space is their kitchen nook. Both beautiful and functional, it features our Firehouse Thin-Brick Tile. Actually sliced from a brick block, you can achieve the traditional red brick look, or you can opt to paint the brick like Danielle and Michael did.

Check out their entire transformation over on Clark & Aldine.

Kate Pearce Vintage

Kate Pearce took her vintage-inspired style to transform her attic into a gorgeous guest ensuite, and in true Kate Pearce fashion, it is full of fun vintage finds. Transforming a mostly unfinished attic is not an easy undertaking!

“Still, there was something this space had in SPADES, and that thing was ‘potential.’ The first step towards reaching that potential would be to demolish; to demolish just about everything.” – Kate

The after photos may shock you! The space is completely transformed into a functional extension of Kate’s home perfect for guests.

Our Artisan Tiare Porcelain floor tiles give a gorgeous low-maintenance design element to the entire space. Kate’s love affair with the color orange made it the perfect tile to add a wow-factor, while still keeping the space sophisticated.

“I love that the Artisan Tiare combined the ochre color with charcoal and white, allowing the tile to pick up the white and blacks that I planned to ground the room with.” – Kate

Featured on the entire bathroom floor including in the shower, the Artisan Tiare Porcelain creates a sense of cohesion that draws the natural eye through the entire space.

To finish the space, Kate chose our Color Market Ceramic Subway tile in Santorini and Cosmos (which has since been discontinued). Both shades pull from the Artisan Tiare Porcelain to once again marry the entire space together.

Get all the details on Kate’s One Room Challenge space here.

Dreaming of transforming a space of your own but aren’t sure where to start? We are here to help! Let us take the intimidation out of the equation. Schedule a free design consultation with one of our tile design experts.

The post Spring 2020 One Room Challenge™ Reveal Part 1 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Lots of 3D tiles incorporate geometric designs. By mixing and matching the different faces of the Tangram series, you can create an entirely unique patchwork look.

Sweeping movements make for a soft, serene landscape, perfect for relaxing in the bath after a long day.

Flora and fauna-inspired motifs bring a natural quality to 3D tiles. We love how this leaf design comes to dramatic life on a black accent wall.

A straight-stack pattern modernizes this matte sculptural tile.

A marble look brings a wink of tradition to this otherwise of-the-moment 3D subway tile.

Ready for a bold statement?! Just add color! Blue is a serene color that is well-loved in home design.

If you’re looking for a subtle way to add interest to your space, opt for a beautiful-yet-simple 3D tile, like the Charm Diamond.

The neutral hues of the Akros Elis Iris create a distinctive, one-of-a-kind shower while still creating that calming, at-home spa experience.

Get the look of an intricate mosaic with fewer grout lines when you utilize a large-format tile like this one.

Complete a bold sculptural look with coordinating trims, accents and finishing pieces. Learn how to layer your look with trim pieces and profiles here.

What do you get when you combine geometric, metallic and sculptural effects into one tile? A stunning statement wall that’s sure to wow.

Is there any tile more perfect for an eye-catching cocktail bar?

A natural stone mosaic blurs the lines between traditional and contemporary.

Ready to find a 3D tile that speaks to you? Schedule a design consultation today!

The post 2020 Tile Trend: 3D Sculptural appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Kitchen & Living Room

The goal for the kitchen was to design a “really beautiful space for community,” Orie Prince said. From entertaining friends and family to day-to-day use, the 13-foot-long island seamlessly achieves the design team’s intention. Detail after detail, this kitchen has it all.

The interior decor’s large variety of texture and color immaculately replicates the warmth of the outdoors.

Master Bedroom & Bath

From acting to activism, Sophia is what we would call a busy bee. Someone as involved and dedicated as her would most likely want the perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation. What better place than a master bedroom and bathroom?

Sophia referred to her new master bathroom as “the dream of dreams.” With a space this impressive, she is absolutely right!

We especially can’t get enough of the open, curved shower. Imperial Blush Mosaic beautifully plays off of the bathroom’s warm color palette. The glossy finish adds the perfect shine to help brighten the space.

Home Office

Fun fact: Orie and his team soundproofed the home office so that Sophia could have a space to record her latest podcasts.

Guest Room & Bath

The warm tones from the master bathroom were repeated in the guest bathroom to create the perfect sense of unity. This shower wall is embellished with a dark-hued Imperial Sienna Gloss Mosaic.

Powder Room

If you couldn’t tell by now, Sophia loves color just as much we do. We are mesmerized by this blue powder room. Love the color blue? Check out our blog post that is dedicated to this confident color!

Read the entire story on Sophia Bush’s collaboration with Elle Decor.

Dive into the world of color with the Imperial Collection. With over 600 pieces in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, you can express your individual style and personality however you imagine.

Having trouble finding a color or design that best fits your home? From inspiration and tile samples to free design services, we’ll partner with you for every step of the way.

The post Sophia Bush’s Hollywood Hills Bungalow appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

“While we might be great at communicating, we are not always great at agreeing on architecture and decor,” Cristin said. “Zach is from the mountains and loves modern design and rustic elements. I’m from a small town in South Carolina and love all things southern, traditional and cozy.”

Kitchen

As we look through the rest of their mountain home, we think it’s safe to say they did an amazing job at deciding every design detail.

How gorgeous is the Meram Blanc Carrara Marble backsplash? The stone’s white undertones and light-grey veining beautifully unite with the white cabinetry and reclaimed wood accents.

Laura Ashley Laundry Room

The combination of black cabinetry and light-toned tiles creates a stunning contrast in Cristin’s laundry room.

This backsplash is so charming, we just had to include a close-up view! Patterned backsplashes are a great way to add a personalized statement in your home.

Love this look? Check out the rest of our Laura Ashley collection!

Porch Palace

Disclosure: If you get porch envy easily, then you might want to skip this section. From stunning views to charming decor, this space has it all!

“I thought it would be fun to embrace the bohemian trend,” Cristin said. “I decided to mix several patterns of textiles to pair with our simplistic furniture and keep everything neutral and inviting.”

See all of Cristin’s modern-neutral porch decor here.

Mudroom

Before Cristin visited The Tile Shop, she wanted a small, dark slate-looking floor tile for the mudroom. But to her surprise, the in-store inspiration helped Cristin choose a tile that best fit the smaller space.

“The larger sized Nain Negro really helps open up this narrow space. The tile has the look and feel of slate, but it’s actually a durable porcelain tile,” Cristin added.

“The in-store tiled displays really helps you gauge different sizes and colors and how it will look in your space,” said Cristin.

Master Bathroom

“The Tile Shop helped me tremendously with this space as we had to decide what patterns and sizes would best complement each other and how much tile we would need for the shower and floor,” Cristin said. “I also learned all about niches in the shower wall, polished edging, Dural systems and all finishing pieces when designing a bath.”

Welcome to Hampton Carrara heaven! From herringbone patterned floors to offset pattern shower walls, this master bath shines with elegance.

Guest Bath

“Our guest room is downstairs in what I lovingly refer to as man land—this is where all of Zach’s favorite rooms are,” Cristin explained. “We wanted the bathroom to be dark, moody and rustic.”

Children’s Bath

While the other bathrooms in the house showcase lavish marble appeal, Cristin wanted a clean, simple and affordable tile design for this last space. Luckily, she didn’t have to sacrifice her style and was able to achieve her goal with the stone-look tile flooring. Calacatta Bianco unites the durability of porcelain with the stunning look of marble.

Looking for design inspiration or DIY tile installation tips? From inspiration and tile samples to free design services, we’ll partner with you for every step of the way.

Follow Cristin Cooper on Instagram for lifestyle tips and home décor inspiration.

The post Cristin Cooper’s Mountain Hideaway appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

We’re back with another season of the One Room Challenge™ and we can’t wait to share the reveals! From distinct floor designs to glamorous kitchen backsplashes, we were blown away by each of the spectacular spaces that were shared. Here’s part one of our ORC reveal because we couldn’t fit all nine amazing spaces into only one post.

PLACE OF MY TASTE

We’re starting out with one of our most favorite bathrooms ever! Aniko of Place of My Taste turned her “work in progress” bathroom into a resort-style dream master.

“The goal for me was to marry two of my favorite styles: modern and vintage,” Aniko said. “The textures and combination of materials made my dreams a reality.”

This luxurious, noir shower design is like a room right out of Architectural Digest! Both the Evoque Carbon wall tiles and Evoque Grigio floor tiles are made of porcelain. The durable material and industrial look makes them a perfect choice for this master bath.

Visit Erika’s Instagram. View their entire One Room Challenge space.

ERIKA WARD INTERIORS

We can’t keep our eyes off of this next ORC space. Erika Ward transformed the warm woods and colors to a bright white and airy blue kitchen dream!

“Like a rare treasure, I discovered this glass mosaic tile with an iridescent quality much like the inside of a shell,” Erika said. “Installing the tile to the ceiling makes a grandiose statement about my love of the sea and nature-inspired design elements.“

The metallic tiles remind us of a mermaid’s tail—don’t you agree?!

Even Erika’s fireplace got a facelift, and we think the design she chose is anything but dreary! When described, Erika says “the new tile marble mosaic surround and hearth reign supreme, classic and cool.”

Visit Erika’s Instagram. View their entire One Room Challenge space.

VERONICA SOLOMON

You’ll have to do a double take after seeing this extraordinary before and after by Veronica Solomon of Casa Vilora Interiors. Each pattern unites to create one of the most luxurious laundry rooms we have ever seen. 

What’s the definition of glamorous, you ask? This laundry room!

“The art-deco-inspired Streamline Stone Mosaic tile was the perfect way for me to bring in my signature pattern and style mix. I love the pattern with the wallpaper,” Veronica said. “Even though it is not recommended for floors, and only for wall installation, I knew that the laundry room would not be a high-traffic area, so I went for it as the floor tile.”

“You know us creatives. We are going to push the limits just a bit for just the right touch,” Veronica added. “I just love the gold banding that beautifully picks up the gold in the wallpaper.”

Visit Veronica’s Instagram. View their entire One Room Challenge space.

SHAVONDA GARDNER & CARMEON HAMILTON 

What’s better than one talented designer? Two designers, of course! Shavonda Gardner partnered with one of her best friends, Carmeon Hamilton, to transform Carmeon’s home.

Have you ever seen a more glorious green bathroom?! The floor-to-ceiling Color Market Army installation on the shower and vanity walls is beautiful and moody!

To balance out the four dark green walls, Carmeon painted the ceiling white and incorporated white stone for the floors.

Transitioning to the master bedroom, Carmeon and Shavonda repeated the deep green color to create a sense of unity. Both the accent wall and ceiling were painted with Behr Marquee Interior Matte North Woods.

From the 3-D accent wall to the countless fabric patterns, Carmeon’s decor choices make this bedroom come to life!

“The foundation of the room and very first thing I picked out for the space was the Deva Linen Platform Bed in Linen Graffito, Carmeon said. “This bed is the literal manifestation of my dreams! The Graffito pattern on the clean lines of the bed are an ideal combination and the clean metal legs finish it perfectly.”

Visit Shavonda’s Instagram and Carmeon’s Instagram.

Stay tuned for part two of our ORC blog spotlight!

Do you have the same design taste and ambition as one of these extraordinary designers, but lack the design expertise? Have no fear! Let us take the intimidation out of the equation. Schedule a free design consultation with one of our tile design experts. 

The post Fall 2019 One Room Challenge™ Reveal–Part 1 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

history of subway tile

Created more than a century ago by architects Heins and LaFarge, the original subway tiles were used for, you guessed it, a subway—specifically the New York City subway in 1904. These tiles were perfect for subways because they were simple, clean and economical. They were so efficient that other major cities adapted subway tiles, from London’s Underground to Paris’ Metro. Soon, subway tiles became popular above ground as well, adorning Victorian kitchens and bathrooms because of their sanitary qualities.

Today, subway tiles are much more of a style statement, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t still functional and durable. Many people love them for this exact combination. However, there are more choices than ever to consider so knowing what is right for you can be tricky. That brings us to our top three things to consider when you pick out your tile.

Top 3 Things to Consider

Subway Tile Design Tips

Once you know what you want as far as size, finish and shape, it’s time to explore different subway tile designs and what makes them work.

Try using a patterned, wallpaper-look tile above a wainscot and subway tile in a complementary color on the bottom. This will add color and interest to a powder room, and you can still keep the palette neutral.

The vertical straight set pattern in the charming space below adds height to the small shower in a contemporary way. We love how this pattern continues right through the nook and brings mid-century modern style to this soothing room.

With subway tile, pattern is everything. In the frame below, a herringbone pattern defines a focal point without straying from a soft, neutral color palette. There are so many interesting details here to attract the eye.

Subway tile is wonderful as a blank canvas to support other points of interest. A dazzling waterjet mosaic (first photo) or an artistic piece of Laura Ashley art glass (second photo) stand out on a subway tile background. Grout in a complementary color helps the true centerpiece shine. To transition between your subway tile and focal point (and to show it off!), incorporate layering pieces that do double duty.

The character of brick and the versatility of subway tile come together in this beautiful space. An elongated tile in a herringbone pattern gives this cozy nook a unique, textured design.

One of the best things about subway tile is the variety of patterns possible. Here, a mix of vertical and horizontal straight stack on the wall lend a modern appearance and a bold, colorful pattern on the floor is a jolt of energy.

Ask Kirsty

You asked, she answered! Kirsty offers her advice on some of your most common subway tile questions.

How do I decide on a gloss or matte finish for my subway tile? Is gloss more timeless? What’s easier to keep clean?

Glossy finishes typically present a more traditional and elegant look. Their reflective quality can also make your space appear brighter. Matte finishes offer a more casual, relaxed appearance. They don’t reflect as much light and will give the space a softer look. As far as cleaning, both matte and glossy tiles have their benefits. Matte tile does not show smudges or splashes as easily as a glossy tile, but glossy tile is very easy to wipe down and clean.

What color grout should I use with white subway tile?

Grout has an incredible impact on your tile and the space around it. You have three options: matching, complementary or contrasting grout. The best option for you depends on your goals for the final look. Matching grout to the tile color gives a classic, clean, monochromatic and seamless appearance. A neutral and complementary grout color adds subtle contrast without being a focal point. Opt for a color that accents the tile and overall design. Contrasting your grout color to your tile adds character, creates a bold, dramatic look and shows off the tile pattern. The grout becomes a part of the design rather than the backdrop.

How do I match subway tile with my cabinets?

There is no one formula for matching tile and cabinetry. It’s about what appeals to you. One tip I recommend is to look at your closet. What color clothing do you have? To which colors do you tend to gravitate? Just like your clothing style, you want your home to reflect you and your individuality. It’s also important to think about contrasts. Do you want a monochromatic look or do you want your tile and cabinets to contrast one another? Deciding this will also help guide your tile choice.

What subway tile pattern should I use?

(Tip: Refer to our blog post on subway tile patterns and layouts for examples of these looks!)

The most popular layout is a traditional horizontal brick. To make that appear more modern, use a larger size tile. Vertical and horizontal straight stacks are more contemporary layouts. Any vertical pattern will add height to your space—an offset brick pattern is more traditional and a straight stack is more contemporary. More unique layouts, like crosshatch and herringbone, add dynamic patterns, whether in a monochromatic or multicolored palette. The beauty and glamour of a herringbone pattern are unbeatable.

Between all the shapes, sizes, finishes and patterns available for subway tile, there are countless designs to be discovered. However you decide to use subway tile, just make sure to follow The Tile Shop golden rule, and make it your own!

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