1. Add Interest With An Ornate Pattern

The intricate white-on-black pattern of the Bolshoi Negro tile makes this cozy fireplace a statement piece. Although the pattern is detailed, the simple color palette maintains the understated elegance of the room–and it looks stunning with the minimalist hardwood mantel.

2. Create Craftsman Appeal With Handmade-Look Subway Tile

Handcrafted details are a hallmark of modern farmhouse style. Handmade or handmade-look tiles, like the Look Oliva tile shown here, feature variations in color and surface texture that give your space perfectly imperfect appeal. As an added detail, we love how the white grout lines pop against the deep green tiles, creating continuity between the fireplace and the white cabinetry.

3. Realize Your Rustic Aesthetic With Travertine

Lean into the earthen aspect of modern farmhouse design with natural stone, like the Claros Silver Split Face Free Length tile shown here. The rough edges of this tile adds texture, while the beige and grey tones create a cozy cabin feel. Shop our wide assortment of travertine tile for more rich and rustic looks.

4. Celebrate Americana With a Folk Art-Inspired Pattern

A cornerstone of modern farmhouse design is updating traditional styles for a contemporary home. Embrace the designs of the past with a folk art-inspired print, like the Americana-patterned Star Blue tile shown here. The matching blue bricks make this fireplace a classy and cheerful focal point.

5. Mix Whimsical Patterns With Rustic Details

One of the things we love about modern farmhouse design is its flexibility. You can combine different styles and still achieve a cozy-chic aesthetic. This fireplace, designed by @kstalzer85, combines the “English cottage” style Laura Ashley Wicker Charcoal patterned tile with a hardwood mantel and a bronze cow scull for a rustically stylish appeal.

6. Keep It Elegant With White Marble

Paired with a wooden mantel and homey decor items, white marble tile elevates your design while maintaining a down-to-earth aesthetic. Here, @lexi.pratz styled her Hampton Carrara marble fireplace with natural elements–hardwoods, white pumpkins and fall florals–to create a space that is both elegant and inviting.

7. Achieve Natural Appeal With Architectural Tile

The California Gold Large slate tile adds a textured edge to this modern farmhouse fireplace, designed by Pinnacle Design and Remodeling. The architectural details and dark tones complement the crisp, painted wood panels above the mantel. (Plus, the muted color palette makes the Christmas decor pop!)

8. Stay Sleek and Stylish With Stone Subway Tile

Simple and timeless, a brick-lay subway tile design is a staple of modern farmhouse style. Here, @pipermathews adorns her fireplace surround with the Africa Tempesta white marble tile. The grey-veined white tile adds great visual texture to the space, complementing both the wooden mirror and metal candlesticks.

9. Add Subtle Detail With a Neutral Pattern

This cozy space features the Laura Ashley Mr Jones Dove Grey tile with its sun-faded pattern, creating a relaxed yet elevated aesthetic. The combination of the geometric floral design with the organic evergreen and wooden accessories provides a stimulating contrast to this space, designed by @pipermathews.

10. Tile Above the Mantel

When you think of tile for a fireplace, you probably picture it on the hearth or fireplace surround. Tiling above the mantel adds focus to upper portion of your room, accentuating the height of the walls and making an artistic statement. That’s what @this_flippin_house has done in for this beautiful fireplace, featuring the Star tile.

The Tile Shop makes it easy to get started on your next project. Shop our wide assortment of fireplace tiles or use this helpful guide to modern farmhouse tile. Found a tile you love? Order a sample to see it in your space, or use our Tile Visualizer to help envision your project.

The post 10 Modern Farmhouse Fireplace Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Floor-to-Ceiling Fireplace Tile

No mantle? No problem. Make your fireplace a statement piece by centering your fireplace in floor-to-ceiling tile for a beautiful accent wall. This contemporary and elegant design technique works with virtually any tile, but we love how it looks here with the Vinica Mugla White architectural tile.

2. Warm and Welcoming Travertine

Want a fireplace that would look at home in a hunting lodge? Natural stone like travertine gives your fireplace a rustic, earthy vibe. The Claros Silver Split Face tile creates an inviting focal point for this room with its natural grey, beige and white tones.

3. Weathered Wood Look

This fireplace is a modern take on a rustic seaside cabin. We love how the faded details in the Colonial Wood White Brillo Rev add movement and color to this fireplace wall. If you like the look of natural wood but are anxious about installing it around an open flame, explore our wide selection of wood-look tiles.

4. Stately Patterns

Maybe rustic isn’t your aesthetic. A beautifully patterned tile fireplace harkens back to historical drawing rooms. Update this style with modern print for a look that’s both contemporary and classic. We love how the Laura Ashley Mr Jones Midnight shown here makes for an elegant focal point, and ties into the simple blue and gold accessories.

5. Sculptural Tile

Want a fireplace that really stands out? Sculptural or 3D tile will transform your fireplace into a work of three-dimensional art. If you love the extra dimension the Cube Gold AC tile brings to the room, explore our wide selection of 3D tile.

6. Brick Tile

Achieve the classic fireplace look with real brick tiles. These tiles are thin enough that you can install them on your fireplace surround and floor without them jutting out into the room. We love how these tiles make this fireplace designed by Timber Trails feel both modern and timeless. With Christmas around the corner this fireplace is the ideal place to hang a stocking.

7. Black Marble Look

Want a contemporary look that sets the tone for the whole room? Create drama around your fireplace with black marble or marble-look tiles. The fine white veining of the Marmi Classico Nero Venato porcelain tile creates a striking contrast and adds to its moody allure.

8. Architectural Look

Imagine curling up in front of this stunning stone fireplace. Architectural-look tile creates the feel of a cabin in the woods, even if you are in the middle of the city. We love how the California Gold tile fireplace makes a statement even without a mantle, but this tile would look equally impressive as a more traditional fireplace surround.

9. Cool Stone

This black limestone tile creates a sleek fireplace moment that’s sure to impress. The natural shade variation and veining present in stone tile will transform your space with understated beauty. We love how the Noir Honed limestone tile creates movement and texture on this fireplace wall.

10. Stacked Subway

This fireplace is a chic modern twist on a classic. The vertical-stacked subway tile creates the illusion of height and the neat lines provide a sense of order. We love how the cool bluish-grey Morris & Co. Hawkdale Pure Cloud subway tile complements the patterned Net Cloud on the hearth.

We hope these cozy fireplace room ideas have sparked some inspiration. Ready to tackle your next project? Check out our full selection of fireplace tiles, or find even more inspiration on our fireplace tile design ideas page.

We love to see your tile creations! Share your next project by tagging us @thetileshop on Instagram or uploading it directly to our Customer Room Gallery (you can find even more design inspo there, too)!

The post 10 Chic & Cozy Fireplace Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

I Spy DIY’s Loft Bathroom

Jenni Yolo of I Spy DIY took this loft bathroom from drab to dazzling! By dividing the room and installing a stand-alone shower, she created a spa experience in this loft bathroom. We love how the neutral tones of the Riad Grey tile and the Royal White Polished Hex create a calming, peaceful mood and make the bright red accessories pop. For more stunning bathroom ideas, check out 16 Luxurious Bathroom Designs.

Craven Haven’s Boys’ Bathroom

For this Jack and Jill style bathroom accessible to both her boys’ rooms, Mackenzie from Craven Haven wanted a look that was at once classic and fun, and we think she nailed it! This bathroom redo captures the charm of boyhood with its simple color scheme and geometric lines, but remove the red step stools and you have a room perfect for teenagers. The Cali Black and White floor tile has a fun, but orderly design, while the Verano Anthracite and White handmade-look subway tile feature a slightly wavy texture and a glossy finish to reflect the light, making the room appear brighter. The black and white tiles mean this room can be easily updated as her kids evolve their style.

Entryway by Revival 4106

As evident by the before photos, this 1915 house required a complete remodel when it was purchased by the couple behind Revival 4106. They used the Cloth Black and White tile for the entryway and back staircase and we love how it complements the black metal light fixture and the muted green of the entryway. This patterned tile, a fun twist on a classic black and white checkerboard, breathes new life into this house!

I Spy DIY’s Loft House Blue Tiled Bathroom

For her Loft House downstairs bathroom, Jenni Yolo took a risk with bold, dark colors, and we definitely think it’s paid off! The Marrakesh Blue and Off White handmade-look tiles add an artisanal charm to this room. The checkerboard pattern in the shower and the Cross Black and Snow White custom patterned tile on the floor work well together, each providing some respite in what could otherwise be a heavy, dark-colored room. Contrasted with the harsh whites of the before picture, this renovation does an amazing job of creating a room that is at once peaceful and bold.

Craven Haven’s Utility Room

This utility room designed by Mackenzie of Craven Haven is more than just utilitarian. The Trecento Calacatta Marbello luxury vinyl tile provides good movement with its bold grey veining that mimics natural stone. We love how the off-white base of the tile matches the color on the upper wall, allowing for the deep plumb cabinetry and wainscoting to stand out. Luxury vinyl flooring is easy to install and maintain, making it the perfect choice for a DIY project in a high-traffic area.

Haneen’s Haven Bathroom

Haneen from Haneen’s Haven turned this bathroom from blah to brilliant! Using her artistic sensibilities, she created a room that perfectly blends classic and modern details. The Truewood Beige Wood Look tile adds a warm, organic element to this room. For the shower, she went with a simple black and white color scheme. The Saltus patterned tile creates an unexpected artistic moment in these beautiful shower niches.

Fireplace by Kendall Design Build

The Noir Honed Chevron mosaic tile creates a boldly-stylish moment in this chic family room. The black tile paired with the dark cabinetry is a sophisticated redo in this family space and allows for color to come through elsewhere in the room, like the bright gold couch and wooden coffee table. For more ideas on how to use mosaics in your home, check out 12 Mosaic Tile Designs That Will Make a Masterpiece.

Feeling inspired to reimagine your space? Schedule a free design consultation to get started on your next project – whether it’s a weekend DIY refresh or a major renovation, our tile experts are happy to answer any questions you may have!

We love to see all of your creative spaces! Don’t forget to share your projects with us by tagging us @thetileshop on Instagram or uploading it directly to our Customer Room Gallery.

The post 7 Jaw-Dropping Before & Afters 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.

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.

Where to use fireplace tile

Tile can be used on fireplace hearths and surrounds. The hearth, which can be level with the floor or raised above it, is the floor in front of the fireplace. The fire itself is contained to the firebox, and the fireplace surround is the area around the firebox. The surround may go all the way to the ceiling or just around the firebox and may or may not include a mantle. This is the place you are most likely to see tile used. Tile cannot be used inside a wood-burning fireplace, only approved brick and other materials. Altogether, the fireplace is an opportunity to make a statement or define a focal point in the room.

6 styles to consider

One of the hardest parts of tiling is deciding on your perfect style from endless options. We may be guilty of offering too much inspiration, but we’ve rounded up our favorite fireplaces into six themes to help simplify your search.

1. Small-Scale Patterns

A tile with a small pattern or a small-scale mosaic is ideal for making a small fireplace into a focal point. Don’t forget to consider the material and finish. Matte tile is casual and soft, glossy tile reflects the light and glass tile glamorizes a space with even more sparkle.

The crisp, white fireplace tile combined with the white walls and molding are a simple and clean backdrop for fun decor pieces to take center stage.

This fireplace stands apart stylishly with white marble subway tile that creates striking contrast against the dark navy walls.

This rustic fireplace serves double duty, not only separating the kitchen from the living space but also serving as a decorative focus in both rooms.

2. Cement & Cement-Look

Whether contemporary, old world, geometric or romantic, cement and cement-look tiles certainly liven up a fireplace. Pick a pattern you love, and enjoy an eye-catching and unique centerpiece.

This transitional fireplace is a delightful combination of traditional cement-look tile and a clean, contemporary mantle that satisfies all tastes.

A lively cement-look tile from the London series sets the modern farmhouse scene in this quaint home.

3. Floor to Ceiling

Impact is the ultimate goal with a floor-to-ceiling tiled fireplace. These jaw-dropping installations speak volumes.

This stunning fireplace is perfect parts rustic, contemporary and chic.

One way to make your fireplace unforgettable is to situate it in an unexpected place. This one gets bonus points for being enjoyed from the tub and the bedroom on the other side of the wall.

File this fireplace under “statement maker.” A soft, neutral grey tile becomes a focal point when it’s installed to the second-floor ceiling of this grand room.

4. 3-D

Taking your fireplace tile to the next dimension delivers a tactile, textural quality. Use a dimensional geometric tile for the ultimate contemporary statement.

A metallic fireplace tile is always a good idea—just imagine how the dimension and texture of this multifired tile shine when the fire is lit.

Elegant and refined, these soft flowing lines create dimension replicating that of calming coastal waves.

5. Trim Firebox

For a smoother transition between your fireplace surround and firebox, use trims and layering pieces to dress up the design and soften the hard edges.

A Somerset trim tile artfully frames this firebox while adding architectural detail.

The addition of trim to this stunning fireplace instantly elevates the whole look.

6. Architectural

Textured, dimensional architectural tiles are not just for rustic designs! For spaces from traditional to contemporary, these natural stones retain a neutral color scheme while adding touchable dimension.

It’s easy to see why our best-selling architectural tile, Claros Silver, is such a hit—classic grey shades and warm tans are universally appealing.

This centerpiece fireplace displays one of the perks of our architectural tile collections. We carry out corner pieces so your design can truly be three dimensional.

Excited to try something new? Visit our fireplace tile ideas page or our fireplace tile Pinterest board for more inspiration or find a store to get started today!

The post Our Favorite Fireplace Design Ideas 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.

Hallmarks

A few of the clues that you might be looking at contemporary design are:

• A minimalistic feel
• Clean colors, often neutrals
• Hidden or integrated appliances and features
• An emphasis on natural light
• Flat-panel cabinetry
• European cabinet pulls or no hardware
• Stainless steel
• Recessed and pendant lighting
• Artistic elements

Accessories can go a long way towards establishing a contemporary theme in your space. The furniture, decor and accessories above are composed of contemporary finishes, materials and lines. We especially love how the funky chandelier sets the scene and distinguishes this dining space. Check out some more of our favorite contemporary lighting below. You’ll see that most of these fixtures display multiple qualities from the list above.

Tile Style

This design style is somewhat unique in that not only can tiles be worked into your contemporary design, but tiles can display contemporary style in and of themselves.

Some characteristics of contemporary tiles are:

• Large format
• Sculptural
• Straight stack vs. brick layout
• Stainless steel (like in a mixed-materials mosaic)
• Simple profiles with clean edges
• Art-inspired elements
• Geometric shapes

Myriad different tiles can facilitate contemporary style, and this is just a short list. Scroll to the bottom of this blog post to view some of our favorite contemporary tiles.

Along with a sleek, contemporary chandelier and tub, these wall tiles are perfect examples of this style. They are sculptural, artistic and bold.

There are a few contemporary elements to note in this space: the artwork, sleek furniture, an unadorned fireplace and a geometric patterned rug.

Just like tile and lighting, furniture can display contemporary characteristics all on its own. If you are thinking of decorating in this style, consider items like the below.

The shower above is an embellished and glamorous take on contemporary. The large-format tiles, squared-off trim pieces and sleek hardware are all indicators that it is contemporary. In the close-up below, the square and straight edges of the trim pieces are more visible. As opposed to an ornate or rounded piece of trim, these finish the installation without adding any extra adornment, keeping the look minimal and sleek.

Here are a few more contemporary trim pieces with squared-off edges and clean lines that work well in this design style. Read more about layering and trims on our blog post.

Below, neutrals and unadorned cabinetry make this space contemporary. A honed finish on the marble-look tiles and bright wood vanity warm the room up.

From the minimal, artistic decor to the sculptural, monochromatic wall tiles, this fireplace is thoroughly contemporary from top to bottom.

Sculptural tiles are not only perfect for contemporary design, but they’re also a big trend right now. Explore some of our favorites below.

Below, tones of tan and beige running through the veins of the floor tile add warmth to an all-white bathroom.

The painterly effect created by gold brush strokes turns your walls into a work of art.

Over the all-white kitchen trend? This one features crisp white tile but is also injected with lots of warm tones, balancing the best of both worlds and making this space cozy and welcoming. The flat-front cabinets, minimal (almost hidden!) hardware and sleek, clean lines are all very contemporary.

While contemporary style can be warm and inviting like in the kitchen above, it can also be dramatic and moody, as seen with the 3-D geometric tile below. That’s one thing we love about this style—it’s so versatile!

Contemporary style lends itself to self-expression. The amazing installation below is a custom mosaic created from tile and metal trim. We have a feeling the homeowners love this as much as we do.

Coziness and warmth are the words that come to mind when we see the bathroom below. While maintaining contemporary style, the designers have seamlessly combined multiple different shades of warm tans and browns.

Ready to give contemporary a try? Browse the style on our website and start dreaming.

The post Stay Up-to-Date With This Current Style appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Hygge. You’ve probably seen this strange word floating around your social media timeline or read it on a list of the latest design trends, but what does hygge mean? Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is the Scandinavian word for coziness, comfort and well-being. By incorporating these five elements of hygge, you can foster relaxation and establish feelings of warmth in your tiled spaces.

1. Soft Textures

What says comfort more than soft textures? Adding oversized blankets and pillows to a room is highly effective because they motivate guests to lounge and settle in. Timber Trails DC created the perfect place to cozy up with a good book.

Soft textured tile can be a surprising element of hygge. While tile with a high-gloss finish expresses a modern feeling (left photo below), honed and matte finishes add more warmth with their subdued edges and texture (right photo below).

By replicating a soft touched appearance, Tessuti HD Off-White provides a subtle linen pattern and matte texture. Faux fur adds a gentle dash of luxury to complete the serene scene below.

2. Warmth

Incorporating warmth transforms an ordinary room into a gathering room. With a fireplace at the heart of your home, it will radiate warmth and comfort throughout each space. If you can’t have a fireplace, you can still achieve the hygge effect with candles and soft, warm lighting.

Surround your design with tiles that unite the fireplace with the room. Tiles with a glossy finish reflect light and draw attention to the toasty flames.

3. Uplifting Messages 

The goal of hygge is to create warm, fuzzy feelings. Display motivational sayings as artwork in a room. The message of your signage should reflect the attitude or ambiance in your home. Uplifting quotes seamlessly lighten the mood of a room. West Bay Homes created this encouraging message entirely out of mosaic tiles.

4. Color

Color plays an important role in any design because it sets the tone of the room. To revitalize your space, incorporate a color palette inspired by nature. Soft tints of grey, green, brown and pink exemplify hygge. Most of all, include tones of white throughout your home because it is the most representative color of Scandinavian chic style.

To create a feeling of luxury, embellish your design with accents of gold.

5. Nature

Bring the outdoors in with elements of nature. A common way people escape their busy lives is by immersing themselves in nature. There’s something about nature that rejuvenates the soul.

Lush leaves, bouquets of flowers or potted plants stimulate a hygge feeling in a room. The natural variations in greenery allow endless opportunities for decoration. Vibrant flowers make for great accent pieces while greenery complements the neutral colors in a room. The organic liveliness of plants inspires growth and a better frame of mind.

“Adding plants is a really easy way to bring a little bit of the outdoors in. It’s instant hygge!” – Kirsty Froelich

Growing plants in your home doesn’t require a dip into your savings account or a botany degree. The Sill is a great resource for first-time plant parents. They offer a wide variety of beautiful, inexpensive and low-maintenance plants.

Installing wood or wood look tile is another great way to bring nature into your home. Tile made of real wood creates a rustic presence and helps intensify the coziness of a den.

How can you incorporate hygge into your own home? Create a spa oasis in your bathroom with candles, fluffy robes and blush-toned tile. Complete the cabin feel in your den with the roaring flame of a fireplace, wood-look tile and accents of greenery. Boost the blissful aura in a studio apartment with welcoming signs and lush foliage. With the five elements of hygge, you can increase the sense of contentment in any space.

Need more cozy inspiration? Check out our heart-warming hygge Pinterest board and schedule a design consultation to complete your hygge home.

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