BATHROOM TILE: RULES OF SUCCESSFUL DESIGN – HouseChief – online edition for modern masters

Designing a bathroom is no different from designing a living room or kitchen. It should be practical and look less like a back room and more like a place to escape - where you can relax away from the normal stresses of everyday life. It's a balance of practicality and style, and it's a balance that's hard to strike.

Choosing bathroom tiles is a difficult and painstaking job. We all have an idea of ​​what our ideal bathroom would look like. However, when the choice arises, we are immediately confused by the extensive range of tiles. While every bathroom is a different story, there are general rules that will help you make an easier decision.

Tile size

Whatever the project, the size of the tile you choose should not be determined by the size of the bathroom. If earlier interior designers followed the rule small room - small tiles, today the choice falls on large format tiles. It visually increases the space due to fewer joints.

Choosing the right size tiles is an aspect of design that affects the overall picture. Not to mention that the wrong decision leads to a costly mistake.

If you want to bring something unusual into the interior, for example, add mosaic tiles, the main thing is to choose a good location. You can place it among large tiles or create a pattern between faucets and shower head.

Combination and layout

Innovations in ceramic production create unique embossed tiles and decorations, giving them a distinctive touch. Bathroom combination tile ideas, in harmony with the aesthetics of the series, separate the bathroom room into zones, emphasize an accent wall or add a new element to the room, for example, shower niche.

When it comes to choosing a combination of ceramic bathroom tiles, there are those who like to mix and match materials for maximum contrast and originality; and there are those who adhere to a conservative approach, preferring to emphasize the warmth of the room with wood-like tiles.

Consider pairing a smooth, solid color tile with a textured tile that adds volume and visual interest. 3D tiles stand out not only in appearance but also in touch, which gives a three-dimensional effect and eliminates the limitations of space through precise shape and exquisite modeling.

Matte or gloss?

Tiles can be glossy or matte, each of which affects the feeling of space. The choice of glossy or matte tiles depends on what you like and what space you choose for. Consider the size of the room, the lighting, the ease of maintenance, and the overall style you create when making your decision. Both types of tiles have pros and cons, so looking at these elements should help you make the right choice.

matte tiles

A special layer is added to tiles with a matte surface to help achieve a non-shiny, sophisticated look. They easily add elegance and sophistication to any space, whether on the floor or walls.

Unlike glossy tiles, matte tiles better hide stains, drips and dried water drops, in other words, such tiles do not require frequent cleaning. The non-slip surface makes it ideal for bathrooms, kitchens and other wet areas. Matte tiles are non-slip because they have better friction than others, which ensures safety for the elderly, children and pets.

Glossy

The distinguishing factor between a glossy and a matte finish is the presence of a shiny, durable, glazed liquid glass coating that adds shine. This gloss enhances the colors and grain of the tile pattern, giving it a bright, mirror-like and dramatic appearance. It is important to note that glossy bathroom tiles require careful maintenance, as the brighter the surface, the more visible the dirt.

Mix of gloss and matte tiles

Another trend that is gaining popularity in 2023 is the mixing of matte and glossy tiles. This simple yet intriguing idea is to mix two contrasting tile finishes for a stunning result. The visual impact of the juxtaposition of matte and glossy tiles creates a dynamic, contemporary look that cleverly plays with the lighting in the space.

Glossy and matte tiles used next to each other in a space add depth and dimension. This is due to a change in the perception of light. Light is reflected in the gloss, creating a glowing effect, while the matte tile absorbs light, resulting in a soft and dull appearance.

Color spectrum

The psychology of color is an interior design tool that takes into account emotions. Colors affect how you feel, how you think and act, so choosing the right color is a crucial step. tiles consider the atmosphere created by the space, and the color that will help to create and embody conceived.

Classic black and white

Despite the seemingly modern color scheme, black and white have been used for centuries. In the 1680s, the floor of the Palace of Versailles was paved with black and white marble tiles. By itself, black and white gives the impression of an elegiac photograph or an old film, reminiscent of a timeless, sophisticated aesthetic. The stark contrast and basic simplicity of this pair allows you to expand the design while maintaining versatility.

Bright art deco

In the 1920s and 1930s, designers realized that the bathroom could benefit from a bright hue. Shades of purple, yellow, and green began to predominate as people moved from harsh flat tiles to illustrative textures - ocean waves, art deco patterns, flowers and fruit.

Do not be afraid to add brightness, because our mood is inextricably linked with colors. By choosing a bright bathroom tile design, you choose inspiration and energy for the whole day, a dose of bright colors is a great wake-up call.

Choosing a material

It is important to understand the different types of tile materials and what they are best suited for. Consider the most common types of tiles used in bathrooms.

Ceramic tile

Ceramic tiles are an ideal surface for bathrooms and other wet areas. These tiles are made from red, brown or white clay that is fired in a kiln and covered with a durable glaze that transfers color and pattern to the surface of the tile. Ceramic bathroom tiles have a high water absorption rate, making the surface completely waterproof.

Porcelain stoneware

Ceramic tiles - a durable ceramic product made by high-temperature firing of special clay, crushed to the smallest particles. It has a great design advantage - the modern variety of styles provides endless ideas for indoor and outdoor use. The tile is suitable for wall and floor coverings in commercial and residential areas with high traffic, also suitable for bathrooms. Porcelain stoneware is stain and scratch resistant and easy to clean and maintain.

A natural stone

If you're aiming for a more natural earthy feel, there are plenty of natural stone tile options. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles; the most commonly used marble, limestone, travertine, slate and granite. The stone is heterogeneous, so each tile is unique in its pattern.

If natural stone tiles are preferred, remember that they are porous and will absorb water, oils and stains that remain for a long time. For this reason, it is recommended to seal the tiles immediately after installation. In addition, periodic resealing is recommended to keep the stone at its best and prevent stains or damage. It is important to avoid bleaches and harsh chemicals on natural stone as they tend to corrode the surface.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many options for choosing bathroom tiles. Every design has pros and cons that need to be weighed. We advise you to take your time choosing to find what is perfect for your bathroom. This is something you will enjoy for years to come.

Article provided by the site keramogranit.ru