When choosing tiles, whether for use on walls or floors, kitchens or bathrooms, choosing the right style of decoration is key. You want the best looking tiles possible without breaking the bank and you want to ensure that they match your aesthetic. However, choosing the right tile can be difficult due to the sheer amount of decorations and decorative techniques used with tiles. There are a wide number of tiling decorations, each with a number of key advantages and distinct looks that they can provide.
Unglazed tiles are a popular style of tile and are often used to provide a more rustic decoration for the room. The use of clay without glazing generally limits the colouring of these tiles to more earthy colours such as beiges, browns and reds, dependant on the colour of the clay – perfect for creating a rustic and natural look. Mosaics are another popular option, with individual small tiles either being used to create mosaics or tiles available with additional colours and materials to create the effect of a mosaic on a single tile. This style of tile has remained popular throughout history and offers unlimited possibilities for colours, unique designs and different styles.
There are different decorative techniques that lend themselves to some extraordinary looks. Hand painted tiles are available and are certainly a bespoke option for those looking to give their kitchen or bathroom a more distinctive look. Hand-carved tiles also allow you to create totally unique looks. These patterns are carved into the clay itself which leads to a three-dimensional look that can make an incredible visual impact; the downside is that they can be very expensive and difficult to match with other tiles.
Perhaps one of the most luxurious decorative techniques for a tile is tube lining. With the details of the design separated by tube lining (often silver in colour), these tiles are perhaps one of the most striking types of tile that can be bought. The tubes separate colours which are glazed onto the tile, leading to an effect similar to stained glass.
Finally, glazed tiles. This style of decoration is a very popular option and is traditionally used in a kitchen or bathroom. Having been used for several centuries, this type of decoration is popular as they can offer a degree of vibrancy and colour to an otherwise plain tile, as well as helping to guard them against staining or otherwise damage. A glaze also applies a distinctive sheen and smooth, clean texture to the tile.
There are a number of other styles and techniques available, creating beautiful designs on tiles that can help transform your bathroom, kitchen or any other room you wish. Whether you wish to go with a rustic option or a bespoke and highly decorated style, there’s a tile out there for every home and every room.