Tile is shifting away from the standard, functional floor and wall covering of yesteryear, and toward becoming an art form. Pieces are so stunning they often become focal points. Don’t expect to see the uniform white square tile of the past; today’s homeowners want color and design.

Tiles feature eye-catching effects created by layering different and odd-sized choices. When choosing tile, don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations. Trends point toward bigger or rectangular sizes made from ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Baths and kitchens are seeing metal accent pieces, linear patterns, mosaics with glass and stone, and textured tile. The gleaming metallics are particularly popular alongside stainless-steel appliances. Tiles feature abundant color and movement, along with extremes such as animal prints and dark colors in chocolate and black tones.

2008 Trend Watch:
Tile

The bigger, the better with today's averages at 24” x 24” and 24” x 48”

Rectangular and geometric shapes

Colors are going dark – think blacks and chocolates

Metallic finishes – stainless in polished and brushed finishes; bronze in polished, brushed and rubbed finishes – remain strong

Textured tiles to resemble leather and animal skin

Glass – clear, frosted, iridescent, or crushed

Tumbled stones – travertine, marble, limestone, slate

Micro mosaic listellos – mesh mount offering endless options for trim, centerpieces and accents

Lighted wall and art niche tile surfaces evoke gallery look

Article provided by and reprinted with permission from Urban Home Magazine (Issue: Winter 2008).

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