Defining The Style for Tile in 2016

Tile is a hot trend in interior design circles, popular both for its status as a green building material and its versatility. Whether you are planning a new look for a tired bathroom or an overhaul of your outdated kitchen, the wall and floor tiles you select will add the finishing touch.

Cersaie, the leading global trade fair for the ceramic tile and bathroom furnishing sectors, was held in Bologna, Italy late last year. Here are some of the trends spotted at the show that are sure to define tile styles in 2016:

Chevrons – Chevron designs were prominent at the show, and are available in a wide range of finishes, including painted, resin, brick and stone.

Wood look tile – The look of wood has been popular in tile designs for a while, but this year watch for tile planks in distressed, reclaimed and barn wood finishes, as well as white-washed and painted designs and cross grain finishes. Parquet patterns, whitewashed effects, narrow strip tiles and large planks and boards can be combined to create the distressed wood effect that is so popular with designers. These type of tiles are ideal for kitchens, creating the warmth of wood with the easy-care durability of tile.

Brick look tile – Get the look and feel of a brick surface with the ease of installation and maintenance that tile offers. Aged brick finishes top the trend, but painted and decorated brick surfaces are also available, offering a retro look that works with both traditional and contemporary decors.

Marble – The look of marble, without the marble price tag, has made this a popular trend in tile choices for 2016. Not only does it look authentic, but it can be used in applications that would not suit real marble. The classic white with gray veins finish is a top choice in the marble-look tile trend for walls, floors and mosaics.

Large format – Bigger is better for 2016. Ceramic tile is available in large formats, including planks. Twenty-four inch tiles are one of the most popular sizes this year. Look also for slabs of ceramic tile available in sizes up to 5 x 10 feet, making it suitable for countertops.

Other trends to look for include the continued popularity of cement-look tiles in new warmer colours, metallic accents and tiles with raised surfaces to create 3D effects.

Source: Homeservice Club