The popularity of stone and porcelain tile in the U.S. continues to rise at a dramatic rate, thanks to technological advances and passionate designers who have brought applications a long way from the basic uses of yesteryear.
Tile appeals to builders and homeowners for its versatility, durability, beauty and eco-friendly qualities, says Hank Matheny, ASID, CAPS of Haskell Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm in Cleveland. It wins the hearts of homeowners for its ability to offer the best of many worlds.
The latest trends share a flair for boldness and innovation. It’s difficult to pin down a trend in tile sizes and uses these days, says Matheny, because new technologies make it possible to produce a wide range of styles and dimensions, for use in almost any room. “It’s easy to install tiles as small as 5/8 by 5/8 inches, or up to 4 by 4 feet or even larger,” he notes. “Glass tile continues to be extremely popular because it can be incorporated into so many different applications and blends beautifully with almost every period of style.”
Strong saturated tones such as midnight blue, royal purple and deep chartreuse are new, but traditional power hues of golds, browns and rusts still rule, adds Matheny. Blues are especially dominant right now, appearing in every shade from pale water blue to deep cobalt. All of these powerful colors can be paired with linear and neutral whites, creams and soft grays to provide a high-contrast punch.
Tile collections also employ texture and geometry to underscore the contrast of light and shadow. Softness and whimsy are also taking the stage with gentle palettes of sky blue, blushing orange, lilac and rose imparting a sense of optimism and peace of mind. Highly-stylized interpretations of classic motifs and floral patterns add sophistication to traditional themes, while the lighter themes are fun and frivolous.
Mosaics continue to be very popular and can be incorporated into both the classic traditional home as well as for those seeking modern, clean design. Today it is possible to recreate any art or design in mosaics. Drawing on consumers’ continuing interest in the environment, tile makers are presenting entire collections inspired by nature. Homeowners can find tiles that mimic the texture of sand dunes, waves, tree bark and even rain.
Tile has always been a good medium for textures that lend nuances of shade and tone through the play of light and shadow. New possibilities are emerging, such as tile that mimics the look of antique, distressed wood and bush-hammered or chiseled stone.