Safe, gorgeous and natural tile trends
When it comes to the materials we are putting in our kitchen remodel and bathroom remodel projects in the age of COVID-19, some things have remained timeless, while others have taken on some surprising new twists. Here’s what we’re seeing with tile trends.
When it comes to the materials we are putting in our kitchen remodel and bathroom remodel projects in the age of COVID-19, some things have remained timeless while others have taken on some surprising new twists. Most visible among those is tile.
The tile industry went through a bit of a tumult in early 2020, since the virus took a brutal toll on Italy, the manufacturing heart of many tile producers. Production resumed for many in late April, and is coming back strong according to all accounts.
One product that is taking the lead is ceramic tile. Since it is inorganic, water-resistant and impervious to most sources of contamination, it creates a surface where potential sources of contamination, such as bacteria, mold and mildew, can’t thrive. As such, it’s being touted as a safer surface that designers are flocking to when they are looking at ways to make these rooms more hygienic for the families who inhabit their homes and the visitors they admit. It’s worth noting that some manufacturers are adding catalytic oxides in glazes for all types of tile, which boosts their antimicrobial properties.
While ceramic tile in particular is a sound choice, there are many gorgeous options out there across the board. Lines that mimic natural stone and wood along with timeless subway tiles remain the top choices of designers and homeowners, but more diverse choices are beginning to appear.
Large scale prints are a decidedly different option. Whether they have geometric patterns, floral motifs, offer a fresh take on classic designs, or offer something else entirely, these standout pieces can create major impact in a space. As a twist, large scale organic pieces – like marbles and granite with dramatic natural movement – are capturing the best of this look and combing it with the sustainable, organic trend that also is emerging.
Speaking of standing out, dimensional and textural tiles are set to take bathrooms and kitchens to an entirely new level. These pieces literally come off the walls – in either subtle or completely stand out ways to add character to your space.
Geometric and hexagon-shaped tiles are another trend whose time has come. Whether you choose a subtle contrast (we’ve seen a bathroom wall of a field of matte white hexagons paired with a pattern of gloss white and textured white hexagons that was stunning) or go for bright, bold colors, they are sure to make a statement in any space.
No matter which tile you chose, remember that, unlike paint color, this is one of the surfaces of your project that will require time and money to update. To minimize the risk of appearing dated in a few years, opt for a timeless style with a classic shape and color. However, don’t shy away from something you really like now in favor of what you think may be in fashion in the future. After all, you are the one who has to live in and with the space for years to come – so make it something you truly love.
