TOTALLY TILES

When building your new dream home or refurbishing your existing one, the tiles you choose, and where and how they are laid, impacts the overall look and feel of your home's interior

- carrol baker

TYPES OF TILES

There are three main types of tiles: ceramic, porcelain and stone. Each has strong selling points and it's up to you to decide which one will best service your needs. Michelle Kearney, product specialist at Beaumont Tiles, says glazed ceramic tiles have a number of benefits such as being low maintenance, stain and water resistant, and being easy to clean. "It is important to be especially careful with ceramic tiles in the installation process as they chip more easily if they are not handled with love and care," she notes.

Porcelain tiles are a popular and versatile option. Michelle points out they are a atype of ceramic that is hardier and denser than other tiles. "But they can be a little less DIY friendly than other tile materials and may require a professional tiler to install them properly," she explains.

The beauty of natural stone is always a drawcard for those wanting a bespoke tile as no two tiles are the same. "One difficulty with this material is that it can be a little harder to maintain as it may need to be regularly sealed to ensure it remains stain resistant," she points out.

TILES TO TEMPT

There are some hot new looks in tile colours, styles and shapes that are creating beautiful design statements in our homes. Tiles in subdued tones and textures, tiles that make a big statement, and colours and patterns which, when laid, are the finishing touch to create beautiful spaces.

Mark Borg, Volare Tiles + Flooring sales manager, says organic and natural-looking tiles in olive greens and terracottas are making a comeback in a big way. "We all want to live on the cliffs in Amalfi, Italy, and we can achieve this desired look with our interiors," he says. "After many years, we are starting to see a slowdown in the traditional grey tile shades, with softer colours such as beige and ivory making a return."