Tile Trends: Combination Mosaics

Mosaics have been extremely popular throughout history. We are seeing an increase in a blending of materials lately.

The most popular combination mosaic is a mix of 1"x1" stone and glass. Several other shapes are also on the market such as rectangles and circles but Tile Market has the most variety in the square shape. Often used to include a small amount of color or texture change these mosaics work great as accent walls, backsplashes, and even shower floors.

Although glass and stone is the most prevelant combination mosaic we also see ceramic and stone, glass and metal, and ceramic and glass. As design trends continue blending traditional and contemporary (transitional) these mosaics will prosper as well.

Tile Market of San Marco has the combination mosaic to fit your needs.

Tile Trends: Backsplashes

The space above the counter top is referred to as the backsplash. Sometimes a 4" piece of counter material is used as the only backsplash. This look is commonly used in bathrooms while more decorative tile is used in kitchens. Varying in size and design, backsplashes typically require lots of planning.

In kitchens, the standard backsplash runs from the counter to the bottom of the upper cabinets in a space that averages about 18" high. Many times there is a larger space above the cooktop or sink. The kitchen,called the heart of the home, can showcase the backsplash as art.

More modern designs may run a single tile throughout the entire space. Whereas, a more traditional look may use the larger space above the cooktop as a focal point by adding more decorative elements. With the smaller scale of this project, one may choose to spend more per square foot on tiles.

With backsplash design the possibilities are endless. Tile Market can easily help narrow down the choices. Shopping for tile after your counter is selected may also help to speed up the process. Tile Market is sure to have the backsplash for your home.

Tile Trends: Trim Pieces

The perfect trim piece can make a tile job look fantastic. There are many different types of trim and they have several different names. Trimming out a border, capping off a wainscotting or finishing a wall with crown can all be accomplished with the right trim piece. Available in stone, glass, ceramic, porcelain and sometimes in metal, it should not be difficult to find a trim to coordinate with your needs.

There are four basic types of trim moulding and thousands of variations of each. The most popular is the pencil trim. A simple rounded piece that slightly protrudes is commonly used for framing borders, focal points and sometimes acts as the top of wainscotting. Its simple shape tends to make it less costly and fit with most decors. Next is the chair rail. A chair rail is used for, as its name implies, the top of wainscotting. However, a chair rail may also be used alone or in conjunction with the pencil in framing decorative tile as well. The last two pieces are the base and crown moulding. These pieces are key elements in achieving a high-end tiled wall. The base, used at the bottom of a wall, differentiates the wall and floor tiles. The crown, a more elaborate version of the chair rail, sits at the top of a wall next tto the ceiling. The crown is usually much larger than the chair rail so it has visual weight on a tall wall. Occasionally crown act as chair rail as well.

Tile Market has the trim moulding to work for your next project. Stop be to see all of the variations.

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Tile Trends: Mosaics

Mosaics are an art form that has been prevalent throughout history. Today mosaics can be made of any type of tile. Traditionally stone and ceramic tiles were used but now many vendors offer glass, porcelain, and metal as options.

Greater material options and improved technology have expanded mosaics in the tile industry. One way to set apart your project is by creating a custom mosaic. Custom mosaics can be simple, such as varying a color on a standard pattern, or complex. Several companies now have the ability to create complex custom mosaics. If you are looking for a monogram inlaid in your foyer or a backsplash to coordinate with your wallpaper it can be made. Custom mosaics can also be used in pools, bathrooms, and hung on your wall like artwork.

The staff at Tile Market is very familiar with all types of custom mosaics and can help assist in creating your dream design. For options, as well as examples, please visit our showroom.

Tile Trends: Metallic Tile

Metal tiles have long been used in design. Bronze, aluminum, and stainless steel make up the majority of metal used in tiles. Occasionally gold, silver, and platinum encased in glass or on their own create stunning accents.

Metal tiles, not suitable for wet applications, typically appear in backsplashes or on floors. From traditional bronze accents, such as a compass rose in a floor medallion, to contemporary stainless plank tiles, metal tiles fit into most decors. Sometimes used to reflect light with a high luster the tiles are available in a large spectrum of colors and finishes. Brushed aluminum tiles are becoming increasingly popular as it coordinates nicely with brushed nickel hardware finishes and ties in the color of the stainless appliances.

Metallic looks are also very popular. Ceramic tile glazed with metallic colors or glass finished to mimic metal are a great way to use the look in wet areas, such as a shower. Sometimes, they are also a more affordable alternative to solid cast metals.

Tile Market carries a large selection of both metal tiles as well as metallic looks. Please visit our showroom for the tile to suit your project.

Tile Trends: Glass tile

Glass tile is very versatile and continues to grow in the marketplace. It is available in an array of colors, textures, and sizes. Glass, a non-porous, impervious material, is suitable for many applications including swimming pools, showers, and backsplashes. Due to the chameleon-like nature of this material, many designers are using glass in display niches, as flooring accents, or even as focal walls.

Glass tile can be contemporary with solid colors and crisp straight edges, rustic with muddled colors and chipped edges, or traditional with the soft edges of tumbled beach glass. It comes in clear and matte finishes and is typically very "green". Many companies produce their glass tile using recycled materials.

For an extensive selection of glass tiles please visit our showroom.