Planning a new home build, renovations, or a room makeover and keen to add that all-important wow factor? Tiles are an easy way to incorporate colour, texture, and interest into your home. With so many options available, finding the perfect tiles for each space can seem daunting. To help you get started, we caught up with the experts at Tile Warehouse who share some top tips and insights on using tiles in your home.
Traditionally, tiles in New Zealand homes have been the go-to finish for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries. But there's a new trend catching on – using tiles in living areas, lounges, hallways, and even bedrooms. This style shift is inspired by European and Australian designs, giving homes a sophisticated, modern look.
Since the 2021 building code change for wet area flooring, there's been a stronger focus on water containment and protection. Timber-look tiles and large porcelain modules are becoming favourites because they work well in both wet and dry areas. Plus, they meet the building regulations, which is a win-win for homeowners.
With so many shapes, sizes, patterns, and colours to choose from, finding the right tiles can feel a bit overwhelming. Start by browsing styles on Pinterest or exploring case studies on the Tile Warehouse Gallery. These platforms are great for discovering different designs and seeing how tiles can transform a space. Identifying your preferred style will help narrow down choices for colour, design, and room use. For a more personalised touch, consider visiting in-store for a consultation. The experts at Tile Warehouse can guide you to the perfect tiles for your space, ensuring that your vision comes to life.
Using the same tiles throughout your home can create a stylish and cohesive look, enhancing the overall aesthetic and flow from one room to another. This approach is particularly effective if you're aiming for a minimalist or modern design. Matching tiles can also make your spaces feel larger and more connected.
However, it’s important to consider the functionality and purpose of each room. For instance, while a sleek, polished tile might look stunning in a living area, it may not be practical for a bathroom where slip resistance is a priority. Similarly, a tile that's perfect for your kitchen might not be the best choice for a bedroom where comfort underfoot is more important.
Another trend is matching indoor and outdoor tiles. This can create a seamless transition between your indoor living spaces and outdoor areas like patios or decks. It's a great way to bring the outside in and make your home feel more expansive.
Some tile designs never go out of style. Take terracotta, for example – it’s making a comeback with modern updates in format and size. The revival of this tone is also reflected in the colourways inspired by the worldwide Pantone Colour of the Year. For 2024, it's Peach Fuzz – a light, delicate shade that sits beautifully between pink and orange. This colour adds a soft, inviting warmth to any space, making it a timeless choice for wall tiles.
The choice of grout colour can significantly impact the appearance of your space. It can either contrast against or blend with the tile. For example, black grout against a light tile can create a striking contrast, highlighting the overall tile pattern, while white grout offers a clean, timeless look.
Thanks to advancements in grout technology, thinner grout lines are now possible, contributing to the increasing popularity of tiled flooring in living spaces. This trend is making tiles a preferred choice for more areas within New Zealand homes. For personalised advice on grout selection and how to achieve the best results, have a chat with one of Tile Warehouse’s trained design specialists in-store.
Feature tiles, also known as 'decoratives', are perfect for adding unique touches to spaces like kitchen splashbacks and bathroom walls. Tile Warehouse has the largest range of decorative tiles, available in various sizes and patterns. One exciting trend is the advent of wallpaper-look tiles. These tiles mimic the intricate patterns and textures of wallpaper, offering a durable and stylish alternative. They’re perfect for creating stunning feature walls that draw the eye and add a layer of sophistication to any room.
There's always something new in the world of tiles. Recently, the SENSI ROMA collection and decorative options like CARINO and MINI STICKS have been turning heads. These new arrivals offer fresh and stylish choices for any room in your home.
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