Interior Designs: ‘Glass tiles are impervious to water splashes’

Published on 27/05/2012 13:33

Although last week I suggested using one-piece or toughened glass splashbacks for an easy-clean option in the bathroom, tiles are likely to remain firm favourites.

Stones such as slate, marble and limestone are suitable for walls and floors, and are incredibly durable, suiting both contemporary and rustic schemes. Some stone tiles may need to be sealed to make them waterproof. Bear in mind too that these are natural materials, so colours and textures may vary slightly, and that they tend to be thicker – and thus heavier – than other materials.

Glass tiles are impervious to water splashes and largely stain resistant. Their reflective qualities and translucence can create interesting effects under both natural and artificial light, and best suit contemporary spaces, but glass tiles tend to be pricey. Machine-made ceramic tiles are the most popular and least expensive. Non-porous, they are easy to maintain but grouting will deteriorate over time. Handmade tiles have distinctive characteristics which add to their appeal, but they are more expensive.

A recent trend has been to use large tiles over both walls and floor to give a seamless effect, visually maximising space. While this creates a clean and contemporary feel, it can appear impersonal and, if yours is an older property with uneven walls, can show up imperfections. On the other hand, using small tiles in a cramped space may, given the chequered effect of lots of grout lines, make the room appear even smaller. One solution might be to use larger tiles on the floor and matching ones on the wall. Alternatively, carry floor tiles up the wall as far as a deep skirting board would reach and paint above. k

Pat Elliott, Borders Design House.  Visit our website for design services, courses and workshops. Start a new career as a Homestyle Advisor or learn to ‘Be Your Own Designer’ with our distance-learning interior design course (07765 057 409, www.thebordersdesignhouse.co.uk)