Ceramic Tile Trend: Big and Beautiful

The history of ceramic tiles can be traced back to the 11th Century from Spanish and Arabic cultural influences. Many historic homes, palaces and mosques are filled with beautiful tile work known for style and functionality. Today, ceramic tiles are used in homes for these same reasons and one of the top trends is large, eye-catching tiles.

Large-sized tiles are the hottest look in ceramic tiles right now. Bigger is sometimes much better when it comes to design, because large tiles provide a more desirable pattern and are created with a technical process that allows the tiles to lay more evenly once installed. Homeowners are no longer looking at traditional tiles that measure 12 by 16-inches. Large tiles in sizes of 32 by 32-inches are being found in rooms throughout residential homes.

“Larger sized tiles are a great way to add visual interest to a room,” says Nancy Bohnett, Academic Director of Interior Design for The Art Institute of Las Vegas. “They come in a variety of styles so you can customize to your home’s character and are used to incorporate creative design in traditional and unconventional spaces.”

There are many advantages of large tiles. Because of their size, there are fewer grout lines to clean. Tile is a very hygienic option as well, and is often used in medical facilities. The larger size provides ample area for stylish ceramic design that adds to the décor of any home.

Large tiles are now popping up all over the world, used in many ways, be it on the floor or the wall. These tiles are developed primarily in porcelain stoneware and come in a variety of styles and designs. Some tiles are created to look like other materials, such as slate, metal, linen and leather.

Using tiles as wall coverings is a popular option in many homes. With endless design flexibility, they can be used in a myriad of extremely interesting ways. Because of the way the large tiles are created, they tend to have a more even surface creating a clean and smooth look.

Architects, interior designers and urban landscapists all see creative potential in these tiles. Many homeowners are seeing this potential as well. One trend is to use these tiles in transitional spaces, meaning those spaces which transition from inside to outside. For example, they are great to tie together an enclosed sunroom with an extended outdoor patio.

Large tiles can be used in traditional situations, such as for the kitchen or bath, but have gained popularity in some unconventional situations, like the family room or laundry area. Tiles are being installed over beds as headboards, around mirrors in bathrooms, as a frame for a fireplace and in designs on walls. Choose a tile with a design pattern or use one that mimics another material for a truly unique look.

Due to their size, it is recommended that large tiles be installed by professionals who have extensive knowledge of ceramic tiles and the various installation techniques. Before installing the tiles the surface should first be leveled with appropriate products.

The Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer’s Association (ASCER) is a private organization whose primary objective is to support Spain’s ceramic tile manufacturers and the industry as a whole by stewarding and promoting the Tile of Spain brand worldwide.

For more information visit www.spaintiles.info or call (305) 446-4387.

Courtesy of ARAcontent