Bathroom tiles Wow looks to last the distance
CREATE A STATEMENT OR SET THE TONE FOR A SERENE PAMPER ZONE WITH THE LATEST LOOKS IN BATHROOM TILES
Today’s bathrooms are more than simply wash-and-go zones. They’ve evolved into a sanctuary in the home and are now more beautiful than ever. “People want their bathroom to provide an experience and offer an escape from the everyday, so they’re looking to finishes which evoke a certain mood and feel,” says designer Ania Forster of Zephyr & Stone. Tiles are key to achieving the perfect backdrop, with their robust, easy-care appeal matched with myriad design options. We take a look at some of the latest trends to covet.
SHAPING UP
The latest looks inspire homeowners to make a big impact, with smaller format mosaic tiles such as studded penny rounds, hexagonal, fan and arabesque shapes coming to the fore. Use these shapes in a floor-to-ceiling feature and pair with classic chrome fittings for the ultimate in luxury – just as this Luigi Rosselli Architects space has achieved. For something a little bit more subdued, slender finger tiles (or kit kat tiles) are becoming a popular staple shape, though subways show no signs of slowing down. The classic style has seen a makeover in reimagined sizes, a growing colour spectrum to play with and creative laying formations such as double herringbone. “For added impact, accentuate the shape with contrasting grout,” suggests director Eliza O’Sullivan of Tiles By Kate.
PATTERN PLAY
Whether you’re making a statement or opting for a more natural look, advances in high-definition digital printing mean that your options are limitless, with patterned tiles replicating the look of timber, stone and even ornate wallpaper. “Decorative murals look incredible across a bathroom wall bathed in lots of natural light teamed with white tiles and can be a really effective way to create a bold statement,” explains marketing manager Tina Di Lorenzo of Di Lorenzo. After falling out of favour in the 1970s, terrazzo has made a triumphant comeback, and its growing demand is being met with a broader array of colours, aggregate mixes and bold chip sizes. For a fresh take on a traditional look, interior designer Olivia Cirocco of GIA Bathrooms And
Kitchens suggests running terrazzo along the floor and then up the wall, slightly higher than a standard skirting tile, and pairing it with a patterned tile above. “This accentuates the height of the ceilings and visually creates a band around the room, which adds depth and ties the space together,” says Olivia. She cautions that you will need to plan this look in advance with your builder to make provision for different tile thicknesses on the one wall. Feeling daring? Terrazzo isn’t the only comeback kid, with bright and curvaceous patterns reminiscent of the 1960s also returning to the spotlight – pair them with lighter timbers and matt black tapware to create a more modern execution, as in this Winwood McKenzie designed bathroom (right). >
“THERE’S A DEFINITE shift TOWARDS USING INTERESTING TILE SHAPES TO create A FEATURE” ~ ANIA FORSTER, ZEPHYR & STONE
BEAUTIFUL BASICS
White remains a perennial favourite thanks to its versatility, yet Beaumont Tiles strategic designer Janna Moore says many people are seeking more creative ways to incorporate the crisp colour. “Textured white tiles are a popular trend now, with timeless appeal, too,” says Janna. “Their multidimensional surface captures the attention in a way that is subtle, yet alluring.” With a shift towards simple, soothing colour palettes, Ania Forster of Zephyr & Stone also sees warm greys and taupes enduring. “There’s a definite move towards choosing similarly toned wall and floor tiles, paired with statement tapware and accessories in brass and brushed nickel,” she says. Greige, a blend of grey and beige, is also having a moment, and makes a wonderful neutral canvas to create a day spa vibe – just as this Luigi Rosselli Architects designed space has done.
COLOUR POP
Colour is ever evolving, with beautiful pastels and nature-inspired tones currently in the spotlight. “These softer colours have a longer design life cycle as they age more slowly and pair effortlessly with neutrals,” says marketing manager Josh Earp of Earp Bros. For those who love a richer, more luxurious, colour hit, deep greens (see below), pinks (see right & below left) and blues are also in. “Handmade or handmade-look tiles in Mediterranean-inspired hues, with their rough edges, tonal variation and unique gloss enamel finish create a bespoke, artisanal look,” says Josh. When using colour, the secret to success is to let one finish be the hero. “For the tiles to star, other elements need to play a supporting role, so opt for a simple timber vanity, matt or brushed metallic accessories, a frameless mirror and create subtle layering with textural towels,” says Josh.