choosing the right designer tile for your project is about more than looks. do you have kitchen, bathroom or home renovation plans? remember that tile choice is one of the most critical design decisions.
while the colour scheme, cabinetry, tapware, fixtures are essential, tiling can significantly impact the result. tiles lay the foundations for the room’s entire design, encompassing the floors and walls, so it is no surprise that getting the size, composition, design, material and texture right is key for a successful renovation.
the original ceramic team created this guide on choosing tiles, so read on to learn more.
rectified vs non rectified
like the stunning basalt range, rectified tiles are manufactured with straight edges and provide a seamless, high-end, hotel-style finish with long lines and smooth planes. attractive and sophisticated rectified tiles are less forgiving and require more skill to lay to achieve a clean gradient. the slightest imperfection in the underlying levelling, amount of glue applied, cutting, or any bows or bends in the tile may lead to noticeable lips.
like these gorgeous raku tiles, non-rectified tiles have slightly bevelled or rounded edges. this means that variations or imperfections are less obvious but give a more rustic feel.
contact us or drop by our tile shop in perth if you want help choosing the right tile for your project.
tile size
as a general design rule, large tiles will make a space look expensive, whereas smaller ones make your space more intimate.
- 600x600mm floor tiles are ideal for larger rooms but could overwhelm smaller spaces.
- 450x450mm floor tiles or smaller-sized tiles are much more suitable for medium and small spaces.
small tiles, such as mosaic subway tiles, often provide the option to inject an area with lovely colours and patterns. keep in mind smaller discount tiles require the underlying wall to be in good condition (rendered level, flat, and smooth). while the amount of glue used to adhere larger format tiles onto the wall can be adjusted with each tile to accommodate for differences in the wall, such as slightly angled, offset or unsmooth walls, this is not an option for smaller tiles.
grout
grout choice is as vital as your tile choice to achieve a great tile finish. get the colour, joint size or quality of grout wrong and you’ll be left with evident and unsightly lines between your tiles that could crack or discolour.
- small tiles require more grout, so allow for this when ordering supplies.
- large tiles minimise grout, providing a seamless look, especially for larger floors and outdoor areas.
- grout can discolour over time, so follow the cleaning instructions to keep your grout sparkling.
ready to choose your tiles in leederville?
original ceramics is a respected tile merchant for architects, interior designers, and clients. with an appreciation for design, products, and quality, it has a reputation as the best tile shop in perth. we pride ourselves on stocking an exclusive range of tiles in leederville and also supply a range of discount tiles. please speak to one of our expert tiling staff about your project requirements. we offer experienced, sound, genuine advice to help you achieve your goals.
established in 1977 and directed by the design-rich cardinale family, original ceramics offers an extensive background in architecture and tiling, resulting in a wealth of experience and knowledge. if you’re looking for designer clearance tiles in perth, contact us today or visit our store and browse our discount tiles.