Tiles have long been associated with functionality, practical, durable, and easy to maintain. Traditionally used in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, they served as a backdrop rather than a defining feature. However, in recent years, tiles have experienced a remarkable transformation, evolving into a prominent design element that can shape the personality of a space. This shift has positioned tiles as not just a practical choice but as a medium for artistic expression.
Bamboo forest room
In the interior of Kew Residence (learn more here), Japanese tiles take center stage. The bathroom pictured below features tiles that evoke the atmosphere of a bamboo forest. These tiles stand out for their unique texture and are handcrafted by an artist from Tajimi. This Japanese town is renowned for its artisans who use traditional production techniques to create exceptional tiles.
Modern mosaic
Last summer, during my visit to Chioggia, Italy, I was surprised to see ceramic tiles being used as headboards. Later, I realized that, beyond enhancing the modern industrial aesthetic, they also bring a cool, refreshing feel, perfect for bedrooms in hot climates. The tiles in the picture were designed by the renowned industrial designer Konstantin Grcic. What makes them particularly intriguing is their innovative design as a system of tiles that fit seamlessly into the same grid, offering four modular sizes in eight colors and two finishes, matte and glossy. This versatility opens up a world of creative design possibilities.
Historic avenue
The interior design concept of an Italian restaurant in New York is beautifully complemented by a mosaic floor. The intention was to restore part of the flooring with a mosaic that faithfully reproduces the historic avenue of an ancient Italian city.
Warm materials – Glossy contrast
The tiles on the kitchen island in this mid-century modern interior create a striking focal point. With warm matte materials used throughout, the glossy burgundy tiles introduce a contrasting element that defines the atmosphere of the space. This finishing touch on the kitchen island is further enhanced by chequerboard mosaic tiling on the floor and shiny brass legs supporting the end kitchen counters, adding layers of visual interest and sophistication.
Chilean desert salt tiles
Eco-friendly materials are becoming increasingly popular, and I hope to see their wider application in interior design soon. A noteworthy example, though currently used only in an installation, is the innovative work of award-winning Chilean architect Mále Uribe Forés. Her Salt Imaginaries project features reactive wall tiles made from salt and plaster that crystallize and grow over time, creating a “living system” enhanced by kinetic lighting.
Historic floor tiles zoning
This interior of a 1920s penthouse in Valencia stands out for its tiled floors, where different mosaic patterns are used to define zones. DG Arquitecto Studio carried out minimal renovations, preserving the original tiles to maintain their authenticity (learn more here). As they explain, “This type of flooring is quite typical of Valencia,” and that “In the early 20th century, a town near Valencia called Meliana was home to one of the world’s most important factories for this type of flooring.”
Unicorn pop
A striking iridescent tiles explores how light interacts with various glazes, offering matte, gloss, and pearlescent “hologram” finishes. The hologram glaze, crafted with precious metals, creates a mesmerizing spectrum effect that shifts with the light.
Seamlessly built-in – Brutalism
The terraces feature meandering contours accentuated by curved floor-to-ceiling glazing . These open onto lustrous green ceramic tiles, inspired by 1960s interiors, which seamlessly form built-in benches, fountains, and planters that flow gracefully along the sinuous edges of the terraces.
