You have probably seen this type of tile design shown on any one of the numerous home improvement shows, social media networks or perhaps showcased in a home design magazine, but you are most likely not sure what they are or what they’re called. This tile feature hitting the home design circuit by storm is called Encaustic Tile or sometimes it’s just included in the graphic tile pattern category. These tiles are primarily cement but a more affordable product is now being produced in ceramic. Both tiles can be adorned with geometric or decorative patterns. The old-world cement and specialized ceramic tiles have a pattern not just placed on the surface in glaze but are created from different colors of clay. The most popular version is usually shown in two colors, but the tile can be a composite of as many as 5 or 6. The best part is the embedded clay creates formidable protection in high traffic patterns, since the color can not be worn down or rubbed off. The pattern runs through the entire material of the tile and will remain intact as the traffic pattern erosion happens over time. Giving this product beautiful longevity. But don’t worry if you love the look but not the price tag, you can always choose the new ceramic version that’s now available.
Stunning Encaustic Tile Use Within Your Home
Dating back hundreds of years these gorgeous tiles have history. So, what is old has become new again and it’s all the rage again. Anyone seeing them installed within a room can clearly see why. While they have the flexibility to be used in a contemporary design, they can equally complement a traditional one. The color palettes for encaustic tiles are either subtle tones that help bring sophistication to a space or they can also come in bright or highly contrasting colors. This offers a unique style sensibility to these tiles. Tiling can be challenging when we are wanting warmth in the design but somehow these spectacular pieces do just that – they draw a real warmth to a room.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways top designers are using these stunning tiles.
Kitchen or Bath Backsplash
Flooring
Fireplace Surround
Most of the tiles are in an 8×8 inch format, but with a creative layout, you can pretty much design a masterpiece and it requires no artwork to be hung on the fireplace afterward. All you have to do is to decide on your color palette and the graphic tile pattern that most appeals to you. Once you have that nailed, you’ll be ready to go!
The opportunity to capitalize on the encaustic tile trend in Portland is in large part due to the advances in the technology of producing these tiles easily. Hold on to your hat you will see more and more of these tiles peeking out from the top designers’ interior designs. Whether you are considering creating a small tiled floor rug accent or covering the entire surface with graphic tile patterned – encaustic tiles, you will be excited with the final results. Reach out to our knowledgeable design team and let them guide you through your tile selection process.