Patterned Tiles

From bold geometrics and Art Deco stars to Moroccan patchwork and classic black and white floor tiles, patterned tiles add instant character to bathrooms, kitchens and hallways. Whether you're going full statement or keeping things subtle, here's how to choose.

What types of patterned tiles can I choose?

There are several styles to choose from, with each creating a different look:

• Geometric and Art Deco designs for clean lines and strong contrast.
• Encaustic effect tiles for a heritage-inspired look.
• Terrazzo effect tiles with scattered chips of colour.
• Checkerboard designs, coordinating corner and border tiles.
• Floral and Moroccan-inspired patterns for more decorative surfaces.

Will a cut tile sample show me the complete pattern?

A cut sample can help you assess a tile's colour, surface and finish in your room's lighting, but it may only show part of the design. Check the product photographs for an image of the complete tile and images showing several patterned tiles together. This will give you a better idea of the motif's full shape, its scale and how often different elements of the pattern repeat.

How should I plan a patterned tile layout?

Dry-lay your patterned tiles before applying adhesive so you can see how the finished design will work across the room. Take tiles from several boxes and arrange them together. If the design includes a mix of motifs or tonal variation, spread these across the space rather than grouping similar patterned floor or wall tiles in one area.

If the tiles form a continuous geometric pattern, check how the lines and shapes meet when adjoining tiles are placed together. Plan where the pattern will begin, how it will sit around the room's main focal points and where any cut tiles will fall. Once you are happy with the arrangement, photograph or number the tiles to help preserve the planned layout when you fit them.

Can I use patterned tiles on floors and in wet rooms?

It depends on the individual tile. You should check the product specification to confirm whether it is suitable for walls, floors and the particular wet area in which you intend to install it. For bathroom and wet room floors, you should also check the tile's stated slip rating and whether it is appropriate for that application. Patterned bathroom floor tiles are not necessarily suitable simply because they are porcelain or have a matt finish.

Do patterned tiles make a room look smaller?

Not necessarily. The effect depends on the scale, colour and contrast of the pattern, as well as how much of the room you tile. Detailed patterned floor tiles, for example, will usually feel busier than a softer pattern with closely related colours. In a smaller room, you could use patterned tiles across one floor or feature wall and keep the surrounding surfaces simpler.