Hexagon shaped tiles have experienced a resurgence due to the ongoing popularity of geometric designs. These six-sided gems have striking visual appeal that work well with a variety of styles, from vintage and retro to modern and organic. Hex tiles not only add visual interest, but they add function to both indoor and outdoor areas. In this blog, tile designer John Merola explores the many exciting angles of hexagon tiles, including innovative ideas that open up creative possibilities for home and commercial spaces.
A Brief History of Hexagon Tile
Before we dive into ideas, it’s worth journeying back in time to explore the origins of hexagon tile and their enduring appeal—and perhaps inspire your own tile project! Hexagon tiles have a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, where they were commonly used in mosaic artworks and architectural designs. Roman and Turkish baths often featured hexagon tiles, and they grace historic buildings and religious structures in countries and cultures around the world, with notable examples found in Spain, Italy, and eastern Europe; Morocco, Egypt, and other parts of Africa; the Middle East; Japan and China.
Fast forward to the mid-20th century when hexagon tiles experienced a revival with both traditional decorators who loved their vintage charm, and contemporary designers who created chic, sleek spaces with hex tiles.
Today, hexagon tiles are undergoing a modern revival, as many people find themselves drawn to their symmetrical beauty. It’s a shape that evokes science and technology as well as organic forms from nature, like beehives and crystal structures.
Angles of Functionality and Versatility
Tiles are a smart choice for renovating home and commercial areas because they offer a host of practical and aesthetic advantages. They are not only ultra durable, hygienic, and easy to maintain, but tiles are extremely versatile and can be used on floors, walls, counters, ceilings, and more.
When the tile is uniquely shaped like a hexagon, a whole new world of possibilities emerges! The distinctive geometric shape of the hexagon works well with everything from classic ceramic and cozy terracotta tiles to sleek porcelain and natural stone varieties.
Unlike traditional square or rectangular tiles, hexagons introduce a sense of depth and dimension to a room, creating visual interest and architectural flair. Small sized tiles work well on backsplashes, floors, and bathroom walls. Try large, light-colored hex tiles to create a feeling of expansiveness. Or add depth and space to rooms with dark or patterned tiles.
One of the best features of hexagon tiles is their versatility. Whether you’re aiming for a retro-inspired kitchen or contemporary bathroom retreat, hexagon tiles can adapt to any design scheme. Their angular shape allows for endless creative configurations, from traditional grid patterns to intricate geometric motifs.
At Merola Tile, we are big fans of combining style with functionality. That’s why our hexagon tile collectionfeatures a diverse range of colors, textures, and finishes to suit every taste and space. From rustic matte finishes to elegant marble, you’ll find hexagon-shaped tiles to enhance the beauty and functionality of any environment.
Ideas for Using Hexagon Tile
As you explore ideas for incorporating hexagon tile into your home and work spaces, remember to honor your own sense of style. Choose hexagon tile in colors that express your personality and the feeling you want to create, whether uplifting and energizing or serene and natural. Experiment with texture and design, like hexagon tiles embossed with flowers or abstract shapes. Consider contrasting grout colors to highlight the geometric pattern. And don’t forget to consider the tile surface—do you want glossy, matte, or rough-textured tile?
Whether used as flooring, wall accents, or backsplashes, hexagon tiles have the ability to transform ordinary rooms into eye-catching spaces. Here are some ideas to motivate and inspire your hex tile project.
Kitchen Backsplash: Farmhouse and vintage kitchens get a dose of charm from a hexagon tiled backsplash in your favorite color; consider smaller tiles for extra appeal. Or go for a dramatic and modern deep blue or emerald green hex tile to create a more modern effect. If you prefer a classic and timeless look, opt for elegant white or marbleized tiles.
Bathroom Floors and Walls: Hexagon tiles can take bathrooms to new heights! Imagine a sophisticated black hex design with gold fixtures. Or an airy teal tile that transforms your bathroom into a spa-like oasis. Natural stone and terracotta hex tiles add organic beauty to any bath or foyer, along with a slip-resistant surface to keep floors safe as well as welcoming.
Accent Walls: The intriguing shape of hexagon tiles make them an ideal choice for accent walls. These tiles naturally catch the eye and can transform a wall from bland and boring to bold and exciting. Try mixing and matching different colors and textures to create a dynamic visual display that reflects your personal style.
Outdoor Spaces: Bring the angular beauty of hex tiles outdoors to patios, pool areas, and walkways. Durable porcelain and ceramic tiles are perfect for withstanding the elements while adding a distinctive look to outdoor living spaces. Terracotta hexagonal tiles are trending right now as an option that is rustic, warm, and welcoming. Or achieve an elegant and classic look with marble style hexagons.
Office Design: Somehow, hexagon tiles automatically improve the ambiance of workspaces, giving them a lively, productive feeling. They are especially suited to tech, education, and science focused spaces where the geometric angles reflect the work and concepts within. Eco-friendly and organic environments also get a boost from the natural angles and sustainability of ceramic and porcelain hex tiles. Whether used as flooring in a reception area or as a decorative feature in meeting rooms, these tiles can infuse your office environment with energy and interest.
Ceiling Accents: Break away from traditional design norms by incorporating hexagon tiles on your ceiling. Create a focal point in any room by covering the ceiling with hexagon tiles in a bold color or eye-catching pattern. An inset or recessed lighting feature outlined with hexes would make a stunning design statement. This unexpected use of tiles on a ceiling sparks visual interest and adds dimension to the space overhead.
Furniture Facelift: Give tired furniture pieces a stylish makeover with hexagon tile accents. Transform a plain coffee table or sideboard by adhering hexagon tiles to the surface in a mosaic pattern. Choose tiles in complementary colors or textures to coordinate with your existing decor, breathing new life into old furniture pieces and adding a touch of modern flair to your interior.
Artistic Installations: Did you know that some hexagon tiles are designed to create different patterns based on how they are placed? From stars and tridents to abstract geometrics, there are special hexagon tiles that fit together like puzzles to create fantastic tile installations that rise to the category of art.
Showcase your creativity by using hexagon tiles to create unique artistic features. Imagine a fish pond or fountain lined with tile, or a children’s playroom floor in different colors and patterns. Arrange tiles in asymmetrical or abstract designs on a feature wall to make a bold artistic statement. Experiment with different tile colors, sizes, and textures to create a one-of-a-kind tile masterpiece that reflects your personal style or company brand.
Stair Risers: Make a striking impression in your home by covering stair risers with hexagon tiles. This unexpected design element adds visual interest to staircase areas, transforming them into works of art. Choose tiles in a gradient of colors or opt for a monochromatic scheme to create a cohesive look that seamlessly integrates with your home’s overall design aesthetic.
Outdoor Shower: Create a luxurious shower retreat with hexagon tile walls and flooring. Choose durable porcelain or stone hexagon tiles that can withstand the elements while adding a touch of style to your outdoor space. Complete the look with sleek fixtures and lush greenery for a spa-like haven right in your backyard.
These innovative ideas demonstrate the interesting possibilities of using hexagon tiles to enhance floors, walls, outdoor spaces, and even furniture. By looking at the many exciting angles of style and functionality offered by hexagon tiles, you can create intriguing and unique spaces in any home or office. For inspiration, be sure to visit Merola Tile’s website today!
SOURCES
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/kitchen-floor-ideas
https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/bathrooms/g3414/bathroom-tile-ideas/
https://www.thespruce.com/bathrooms-with-hexagon-tile-floors-7113329
https://cocolapinedesign.com/2023/09/28/modern-hexagon-tile-bathroom-ideas/