When it comes to tile, it’s often the small projects that make the biggest impact. After decades of working in tile design, I’ve discovered that smaller tile projects have the ability to transform living or work space with less time and effort. Today, I’m going to share some favorite ideas, with links to Merola Tile images on our website, so you can easily visualize the difference that small tile projects can make. TIP: Be sure to click “See This in My Room” for a glimpse of how a particular tile will look in your home or office!
Kitchen Backsplashes: A Functional and Beautiful Backdrop
The term backsplash sounds strictly utilitarian, doesn’t it? However, function and style are equally important for backsplashes because they not only protect surfaces, but they are a highly visible feature of your kitchen.
Tile is a preferred material for backsplashes: it’s easy to clean, sanitary, heat-resistant, durable, and waterproof. But the benefits of a tiled backsplash go far beyond function. Tile is a decorative feature that enhances any space, even the walls of a busy kitchen! Its versatility allows you to choose colors and styles for virtually any decor.
A new backsplash is a small renovation project that can completely transform your kitchen. Here are some creative ideas for tile backsplashes:
Penny Rounds – These tiny tiles hold great appeal and are rising in popularity. One of the best things about penny round tiles is their versatility. Whether your kitchen style is vintage, mid-century, modern, organic, or whimsical, penny rounds work magic. Just look at these natural shell penny rounds, perfect for ocean theme kitchens and baths.
New Subway – A fresh take on the subway tile trend are smaller-sized options for kitchen backsplashes, like these pearly Cassis tiles (perfect for ocean theme décor) or smaller sized rectangles.
Patterns & Pictures – Your kitchen backsplash becomes part of the culinary artistry with tiles that feature images, patterns, pictures, and even words.
Accent Wall: Make a Statement
An accent wall is a single wall within a room that is intentionally designed or decorated differently from the other walls, often to create a focal point or make a visual statement. The purpose of an accent wall is to add interest, depth, and personality to a space, drawing attention to a specific area and creating a sense of balance and contrast.
In a short time with limited materials, you can add a dynamic and interesting new accent wall to your home or office. Experiment with the different ideas below for creating a stand-out wall with tiles.
- Color Contrast – Tile a wall in a bold shade or color that contrasts with the rest of the room for a striking visual impact. Choose a shade that complements the overall color scheme or adds a pop of color, like this luxe green wall adding richness and organic beauty to a living room.
- Texture and Materials – Add visual and tactile interest by using tile of different textures and types, such as wood-look tile mixed with rough stone, embossed tile, or patterned tile. Texture can create a sense of warmth, depth, and luxury, as evidenced in this bathroom tiled in Textured Paradise.
- Focal Point for Furniture – Placing the main piece of furniture, such as a bed, sofa, or tub, against a tiled accent wall can draw attention to that area. This arrangement helps to anchor the room and create a cohesive and visually compelling design. Just look at how the bathtub becomes a focal point against this striking tile backdrop.
- Artistic Backdrop – The beauty and versatility of tile is perfect for creating an artistic accent wall. Think of an intricate mosaic design or tiles decorated with patterns, geometric shapes, or embossed with nature elements like leaves and flowers. Applying tile in patterns to one wall is another way to create an imaginative and visually appealing backdrop. You can also create patterns and designs with the tile itself. Here again, the versatility of tile allows you to choose a pattern that suits your style, whether you want a subtle and sophisticated accent wall or a bold and vibrant statement.
- Functional Accent Wall – A tiled accent wall can also serve a functional purpose, such as housing a built-in shelf, a fireplace, or a media center. This adds practicality for everyday living and work and maximizes visual interest.
Foyer, Entryway, or Mudroom: First Impressions Matter
Greet guests with a beautifully tiled entryway or build a tiled mudroom that welcomes the family all year round. Marble and stone tile can transform your foyer into a grand entrance that makes a lasting first impression. Or choose rustic, earthy terracotta or stone for a warm, friendly entryway.
A mudroom rises above its lowly name with tile designs that are so charming and whimsical that this humble area will become a favorite with the family. Choose tile that puts flowers or leaves under your feet or pays homage to family pets with this cheerful Oh My Dog tile.
Bathroom Shower Walls or Floor: Spa-like Retreats
You don’t have to renovate an entire bathroom or powder room to get the feel of a major upgrade. A newly tiled shower wall, backsplash, or floor can completely transform your bathroom into a haven that you enjoy every day.
With careful planning, smaller tile projects in the bathroom can be finished in a day or two. Consider tiling a small floor area, shower wall, or sink area to instantly elevate the look and feel of your bathroom. Interestingly, small bathrooms can maximize space through tile; floors and walls tiled with dark colors or patterns appear to have more depth, while light colored tiles give a feeling of spaciousness.
Laundry Room: Functionality Meets Style
Even the laundry room deserves a touch of style! Go modern and efficient with sleek, contemporary subway tile, glass tile, or marble. For a vintage, traditional, or rustic laundry room that makes you feel cheerful about washing clothes, try quaint penny round tiles, terracotta, or patterned tile.
Final Thoughts
Don’t forget lighting for adding extra impact to your small tile project. Think of how striking uplighting looks on an accent wall or the appeal of a well-lit bathroom vanity or kitchen backsplash. Light reflects beautifully off tile and can be used to draw attention to specific tile designs or features; this is especially effective in showcasing mosaics or artistic tile.
In both home and office settings, tile offers a versatile and cost-effective way to enhance the aesthetics of a space without making overwhelming changes. Whether you draw inspiration from your family, work, travels, nature or hobbies, tile offers endless possibilities. Here’s to transforming your space, one small tile project at a time.