1. Before you start
Think about the style of your home. Have a look through magazines and online for images of tiles you like. Try and not go against the style of your home – instead, work with it.
2. Tile size
Small-sized tiles are usually suited to small residential areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and toilets.
3. Room size
Large tiles make a room feel larger and airier. Using floor tiles on the walls will make the space seem more cohesive, but you can’t use wall tiles on the floor. A floor tile will have a harder glaze and will be made of harder materials to withstand traffic. In a small room, light-coloured tiles will make the space feel bigger. If you have a large room you have more options; you can chose from light to dark tiles.
4. Colour
Consider the general feel you want to achieve in the room you are tiling – serene and relaxing or moody and atmospheric? Unless you have a feature area such as a splashback, tiles aren’t normally the focus of a room, but they can complement other design features of a room. In a bathroom you might want a restful relaxing setting, so go for colours that blend well together. In a kitchen you might want a more vibrant option, so choose colours that contrast.
5. Grout
Don’t forget the importance of choosing the right grout colour. A contrasting grout will emphasise lines and the design, while a grout in a complementary colour as the tile will give a subtle effect. Ensure your grouted areas are sealed to prevent staining.
6. Texture and pattern
Whether you choose matt or a polished finished is a personal choice. A glazed tile is easy to clean, where as a natural terracotta tile has no glaze and would need a seal to stop staining occurring.
7. Natural light
A gloss tile will suit a dark space as it reflects more light, as does a lighter colour.
8. In the end
Ensure that whatever you choose in one room flows with the rest of your home’s style.