Move over penny rounds subway tile. Texture and shape are taking center stage in new tile applications. From subtle ripples achieved through mosaics, to bold carved aesthetics with larger, sculptural tiles, designers can let their imaginations run wild on backsplashes, accent walls, and elsewhere.
FIRECLAY TILE
The classic triangle is making a statement in lines and visual texture thanks to the Triangle collection from Fireclay Tile. A 9-by-2-inch scalene cut, and right triangles in 3-, 4- and, 6-inch sizes are available in more than 100 colors to offer endless design options. Chevrons, pinwheels, stripes, and squares, are among the creative patterns designers can play with, or add just a few to designs here and there for a fun focal point. Priced starting at $35 per square foot, Triangle Tiles are not mesh backed, and are shipped loose. fireclaytile.com
WALKER ZANGER
The carved aesthetic of Kaza Collection tiles redefine the look and feel of concrete. The collection comprises both stock and bespoke items with designs that span styles from the angular geometry of "Edgy" (shown) to the soft curves of "Lantern." Kaza Concrete tile is produced with state of the art technology to create 3D patterns that make for bold accent walls. Despite the weight of some of the tiles (one 3-D Edgy tile weighs more than 2 pounds), the maker recommends using traditional installation materials and techniques. Kaza Collection tiles are made to order; allow four to eight weeks for delivery. walkerzanger.com
LUNADA BAY
Inspiration from Japanese paper folding translates to tile with subtle geometry in the Origami Mosaic glass tile collection. Delicate angles emulate the visuals seen in classic origami designs, thanks to an innovative marbelized cast glass technique. The resulting 3D format is an industry first, the maker says. Origami Mosaics are available in eight colors and four patterns, including Vesper Twist shown in the cetara colorway. lunadabaytile.com
AMERICAN OLEAN
Part of the Entourage glass mosaic collection. Alair offers a stylish new shape to add a creative touch to backsplashes, bathrooms, and feature walls. The elongated hex design is a 2-by-4-inch, mesh-mounted mosaic showcasing marble and glass elements. Choose from six colorways including white-on-white cotton, golden and gray tones in honey, dove, slate, and smoke, and blue-green tinted mint. americanolean.com
FLORIDA TILE
Kerala is a recent addition to the HDP - High Definition Porcelain collection. The wood-inspired design features a bold wood grain in a warm satin finish. Each plank features a texture and coloration to create movement throughout the space. Kerala is available in three wood-tone colorways with 6-by-24-inch and 8-by-36-inch planks sizes, as well as a unique basketweave mosaic accent to enhance the design. floridatile.com
