Let’s talk about one of our homes’ most overlooked yet amazing materials: wall and floor tiles. Think of the classic square green tile that graced countless kitchens in the mid-century. Sure, they’re not as much of a scene-stealer as a statement-making designer sofa or chandelier. But these little gems are the finishing touches of our homes. They literally hold everything together – and do so in style!
Today, we’re taking the road down memory lane, exploring the tiles that make our houses feel more like home.
Traditional vs Modern Walls & Floors in the US
In the past, you’d usually find tiles on the walls of US homes where they had a job to do – protect the walls from splashes. This is why they are commonly confined to the kitchen and bathroom space.
But there’s a fresh trend on the block. Nowadays, tiles are also used to make a statement, like in feature walls in the living room or fireplace surround.
Flooring has always been about using what’s real and natural, like wood, stone, and clay (ceramics and porcelain). Fast forward to today, and the flooring game has changed.
With the likes of upgraded ceramic and porcelain tiles, as well as new kids on the block like luxury vinyl tile, today’s homes are outfitting their floors with materials that are friendly on the wallet, made to last, and a breeze to look after.
Plain Clay’s Makeover: Ceramic Tiles
For ages, humble yet hardworking ceramic tiles have been the go-to choice for American homes. Easy to install, easy to fix, and even easier on the eyes, they bring that clean and crisp vibe without the hefty price tag. The beauty of ceramics? They’re just as happy gracing your kitchen backsplash as they are lounging on your bathroom floor.
Ceramic tiles do far more than just sprucing up our homes. They also claimed their spots in public spaces, too. Notice the eye-catching artwork at your local subway station or the trendy look of your favorite coffee shop’s floor? Chances are, those tiles are ceramics.
Tough Yet Tidy: Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are hard cookies. They can handle a lot of foot traffic and still look great. They’re like that friend who always looks glamorous, no matter what they’re doing. Made from refined clay, porcelain tiles undergo high-temperature firing, giving them their durability and water resistance.
And the best part? Porcelain tiles are the king in mimicry. They can look just like natural stone, hardwood, and even marble. This makes them a handy and easy-to-use option for lots of different uses.
You can mostly find porcelain tiles in New York loft-style apartments where they balance between modern and rustic appeal. Go south to Florida, and you’ll see light-colored porcelain tiles in homes.
Little Pieces of Nature: Natural Stone Tiles
Without a doubt, natural stone tiles hold a significant role in shaping the architectural aesthetic of American homes. In the early years, homeowners often used locally available stones like limestones and granites to make robust kitchen counters.
For instance, the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, the largest privately-owned house in the US, flaunts stunning stone details. Built from Indiana limestone, this grand structure provides a shining example of the timeless elegance stone can bring to a house.
How to Make Picking Tiles Simple
Choosing the right tile can sometimes feel like solving a tough puzzle. Here’s a little tip – always think about how much use those tiles will see. Tiles in the kitchen will have a different experience than those in the bedroom, right?
And make sure to pick a tile that matches a room’s style. Just like you wouldn’t wear beach sandals to a snow fight, the same goes for choosing tiles for rooms.
Final Thoughts
And that’s a wrap! A quick stroll through America’s favorite tiles. From the iconic white rectangle tile or subway tile to the elegant marble, tiles are indeed a key part of American spaces. So, whenever you need a sprinkle of history in your designs, swing by this post to get some inspiration.