Vast variety of tiles allows for design choices
By SUSAN KELLY
Using tiles to make a big design splash extends way beyond the area behind the kitchen sink, says Ed Saunders, sales manager and international buyer for X-Tile Canada. Having studied tile design in Italy and Spain, countries to which he regularly returns on buying missions, he sees the inventive use of tiles to create distinctive, even artistic, features throughout the home.
“There’s been an explosion in innovative textures, shapes and materials to choose from,” Saunders says. “How you combine them will put the stamp of your personality on any room.” They are also a practical alternative to other higher-maintenance surfaces.
An easy way to add impact is to go big with tile – literally. Which may be why there seems to be no stopping the trend toward large-format tiles. Tile diameters are larger than ever these days, says Saunders. Some of X-Tile’s newer imports measure as large as 32 square inches or 24 by 40 inches.
Several examples of the artful use of tiles are on view at X-Tile Canada’s new Dufflaw St. showroom in the heart of Toronto’s tile district. Over the past 15 years, the company has become one of the largest wholesalers, retailers and importersof tiles and ceramics in the country, distributing to more than 300 design stores and boutiques,” says Saunders.
Many tile designs are original works of art, taking inspiration from historical designs, art movements, and nature. Others create a sculptural effect, with tiles of different sizes and shapes combined in novel ways. Saunders especially likes the look of three-dimensional marble mosaic tiles. “The varied depth creates design interest in a luxury material, perfect for backsplashes, feature walls or fireplaces,” he says. These tiles do not require grout; the tiles are aligned in tight proximity, and come in a wide range of colours and sizes.
Glass, metal, ceramic, natural stone and porcelain. X-Tile has packed the latest 10,000-square-foot showroom, which is open seven days a week, with distinctive products; all of the lines it carries are exclusive.
For a standout finishing touch, homeowners can commission a custom-made medallion or insert, or create a seamless look with bespoke flush-mounted vent covers crafted to perfectly match the tiles.
As in the art world, there are some fabulous fakes. “Thanks to advanced digital printing methods, porcelain tiles can be made to perfectly mimic real woods, marble or travertine,” says Saunders. “What’s new here is how sophisticated the look has become.” This type of tile also embraces the trend toward incorporating more natural and environmentally friendly materials, such as porcelain.
