LATEST TILE TRENDS

Claire O’brien, head of design at British Ceramic Tile, explores the potential of patterned tiles

* Playful placements and quirky combinations of pattern are on the horizon – it’s not about the motif itself, but how you use it, and you don’t have to stick with one design. Mixing tiles can have a really unique effect – for example, geometric tiles alongside dramatic stone effects, but housed within a similar colour palette.

* Clever zoning is paramount. Wall-to-floor pattern in a wet room is stunning, but an area of calm is also needed. Go for a small feature area of pattern on the wall, then continue across the full expanse of the floor. If you lust after an intricately patterned floor, complement the look with plain wall tiles. The

impact can be lost if every surface is covered in patterned tiles.

* Embrace your creativity to give familiar looks a new lease of life, using plain tiles in different shades to build your own designs. Riff on a chequered pattern by diffusing down from a black tile through to grey and then off white.

* Glass inkjet is the next printing technique. New technology now allows manufacturers to add printed patterns to glass tiles and splashbacks. Expect to see some interesting glass designs very soon.

* Use grout to add a colour pop. Not only does it enhance the shape of the tiles, it’s also a cost-effective way to transform a plain pattern. Metallic grouts are very much of the moment.

* Textured finishes on tiles are key. Whether matt or gloss, they add depth for maximum impact. Think raised prints,

stone and brick effects, tiles with wave designs and gentle undulating ripples. Surfaces that were traditionally smooth are now textured for visual intrigue with a tactile quality.