Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Make a Bold Statement with Hand Painted Tiles

Tiling an entire wall with decorative tiles or "deco tiles" makes a bold statement and creates a stunning, eye-catching look. Don't be afraid to use bright, decorative tiles with intricate designs and patterns in a small space to fashion a strong statement that defines character and beauty. The Barcelona tiles used here create an authentic and undeniable Mediterranean feel.

Here are a few tips to make it work:

  1. Use larger tiles with smaller tiles and trim to create an interesting border. Look at the backsplash (first slide). Notice how well the smaller La Merced 3"x3" tiles coordinate with the La Merced 6"x6". What helps tie it all together is the use of a molding and accent liner that complement the color scheme. It also add uniqueness that you can only achieve with hand-painted tile. Here the hand-painted Yucatan Cobalt trim provides a nice contrast and well-defined edge that frames the subject.
  2. Use different sizes of tile with the same pattern to create flow between adjoining spaces. Notice how effortlessly the "quarter design" tiles in the shower blend with the "complete pattern" used in the rest of the bath (last slide). The shower tiles have more "negative space" and this creates a nice contrast; but the overall style is maintained by the use of a consistent pattern in all of the tiles.

So don't be shy, make a bold statement and use hand-painted decorative tiles—even in a small space! Avente's hand-painted Barcelona collection creates a Mediterranean feel and includes large 6"x6" deco's in "complete" and "quarter" designs. Smaller 3"x3" tiles are available as well as borders and corners that work great as trim because they come with a glazed edge.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Less is More

Sometimes, less is more. Consider using just a few decorative tiles if you are on a budget or timid with bold designs.

Spanish Cadiz Medallion

Decorative tiles, grouped together in a square or diamond, create an eye-catching medallion, as shown in this application that uses only four 6" x 6" tiles framed with an accent strip. The medallion focal point draws attention to a large back splash area like that commonly found behind a sink or stove. For more decorative appeal, use a coordinating 3" x 6" border tile, as shown in the image above.

You can incorporate the customized, hand-painted look of decorative tile without breaking the bank because less can be more with hand-painted decorative tiles. Our extensive collection of simple yet elegant hand-painted tile ranges from modest to luxurious. This Cadiz pattern, inspired by centuries-old Spanish tile designs, is expertly hand painted and includes borders, corners, large decorative tiles and accent dots.