tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32126444559996706832024-03-15T18:09:21.324-07:00Avente Tile TalkAvente Tile Talk is dedicated to the use, design and understanding of hand painted ceramic tile and cement tile.Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-25148816329881000302017-08-08T10:00:00.000-07:002017-08-11T11:06:54.815-07:00Avente Tile Launches New Website and Blog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgso0C27LLwQfzrJllkdF4PojrL0xEF6NnIbNNF61TpOozgYMMP5KO6C4ELtzxKsID5Wb8wh9pKDguVhU9stYHJ43hFpE5buhZSrOvaI96ZxAHsz-2z2SRZS7Qm0NUJc-yOg3RhBh3Fnhmz/s1600/Avente+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgso0C27LLwQfzrJllkdF4PojrL0xEF6NnIbNNF61TpOozgYMMP5KO6C4ELtzxKsID5Wb8wh9pKDguVhU9stYHJ43hFpE5buhZSrOvaI96ZxAHsz-2z2SRZS7Qm0NUJc-yOg3RhBh3Fnhmz/s1600/Avente+logo.jpg" /></a></div><br />
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" target="_blank">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a><br />
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Welcome! I'm pleased to announce that our blog and website have moved to a new hosting platform that is responsive and mobile ready. It's been a big effort with all "hands on deck" here at Avente Tile. While we haven't been blogging during the update, we look forward to sharing again at the new location and name, <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/blogs/avente-tile-blog" target="_blank">Avente Tile Blog</a>. I started the blogging at AventeTileTalk.com in 2008. Even though it's been a huge success; in recent years, it became disconnected at its own location - separate from our main site. So, after some work and changes, we are relaunching the blog here!<br />
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<b>Avente Tile Blog - Our Blog's Mission Remains Unchanged</b><br />
Even though the blog has a slight different name and is hosted on a new platform along with our site, so that it's now "under the same roof" as our product catalog and shopping site, its primary mission remains unchanged. The Avente Tile blog is dedicated to the use, design and understanding of hand-painted ceramic tile and encaustic cement tile. The blog's purpose has been to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation about hand-painted ceramic tiles and cement tiles. These hand-crafted products have some unique issues regarding their look, use and installation. I know that open, frank discussion about these products and the sharing of ideas about these tiles will result in more-informed consumers, smarter buying decisions, and satisfied customers. I believe honest communication is the core of any great relationship.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTCs9_AiVW_srkgKgFMj4C-C87idwgFXnu-tQ5HnYrP5aMQvgEuvoXHZe2RS7iwqoeNToixJ89indFAoznu1Jcb8z2b0vsVLkDVuxHiiuKAVbf9Ib3dvHfsd1WCvVnwv_501AwytY8-CZ/s1600/17112724895_e16133340f_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tile Talk explores the unique issues with installing hand-crafted products, like cement tile." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTCs9_AiVW_srkgKgFMj4C-C87idwgFXnu-tQ5HnYrP5aMQvgEuvoXHZe2RS7iwqoeNToixJ89indFAoznu1Jcb8z2b0vsVLkDVuxHiiuKAVbf9Ib3dvHfsd1WCvVnwv_501AwytY8-CZ/s1600/17112724895_e16133340f_n.jpg" title="Tile Talk explores the unique issues with installing hand-crafted products, like cement tile." /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tile Talk explores unique issues, such as installing hand-crafted cement tile.</td></tr>
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Having the blog in the same location as our product catalog and shopping site makes navigation and use easier. Our goal is to provide not only beautiful hand-crafted tile; but, excellent customer service with easy-to-use tools that will assist and guide the design process. Of course, we'll continue to share historical tile tours, customer installations, design tips, tile trends, and new products.<br />
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One of the great benefits of tile is the fact that you can customize and make it your own design. Given the exact same tiles, each customer can create a unique design that speaks to them. The blog will continue to explore pattern, design and tile layout considerations for any project. Having the blog in the same location allows us to seamlessly connect these detailed explanations with products, installation details, and design ideas. One other change is that our <a href="ttps://www.aventetile.com/blogs/cement-tile-design-ideas" target="_blank">Cement Tile Design Ideas</a> and <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/blogs/ceramic-tile-design-ideas" target="_blank">Ceramic Tile Design Ideas</a> are their own stand-alone blogs where we can share design inspiration for each tile. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsWZp7pAjEFH_yOW8-dTd-vY_oGOqD2uwgOFFsXt7hfe0xaawIdMsqRKZLigNK09aXWNvISWOsYy_OgHMP_G_qpYlVHDwvAYOFaigKH4W6LaKkYAN4OqLVlfjIA-tmSD8CUCyZCWXbhg6/s1600/220_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Avente's blog, Tile Talk, provides insight on design and use of cement tile, like this tile rug." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsWZp7pAjEFH_yOW8-dTd-vY_oGOqD2uwgOFFsXt7hfe0xaawIdMsqRKZLigNK09aXWNvISWOsYy_OgHMP_G_qpYlVHDwvAYOFaigKH4W6LaKkYAN4OqLVlfjIA-tmSD8CUCyZCWXbhg6/s1600/220_2.jpg" title="Avente's blog, Tile Talk, provides insight on design and use of cement tile, like this tile rug." /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Avente's Tile Talk provides insight on the many designs and uses of cement tile, such as this tile rug.</td></tr>
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It's also a great time to thank those dedicated readers and followers of our blog that have contributed to our success. We hope that you will continue to support us in our new location and sign-up for monthly newsletter or RSS feed of these posts. Initially, our goal will be to post twice a week here.<br />
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Look for posts on new topics each Tuesday a few times a month, during the #TileTuesday celebration on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/aventetile" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. We'll be sharing some of our most popular posts, like tiling stair risers, creating a tile rug, and how to use tile to finish an edge. We'll re-purpose these popular posts with fresh new design tips, the latest images, and a fresh approach that will provide greater insight. Of course, if you happen to miss, don't worry! Each post will be available through our archive and search tool. We welcome suggestions for other topics you'd like us to publish and discuss. Please send requests to <a href="mailto:info@aventetile.com">info@aventetile.com</a> with your contact information.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnCKGQeFz5Br5DOVc5hSeI_5eV4oBkHVuZZwvEDYpXD-DlpEsagNQjIPi79QJSrQA73UNPZo4ZT09dxqptsN86fsRpFI4E4MatfAaGXIp8OdWbKps4QViAloCQDqFjN76HHDiBlcEAY7Z/s1600/2658_L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="New products and tile trends, like these cement wall tiles in relief, are trends we'll share here." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnCKGQeFz5Br5DOVc5hSeI_5eV4oBkHVuZZwvEDYpXD-DlpEsagNQjIPi79QJSrQA73UNPZo4ZT09dxqptsN86fsRpFI4E4MatfAaGXIp8OdWbKps4QViAloCQDqFjN76HHDiBlcEAY7Z/s1600/2658_L.jpg" title="New products and tile trends, like these cement wall tiles in relief, are trends we'll share here." /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New products and tile trends, like these <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/188.cfm" target="_blank">cement wall tiles in relief</a>, are trends we'll share here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Did you enjoy today's post? You can learn more about encaustic cement tiles at our <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/pages/cement-tile-info-center" target="_blank">Cement Tile Info Center</a> and our <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/pages/spanish-tile-design-center" target="_blank">Spanish Tile Design Center</a>. Our new website also provides great collections, grouped by styles, like our <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/collections/porcelain-pool-tile" target="_blank">Pool Tile</a>, <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/pages/solid-color-or-plain-tile" target="_blank">field tile</a>, and <a href="https://www.aventetile.com/collections/in-stock-cement-tile" target="_blank">in stock cement tile</a>.<br />
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We also explore historically significant tile installations, such as the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/email/1507_news.cfm" target="_blank">Adamson House in Malibu, CA</a>, exciting photos of tile installations and designs, and perspectives from designers and architects who have specified and installed our hand-painted ceramic and cement tiles. We think you'll find lots of inspiration!<br />
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Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-72979487359543495192015-08-04T06:00:00.000-07:002017-08-11T11:58:41.882-07:00Hispaniola Relief Cement Tiles Offer Island-Like Feel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh688zachFe1YZcwg10PXVtHGUQ7DNeaUMbbgXJM3gpVOYvXzbuD0x6ZVACtNQkno2kXWZQrB1RPYnI_YJ782dNS7eNXyDIwwKshGJYjNyDZ8mCRVZD-phM-uHz__5Zw6sn-w6XgGJzIiw/s1600/1301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hispaniola Cement Tiles" border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="400" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh688zachFe1YZcwg10PXVtHGUQ7DNeaUMbbgXJM3gpVOYvXzbuD0x6ZVACtNQkno2kXWZQrB1RPYnI_YJ782dNS7eNXyDIwwKshGJYjNyDZ8mCRVZD-phM-uHz__5Zw6sn-w6XgGJzIiw/s320/1301.jpg" title="Hispaniola Cement Tiles" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hispaniola cement tiles Colorful, dimensional Hispaniola cement tiles liven up a powder room.</td></tr>
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The Hispaniola Collection from Avente Tile is an exclusive, made-to-order series of beautiful handmade cement tiles inspired by the climate, textures and surroundings of the Dominican Republic.</div>
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First created by renowned sculptor Patricia Feinman, the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/portfolio/hispaniola.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" target="_blank">Hispaniola collection</a> allows you to create a cement tile that reflects your signature taste and style. The slight irregularities and subtle color changes inherit to handmade cement tiles only contribute to the tile's beauty. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/aventetile/15793412043/in/album-72157608276478777/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Hispaniola cement tiles" height="533" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1299.jpg" title="Hispaniola relief cement tiles not only add depth to this powder room, they also add much-needed light and openness." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hispaniola relief cement tiles not only add depth to this powder room, they also add much-needed light and openness.</td></tr>
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Along with their noticeable character and nuanced warmth, the Hispaniola Collection features more than 200 designs and 50 color options ranging from classic to modern. Because of their variety and customization capabilities, these tiles can be brought into almost any style of décor or setting. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/aventetile/11071826564/in/album-72157638089009173/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Hispaniola relief tiles" height="448" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1300.jpg" title="In this powder room, Hispaniola relief tiles add texture, while complementing their surroundings." width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In this powder room, Hispaniola relief tiles add texture, while complementing their surroundings.</td></tr>
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The tiles in the Hispaniola Collection are made of white Portland cement, marble dust, and mineral pigments. To make each tile unique, the cement, marble and pigment mixture is poured into molds and then vibrated to remove air pockets ensuring a solid product. Also, because the colors are embedded within the tile rather than painted on, the colors will neither fade nor deteriorate over time.<br />
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For design ideas, take a look at a beautiful bathroom tiled with <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/portfolio/65.cfm?startrow=82&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" target="_blank">Hispaniola tiles</a>, as well as a gorgeous <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/portfolio/59.cfm?startrow=91&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" target="_blank">Hispaniola kitchen backsplash</a>.<br />
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To further complement our collection of handmade relief cement tiles, we recently introduced <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/188.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" target="_blank">Elevations</a>. Available in six shapes (Drop, Concave Rectangles, Petals, 3D Hexagon, Concave Hexagons, and Angles), this unique series is perfect for the design industry not only because it eloquently combines geometric shapes in both convex and concave relief, but it also offers an extensive color palette featuring more than 60 colors.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/aventetile/11071782275/in/album-72157638089009173/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Elevations edgy, contemporary look of high relief geometric designs stand out for their architectural value." height="533" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1297.jpg" title="Elevations edgy, contemporary look of high relief geometric designs stand out for their architectural value." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevations edgy, contemporary look of high relief geometric designs stand out for their architectural value.</td></tr>
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Elevations is well-suited suited for wall applications and can be installed with or without grout. Additionally, the tiles are available with a standard smooth surface or an optional waxed finish that provides a satin sheen. The tile come pre-sealed with a penetrating sealer and are ready to install.<br />
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<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/188.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=button&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">See All Elevations Relief Cement Tile</a></div>
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If you are interested in incorporating Hispaniola or Elevations tiles in your design, then please contact Avente Tile for assistance. <br />
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Desination: Cuba</h2>
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/destination-cuba/" target="_blank" title="Destination: Cuba"><img alt="Destination: Cuba" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1298.jpg" style="border: 1px; height: 261px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 10px; text-align: left; width: 234px;" /></a></div>
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"I feel we are all islands - in a common sea." - Anne Morrow Lindbergh</div>
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As the realization of Cuban-U.S. relations warming hits home, we couldn't be more excited for the possibility of visiting this island nation. Closed off for many decades, Cuba offers a rare glimpse at vintage 1950s architectural and design elements, including cement and encaustic tile colors and patterns. <br />
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Imagine the treasure trove of new tile ideas and collections waiting to be discovered because of newly accessible areas, such as private homes, former mansions, business establishments, public spaces, and more. <br />
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As such, it reminds us all that using handmade cement tiles for remodeling/renovations, or new construction projects, will not only enhance the look of your home, it will also play a well-deserved role in retail and hospitality spaces. Rest assured the cement tile you choose will withstand the test of time and foot traffic. For whichever project you choose to conquer, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a> is here to help you reach your design goal. Our extensive <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/design-ideas.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-aug-news" target="_blank">Cement Tile Design Ideas</a> gallery features a large collection of projects dedicated to adding excitement in any space. How can we help inspire you today?Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-77699059010616504972015-07-28T06:00:00.001-07:002015-07-28T06:00:01.920-07:00Tile Tips for an Eye-Catching Backsplash<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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This post is a contribution to the <a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/blog/range-hoods-inc-july-blog-hop-50-amazon-gift-card-giveaway/">Range Hoods Inc July Blog Hop & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway</a>. As a blog hop participant, we've been asked to write about Summer DIY & Home Improvement. Check out the link to read other DIY contributions, learn more about the blog hop, and a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card. <br />
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A kitchen backsplash is one place you’ll be looking at a lot while you enjoy your home. It’s also one place that allows you to really emphasize your style. Creating an eye-catching backsplash that reflects your style and taste is easy with tile.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7520/15652025818_48cbe587a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Patchwork designs create an eye-catching backsplash." border="0" height="296" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7520/15652025818_48cbe587a1.jpg" title="Patchwork designs create an eye-catching backsplash." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Patchwork designs create an eye-catching backsplash but take planning to achieve a balanced blend of color and pattern.<br />
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The choices and options are endless and range from a traditional fruit-themed mural, multi-colored mosaic, colorful Spanish tile patterns, or a muted bold pattern with cement tile. Consider the style and color palette of your cabinets, flooring, appliances and range hood. Then follow these three important tips that will point you in the right direction to create a winning kitchen backsplash. Don’t be afraid to splurge a little on the backsplash. It’s a small area and one you’ll enjoy almost every day!<br />
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<li><b>Decide on the countertop you want first.</b> Then you can start talking tile and backsplash designs. Make sure the two complement each other. Don't draw attention away from a stunning counter with a busy tiled background. If the countertop is plain or simple, then let the backsplash be the focal point. Here are a few photos that show the "yen and yang" relationship of a counter and backsplash. In the patchwork above, bold colors and strong patterns are placed next to clean white cabinets and counters with stainless steel appliances and hardware. The backsplash is both eye-catching and appealing because the cement tile patchwork is the dominant focal point.<br />
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Here’s another example of a bold, colorful backsplash that uses traditional hand-painted Spanish decorative ceramic tiles that really catch your eye. A plain counter, in a similar color that is dominant in the tile pattern, doesn’t take your attention away from the backsplash.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/50_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/50_2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balance decorative pattern tiles in a backsplash with plain colors on the counter and floor.</td></tr>
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Above, a Spanish-inspired tile creates a bright and bold backsplash using <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/266.cfm" target="_blank">Barcelona San Jose 6" x 6"</a>. The tile pairs nicely with a simple solid-color counter.<br />
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Alternatively, the pattern in the cement tile backsplash below gets your attention while integrating a bold pattern that works flawlessly with the counter. Bold patterns can often be “toned down” with similar colors, neutral colors or colors without high contrast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/222_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/222_2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bold cement tile pattern is muted with neutral colors and hues similar to the counter and cabinets.</td></tr>
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Below, the Indian Teal brown granite countertop takes center stage. The decorative dots of hand-painted Spanish tile and plain field tile are the supporting cast.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3207/2958248683_20cce8d773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3207/2958248683_20cce8d773.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small decorative accent tile or dots keep the backsplash interesting and don't detract from the handsome counter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The French cement tile backsplash pattern behind the stove below was customized to complement the colors in the granite counter and floor. The backsplash tiles provide the eye-catching focal point; but, the porcelain flooring and granite counter really support the overall color palette, style and feel of the design.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/11982164605_86ae69fb56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/11982164605_86ae69fb56.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Consistent color choice with the decorative tile, counter, and floor make this design work.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<li><b>Work with the available space.</b> You can't fit 10 pounds of gold into a 5-pound sack. Large tiles with big patterns just don't work in that tiny wall space behind the sink with a big picture window - no matter how much you love that tile. It sounds obvious; but pictures make it very clear.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/228_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/228_2.jpg" height="400" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Find the right scale of patterned tile to fit your space.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Above, Cuban Heritage Design 110 2B 8″ x 8″ cement tiles require eight tiles to complete both the cross and medallion pattern. It works well for a large wall with no cabinets. The same impact could not be achieved below. There is only 18” between the cabinets and counter. However, decorative tile placed randomly throughout the backsplash and grouped to form a medallion create a warm, Tuscan feel. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/16_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Olive tiles on a rustic ceramic body give this kitchen a Tuscan feel." border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/16_2.jpg" title="Olive tiles on a rustic ceramic body give this kitchen a Tuscan feel." /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smaller tiles can be used randomly or grouped to create a medallion.</td></tr>
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Consider creating a mural with smaller, decorative tiles and frame with a lavish, textured molding if you don't have space for large pattern tiles.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3150/2959090710_a0673baf0c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3150/2959090710_a0673baf0c.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A framed tile murals below the range-hood accommodates the space perfectly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<li><b>Define your style</b>. A kitchen designer can really help. First, though, try to define the experience you want to achieve, the importance of aesthetics versus “ease of maintenance.” What colors do you like? Do you like clean lines and contemporary designs or classic patterns? Bright colors or muted colors? Vivid colors or earth tones? Here's a few examples of classic and contemporary styles that use tiles to define the design.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3032/3367979403_b124229939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fruit, vegetable and flowers are a classic kitchen theme for a kitchen backsplash." border="0" height="212" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3032/3367979403_b124229939.jpg" title="Fruit, vegetable and flowers are a classic kitchen theme for a kitchen backsplash." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit, vegetable and flowers are a classic kitchen theme for a kitchen backsplash.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<portuguese blue="" photo=""> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/11982043355_ddce5da299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Traditional cement tile patterns in hip colors work with this updated contemporary kitchen." border="0" height="240" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/11982043355_ddce5da299.jpg" title="Traditional cement tile patterns in hip colors work with this updated contemporary kitchen." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional cement tile patterns in hip colors work with this updated contemporary kitchen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3044/2950020620_6c12e91e3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3044/2950020620_6c12e91e3f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If too much pattern scares you, consider "blocking tiles" to create one or two interest areas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Consider using Pinterest to collect ideas you like. Not only will you discover a theme that works, you’ll also be able to share your vision with your designer or friend who is helping with the design. <br />
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As you find your style and look for tile, keep these three rules in mind and you will end up with an eye-catching backsplash that you’ll love for years to come. Don't miss the other posts that are part of <a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/blog/range-hoods-inc-july-blog-hop-50-amazon-gift-card-giveaway/">Range Hoods Inc July Blog Hop & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/blog/range-hoods-inc-july-blog-hop-50-amazon-gift-card-giveaway/"><br />
<img src="http://rangehoodsinc.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/July-Blog-Hop-Instagram2_1.jpg" height="400" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's links to the other Blog Hop posts:</div>
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<li><a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/blog/july-blog-hop-post-1-5-elements-of-an-artful-kitchen-by-artful-kitchens/" target="_blank">July Blog Hop Post #1: 5 Elements of an Artful Kitchen by Artful Kitchens</a></li>
<li><a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/blog/july-blog-hop-post-2-budget-outdoor-decor-hacks-by-snazzy-little-things/" target="_blank">July Blog Hop Post #2: Budget Outdoor Décor Hacks… By Snazzy Little Things</a></li>
</ol>
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What are you waiting for? Get your chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-4719718803136357822015-07-21T06:00:00.000-07:002015-07-22T11:26:46.022-07:00Tile and Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture at the Homestead Museum<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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The hot, humid weather we've been experiencing in Southern California since last week has taken a toll on me. I am not used to the tropical weather, so I find my mind wandering.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/390/18323232700_5d6656c34b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The entry gates to La Casa Nueva at the Homestead Museum" border="0" height="180" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/390/18323232700_5d6656c34b_c.jpg" title="The entry gates to La Casa Nueva at the Homestead Museum" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entry gates to La Casa Nueva at the Homestead Museum</td></tr>
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However, with the stifling and oppressive heat, there is great news! We received some much-needed rain for our parched California lands. Also, as my mind continues to wander, I couldn't help but think of a getaway or vacation, so I thought I would share one of my favorite tile haunts here in California, <a href="http://www.homesteadmuseum.org/" target="_blank">The Workman and Temple Family Homestead Museum</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/296/18324870809_d913aba997_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/296/18324870809_d913aba997_c.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Moorish-inspired, Spanish door and entry of La Casa Nueva is meant to impress.</td></tr>
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The <a href="http://www.homesteadmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Homestead Museum</a> is a hidden gem that resides in the most unlikely of areas, the City of Industry, just outside of Los Angeles. The museum is a place to explore the history of the Los Angeles region from 1830 to 1930 through the hopes and dashed aspirations of two families. The six-acre site features the Workman House, an 1870s country home constructed around an 1840s adobe built by William and Nicolasa Workman.<br />
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Additionally, La Casa Nueva, a 1920s Spanish Colonial Revival mansion noted for its architectural crafts, was built by the Workmans' grandson Walter Temple and his wife, Laura. Additionally, El Campo Santo, one of the region's oldest private cemeteries, contains the remains of Pío Pico (the last governor of Mexican California), and other prominent pioneer families. Being a huge fan of Spanish and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, I'll share some of the highlights of La Casa Nueva or the New House.<br />
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The main entry with its central, open plan is impressive and filled with hand-crafted details like carved vegas, wood floors, and tiled stair risers.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/561/18323383980_50b7187b4e_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="La Casa Nueva is filled with bespoke details of Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/561/18323383980_50b7187b4e_c.jpg" title="La Casa Nueva is filled with bespoke details of Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main entry is filled with bespoke details of Spanish colonial revival architecture.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/284/18323347218_b6619ccf16_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A grand staircase with Spanish tile and tile floor molding in La Casa Nueva" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/284/18323347218_b6619ccf16_c.jpg" title="A grand staircase with Spanish tile and tile floor molding in La Casa Nueva" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A grand staircase with Spanish tile and tile floor molding in La Casa Nueva.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As you discover the grounds, with your guide, you'll also find some unique rooms like this barbershop embellished with cement tiles. Cement tile such as this remind me of Cuban tile barbershops found in Havana during the same time period.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/555/17888674184_b9c6aa7108_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cement tile in the Barber Shop reminds me of Cuban Tile" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/555/17888674184_b9c6aa7108_z.jpg" title="Cement tile in the Barber Shop reminds me of Cuban Tile" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile in the Barber Shop reminds me of <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/120.cfm" target="_blank">handmade Cuban Heritage tile</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/549/17890684433_f6c83d2276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A close-up detailing the cement tile pattern found in the Barber Shop" border="0" height="178" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/549/17890684433_f6c83d2276.jpg" title="A close-up detailing the cement tile pattern found in the Barber Shop" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close-up detailing the cement tile pattern found in the Barber Shop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I'll continue with this amazing tour of La Casa Nueva in August. It's a feast of design details and tile - everywhere you go.<br />
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Feeling inspired? Want to learn more about how to use tile that create the style and feel of Spanish and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture? This is one of our passions and we can help. Visit our Spanish Tile Design Center today!<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/Spanish-Tiles.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=14july2015-post&utm_campaign=spanish-tile&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Visit our Spanish Tile Design Center</a></div>
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<br />Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-67724545695193602602015-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:002015-07-14T10:22:58.135-07:00Cement Tile Patterns for Patios and Floors<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Cement tile floors for outdoor patios or indoor living spaces allow you to create unparalleled visual appeal using patterns together with the colors of your choice. Here are a few recent projects that I've been working on with customers. Each project shows how cement tile is being used to create flooring that is both personal and unique.<br />
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Celebrate summer and be reminded of the cool water at the seashore with the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2509.cfm" target="_blank">Wave pattern</a> by Tania Marmolejo from our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/145.cfm" target="_blank">Artist Series</a>. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/527/19690142235_1d9116de99_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cement tile floor pattern using Wave in Stormy Blue and White" border="0" height="320" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/527/19690142235_1d9116de99_z.jpg" title="Cement tile floor pattern using Wave in Stormy Blue and White" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile floor pattern using Wave in Stormy Blue and White</td></tr>
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Desiring a casual look for their floor, one of our Southern California customers chose the hip, contemporary and stylistic Wave pattern. Selecting their own colors, Stormy Blue and White from the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/141.cfm" target="_blank">Heritage Palette</a>, they customized the pattern for their design at no additional cost. Durable and easy-to-maintain, cement tile is a great choice for floors. Not only is the look cool, casual and comfortable; but, the silky feel of polished cement tile on bare feet is a perfect choice for an outdoor patio or bathroom. The larger 10" x 10" cement tile format laid from wall to wall without a border. provides eye-catching appeal for contemporary homes.<br />
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Capitalizing on California's great year-round weather, many of the state's homes wrap around a backyard patio that can be accessed from the bedroom, kitchen and living areas. A customer in Santa Monica has a traditional Spanish-style home with a central back patio. She wanted to tile the back patio and establish a casual, contemporary look that would work with the home's traditional architecture. She achieved her vision by using the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2506.cfm" target="_blank">Union 1A pattern</a> by Tania Marmolejo, also from our Artist Series. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2506_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Union 1A pattern from Avente's Artist Series of Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2506_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Union 1A pattern from Avente's Artist Series of Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Union 1A pattern from Avente's Artist Series of Cement Tile</td></tr>
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To achieve a slightly more traditional feel for this outdoor patio, the pattern was framed to make a rug using Ash Grey. The area outside the rug will be filled with Dark Shadow. Both Ash Grey and Dark Shadow are colors from within the pattern. The interlocking circle pattern plays well with the classic Moorish-inspired, Spanish theme of the home's architecture. The soft and dark grey color palette is easy to work with and complements the existing design.<br />
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Another Avente customer wanted to maintain a traditional, slightly more formal look for their entry hall. Working with patterns and colors from our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/143.cfm" target="_blank">Mission cement tile</a> collection, they created a complex tile rug pattern with a border. However, since the rug will be laid in a polished, cut, poured concrete slab, only two colors from the grey-scale were used.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/365/19690270865_5c8509de75_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="New Castle pattern with Queen Border in Charcoal and Grey" border="0" height="137" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/365/19690270865_5c8509de75_z.jpg" title="New Castle pattern with Queen Border in Charcoal and Grey" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile rug created using New Castle pattern with Queen Border in Charcoal and Grey</td></tr>
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Moreover, our same customer also liked our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/1530.cfm" target="_blank">Cuban Heritage CH110-2B</a> and choose the pattern for a different area of their home. The popular CH110-2B Cuban Heritage cement tile pattern uses shades of blues, grays, and dark brown. Unfortunately, the customer didn't have any blue in their existing design, so they changed the pattern colors and substituted <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/1794.cfm" target="_blank">Cana Green</a> for Royal blue in the pattern.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/277/19683017292_3883a1a0b3_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/277/19683017292_3883a1a0b3_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 110-2B Cement Tile. Cana Green has been substituted for Royal Blue</td></tr>
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As you can see, designing with cement tile is fun and personable. I can't wait to see the installation photos from these customers after their tile is delivered and installed. These recent projects from our customers illustrate how flexible cement tile is with any decor or environment. You can create flooring designs for outdoor spaces, such as patios and walks, or interior spaces such as entries and kitchen floors. Cement tile works with the existing architectural elements from traditional to contemporary. You can use our existing designs and colors in the catalog, modify the colors in the pattern, or mix or match patterns and borders to make your home your castle. The choice is yours!<br />
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Feeling inspired? Want to learn more about cement tile design, cement tile flooring, cement tile patterns, and see installations? Let us help! Visit our Cement Tile Information Center.<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=14july2015-post&utm_campaign=cement-tile&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Visit our Cement Tile Information Center </a></div>
Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-62840723555685246582015-07-07T06:00:00.000-07:002015-07-07T06:00:01.526-07:00Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tiles: A Historical Perspective<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHFrtFzwEDQJW4b5JgIM8R-Bd3JghUQNgahpNq8Po1eUfCrESqnUK1YVMSBYDIgInOSlhxnLadV3yApHPZThLOmV3lROwq7MW1kox_jsOGUEIRNyUwPFro7h08U2nR6-WII5F9h-T5iak/s1600/Adamson_Hex+with+Blue+glaze3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Stunning view of the Malibu coast from the historic Adamson House." border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHFrtFzwEDQJW4b5JgIM8R-Bd3JghUQNgahpNq8Po1eUfCrESqnUK1YVMSBYDIgInOSlhxnLadV3yApHPZThLOmV3lROwq7MW1kox_jsOGUEIRNyUwPFro7h08U2nR6-WII5F9h-T5iak/s400/Adamson_Hex+with+Blue+glaze3.jpg" title="Stunning view of the Malibu coast from the historic Adamson House." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning view of the Malibu coast from the historic Adamson House.</td></tr>
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Situated in one of the most sought after coastal locations on the West Coast in Southern California, and perhaps the nation, is the Adamson House. Now a museum, the Adamson House occupies land that was previously home to the Chumash Indians until the 18th century. Later, according to Malibu Adamson House Foundation (MAHF) records, “the Rindge family owned 17,000 acres and 20 miles of coastline.” With the coast on one side and the Santa Monica mountains on the other, “the Rindge family’s daughter, Rhoda, and her husband, Merritt Huntley Adamson, used the site to construct a beach house, now the historic <a href="http://www.adamsonhouse.org/" target="_blank">Adamson House</a> museum.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJrfzOI3Xfm3tG27GsYtA_s-xJRCdK689Sxk3ufHyd7awyCm3fot0Y2kNG8Q4kqNfFCZdb53RieErN2RBRsklkAGvU0IpEoBGaG5YMxiT76uzXC710OQBAIttl7reAL6uN7yA-P821Xm9/s1600/Adamson_Hex+with+Blue+glaze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A closer look at the blue-glazed Malibu with terracotta tiles at the Adamson House." border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJrfzOI3Xfm3tG27GsYtA_s-xJRCdK689Sxk3ufHyd7awyCm3fot0Y2kNG8Q4kqNfFCZdb53RieErN2RBRsklkAGvU0IpEoBGaG5YMxiT76uzXC710OQBAIttl7reAL6uN7yA-P821Xm9/s320/Adamson_Hex+with+Blue+glaze.jpg" title="A closer look at the blue-glazed Malibu with terracotta tiles at the Adamson House." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A closer look at the blue-glazed Malibu with terracotta tiles at the Adamson House.</td></tr>
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Moreover, the Spanish Colonial Revival style home, built in 1929, enjoys the designation of being a National Historic Site, California Historical Landmark, and a California State Park. “Situated near the Malibu Pier between popular Surfrider Beach and the Malibu Lagoon, the house boasts an exotic mix of Spanish and Moorish influences with dazzling displays of decorative tiles and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship including hand-carved doors, hand-painted frescoes, molded ceilings, distinctive cast ironwork and lead-framed bottle glass windows,” the museum added.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_prPUiq-x_JGTOqtbfyXT1B3JjPgb7FNAINIz_vllNQdGGlIh8shqCYRZwvjG1Y530-k0i6DPfDXLeZ-CAvg0k45Km1tnZJ417Rxl0eSDIW93OFAb0U-c4WE0VoD7etdcnSCV_FmC0CNA/s1600/Adamsom+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Malibu glazed ceramic tiles meld beautifully with terracotta tiles along the walkways of the Adamson House. " border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_prPUiq-x_JGTOqtbfyXT1B3JjPgb7FNAINIz_vllNQdGGlIh8shqCYRZwvjG1Y530-k0i6DPfDXLeZ-CAvg0k45Km1tnZJ417Rxl0eSDIW93OFAb0U-c4WE0VoD7etdcnSCV_FmC0CNA/s320/Adamsom+House.jpg" title="Malibu glazed ceramic tiles meld beautifully with terracotta tiles along the walkways of the Adamson House. " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malibu glazed ceramic tiles meld beautifully with terracotta tiles along the walkways of the Adamson House. </td></tr>
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Interestingly, California was inundated with tile-producing companies in the 1920s, including Malibu Potteries, the company founded by May Rindge. “Filled with an entrepreneurial spirit, May Rindge started the firm after discovering her land was rich in the natural resources needed to manufacture ceramic tile. She wisely hired Rufus Keeler—a ceramist and draftsman whom many considered a ceramic genius for his secret glazes known for their color and clarity—as her plant manager,” according to the MAHF.<br />
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Thankfully, the tradition of creating colorful, decorative and long-lasting tiles similar to those found in the Adamson House remain strong with our latest introduction, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/186.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=07July2015-post&utm_campaign=Malibu-with-terracotta-tile&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tile</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtonnGeAkyRSwlJcCfElGj-aJ0Yg21491ginLt4IMiyV45NqC_7VPM4XAA_vN69M0ABpSkLja9xbrLzDQL62O7qJr6dHoIXdLuIQP7Ao5RBzLbWZ-4I8pDGvN1NF4qwI1yM7StJXN0eXDA/s1600/Malibu+with+Terracotta+Ceramic+Tile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vibrant colors coupled with Spanish- and Moorish-inspired patterns make our Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tile collection a feast for the eyes." border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtonnGeAkyRSwlJcCfElGj-aJ0Yg21491ginLt4IMiyV45NqC_7VPM4XAA_vN69M0ABpSkLja9xbrLzDQL62O7qJr6dHoIXdLuIQP7Ao5RBzLbWZ-4I8pDGvN1NF4qwI1yM7StJXN0eXDA/s320/Malibu+with+Terracotta+Ceramic+Tile.jpg" title="Vibrant colors coupled with Spanish- and Moorish-inspired patterns make our Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tile collection a feast for the eyes." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vibrant colors coupled with Spanish- and Moorish-inspired patterns make our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/186.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=07July2015-post&utm_campaign=Malibu-with-terracotta-tile&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tile</a> collection a feast for the eyes.</td></tr>
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This line of hand-painted ceramic tile pays homage to the Malibu and Catalina Potteries of California of the 1920s. Using classic patterns, these tiles are created using the <i>cuerda seca</i> technique to produce a slight relief and outline around each pattern color where the glazes pool. These tiles differ from our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/155.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=07July2015-post&utm_campaign=Malibu-with-terracotta-tile&utm_content=text" target="_blank">decorative ceramic Malibu</a> tile line because the design utilizes unglazed terracotta or bisque for the background for a traditional Spanish look. Mix and match plain field tile colors from our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/176.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=07July2015-post&utm_campaign=Malibu-with-terracotta-tile&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Malibu Field</a> to create harmonizing designs. The Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tile collection is suitable for all indoor applications, including walls and floors. They are also suitable for outdoor locations in frosty environments.<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: #0066CC; border-style: dashed; border-width: 3px; padding: 20px 20px 20px 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/186.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=07July2015-post&utm_campaign=Malibu-with-terracotta-tile&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Browse our Malibu with Terracotta Ceramic Tile here!</a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/summer-food-fun/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRYkRb1UDJfLe-N8xAua5OI2Z37J5mzDJ2Rm7NVCsAKFxT2iYVdY4tSMGYBXScs3JzRQ9mYdmi_VmUHUXoRccNyvnL-nVi-xgMgPO9GmCOwEm7I9pUuUefLqqGjwW3y-mypTMjzvGBc0F/s1600/Avente%2527s+Summer+Pinboard.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<i>What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness? ~ John Steinbeck</i><br />
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With school out for the summer, and our dreams of upcoming summer adventures coming to fruition, we chose the Pinterest board that best reflects this exuberance – <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/" target="_blank">Summer Food and Fun</a>!<br />
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Summer’s energy translates to taking on new projects, perhaps one that has been set aside for years. Replacing cracked or broken pool tile or finally installing that fountain or water feature you’ve always wanted for the garden, and perhaps adding Malibu Ceramic Tiles with Terracotta to an indoor or outdoor set of stair rises.<br />
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Using handmade or hand-painted porcelain tile for your next outdoor or indoor project will not only enhance the look of your home, but you can rest assured the tile you choose will withstand the elements, too. For whichever project you choose to conquer, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a> is here to help you reach your design goal. Our extensive ceramic tile <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/hand-painted-tile-design-ideas.cfm" target="_blank">Design Idea</a> gallery features a large collection of projects dedicated to inspiring you and your living space. How can we help inspire you today?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-69151302478217177182015-06-30T06:00:00.000-07:002015-06-30T09:47:18.210-07:00Adamson House Tile TourWith the Fourth of July Holiday just around the corner, I found my thoughts wandering toward the sunny California coast. So, I thought I'd share one of my favorite historical tile haunts, The Adamson House. It's located right on the Pacific Ocean and steps from the Malibu Pier in Malibu, California. Even if you aren't interested in tile and California history, it's hard to find a reason <i>not</i> to visit this lovely location.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7667/17322230054_9cc3521a95_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Located in Malibu, California, the grounds of the Adamson house make for an enjoyable summer destination" border="0" height="180" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7667/17322230054_9cc3521a95_z.jpg" title="Located in Malibu, California, the grounds of the Adamson house make for an enjoyable summer destination" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Located right on the coast in stunning Malibu, the grounds of the Adamson house make for an enjoyable summer destination.</td></tr>
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The grounds alone are simply stunning and open to the public every day during daylight. The Adamson house is a Spanish Colonial Revival home that was built in 1929. It has a unique mix of Spanish and Moorish architecture styles and perhaps one of the most comprehensive collections of tiles from the day. Famed Malibu Tile was manufactured just steps from there. As the trophy home of the factory owners, the home is nothing short of a showpiece. The factory produced tiles that are still coveted today and can be be found in some of Los Angeles' architectural treasures, such as the Mayan Theater and City Hall.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8777/17763793999_3899076f96_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Glazed terracotta planters with ornate designs are clues to what await." border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8777/17763793999_3899076f96_z.jpg" title="Glazed terracotta planters with ornate designs are clues to what await." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glazed terracotta planters with ornate designs are clues to what await.</td></tr>
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Today, we'll explore only the outside grounds. But, stay tuned for next week's post where we'll show more details and provide a bit of history on this tile treasure trove.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5457/17322288434_748cff0a33_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The flagstone entry pulls the eye to the resplendent tile entry of the Adamson house" border="0" height="180" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5457/17322288434_748cff0a33_z.jpg" title="The flagstone entry pulls the eye to the resplendent tile entry of the Adamson house" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flagstone entry pulls the eye to the resplendent tile entry</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5448/17947918351_4241e6e4cb_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Adamson House tiled entry is a tile tapestry" border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5448/17947918351_4241e6e4cb_z.jpg" title="Adamson House tiled entry is a tile tapestry" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entry to the Adamson House tiled is a tile tapestry</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5345/17922735806_6ced69c278_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="An exquisite peacock tile tapestry faces the back patio" border="0" height="180" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5345/17922735806_6ced69c278_z.jpg" title="An exquisite peacock tile tapestry faces the back patio" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An exquisite peacock tile tapestry water feature faces the back patio </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5445/17761936730_78d88fa4c1_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Moorish-inspired details like this parabolic window are adorned with glazed ceramic tile patterns" border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5445/17761936730_78d88fa4c1_z.jpg" title="Moorish-inspired details like this parabolic window are adorned with glazed ceramic tile patterns" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moorish-inspired details such as this parabolic window are adorned with glazed ceramic tile patterns</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8833/17763566889_12b90cb91b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tiled outdoor tubs were used for washing pets - in style!" border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8833/17763566889_12b90cb91b_z.jpg" title="Tiled outdoor tubs were used for washing pets - in style!" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiled outdoor tubs were used for washing pets - in style!</td></tr>
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<i>Tile Talk</i> offers great hand-painted ceramic and cement tile design ideas, tile tips, and information about new ceramic and cement tile products. We also explore historically significant tile installations, such as today's post, as well as photos of hand-painted ceramic and cement tile installations and designs, and perspectives from designers and architects who have specified and installed beautiful hand-painted ceramic and cement tiles. We think you'll find lots of inspiration!<br />
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Next week's newsletter will provide a historical perspective on Malibu tile and more information about this endearing historical landmark. <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/service/newsletter.cfm?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=30June2015-post&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter-signup&amp;utm_content=text">Sign-up now for your free copy</a> of <i>Tile Talk</i>! Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-18171408588231913012015-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:002015-06-23T06:00:01.876-07:00Favorite Tiled Walks That Add Style<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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With the Summer Solstice now behind us, it's time to celebrate this much-anticipated season by enjoying the outdoors. I enjoy taking my daily neighborhood walks early in the day. It's during these walks that I stop to admire the tiled walks and entries. In this post, I'll be sharing some of my favorites that not only add to a home's uniqueness, but those that also provide welcoming curb appeal.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8748/16923601596_d25bc905ef_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8748/16923601596_d25bc905ef_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rustic Pavers in Mission Red create a charming tiled walk for this home</td></tr>
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It's easy to see why a tiled cement sidewalk offers so much more style than a typical grey, poured sidewalk. Colorful tiled walks provide a bright, eye-catching entry to a home. Red is a great choice for Mediterranean, Spanish, Spanish Colonial, Spanish Revival, and Adobe style homes. If you have a large landing or patio, then consider adding a medallion or patterned stair riser tiles.<br />
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Further, the exquisite beauty of hand-poured cement tile in plain colors is unmatched. You can see the hand of the tile artisan in the installation with the variation in color and shade from tile to tile. The floor or sidewalk almost shimmers like a gem, especially in full light. Look at the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/1727.cfm" target="_blank">Heritage Indian Red</a> walk below and you'll see what I mean. The tiled stair risers catch your attention, while the plain red walk causes you to linger and pause.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7586/16993377418_c2846fe3ed_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Plain cement tile, Heritage Indian Red, makes for a bright and eye-catching entrance. " border="0" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7586/16993377418_c2846fe3ed_z.jpg" title="Plain cement tile, Heritage Indian Red, makes for a bright and eye-catching entrance. " width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plain cement tile, Heritage Indian Red, makes for a bright and eye-catching entrance. A medallion using <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/1936.cfm" target="_blank">Traditional Alcala</a> corner pieces adds interest and brings attention to the stair riser pattern </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8635/16124477228_476951e1c0_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Square Rustic Cement TIle Pavers in Cotto Dark laid in a running bond pattern create a fresh look" border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8635/16124477228_476951e1c0_z.jpg" title="Square Rustic Pavers in Cotto Dark laid in a running bond pattern create a fresh look" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Square concrete tiles, Rustic Pavers in Cotto Dark, are laid in a running bond pattern to create a fresh look</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Use our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm" target="_blank">Rustic Pavers</a>, laid on a wide grout line to accommodate their irregular shape, to create Old World elegance. If you want to replicated an antique look use <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2257.cfm" target="_blank">Cotto Dark</a>; <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2258.cfm" target="_blank">Cotto Gold</a> looks like traditional Spanish bisque. Or use a blend of the two, Spanish Cotto, to create lots of charm and interest with the color variation. Additionally, our Rustic Pavers color palette includes the tones found in Mexican pavers or Saltillo tile. So, you can even replicate the look of Saltillo, too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8746/16789742202_ff19d3ced5_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="This long entry path is made interesting by using Arabesque Octagon and Dot Rustic Pavers in Cotto Dark" border="0" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8746/16789742202_ff19d3ced5_z.jpg" title="This long entry path is made interesting by using Arabesque Octagon and Dot Rustic Pavers in Cotto Dark" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This long entry path is made interesting by using <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/172.cfm" target="_blank">Arabesque Octagon Rustic pavers</a> in Cotto Dark. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
DESIGN TIP: When using shapes that are not rectangular or square, like hexagons and octagons, make sure to frame the edge of each side of the path with a rectangular tile.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7632/16771506101_98d90d6511_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rustic pavers, shown here in Buff, look like Saltillo tile but will wear better." border="0" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7632/16771506101_98d90d6511_z.jpg" title="Rustic pavers, shown here in Buff, look like Saltillo tile but will wear better." width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rustic pavers, shown here in Buff, look like Saltillo tile but will wear better.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
DESIGN TIP: Create the look of Saltillo tile or Mexican pavers with cement tile. It's more durable, requires less care and is available in more sizes, shapes and trim.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3857/14666589510_346dcbfc11_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Malibu deco tiles on the stair risers with Rustic Pavers in Mission Red for the treads." border="0" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3857/14666589510_346dcbfc11_z.jpg" title="Malibu deco tiles on the stair risers with Rustic Pavers in Mission Red for the treads." width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/155.cfm" target="_blank">Malibu deco tiles</a> on the stair risers with Rustic Pavers in Mission Red for the treads.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
DESIGN TIP: When laying tile on paths that are not square or do not run perpendicular, consider laying them "on point" to avoid mismatched grout lines, or you can use different sizes of tile.</div>
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Whether you're recreating the rustic elegance of Old World Spanish bisque or Saltillo tiles, looking for unique formats, or the exquisite beauty of hand-poured plain cement tile, we have a tile that works with your design aesthetic, color palette, and space. Are you looking for Spanish Colonial, Spanish Revival, Moorish-inspired designs, or something slightly more contemporary? No worries. We can help you create a look for a tile walk that is extraordinary, unique and in keeping with a home's architectural style.<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=23June2015-post&utm_campaign=cement-tile&utm_content=button">Find a design style that is right for you. Visit our Handmade Cement Tile Information Center</a></div>
Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-35474742695976271632015-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:002015-06-16T11:53:11.547-07:005 Steps to Successfully Applying Penetrating Sealer to Cement Tile<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Sealers for cement tile should be applied to protect the tile from water and staining; but, they can also be used to enhance or restore color. A color-enhancing sealer was used on this exterior cement tile walk, stair risers, and treads to protect them and brighten the colors.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8690/17374342315_d935962a16_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Color enhancing impregnating sealers are used to brighten cement tile color" border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8690/17374342315_d935962a16_z.jpg" title="Color enhancing impregnating sealers are used to brighten cement tile color" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Color-enhancing impregnating sealers are used to brighten cement tile colors, <br />
especially exterior tiles subject to fading from the sun.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Sealers remain one of the most misunderstood and confusing steps of installing cement tile. The confusion comes from the different types of sealers (impregnating, topical, color enhancing), the nomenclature used (impregnating is the same as penetrating), and the dizzying number of manufacturers and specialized products offered.<br />
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With so many sealer options available, including finishing effects (gloss, satin, matte) and applications (outside sidewalk, inside bath, or pool sideboard), you are sure to get a different procedure from different people each time you ask. So, it's easy to understand why people get confused. It doesn't have to be confusing though. The goal of today's post and short video is to demystify the use of sealers when it comes to installing cement tile,<br />
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<b>Step #1</b>. <b>Select a high-quality penetrating or impregna<i>ting sealer.</i></b><i> You may use either a water-based</i> or <i>solvent-based sealer</i>. Water-based sealers are slightly easier to apply and may provide better coverage protection because they aren't as deeply absorbed into the tile. Solvent-based sealers have a strong odor when applied and may provide longer protection, especially against water. I explain this thoroughly in a previous post, <a href="http://www.aventetiletalk.com/2011/11/sealing-cement-tile.html">Sealing Cement Tile</a>.<br />
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When selecting a sealer, make sure it's rated for where you are using the tile. Specifically ask if the sealer can be used for:<br />
<ol>
<li>Indoor or outdoor applications</li>
<li>Floor or wall applications</li>
<li>Wet locations (pool or bath) or dry location (bedroom)</li>
</ol>
<b>Step #2. Select a topical sealer if you want to provide additional finish effects to the tile</b>. Penetrating sealers usually do not effect the finish of the tile because they work by impregnating the tile below the surface. Topical sealers create a barrier on the surface of the tile so that stains do not reach the cement. Topical sealers have different finishes that include shiny, satin and matte. Often, matte topical sealers are produced by adding a chemical that cuts the shine, but also weakens the sealer. Topical sealers are not generally recommended for exterior applications as radiant energy from the sun deteriorates them quickly. Topical sealers will wear over time and generally need to be reapplied more frequently that penetrating sealers.<br />
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Color-enhancing penetrating sealers can be used to enhance (brighten or darken) the colors of the cement tile. This is a good choice for exterior applications that are subject to fading from the sun.<br />
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<b>Step #3. Test your sealer/sealer combination.</b> Always test the final choice of your sealer or sealer combination. Simply apply to a test tile and make sure the desired finish is achieved without any adverse reactions.<br />
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<b>Step #4. Clean the area to be sealed.</b> Make sure the tiles to be sealed have been cleaned, all grout has been removed and the tiles are thoroughly dry. Start with a physical cleaning with a blower or broom. Then clean with a tile cleaner or mild detergent and rinse with water and a grout sponge. If the tile looks hazy or cloudy, clean again. <br />
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<b>Step #5. Apply the sealer.</b> Use a lamb's wool applicator, lint-free rag or paint brush. Generally, you'll want to apply three coats allowing the sealer to dry between each application. Make sure to apply generously; but, do not allow the sealer to pool, streak, or run.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8695/17374088405_f5726dbba4_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tile immediately after applying a color enhancing sealer. No pools or streaks in the sheen." border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8695/17374088405_f5726dbba4_z.jpg" title="Tile immediately after applying a color enhancing sealer. No pools or streaks in the sheen." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tile immediately after applying a color-enhancing sealer. As you can see, there are no pools of sealer or streaks in the sheen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Cement Tile Crazing</b><br />
Cement tile often exhibit "crazing" or fine, hairline cracks over time. This is not a defect and does represent any problem with the tile; however, it will be more apparent when the tiles are wet or when applying a sealer. The small cracks or branches show more on dark tiles and plain tiles. Don't panic or think you've done something wrong if you see this after applying a sealer or if the tiles get wet.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8733/17186158038_96742e9469_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cement tile crazing can be seen in the plain red stair tread" border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8733/17186158038_96742e9469_z.jpg" title="Cement tile crazing can be seen in the plain red stair tread" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile crazing can be seen in the plain red stair tread.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8684/17186168818_3fe065cfcc_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Small fissures or crazing is more apparent on dark colors and when the tile is wet" border="0" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8684/17186168818_3fe065cfcc_z.jpg" title="Small fissures or crazing is more apparent on dark colors and when the tile is wet" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small fissures, or crazing, are more apparent on dark colors and when the tile is wet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>How to Apply a Penetrating Sealer to Cement Tile Video</b><br />
This short video shows how to apply a penetrating sealer to unsealed and previously sealed cement tiles. This important part of the installation process protects cement tile from water and staining. I show how easy it is to apply a color-enhancing impregnating or penetrating sealer to a tile walk and patio. I also recommend products to use and where to get them. You can see for yourself, just how easy it is to apply a sealer.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="1" frameborder="0" height="239" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZIPuRk0vn40" width="425"></iframe><br />
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These five simple steps will ensure success for every cement tile project you do. If you aren't sure about which sealer to choose or if you should apply a grout release. We can help! These handy guides will give you all the information you need to know!<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/pre-sealing-cement-tile.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=16une2015-post&utm_campaign=cement-tile&utm_content=button" target="_blank">Benefits of Pre-Sealing Cement Tile</a></div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/Cement-Tile-Sealer-Recommendations.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=16une2015-post&utm_campaign=cement-tile&utm_content=button">Sealer Recommendations for Cement Tile</a></div>
Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-13270656677079892662015-06-09T06:00:00.000-07:002015-06-09T08:23:31.413-07:00Cement Tiles Exude Warmth, Flexibility in Master Bath Redesign <div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Nothing excites me more than seeing a customer's installation photos. Readers of this blog know that I love color and pattern. Needless to say, I was thrilled when a customer from La Crescenta, CA called to order more tile. She was also gracious enough to send me installation photos from her previous order. As you can see, the showy bathroom uses one of our boldest, most colorful cement tile patterns, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/1960.cfm" target="_blank">Melilla</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7784/18146412725_83cf8f8b75_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Melilla Cement Tile in Master Bath" border="0" height="320" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7784/18146412725_83cf8f8b75_z.jpg" title="Melilla Cement Tile in Master Bath" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melilla Cement Tile in Master Bath</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Not only did the customer embrace color and pattern, they also combined cement tile with mosaic wall tiles. With the addition of exquisite fixture details, this master bathroom is nothing short of jaw-dropping. What's more, this is a truly unique look that speaks to the homeowner's attention to detail and passion for design.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8805/17523809394_3ea6304e3d_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8805/17523809394_3ea6304e3d_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rich cement tile patterns in warm tones play off the cool blue patina of the vanity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8838/17523812684_93a5e616fd_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View of vanity and cement tile floor from walk-in shower" border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8838/17523812684_93a5e616fd_z.jpg" title="View of vanity and cement tile floor from walk-in shower" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the vanity and cement tile floor from the walk-in shower.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7795/17523811414_bcb7912672_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7795/17523811414_bcb7912672_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile rug with warm mosaics show how well<br />
patterned cement tile can coordinate with other tile styles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8871/17523805884_cef76321b9_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8871/17523805884_cef76321b9_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shower bench adorned with Melilla cement<br />
tile and plain cement tile in terracotta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The use of traditional cement tile rugs, with full pattern flooring and more contemporary mosaic wall tile, show how cement tile can adapt and work with just about any style or theme. Another way to mix-up a design is to use warm colors in a bathroom.<br />
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Conversely, blues, aqua, turquoise and cobalt are also a sensory-pleasing choice for a bathroom because of the water metaphor. I really love seeing a pool's sideboard tile in a fire red, and the warm color choices used in this bathroom. You feel the energy and can't help but feel awake and alive!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8764/17960173419_d9e79dd0e2_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8764/17960173419_d9e79dd0e2_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile rug surrounded in terracotta-colored plain cement tile.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pattern floor tiles are run to the edge of the room in the master bath. However, a traditional cement tile rug is used in the shower. Both are paired with terracotta-colored cement tile and small-format mosaic wall tile. Mixing up design style and techniques really work because the color palette flows together flawlessly. No easy task considering different vendors provided the other tiles and furnishings.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7743/17958708520_555b108757_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7743/17958708520_555b108757_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running the pattern to the edge works well.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also notice the appropriate use of negative space and white walls. Good design has to allow for this especially when using a rich, color pattern.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Traditional Melilla pattern in our standard catalog colorway has a dizzying array of colors that makes it difficult to work with; however, that is also what makes it so bold and exciting when used with the right color choices.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1960_L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Melilla Cement Tile Pattern - Field, Border, & Corner" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1960_L.jpg" title="Melilla Cement Tile Pattern - Field, Border, & Corner" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melilla Cement Tile Pattern - Field, Border, & Corner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li style="background-image: url(http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1767_S.jpg); background-position: 0 .1em; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding-left: 90px;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/products/1767.cfm">Heritage Pearl Gray</a></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1730_S.jpg); background-position: 0 .1em; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding-left: 90px;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/products/1730.cfm">Heritage Light Salmon</a></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1777_S.jpg); background-position: 0 .1em; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding-left: 90px;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/products/1777.cfm">Heritage Fire Brick</a></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1780_S.jpg); background-position: 0 .1em; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding-left: 90px;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/products/1780.cfm">Heritage Dark Roast</a></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1784_S.jpg); background-position: 0 .1em; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding-left: 90px;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/products/1784.cfm">Heritage Terra Cotta</a></li>
<li style="background-image: url(http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1785_S.jpg); background-position: 0 .1em; background-repeat: no-repeat; padding-left: 90px;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/products/1785.cfm">Heritage Veridian</a></li>
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View additional colors available within the Heritage Cement Tile Palette <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/heritage-cement-tile-colors.cfm" target="_blank">here</a><span style="line-height: 20.79px;">. </span><span style="line-height: 20.79px;"> </span><br />
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Kudos to our customer for creating such a warm, rich and tantalizing bathroom with Avente's cement tile. Who wouldn't want to be in this bathroom? I just love everything about it!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7731/18119920666_0cb5a75436_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7731/18119920666_0cb5a75436_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile rug, pattern tile and plain cement tile work exquisitely together.</td></tr>
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Feeling inspired? Want to see more cement tile design ideas, installations, and inspiration? Let us help with our design ideas.<br />
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/design-ideas.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=09june2015-post&utm_campaign=cement-tile&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">See More Cement Tile Design Ideas</a></div>
Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-23348134589707349942015-06-02T06:00:00.000-07:002015-06-02T15:15:43.703-07:00Hexagon Cement Tile – Patterned and Plain<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj570Zie7fIs3YQ7vG3Pg_9fDmwZTBj7hYWwdtZwKNZhr-LvwhS8LoMXIIZO5U2O3AwZmzqqRnz7lhngXu1UH2g5pelkR8OJFMtFgE94kgO02imFNDk-wgZkkt7H_Kl8E_X2HVakv_sFPN3/s1600/Hexagon+tile+panel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Star and Hexagonal Tile Panel, 13th-14th century (Nishapur, Iran)." border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj570Zie7fIs3YQ7vG3Pg_9fDmwZTBj7hYWwdtZwKNZhr-LvwhS8LoMXIIZO5U2O3AwZmzqqRnz7lhngXu1UH2g5pelkR8OJFMtFgE94kgO02imFNDk-wgZkkt7H_Kl8E_X2HVakv_sFPN3/s400/Hexagon+tile+panel.JPG" title="Star and Hexagonal Tile Panel, 13th-14th century (Nishapur, Iran)." width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Star and Hexagonal Tile Panel, 13th-14th century (Nishapur, Iran). <br />
Image via <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/collection/the-collection-online/search/449137" target="_blank">The Metropolitan Museum of Art</a>.</td></tr>
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Steeped in a rich history of architectural, design and natural elements, the hexagon is a fundamental shape when it comes to building. The six-sided polygon, which can be found in honeycombs, crystals, snowflakes, and most importantly tile, creates a classic yet distinguished look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KNqjLYmyf9OpUZA8R1w1HLHVq1vK67M34lAP_TFLepcbz6gh0iac8J1ybNmlMBJcDA8kS1ULnQv6Wq-5DcSq8Cml62CV97MWzadjUHJkxtv07zSE1n0HF0pq6RlosOWzC0qF-gEKM7_s/s1600/Hexagon+Spanish+Cement+Paver+Tile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Paver Tile | Avente Tile" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5KNqjLYmyf9OpUZA8R1w1HLHVq1vK67M34lAP_TFLepcbz6gh0iac8J1ybNmlMBJcDA8kS1ULnQv6Wq-5DcSq8Cml62CV97MWzadjUHJkxtv07zSE1n0HF0pq6RlosOWzC0qF-gEKM7_s/s320/Hexagon+Spanish+Cement+Paver+Tile.jpg" title="Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Paver Tile | Avente Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2348.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Arabesque Hexagon </a> Spanish Paver Tile | Avente Tile</td></tr>
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Beginning in late 2013, it was evident the hexagon was once again climbing in ranks as a desirable shape in the designs and patterns of tile. During Coverings 2015, hexagons played a more sophisticated role in terms of visual and tactile significance with increased offerings in cement, encaustic, glass, porcelain, ceramic and stone.<br />
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Also of importance was how the hexagonal shape was used in everything from small mosaic tiles to large format tiles, as both a flooring and wall tile. Patterns, textures and embossing further elevated the hexagon’s allure among the attendees of <a href="http://www.coverings.com/" target="_blank">Coverings</a>.<br />
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In a further testament to its time-tested flexibility within the design and architecture segments, the hexagon is often used to create the illusion of a cube by connecting every other vertex to the center, forming three diamonds, and shading each diamond differently, as shown below.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2R9KM9V9_dfu_8m0Mey3HLlYgJH2-ZPhONVO4sTPuMpNPq6TcXjItD3bWR9vsWuFqlqnI6f1WCJaK6prfuJ_Stu-Qrtb4cukBhyphenhyphencxLglAwnRlNlO0TGVvikOLRT6ftR_q-GrHSYa8TBhyphenhyphen/s1600/Geometric+Cube+A+Hexagon+Tile+Grouping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Geometric Cube A 8" Hexagon Cement Tile | Avente Tile" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2R9KM9V9_dfu_8m0Mey3HLlYgJH2-ZPhONVO4sTPuMpNPq6TcXjItD3bWR9vsWuFqlqnI6f1WCJaK6prfuJ_Stu-Qrtb4cukBhyphenhyphencxLglAwnRlNlO0TGVvikOLRT6ftR_q-GrHSYa8TBhyphenhyphen/s320/Geometric+Cube+A+Hexagon+Tile+Grouping.jpg" title="Geometric Cube A 8" Hexagon Cement Tile | Avente Tile" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2356.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Geometric Cube A 8" Hexagon</a> Cement Tile | Avente Tile</td></tr>
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With their simultaneously modern and historical background, hexagons are continuing their rise in popularity with the increase of renovation efforts in both public and private spaces, such as homes, retail spaces, hospitality venues, and more.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV4viAaKuZCR5N260MXwOdaFutJ6V_0z9IlCwb3S8kFevcd3e1xjE1e8lTSxf4nx0jMaWnnDFzSJQO6Wf7Iv9uPXiglAXm3xtlFVTVpFRZZAQGpwqYswy9U2tDjCP8TnlTZsu4ps5LEMlU/s1600/Mission+Hexagonal+Frame+Hexagon+Cement+Tile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mission Hexagonal Frame 8" Cement Tile | Avente Tile" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV4viAaKuZCR5N260MXwOdaFutJ6V_0z9IlCwb3S8kFevcd3e1xjE1e8lTSxf4nx0jMaWnnDFzSJQO6Wf7Iv9uPXiglAXm3xtlFVTVpFRZZAQGpwqYswy9U2tDjCP8TnlTZsu4ps5LEMlU/s1600/Mission+Hexagonal+Frame+Hexagon+Cement+Tile.jpg" title="Mission Hexagonal Frame 8" Cement Tile | Avente Tile" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2656.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Mission Hexagonal</a> Frame 8" Cement Tile | Avente Tile</td></tr>
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Lastly, depending upon the look and feel you’re trying to exude with hexagonal tiles, your hardest decision may just rely upon the size of the tile. Do you want to create a high energy, dramatic environment with smaller formats, or would you rather create a more laid back, relaxing atmosphere with a larger format of hexagon tiles? It’s all up to you, and that’s the beauty of this classic shape ‒ it becomes what you want it to be!</div>
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border: 3px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); padding: 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/hexagon-cement-tile-buying-guide.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">View our comprehensive Hexagon Cement Tile Buying Guide here!</a></div>
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For more information and inspiration about patterned and plain hexagon tiles, visit our comprehensive <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/hexagon-cement-tile-buying-guide.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank"><b>Hexagon Cement Tile Buying Guide.</b></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKduYjgGBxIhWGLy7UThkca1fpHcWQ1hzLhWnEHTsNa5zrKnsm3AYDIoHdDB72usvWv81eFoQJjI2DVA5JOvbt_PNE9jBVdAYUcqIQAB0HxCpY8Qd3dEbJt0oWip5Ax_amkQGEfunc22hU/s1600/Pinterest+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKduYjgGBxIhWGLy7UThkca1fpHcWQ1hzLhWnEHTsNa5zrKnsm3AYDIoHdDB72usvWv81eFoQJjI2DVA5JOvbt_PNE9jBVdAYUcqIQAB0HxCpY8Qd3dEbJt0oWip5Ax_amkQGEfunc22hU/s1600/Pinterest+logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/tile-shapes-hexagons/" target="_blank"><img alt="Tile Shapes: Hexagons | Avente Tile's Pinterest Board" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8MnuHHsEsI4Dm7BNtVcpBebViP09VbDX9PZcXZAVVTg09sD1c_5jg8JAFD6FhmbzOt6OsQRinvVyb5HX3zNeT8Iu03KgBD1bLMbKG39aM5aAFld-TY04ULotpTHK0ijxWipRpa0_7zwK/s1600/Hexagon+tile+board.JPG" title="Tile Shapes: Hexagons | Avente Tile's Pinterest Board" /></a></div>
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<i>“There is geometry in the humming of the strings, there is music in the spacing of the spheres.”</i> </div>
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~ Pythagoras </div>
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Geometrical shapes and patterns are currently enjoying their time in the design spotlight, most especially hexagons. From fabrics and textiles to furniture, and of course tiles, this rediscovered polygon is meeting the demands of various decorative styles. </div>
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Using handmade cement tiles for your remodeling/renovation, or new construction project will not only enhance the look of your home, it will also play a well-deserved role in retail and hospitality spaces. Rest assured the cement tile you choose will withstand the test of time. For whichever project you choose to conquer, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a> is here to help you reach your design goal. Our extensive <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/design-ideas.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-june-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Cement Tile Design Ideas</a> gallery features a large collection of projects dedicated to adding excitement in any space. How can we help inspire you today?</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-62793532561454178332015-05-26T06:00:00.000-07:002015-05-26T09:16:29.263-07:00Designer Insights with Bill Buyok<div style="text-align: right;">
By Tudor Davies, <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank">Terry's Fabrics</a><br />
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As you may know, Bill Buyok is the founder and owner of Avente Tile. He started the company as an online tile showroom and catalog so that hand-painted ceramic tiles and cement tiles are more easily and broadly available for others who share the same passion. <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" target="_blank">Avente Tile's</a> mission is to search the globe to find the finest and most extraordinary tiles for their customers while providing excellent service and product knowledge. With that in mind, here are the Designer Insights of Bill Buyok.<br />
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<a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/blog/2015/05/19/designer-insights-bill-buyok/"><img border="0" src="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Designer-Insights-Bill-Buyok.jpg" title="Designer Insights with Bill Buyok" width="390" /></a></div>
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<b>Editor's Note:</b> <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/blog/2015/05/19/designer-insights-bill-buyok/" target="_blank">Bill Buyok's Designer Insights</a> were originally published Tuesday, May 19 on the <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/blog/" target="_blank">Terry's Fabrics Blog</a><b> </b>by Tudor Davies. It's only one in a collection of <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/designer-insights/" target="_blank">Designer Insights</a> compiled by Tudor and his team that profile designers and design enthusiasts. We're honored to have been included in this collection, and thank Terry's Fabrics for this opportunity. If you enjoy Bill's insights, then be sure to visit the Terry's Fabrics blog and peruse all of the <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/designer-insights/" target="_blank">Designer Insights</a>.<br />
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The following transcript shows the interview questions and Bill's response to each.<br />
<ol>
<li><strong>In your own words, describe your unique style and creative aesthetic? </strong>I’m drawn to classic Spanish, Moroccan, and Italian designs, the nature-inspired design of the Arts & Crafts Movement, and a love for Hispano-Moresque design.</li>
<li><strong>When starting a new project, what is your creative process? </strong>Listen to customers, understand their needs and wants. I start with facts, then develop the color scheme and apply pattern, motifs, accent colors and flourishes to establish design and personal style.<br />
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<li><strong>Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most? </strong>My customers, who include designers, architects, and residential customers, often envision something extraordinary, unique and bold. Our cement tiles allow customers to create designs and apply color to a pattern of their choice, allowing them to control the creative design process. Thus, the tile’s pattern and color have now been reinvented into something beautiful that I would have never imagined.<br />
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<li><strong>When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired? </strong>During my early morning treks through Los Angeles neighborhoods, I find inspiration around me. I then turn those inspirations into design ideas that are unique, fun and useful.<br />
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<li><strong>What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps? </strong>Work hard, persevere, and do what you love! Every day presents its own unique challenges that you have to translate to opportunity. Never give up and always believe in yourself. Remember, it’s not how you handle the best days; but, how you handle the challenges and disappointments that really matter.</li>
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Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-45800762057835539242015-05-19T06:00:00.000-07:002015-05-19T09:06:36.132-07:00Elevations Relief Cement Wall Tile from Avente Tile<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Last month, I reported some of my favorite tile trends and finds from <a href="http://www.coverings.com/" target="_blank">Coverings</a> in the my blog post<i> <a href="http://www.aventetiletalk.com/2015/04/tile-trends-2015-variety-is-spice-of.html">Tile Trends 2015: Variety is the Spice of Tile</a></i>. One of the most unique new tile designs I spotted at the show is a relief cement wall tile line from Aguayo Tiles called <i>Elevations</i>. Without further ado, Avente Tile is proud to announce the premier of this exciting design line of relief cement tiles.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2657_L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Elevations is a new cement tile in relief for walls" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2657_L.jpg" title="Elevations is a new cement tile in relief for walls" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevations is a new cement tile in relief for walls. <br />
Shown here is Drop in the color Chocolate Mousse.</td></tr>
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Avente Tile partnered with Aguayo Cement Tiles a decade ago because of their generations-long commitment to producing quality cement tiles. This line is truly unique for the industry because it eloquently combines geometric shapes in both convex and concave relief that, and because of its extensive color palette of more than 60 colors.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1271.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevations Concave Rectangles used as shower accent wall.<br />
Shown in black, white, and shades of grey.</td></tr>
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Six shapes are available: Drop, Concave Rectangles, Petals, 3D Hexagon, Concave Hexagons, and Angles. The edgy, contemporary designs of high relief geometrical tiles really stand out for their architectural value. They are suited for wall applications and can be installed with or without grout. Additionally, the tiles are available with a standard smooth surface or an optional waxed finish that provides a classy, satin sheen. The tile come pre-sealed with a penetrating sealer and are ready to install.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2652_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2652_G1.jpg" height="640" width="363" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concave Hexagon tile in Jet Black with a waxed finish</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2658_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2658_G1.jpg" height="640" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3D Hexagon tile in three shades of grey. Standard finish installed without grout.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2659_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2659_G1.jpg" height="400" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angles relief cement tiles in grey with standard finish.</td></tr>
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<b>Ordering Elevations Relief Cement Tile</b><br />
These new, architecturally inspired tiles are available now. However, we recommend you purchase strike-offs in the colors you desire before placing a full order. Allow about three weeks for strike-offs to be made and delivered. Strike-offs are shipped via UPS International Air Freight from the factory and cost about $150-$200 per sq. ft.<br />
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Discover the architectural collection of cement relief tile, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/188.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=19may2015-post&utm_campaign=elevations&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Elevations</a>, online now. When placing a full order, allow a lead time of 8 to 10 weeks for your tiles to be crafted by hand, carefully packed and shipped. Like all our cement tiles, these shapes can be customized with your choice of colors from the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/141.cfm" target="_blank">Heritage Color Palette</a>. Tiles can be purchased with a standard finish or waxed finished. All tiles come pre-sealed from the factory with a penetrating sealer. If you have any questions, just <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/service/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=19may2015-post&utm_campaign=elevations&utm_content=text">contact us</a> to let us know what you need. </div>
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: #0066CC; border-style: dashed; border-width: 3px; padding: 20px 20px 20px 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/188.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=19may2015-post&utm_campaign=elevations&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">See All Elevations Relief Cement Tile</a></div>
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<br />
<b>More Exciting Cement Tiles from Avente Tile</b><br />
We've got more new cement tile lines that will be ready very soon. Next week, we'll show you our new Hexagonal Cement Tiles. Coverings 2015 provided us with some exciting new tile designs that we can't wait to share with you in the coming weeks.Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-50245349496318582962015-05-12T06:00:00.000-07:002015-05-12T06:00:09.792-07:00New Cuban Cement Tile from Aguayo Tile<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
<br />
A few weeks ago, I shared <a href="http://www.aventetiletalk.com/2015/04/tile-trends-2015-variety-is-spice-of.html">2015 Tile Trends</a> from my annual pilgrimage to <a href="http://www.coverings.com/" target="_blank">Coverings</a>, a trade show for tile and stone. I promised to share some other great new tile finds that Avente Tile will be adding to our offerings. Not being one to disappoint, I want to show the new Cuban Heritage Cement tile offerings from Aguayo.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2643_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 140 4B Cement Tile " border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2643_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 140 4B Cement Tile " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 140 4B Cement Tile </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2644_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 150 4A Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2644_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 150 4A Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 150 4A Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2645_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 160 4A Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2645_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 160 4A Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 160 4A Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2646_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 160 5B Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2646_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 160 5B Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 160 5B Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br />
</b> <b>Gray, Blue, and Earth Tones</b><br />
The new Cuban Heritage colorways embrace the trends we have been seeing with color. You'll notice more straight-forward colorways using three or four colors. Also, you'll find slightly muted patterns using shades of gray and blue or warm earth tones and neutrals with an accent of color.<br />
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These new colorways have been created with <i>you </i>in mind. We want to make it easy for the designer and homeowner to use cement tile in the home.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2650_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 200 4A Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2650_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 200 4A Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 200 4A Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2647_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 210 4B Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2647_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 210 4B Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 210 4B Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2648_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cuban Heritage Design 240 4B Cement Tile" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2648_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Cuban Heritage Design 240 4B Cement Tile" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 240 4B Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2649_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2649_G1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuban Heritage Design 260 4B Cement Tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong><br />
</strong><b>Available Now and Soon to be Quick Shipped</b><br />
These new colorways are available now. Although we have limited sample stock available at this time, we'll be adding these tiles to our stocked inventory and as a result, they'll be available for quick ship soon.<br />
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With a focus on quality and distinguished look all their own (compared to other suppliers), our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/120.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=12may2015-post&utm_campaign=cuban-tile&utm_content=text">Cuban Heritage cement tiles</a> all come with a polished finish. Polished tiles have a slightly satin surface sheen, the desired patina that all cement floor tiles naturally develop over time. Polished tiles are also easier to install because the slightly smoother finish makes grout easier to remove from the surface.<br />
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<div>
Discover our entire <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/120.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=12may2015-post&utm_campaign=cuban-tile&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Cuban Heritage Cement Tile</a> collection online now. The "Series 3" colorways, like CH260-3B, will no longer be stocked. These colorways are still available with a standard lead time of 8 to 10 weeks. Like all our cement tiles, these patterns can be customized with your choice of colors, Just <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/service/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=12may2015-post&utm_campaign=cuban-tile&utm_content=text">contact us</a> to let us know what you need. Love Cuban Tiles? Find out more in our post, <i><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/cuban-tiles.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=12may2015-post&utm_campaign=cuban-tile&utm_content=text">A Brief Overview of Cuban Tiles</a></i>.</div>
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<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: #0066CC; border-style: dashed; border-width: 3px; padding: 20px 20px 20px 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;">
<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/120.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=12may2015-post&utm_campaign=cuban-tile&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">See All Cuban Heritage Cement Tiles</a></div>
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<br />
<b>More Exciting Cement Tiles from Avente Tile</b><br />
It's not easy to get all of the new tile designs and lines we will be offering from Coverings 2015 ready. I came back from the show energized and excited to share new tile inspiration, trends, and products. I'll share more new cement tile products and lines as we launch them over the next six weeks.Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-12926298670953465442015-05-05T06:00:00.000-07:002015-05-05T06:00:05.853-07:00Make a Splash with Pool Tiles <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlOwSTkshkzSR0S0MI_rpNovzLJmYRydK4d_mh147E3u7kXe5UKBkjdKQCWxlZg1KiAGK4Op4yUAzjVYaOKwf3AGiXZGynDWYj7OKMI0aTe2u1zjSGYBQZVXH4u6uNNUeAC0XjEv94K3P/s1600/Pool+via+Architectural+Digest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Deep indigo pool tiles, coupled with the architecture of the pool house, makes for an incredible outdoor setting." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlOwSTkshkzSR0S0MI_rpNovzLJmYRydK4d_mh147E3u7kXe5UKBkjdKQCWxlZg1KiAGK4Op4yUAzjVYaOKwf3AGiXZGynDWYj7OKMI0aTe2u1zjSGYBQZVXH4u6uNNUeAC0XjEv94K3P/s1600/Pool+via+Architectural+Digest.jpg" height="320" title="Deep indigo pool tiles, coupled with the architecture of the pool house, makes for an incredible outdoor setting." width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep indigo pool tiles, coupled with the architecture of the pool house, <br />
make for an incredible outdoor setting. Image via <a href="http://www.architecturaldigest.com/" target="_blank">Architectural Digest</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Handcrafted artisan porcelain tiles are perfect for pools and water features. The materials and methods used in art pottery are similarly applied to classic porcelain tile-making techniques to achieve rich glazes that excite the eyes and hands.<br />
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As such, these porcelain tiles embody the charm and appeal of fine handmade ceramic ware. Glaze colors on porcelain offer unparalleled depth, clarity and vibrancy. With the warmth and originality of handmade art tiles, our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/177.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=" target="_blank">porcelain pool tile collection</a> is the perfect choice for pools, spas, water features, or any outside space. It should go without saying that each tile is custom manufactured by craftspeople dedicated to preserving the tradition of functional, natural beauty.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcRFqzCOcs5Rm1kTPxawHuSIkOTPPiJKBCTpziF_f15WTq2hwZY_bjl9wlhyphenhyphenOnLxyCqHKi0TKXfXUAl9F3qVNHVQcBcNwIIYeYp_-RUPGJ31IvLVp7070uKZ0jpJnJ5r3OE20PyekO-tC/s1600/Pool+Tile+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="An example of the various glaze colors available with our Pool Tile Collection" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcRFqzCOcs5Rm1kTPxawHuSIkOTPPiJKBCTpziF_f15WTq2hwZY_bjl9wlhyphenhyphenOnLxyCqHKi0TKXfXUAl9F3qVNHVQcBcNwIIYeYp_-RUPGJ31IvLVp7070uKZ0jpJnJ5r3OE20PyekO-tC/s1600/Pool+Tile+Collage.jpg" height="320" title="An example of the various glaze colors available with our Pool Tile Collection." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of the various glaze colors available with our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/177.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Pool Tile Collection</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Here are some important points to keep in mind when specifying or ordering hand-painted, artisan porcelain tiles:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>25 vibrant glazes are available in a wide-ranging palette.</li>
<li>Porcelain tiles are the optimum choice for pools and spas.</li>
<li>Ideal for interior and exterior applications.</li>
<li>Porcelain tiles are rated for freeze/thaw conditions.</li>
<li>Our tiles are made to order, so please allow 3 to 6 weeks.</li>
<li>Sample stock (3"x3") may be available, so please check with us.</li>
<li>Other formats, trim and molding available.</li>
</ul><br />
<div>For additional design options, consider our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/91.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Spanish Valencia 6"x6" ceramic tile</a>, part of our extensive Spanish Ceramic tile collection. </div><div><br />
<div>With its historical Spanish pattern and colors, Valencia’s design is created using traditional Majolica glazing techniques. The hand-brushed patterns are a perfect complement to outdoor living areas and water features.</div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrk7ZRQ0fWYcGm95e87xS3_Kqgyg599wYXlA-eMetow-kPFgA7BTiR6zUcl2bLoaakmGk-5JVtQ2PxDAMKoGm31dHaRrr_ka7wDOeqE61VSOTrI2yM5YWtGwXgI5KtPLz4i7uxyDAEspM-/s1600/Pool+tile,+stairs+and+risers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hand-painted glazed ceramic deco tiles with terracotta pavers showcase the stairs, risers and the pool. " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrk7ZRQ0fWYcGm95e87xS3_Kqgyg599wYXlA-eMetow-kPFgA7BTiR6zUcl2bLoaakmGk-5JVtQ2PxDAMKoGm31dHaRrr_ka7wDOeqE61VSOTrI2yM5YWtGwXgI5KtPLz4i7uxyDAEspM-/s1600/Pool+tile,+stairs+and+risers.JPG" height="240" title="Hand-painted glazed ceramic deco tiles with terracotta pavers showcase the stairs, risers and the pool. " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand-painted glazed ceramic deco tiles with terracotta pavers showcase the stairs, risers and the pool. Image via Houzz | Custom pool tile design by <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/3252158/Spanish-Deco-Pool-mediterranean-pool-orange-county" target="_blank">Fariba at Archarium</a>. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div>Discover our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/177.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">porcelain pool tiles</a> including all the colors, available trims, formats and accessories</div><br />
<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: #0066CC; border-style: dashed; border-width: 3px; padding: 20px 20px 20px 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/177.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">See All Pool Tile Glazes</a></div><br />
<p><hr></hr></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4xue5SWem1GjU9LHmWd9TTSXgTk0rtb36n3MpxsrORlqmG1CqtkiDRo57yFgcxgOObz_tJ0z9RlydUrp_jueliAc_iJtYvH4wxXl2X1yddySIIHR1wICtVkT8pY-Nd96LHOx1Q5FqdQDd/s1600/Pinterest+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4xue5SWem1GjU9LHmWd9TTSXgTk0rtb36n3MpxsrORlqmG1CqtkiDRo57yFgcxgOObz_tJ0z9RlydUrp_jueliAc_iJtYvH4wxXl2X1yddySIIHR1wICtVkT8pY-Nd96LHOx1Q5FqdQDd/s1600/Pinterest+logo.jpg" /></a></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="font-size: large;">Designing with Tile</span></b></h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/pools-and-ponds/" target="_blank"><img alt="Inspiration for Pools and Ponds via Avente Tile's Pinterest Board" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PYh1gNVz-OsRrB_IrhwhMgiIpXaTK2jILc8TrYP3W7ZbUkLBJErWKjLu8BPfYNuWLfBxNUJroZW_S-bn1zWDRHeKTXsCQU7AicJYohCiU29VXFSC5hT1kyTo4R8CDoLTU2bCX09BzLY-/s1600/Pools+and+Ponds+board+(2).JPG" title="Inspiration for Pools and Ponds via Avente Tile's Pinterest Board" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><i><br />
</i></div><div><i>“Water is the driving force of all nature.” ~ Leonardo da Vinci</i></div></div><div><br />
</div><div><div>With the end of spring coming next month, summer's energy is quietly resonating on the horizon. Summer translates to taking on new projects, perhaps one that has been set aside for years. Now is the time to replace cracked or broken pool tile, or installing that fountain or water feature you've always wanted for the garden.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Using handmade or hand-painted porcelain tile for your next outdoor project will not only enhance the look of your home, but you can rest assured the tile you choose will withstand the elements, too. For whichever project you choose to conquer, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a> is here to help you reach your design goal. Our extensive <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/hand-painted-tile-design-ideas.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-may-news&utm_content=text" target="_blank">Ceramic Tile Design Idea</a> gallery features a large collection of projects dedicated to inspiring you and your living space. How can we help inspire you today?</div><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-63171590166542629552015-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:002015-04-28T10:28:24.124-07:00A Better Saltillo Tile: Rustic Cement Tile Pavers<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJfSA4skxGF7XiPd_pKBpZc23Jdr0pUAQRLy-YcEhTHCdyGtEeMxjed1_PfPINZF_OWYAMr817RC7xbLMl5ILKpaET05Km1qnfwjcmq2eyJi2RVZlpYNYk3QUVNn82fUlEcL6zwEIFz7s/s1600/Saltillo+tile+with+patterned+cement+tiles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saltillo tile entry with cement tile rug" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJfSA4skxGF7XiPd_pKBpZc23Jdr0pUAQRLy-YcEhTHCdyGtEeMxjed1_PfPINZF_OWYAMr817RC7xbLMl5ILKpaET05Km1qnfwjcmq2eyJi2RVZlpYNYk3QUVNn82fUlEcL6zwEIFz7s/s1600/Saltillo+tile+with+patterned+cement+tiles.JPG" height="320" title="Saltillo tile entry with cement tile rug" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Saltillo tile entry features a cement tile rug. Via <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/205874/100-Spearpoint-Cove-mediterranean-entry-austin" target="_blank">Vanguard Studio, Inc.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">By <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ArpiNalbandian/posts" target="_blank">Arpi Nalbandian</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/107891149240427911466/107891149240427911466/posts" target="_blank">Tileometry</a></div><br />
A few weeks ago, we spoke about the history, production and properties of Saltillo tile. To recap, hand-crafted from natural clay deposits, authentic Saltillo tile can only come from one place in the world - Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The process of turning this special Mexican clay into tiles has remained unchanged since 1577.<br />
<br />
This week, we'll be addressing the what Saltillo tile is and is not, while offering a handmade, sustainable product that resembles Saltillo in looks, but inherently contains additional long-lasting, maintenance-free properties.<br />
<br />
To recap, Saltillo tiles:<br />
<ul><li>Vary in color and shape </li>
<li>Colors range from reds, oranges and yellows. </li>
<li>Tiles are shaped either by hand-presses, or carved with desired shape. </li>
<li>Couples perfectly with hand-painted decorative ceramic tiles</li>
</ul><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBox7d12PyiuybbDeOEqhMj274CChy5fNLoC2QETash4btyl79KZNxwYh5wOfE9h8XZFt6qJ_Ke-nwUN0mErD32SFxGoFPxrW8m6tFCbLxWujYsaRFjX8sbIzbPkRg2NzKEWWdVXtiMnLE/s1600/Saltillo+Tiled+Walks+and+Pavers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saltillo tile walkway features hand-painted ceramic tiles on the risers." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBox7d12PyiuybbDeOEqhMj274CChy5fNLoC2QETash4btyl79KZNxwYh5wOfE9h8XZFt6qJ_Ke-nwUN0mErD32SFxGoFPxrW8m6tFCbLxWujYsaRFjX8sbIzbPkRg2NzKEWWdVXtiMnLE/s1600/Saltillo+Tiled+Walks+and+Pavers.jpg" height="180" title="Saltillo tile walkway features hand-painted ceramic tiles on the risers." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/aventetile/16170812053/in/set-72157651306469605" target="_blank">Saltillo tile walkway</a> features hand-painted ceramic tiles on the risers. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Now, let's take a look at Rustic Cement Tile Pavers. While it's not strictly Saltillo Tile, our handmade <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=social&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=saltillo-tile" target="_blank">Rustic Cement Tile Pavers</a> offer the same look that you love in Saltillo tile with the added benefits of:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>Similar handmade look</li>
<li>Color variations</li>
<li>Variety of formats, textures</li>
<li>Made in the USA</li>
<li>True "through body" color</li>
<li>Resistant to scratches, cuts</li>
<li>Rated for freeze/thaw cycles</li>
<li>Stronger body, less maintenance</li>
</ul><br />
<b>How to Buy Rustic Cement Tile Pavers</b><br />
Buying Rustic Pavers is as easy as one, two, three. Color choice is the most important point. It's a good idea to get several color chips or each color to help get an idea of the variation and texture that you'll see. If you want <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/saltillo-tile.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=social&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=saltillo-tile" target="_blank">the look of Saltillo</a>, then select from the four paver colors below.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM25gyJXXTBBdQkdKI-8Gus0FIkRX786nYAXVmrZJmQznlWYiD4n-7D95nMH0Wwc0D0oCJXQZVa1TYFn972cnc8UT_oumAL5h0ZETqPsNWdTxUZky8ysiru7k5Rl1aeNq4gouwX78tmvfw/s1600/Saltillo+Colors_Rustic+Cement+Tile+Pavers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="If you want the look of Saltillo, then select from the four paver colors below." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM25gyJXXTBBdQkdKI-8Gus0FIkRX786nYAXVmrZJmQznlWYiD4n-7D95nMH0Wwc0D0oCJXQZVa1TYFn972cnc8UT_oumAL5h0ZETqPsNWdTxUZky8ysiru7k5Rl1aeNq4gouwX78tmvfw/s1600/Saltillo+Colors_Rustic+Cement+Tile+Pavers.jpg" height="320" title="If you want the look of Saltillo, then select from the four paver colors below." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These four Rustic Cement Tile Pavers offer the look of Saltillo tiles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The tiles come with a standard smooth finish; however, additional textures are available to create a weathered, antiqued patina. There are four standard Rustic Paver Textures.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MmJpwbCca4c95grGKatnvgjw6JIK39rjuLuj39E2rVfSgOahVjThz-BDvJ-f2_4UKI6BHBLLO4zXbp3o4s13QknQa-ymTzIM4WQZwYqdJCNTye1PsWUlWbVOhqJFZl3O8NdAjZo5aGDd/s1600/Rustic+Cement+Tile+Pavers_Textures.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="For a weathered, antiqued patina, add texture to your Rustic Cement Tile Pavers. " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MmJpwbCca4c95grGKatnvgjw6JIK39rjuLuj39E2rVfSgOahVjThz-BDvJ-f2_4UKI6BHBLLO4zXbp3o4s13QknQa-ymTzIM4WQZwYqdJCNTye1PsWUlWbVOhqJFZl3O8NdAjZo5aGDd/s1600/Rustic+Cement+Tile+Pavers_Textures.JPG" height="320" title="For a weathered, antiqued patina, add texture to your Rustic Cement Tile Pavers. " width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To create a weathered, antiqued patina, consider adding<br />
one of these four standard <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/paver_color_palette.cfm#Textures" target="_blank">Rustic Paver Textures</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<b>Designing with Tile</b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEili6W-xBhhIWXkfBjcE3kTWfMGWf-R9hqcyzg4vEuE4ggIvrJUduC-LLBp-wbFOcVXNE19FaBDkukYWXmLxc2umNQOscOPScLErrlASgc-4g5jsm6-9I_Xtmbar6Xtje2NuN91LgfuHdwF/s1600/Saltillo+board.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEili6W-xBhhIWXkfBjcE3kTWfMGWf-R9hqcyzg4vEuE4ggIvrJUduC-LLBp-wbFOcVXNE19FaBDkukYWXmLxc2umNQOscOPScLErrlASgc-4g5jsm6-9I_Xtmbar6Xtje2NuN91LgfuHdwF/s1600/Saltillo+board.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rustic Cement Tile Pavers offer the same look as <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/saltillo-tile/" target="_blank">Saltillo tiles</a>, with added benefits.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Now that Spring has arrived, it's time to spruce up the outdoors. As an alternative to Saltillo tiles, our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers offer a year-round solution. With a wide variety of colors and shapes available, your design is only limited by your imagination.<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border-collapse: collapse; border-color: #0066CC; border-style: dashed; border-width: 3px; padding: 20px 20px 20px 20px; text-align: center; width: 90%; font-color: #0066CC;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/saltillo-tile.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=social&utm_content=button&utm_campaign=saltillo-tile" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">See our Cement Tile with a Saltillo Look</a></div><br />
Lastly, visit our dedicated <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=social&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=saltillo-tile" target="_blank">Rustic Cement Tile Paver</a> page for any questions you may have. Of course, you can also call our office at 888.739.4972, and we would be more than happy to help with your purchasing decisions.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-22875966656407426662015-04-21T06:00:00.000-07:002015-04-21T10:22:11.133-07:00Tile Trends 2015: Variety is the Spice of Tile<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
<br />
Last week was action-packed as I made my annual pilgrimage to <a href="http://www.coverings.com/" target="_blank">Coverings</a>, a trade show for tile and stone. The week-long event took place in Orlando, Florida and was filled with highlights including seeing long-time friends, a face-to-face meeting with designer <a href="http://www.alenacapradesigns.com/">Alena Capra</a>, and listening to <a href="http://www.patti-tile.com/ryan-fasan-bio.html">Ryan Fasan</a>, <a href="http://www.tileofspainusa.com/">Tile of Spain</a>'s Technical consultant, speak about tile trends and design.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="Coverings 2015" height="329" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1254.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Buyok, Avente Tile owner, at Coverings 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It's thrilling to share the industry trends with you and unveil our newest lines (drum roll please).<br />
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<strong>Hexagons are Hot</strong><br />
Anyone in attendance would agree that you could not avoid spotting the sexy six-sided polygon just about anywhere on the show floor. Hexagons tile formats were everywhere - as small mosaics, in elongated forms, bold colors, and in relief formats. Hands down, Elevations concave hexagon and 3D hexagon by Aguayo was one of my favorite tile finds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="Hex" height="225" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1255.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="3 shades hex" height="321" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1256.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elevations 3D Hex in three shades of grey adds interest to a classic pattern with concave and convex dimension.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="wax finished cement hex" height="341" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1257.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concave Hexagon in black with a waxed finish is a new cast cement line from Aguayo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Formats, Patterns, Texture and Technology Blend</strong><br />
Ryan Fasan mentioned that the tile industry is at an exciting crossroads of blending artisanal technique with technology to provide a blending of looks never before seen or achieved. Think of this as cement tile meets thin formats and ink jet printer techniques, Last year I saw wood-look, stone-look, and cement tile designs infused on porcelain tile. Now, these different material looks (wood, stone, metal, and pattern) are being subtly blended onto tile to create sophisticated designs. While this is most prevalent in the state-of-the-art factories of Spain and Italy, you are seeing the same effect in the hand-crafted tiles in the Americas.<br />
<br />
The new Hex line by <a href="http://originalmissiontile.com/">Original Mission Tile</a> shows how classic shapes are mixed with pattern to create complex, interesting and modern designs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="Pattern hexagons" height="254" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1258.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pattern plays on popular hexagon shapes using metal grey and warm earth tones.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="2 tone hexagons" height="255" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1259.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="Wood look rustic tile" height="225" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1260.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rustic wood look of this beach house vignette is created with tile</td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="cascading gold hexagon mosaics" height="1073" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1261.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cascading gold hexagon mosaics from Onix.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Textured Tile Shapes</strong><br />
There is a strong trend to add interest to classic geometric shapes with texture and relief. The popular hexagon shape gets reinterpreted with concave relief as shown above. But, I love the rich and sexy shape of this teardrop in chocolate brown. Wouldn't this be lovely in a bathroom with different shades of blue? This also part of the new Elevations line from Aguayo that will be available from Avente soon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="Concave drops" height="260" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1262.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concave drops in chocolate brown create the sumptuous look of leather and add richness with the relief texture.</td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="luxurious gold hexagons" height="254" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1263.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apavisa gold hexagons create a luxe look with a classic shape</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Textile influences are also growing with the emphasis of textured surfaces. Pins and Needles is a line completely inspired by fabrics, lace, and textile. The cast cement line is available in almost any color; but I love this line in its classic look on white. This is another line by <a href="http://www.aguayo.com.do/index.php/es/productos-y-soluciones/aguayotiles-es">Aguayo Cement Tile</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="Brussels Lace" height="613" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1264.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brussels Lace showcases texture inspired by fabric and lace.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The folks at <a href="http://www.in-pietra.com/en/">In-Pietra</a> from Mexico have captured the essence of creating dazzling texture in stone.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="carved stone effect" height="1060" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1265.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texture created by carved stone and effective lighting adds richness to any design.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It's not easy to recap a week of inspiration, trends, and learning. I came back from the show energized and excited. This is the best of the best in one (short) post and captures the essence of the show and what excites me. I'll share more trends in a future posts as we launch many of these new lines over the next six weeks.<br />
<br />Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-72623192306267198122015-04-14T06:00:00.000-07:002015-04-14T06:00:03.531-07:00Kitchen Design with Your Range Hood in Mind <div style="text-align: right;">
Guest post by Samantha Velez,<span style="text-align: start;"> </span><a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank" title="Range Hoods Inc">Range Hoods Inc</a><br />
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While designing a home kitchen, making choices can feel overwhelming at times. Your mind races with thoughts like, “What do I pick first? The counter or the backsplash tile?” There are so many elements that go into the design, including the cabinetry, range hood, range and flooring. <br />
<br />
When designing your kitchen, all of the elements play a large role. The tile, flooring and backsplash are all important and influence the bigger picture. However, don't forget about how important the range hood is. Make sure to include it as a part of your design plan. <br />
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To help you make these decisions, we would like to overview the styles of range hoods that are available for your kitchen remodeling project. These are the hoods you will have to work within the whole kitchen design.<br />
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<strong>Under Cabinet Range Hood</strong><br />
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<img alt="Kitchen Design Range Hood 1" height="300" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1249.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Avente Tile customer Constance Zaytoun, Chelsea, NY</td></tr>
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Under cabinet range hoods are mounted above the range and underneath a cabinet. These units take up less space while providing optimal kitchen ventilation above the cooking surface. In the photo above, the backsplash tile, the color of the cabinetry and the range hood style all come together to create a beautiful kitchen design. The stainless steel range and range hood frame the beautiful blues and reds that pop out throughout the design. <br />
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<img alt="Kitchen Design Range Hood 2" height="299" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1250.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Avente Customer, Laurie Saurez.</td></tr>
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Wall mount range hoods are also mounted above the range and on the wall. There is no cabinetry above these units. If you are considering installing a wall mount range hood in your kitchen remodel, be sure that your cabinetry allows space for the unit. <br />
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The wall mount range hood in the photo above is decorated with straps and rivets. This decorative stainless steel range hood frames the beautiful patchwork tile backsplash in this kitchen. All of the design elements, including the lighting, task lighting and flooring, work together and feel balanced in this kitchen. <br />
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<strong>Insert Liner Range Hood </strong><br />
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<img alt="Kitchen Design Range Hood 3" height="400" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1251.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr> <td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Avente Customer Mark and Erin C. of central New York</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Insert liner range hoods are small range hood units that are designed to be hidden from view. The push button controls and lights are usually on the bottom of the unit, so they can easily be accessed while being hidden from sight at the same time. <br />
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It is common for insert liner range hoods to be embedded in the cabinet or in a decorative exterior such as the one in the photo above. At first glance, you cannot tell there is a range hood there. If you look closely, however, you can see the hidden lights shining down on the range. In this case, the insert liner range hood does not cover up the beautiful backsplash tile. In this design, the backsplash tile is the star.<br />
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<strong>Island Range Hoods </strong><br />
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<img alt="Kitchen Design Range Hood 4" height="350" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1252.jpg" title="" width="350" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Unlike the previous range hoods in this article, an island range hood is not mounted against a wall. These models are mounted from the ceiling above the kitchen island. These are used in kitchens in which the cooking surface is installed on top of the kitchen island. <br />
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Remember, island mount range hoods will become a focal point in your kitchen design. Even so, don’t forget to tile the backsplash. Make sure other design elements still shine through in the bigger picture. <br />
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We hope this has helped you and empowered you to make some decisions that will enhance your kitchen remodel. <br />
<br />
<strong>About the Author </strong><br />
Samantha Velez is the Content Specialist at Range Hoods Inc, an online retailer of kitchen range hoods and kitchen sinks. Visit <a href="http://rangehoodsinc.com/" target="_blank" title="Range Hoods Inc">Range Hoods Inc</a> today to learn more. Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-21957904682935679722015-04-07T06:00:00.000-07:002015-04-07T06:00:04.275-07:00Saltillo Tile's Centuries-Old Allure<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ArpiNalbandian/posts" target="_blank">Arpi Nalbandian</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/107891149240427911466/107891149240427911466/posts" target="_blank">Tileometry</a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzK6q_wRQPVUbpoBya-r-DW5X9YSXJxMeRxf7hfOzpFwzF4ryM9jU-OUT-x3CeMXbTSf2rorIvqvo3KWjHhlL0VpFFvutFfmtWS1HnXmVR6l3GYr4F3dD_K5D9BL5mk-amQxdYq8Rgui3/s1600/Saltillo+blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saltillo tile exudes Old World charm" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzK6q_wRQPVUbpoBya-r-DW5X9YSXJxMeRxf7hfOzpFwzF4ryM9jU-OUT-x3CeMXbTSf2rorIvqvo3KWjHhlL0VpFFvutFfmtWS1HnXmVR6l3GYr4F3dD_K5D9BL5mk-amQxdYq8Rgui3/s1600/Saltillo+blog1.jpg" height="181" title="Saltillo tile exudes Old World charm" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coupled with decorative ceramic tiles, Saltillo tile exudes Old World charm.</td></tr>
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Hand-crafted from natural clay deposits, authentic Saltillo tile can only come from one place in the world - Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The process of turning this special Mexican clay into tiles has remained unchanged since 1577.<br />
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Saltillo tiles are shaped either by pressing quarried clay with a wooden frame, or by carving out the desired shape. After they spend some time drying in the sun, the tiles are moved to the kiln.<br />
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Now, depending on where the raw tile is positioned within the beehive-like kiln, the tile can take on hues ranging from yellow to a rich orange to dark terracotta. Coupled with hand-painted decorative ceramic tiles, such as our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/3.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">Barcelona</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/138.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">California</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/155.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">Malibu</a>, or <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/1.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">Spanish</a> collections, a walkway, stairs, steps or risers could easily be transformed into a Mediterranean landscape, Spanish Villa or Mexican Hacienda.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEURCjZ_DrOQVd4OpswK1kbX9zX7rnOWNEXS8G0DGZzdOAF-lnbn_sPI_cGIZ6DDSpDlW2_Qx_u98-YH8Cuu5Iz7bf8qsgtOV9U76wsha_Q2G55IuV31m700-to9GvM05VY9HoDnZYUSGX/s1600/Saltillo+blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saltillo tile pavers look great with Spanish-style homes." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEURCjZ_DrOQVd4OpswK1kbX9zX7rnOWNEXS8G0DGZzdOAF-lnbn_sPI_cGIZ6DDSpDlW2_Qx_u98-YH8Cuu5Iz7bf8qsgtOV9U76wsha_Q2G55IuV31m700-to9GvM05VY9HoDnZYUSGX/s1600/Saltillo+blog2.jpg" height="320" title="Saltillo tile pavers look great with Spanish-style homes." width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saltillo tile pavers look great with Spanish-style homes.</td></tr>
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Traditionally, Saltillo tiles are left unglazed, although some manufacturers sell them pre-treated or pre-sealed in order to increase their durability. According to the <a href="http://www.johnbridge.com/articles/tile/saltillo-tiles/" target="_blank">John Bridge Forum</a>:<br />
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<i>"Saltillo tile floors must be sealed with a penetrating tile sealer, and usually a top finish is applied to act as a sort of glaze. The tiles must dry a minimum of three weeks after installation before the sealer is applied. It usually takes at least two applications to completely saturate the tiles. The sealer is applied with a paint roller. A brush is used at the edges.</i><br />
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</i> <i>The final finish coat will probably be an acrylic, obtainable from either tile or paint stores. This also is applied with paint rollers and brushes and may require two coats to do the job.</i><br />
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</i> <i>Eventually, this finish will wear off in areas of traffic and will have to be replaced. The floor will be chemically stripped of the old finish before the new coating is applied. It is best to have this done by professionals."</i><br />
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Moreover, it should be noted that unglazed Saltillo tile is highly porous; it soaks in liquid easily. Because of this, it's difficult to install as it will absorb water from the thin-set mortar, grout, grease pencils, etc. Once it is placed, it will stain and scuff easily if not properly sealed and maintained with a quality sealant.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21MAiquunjaRav6plNsV1Tc098Iyot4zhk1MSNk-pL7k81MhOK5yo_DoGC7mANQRIR-J9qGi2QCj_5jRhv85jzRpzbJptjBeiqBZHWN4xzG2iQybC3MkGkyaCQO7WmPtCsUqxNdVmvAJK/s1600/Saltillo+blog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saltillo tile is popular in Mediterranean-like climates where freeze/thaw cycles are non-existent." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21MAiquunjaRav6plNsV1Tc098Iyot4zhk1MSNk-pL7k81MhOK5yo_DoGC7mANQRIR-J9qGi2QCj_5jRhv85jzRpzbJptjBeiqBZHWN4xzG2iQybC3MkGkyaCQO7WmPtCsUqxNdVmvAJK/s1600/Saltillo+blog3.jpg" height="320" title="Saltillo tile is popular in Mediterranean-like climates where freeze/thaw cycles are non-existent." width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saltillo is popular in Mediterranean-like climates.</td></tr>
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Lastly, Saltillo is not recommended for outdoor installation in freeze-thaw climates, although it is a popular choice in warmer climates, such as the American Southwest and Mediterranean countries.<br />
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Next time, we'll discuss the advantages of using <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">Rustic Cement Tile Pavers</a> as a better alternative to Saltillo Tile.<br />
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In the mean time, visit our dedicated <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/saltillo-tile.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">Saltillo page</a> for more background and information about this handmade tile.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-Ec9n7FGbjbfQ5wu8qx_j3FoVsEP6W1DV16eeOXIWXOpLnGhyVjUkOjTLjpKbXSQCgibs0-8F1ox1ShtqMmz572HeuKHZ-fwCKOwRAGRevbWWtjIlkofUCDrtEsr8umR0KoCl3h3hjAW/s1600/Pinterest+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-Ec9n7FGbjbfQ5wu8qx_j3FoVsEP6W1DV16eeOXIWXOpLnGhyVjUkOjTLjpKbXSQCgibs0-8F1ox1ShtqMmz572HeuKHZ-fwCKOwRAGRevbWWtjIlkofUCDrtEsr8umR0KoCl3h3hjAW/s1600/Pinterest+logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b>Designing with Tile</b></h2>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/saltillo-tile/" target="_blank"><img alt="Avente Tile's Saltillo Tile Pinterest board" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-hEeEDrKeE-aEBAm70aYYcZR9MZTKW4dtaOooPHg1th6q_rzyb51AkEREJSEKh0wRGFFxy9wVM6LyUejbeXC9Jl-wdNf48c-zq_Ag3XtXv1HSPuxltdnWoP27H-Zc1iIfiSiOq8CBM5O/s1600/Saltillo+board.JPG" title="Avente Tile's Saltillo Tile Pinterest board" /></a></div>
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<i>"Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!"</i> ‒ Sitting Bull</div>
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Creating something from so little is not only ingenious; it's a testament to the determination and creative needs of ancestors. Such is the case in the creation of Saltillo tiles. With the help of ample sun and regional clay earth, two perfect, coexisting ingredients were combined to create long-lasting tiles that have graced homes, missions, and palaces over several centuries.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now that Spring has arrived, it's time to spruce up the outdoors. As an alternative to Saltillo tiles, our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers offer a year-round solution. With a wide variety of colors and shapes available, your design is only limited by your imagination. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Make sure to check out the complete collection of <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-april-news" target="_blank">Rustic Cement Tile Pavers</a> for a wide variety of color, glaze, shape and size options.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-77063426702048543182015-03-31T06:00:00.000-07:002015-03-31T09:46:28.428-07:00Patterned Hexagon Tile: 3 Ways to Create Style<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Last week, I shared <i><a href="http://www.aventetiletalk.com/2015/03/3-ways-to-create-style-with-plain.html">3 Ways to Create Style with Plain Hexagon Tile</a></i>. This week, I play with pattern on this powerful six-sided polygon. Here are three ways patterned hexagon tiles provide a stylish look using both ceramic and cement tiles - all available from <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=31mar15&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=hexagon-tile" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8747/16964520006_028265f633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hexagon tile adorn an outdoor patio in Los Angeles" border="0" height="179" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8747/16964520006_028265f633.jpg" title="Hexagon tile adorn an outdoor patio in Los Angeles" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our journey of creating style with hexagon tiles continues. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Hexagon Style Tip #1:</b> <b>Use patterned cement tile in a </b><b>hexagon </b><b>format for a subtle design flair.</b> At first glance, the pattern addict would say, "I've seen this pattern. That's not a Hexagon!" But take a closer look, and among the Escher-like tessellations, you'll see the hexagon outline in the grout line.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2356_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Patterned hexagon tile add subtle design flair" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2356_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Patterned hexagon tile add subtle design flair" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patterned hexagon tiles add subtle design flair</td></tr>
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Not only is the pattern playful, so is the tile shape and format; but, in a subtle way that draws attention by making you look twice. If you have trouble seeing the pattern, here's a view of the same tile placed together without any cuts.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2356_L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hexagon tiles with a pattern are a great choice for rooms that are odd-shaped or not square" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2356_L.jpg" title="Hexagon tiles with a pattern are a great choice for rooms that are odd-shaped or not square" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2356.cfm" target="_blank">Patterned hexagon tiles</a> work well in rooms with odd angles or if the walls aren't square.</td></tr>
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<b><i>Design trick:</i></b> Use a patterned hexagon tile for rooms that aren't square or rectangular, badly out of plumb or odd-shaped. The pattern and hexagon shape, when run to the edge of the room, hide all of the problems you'd have when using square or rectangular tile.<br />
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<b>Hexagon Style Tip #2</b>. <b>Emphasize the hexagon shape with outline patterns.</b> Using cement tile from our Mission patterns, you can show your love for this shapely, equal-sided polygon by using three contrasting or complimentary colors that outline or frame the hexagon shape. Here's an 8-inch format in three colors.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7594/16802599620_989bc06699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Emphasize the hexagon shape with outline patterns" border="0" height="240" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7594/16802599620_989bc06699.jpg" title="Emphasize the hexagon shape with outline patterns " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emphasize the hexagon shape with outline patterns like this.</td></tr>
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The design flexibility of cement tiles means you get to pick the color for a unique design that speaks to you. Consider blue, green and aqua for a bathroom. Choose red, orange and yellow for a bright, warm patio or sunroom, or opt for a more neutral palette, such as the one shown above for a wall.<br />
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<b>Hexagon Style Tip #3. Create a mosaic with hexagon tile.</b> The flexibility of tile and the geometry of a hexagon work well with creative designs. You can create one-of-a-kind mosaics for the floor or wall using either cement and ceramic tile. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1898_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/1898_G1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/1898.cfm" target="_blank">Life of Riley by Artist Thimo Pimental</a> is a modular mosaic hexagon cement tile.</td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7604/16885921021_3e629ba487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Colorful hexagon tiles by David Shipley create one-of-a-kind mosaics" border="0" height="179" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7604/16885921021_3e629ba487.jpg" title="Colorful hexagon tiles by David Shipley create one-of-a-kind mosaics" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/181.cfm" target="_blank">Colorful hexagon tiles by David Shipley</a> create one-of-a-kind mosaics.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Moreover, thanks to the inherit advantages of geometry, patterned hexagon tiles can be create subtle or bold designs, or a playful yet sophisticated mosaic. At Avente Tile, we offer both encaustic cement tile and glazed ceramic tile designs that work on floors and walls, indoors and out. Want to explore more hexagon style and design options? Can't find the hexagon style that you want? <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/service/info_request.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=31mar15&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=hexagon-tile" target="_blank">Let us know what you need for your project</a>, and we'll schedule a free design consultation to show you how we can help!Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-33445135733782239032015-03-24T06:00:00.000-07:002015-03-24T11:41:55.266-07:003 Ways to Create Style with Plain Hexagon Tile<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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With it's classic six-sided shape, the hexagon is gaining and maintaining it's elegant prowess in design circles (pun intended) once again. Here are three ways plain hexagon tiles lead to an overall stylish look. Our style guide below uses both ceramic, porcelain, and cement tiles - all available from <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" target="_blank">Avente Tile</a>.<br />
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<b>Hexagon Style Tip #1</b>. <b>Create a simple pattern with plain </b><b>hexagon </b><b>tile in two or three colors.</b> The hexagon format was common in the 1920s. These small-format "penny hexagons" or the penny hex in white was typically used for kitchen and bath floors. It gained some notoriety again in the 1960s, and now, it is once again is a design staple that provides interest without being over-used.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8725/16729160030_0ce706996c_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hexagon tile, the size of pennies, were popular in the 1920's." border="0" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8725/16729160030_0ce706996c_c.jpg" title="Hexagon tile, the size of pennies, were popular in the 1920's." width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penny-sized hexagon tiles, popular in the 1920s, were typically used as flooring in the kitchen and bath.</td></tr>
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A simple repeating pattern in black and white works great with hexagon tiles. Stylistic floral patterns and simple borders can also be used with this fun, interlocking shape.<br />
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<b>Hexagon Style Tip #2. Use hexagon tile with hand-painted glazes or cement tile in the same color.</b> Sound boring? Not really, use an interesting glaze that exhibits variation from tile to tile. Or, use hand-painted glazes or cement tile to achieve the look you're after. The natural variation in color provides an absolutely stunning look that hides dirt, provides a sense of texture or depth, and lots of interest. It's also a more straight-forward design approach for the DIY group.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7558/16286076216_df2cb1028e_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Pavers in Cotto Dark, all in the same color, can create a rustic look similar to this." border="0" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7558/16286076216_df2cb1028e_c.jpg" title="Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Pavers in Cotto Dark, all in the same color, can create a rustic look similar to this." width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2348.cfm" target="_blank">Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Pavers</a> in Cotto Dark, all in the same color, can create a rustic look similar to this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8706/16917401505_bde14fb8a9_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hexagon tile looks great with hand-painted glazes." border="0" height="400" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8706/16917401505_bde14fb8a9_z.jpg" title="Hexagon tile looks great with hand-painted glazes." width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hexagon tile looks great with hand-painted glazes. The variation of hand-applied glazes create a look that exudes depth, texture and interest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8648/16012897593_cceabd2f4f_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saltillo tile provide rustic charm because the terracotta has a lot of natural variation in color" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8648/16012897593_cceabd2f4f_c.jpg" title="Saltillo tile provide rustic charm because the terracotta has a lot of natural variation in color" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hexagon Saltillo tiles provide rustic charm with the natural color variations found in terracotta.</td></tr>
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<b>Hexagon Style Tip #3. Blend ceramic tile glaze colors or cement tile colors and texture to unique, one-of-kind designs. </b>Feeling creative? Like to work with colors? Then this option is perfect for you. Create a colorful mosaic of hexagon tiles using three to five colors, then choose a size to accommodate the scale of the space.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2348_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2348_G1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6" Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Paver Tile in Normandy Cream and Vintage texture</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8730/16916024372_eaed3a42a4_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hexagonal cement tile from our Arabesque line. " border="0" height="400" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8730/16916024372_eaed3a42a4_z.jpg" title="Hexagonal cement tile from our Arabesque line. The color blend of red and brown tile is called our Duoro Blend with a Vintage texture" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hexagonal cement tile from our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/172.cfm" target="_blank">Arabesque cement tile collection</a>. Pictured above is a blend of red and brown tiles, our Duoro Blend, with a Vintage texture</td></tr>
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It's easy to see why this classic shape never falls from grace. Hexagon tile, or hex tiles, are just a great way to add both style and grace to any design.<br />
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Next week get's really fun! I'll show you three ways to create style with patterned hexagon tile. Patterned hexagon tiles can be very playful - the hexagon pattern can almost disappear or form truly unique modular mosaic patterns. If you haven't seen patterned hexagon tile at play, I think you'll be surprised!Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-2706831752316522552015-03-17T06:00:00.000-07:002015-03-18T09:27:21.522-07:00Tile Inspiration For Your Next Kitchen Remodel<div style="text-align: right;">
Guest post by Jane Blanchard, <a href="http://modernize.com/">Modernize</a></div>
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<img alt="Kitchen Tile" height="266" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1226.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vibrant blue Arabesque tile adds visual interest. Image via <a href="http://modernize.com/photos/12839/Island+seating">Modernize</a>.</td></tr>
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Tile is a popular choice for kitchen floors and backsplashes, so popular that even the priciest and most custom options can seem bland. One tile company is changing that, one beautifully unique tile at a time.<br />
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One thing you'll never find at <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" target="_blank" title="Avente Handmade Tiles">Avente Tile</a> is tile that looks like, well, any other tile you've seen at home improvement stores or most flooring and tile warehouses when seeking inspiration for your kitchen remodel. Avente specializes in handcrafted tiles that are guaranteed to make your floors or backsplashes stand out from the subway tile and stone tile crowd. <br />
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<strong>Handmade Cement Tile</strong></h4>
If you've never heard of handmade cement tiles, you will. Though they haven't gained widespread popularity in the U.S. yet, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/cement_tile/index.cfm" target="_blank" title="Hand crafted cement tiles">handmade cement tiles</a> are used the world over for their bright, true colors and their intricate hand-painted designs. One of the most popular uses for cement tiles is the creation of "rugs" on floors by strategically laying coordinating tiles in a pattern that mimics Persian or other rugs. Perfect for kitchens, where fiber or synthetic rugs can be a hazard, a tile "rug" gives bold color and visual interest while remaining durable and easy to clean. The wide range of colors are perfect for adding a pop of color to an accent area of a kitchen floor, or for inspiring your remodel to new heights of glamour. <br />
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<img alt="Kitchen Tile Backsplash" height="267" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1227.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relief tiles add depth and dimension to this kitchen's backsplash. Image via <a href="http://modernize.com/photos/15532/Kitchen+">Modernize</a>.</td></tr>
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<strong>Hand Painted Relief Tile</strong></h4>
As tiled backsplashes become an integral part of any kitchen remodel, so do the options for backsplash-ready tiles. You've no doubt seen glass, stone, and even pebble backsplashes, but you've likely seen nothing as classically beautiful as <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/Relief-Tiles.cfm" target="_blank" title="hand painted relief tile">hand-painted relief tile</a>. Marrying the lovely forms of sculpture to lightweight tiles, relief tiles are perfect for mixing with other ceramic tiles to create unforgettable backsplashes that are one of a kind. These tiles are the perfect inspiration for traditional, retro or transitional kitchens, but proceed with caution -- the designs are so alluring that they run the risk of taking your kitchen remodel in a whole new direction.<br />
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For more tile tips and tricks, please visit <a href="http://modernize.com/" target="_blank" title="Modernize.com">Modernize.com</a>.Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-24123782956935722872015-03-10T06:00:00.000-07:002015-03-10T09:50:19.098-07:00Tiled Stair Riser Design Picks<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Nothing adds more curb appeal, sense of personal style, and a real design punch than using decorative tiles on stair risers. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7649/16771648362_a82428d484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Decorative tiles used on stair risers showcase personal style and add curb appeal " border="0" height="223" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7649/16771648362_a82428d484.jpg" title="Decorative tiles used on stair risers showcase personal style and add curb appeal " width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorative tiles used on stair risers showcase personal style and add curb appeal. </td></tr>
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Tiles allow you to showcase your sense of style. However, most customers approach the use of tiled stair risers with caution. After finding a tile or two they love, I am used to being asked, "Can I do that?" or "Will that look OK?"<br />
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<b>Rule #1: There are no rules when it comes to tiling stair risers.</b> To prove that point, I'm dedicating this post to the many different ways you can tile stair risers, I'll show the most common ways tiles are used; but,, you'll also see many variations on a theme. You can choose to use the same bright, bold pattern on each row, alternate patterns on each rows, or only add an occasional decorative tile between plain tiles on each riser, With countless variations on these themes, they can all look good!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7649/16771506311_e8ee36d5d2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Stair risers tiled with different tile patterns on each step" border="0" height="223" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7649/16771506311_e8ee36d5d2.jpg" title="Stair risers tiled with different tile patterns on each step" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stair risers tiled with different tile patterns on each step.</td></tr>
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</b> <b>Rule #2: Start with tiles you love!</b> The right colors are more important than a specific pattern. Just find a pattern that speaks to you or works with your home's style. Colors that contrast with the landscape will make the tiles really standout, such as the bright yellow tiles in the photo above. You can also use colors that complement the house or trim color. Remember, if working with your home's existing colors, the tile colors don't have to be a perfect match - just close. It's common to find tile patterns, like our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/155.cfm">Malibu ceramic tiles</a>, that are available in one or more different colorways. For larger projects, the glaze color placement can be customized.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8623/16585258920_af1f050dac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The same bright tile pattern is used on each riser of these stairs" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8623/16585258920_af1f050dac.jpg" title="The same bright tile pattern is used on each riser of these stairs" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The same bright tile pattern is used on each riser of these stairs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7584/16586505179_9855da7767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="A hand-painted tile border pattern is repeated on these risers" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7584/16586505179_9855da7767.jpg" title="A hand-painted tile border pattern is repeated on these risers" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hand-painted tile border pattern is repeated on each stair riser.<br />
Notice the color variation typical of hand-painted tiles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7632/16771506101_98d90d6511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7632/16771506101_98d90d6511.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quarter-design patterns can be used to add geometric interest to the design.</td></tr>
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Similarly, geometric patterns, border patterns, and <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/1.cfm">Spanish tile patterns</a> can work well with many different styles of architecture. I love how quarter-design patterns can be broken up to create additional interest and their own unique pattern. In the photo above, the quarter-design pattern on the decorative tiles would create a square when placed together on a wall. However, the home owner spaced them differently to create a fun zig-zag or chevron as you go up the steps.<br />
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If you are "tile crazy" like I am, finding the right tile isn't the problem. The problem is finding too many tiles you love, which might force you to narrow your selection, or does it? In the image below, an assortment of tiles is used to create a repeating pattern on each stair riser. Alternatively, the pattern on each riser could be random. This method works well for wide stairs.<br />
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Finally, keep in mind that decorative tiles don't have to span the entire width of the riser. While the effect is usually less dramatic, it looks nice especially when the decorative tile on the riser is also used as an inset among the pavers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7655/16585258980_87b645c6ec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7655/16585258980_87b645c6ec.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Different tiles can be used on the same stair riser.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8685/16771573212_085d099627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8685/16771573212_085d099627.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorative patterned tile don't have to span the entire riser.</td></tr>
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So far, I've only shown you examples of glazed decorative ceramic tile, which is certainly more common. However, cement tile can be used for stair risers, too. Because the colors in cement tile can be easily changed, cement tile is a fine choice when you want to create a unique design, coordinate colors with the tread, or carry the design from the curb to the home. The tight grout line can also be used to create a very smooth, almost seamless look to the riser, as well.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7296/16330471456_a4602bc6b1_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cement tile colors can be customized so the stair risers color match or coordinates with the tread" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7296/16330471456_a4602bc6b1_b.jpg" title="Cement tile colors can be customized so the stair risers color match or coordinates with the tread" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cement tile colors can be customized so the risers match or coordinate with the tread.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7627/16771508081_286100663c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="An encaustic cement tile border pattern tiles these stair risers" border="0" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7627/16771508081_286100663c.jpg" title="An encaustic cement tile border pattern tiles these stair risers" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An encaustic cement tile border pattern looks magnificent on these stair risers.</td></tr>
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Regardless of the tile or design there is one very important thing to remember. <b>Rule #3: Have fun! </b>Choosing tiles for your stair risers should be fun and reflect your taste and style. Whether you need a <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/77.cfm">Geometric pattern</a>, want to define a Traditional Spanish or <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/2.cfm">Portuguese</a> look, or have a home that demands Spanish Revival, Avente has the stair riser tile (and tread) for you! If you need help finding the right pattern, ceramic tile design, or cement tile border, please let us know. We can help.<br />
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<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/index.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=social&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=stair-risers" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">See our Decorative Ceramic Tiles for Stair Risers</a></div>
<br />Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-47743308258339264182015-03-03T06:00:00.000-08:002015-04-01T09:44:48.039-07:00Conversations Art Tile by David Shipley<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ArpiNalbandian/posts" target="_blank">Arpi Nalbandian</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/107891149240427911466/107891149240427911466/posts" target="_blank">Tileometry</a></div>
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Southern California artist David Shipley has created a line of contemporary hand-painted ceramic art tile based upon his unique paintings and sculptures. According to the artist, he is fascinated by the emotions and reactions brought upon by the vibrant color contrasts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2588.cfm" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank" title="David Shipley Conversation 5 Ceramic Tile Mural"><img alt="David Shipley Conversation 5 Ceramic Tile Mural" height="603" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1223.jpg" title="David Shipley Conversation 5 Ceramic Tile Mural" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Shipley Conversation 5 | 12" x 18" Ceramic Tile Mural</td></tr>
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Upon reflection of his painting technique and inspiration, Shipley says, "I maintain an ongoing inner dialog, a constant kaleidoscope of Conversations, using colors and shapes which unfold in a variety of constantly changing images. Their manifestations range from joyous and vibrant to dark and disturbing; but for me they also reflect myriad life experiences as I explore the many Conversations we experience with God, ourselves and the people around us."<br />
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With their stylish, abstract designs, the <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/71.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Conversation Series</a> of decorative hand-painted ceramic tiles are high fired. As a result of this firing, they can be used indoors or outdoors, in freeze/thaw conditions, walls, floors, and wet areas, such as pools, fountains and ponds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2590.cfm" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank" title="David Shipley Conversation 7 Ceramic Tile Mural"><img alt="David Shipley Conversation 7 Ceramic Tile Mural" height="596" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1222.jpg" title="David Shipley Conversation 7 Ceramic Tile Mural" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Shipley Conversation 7 | 12" x 18" Ceramic Tile Mural</td></tr>
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Further, the Conversation Series of hand-painted ceramic tiles can be used as a continuous mural or as individual pieces for creating a truly unique mosaic focal point. Each piece can be perfectly paired with our hand-painted ceramic <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/176.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Malibu Field Tiles</a> and <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/ceramic_tile/Trim-Molding-Formats-Malibu.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Ceramic Trims and Moldings</a>. The solid-colored, high-fired Malibu Field tiles, created using classic red bisque, are offered in several sizes, including: 3"x3", 6"x6", 4"x4", 4"x5", 6"x6" and 4" hexagon sizes. A full line of trim and molding is also available. These tiles are made-to-order. Therefore, please allow four weeks for delivery.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/aventetile/16009528554/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank" title="David Shipley Hexagon Ceramic Tile Mural"><img alt="David Shipley Hexagon Ceramic Tile Mural" height="441" src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1221.jpg" title="David Shipley Hexagon Ceramic Tile Mural" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Shipley Hexagon Ceramic Tile Mural</td></tr>
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Similar to art work, the contemporary tile patterns of the Conversation Series is made to order for a truly custom look and feel. Therefore, the 6- and 4-inch formats, as well as the six-piece ceramic tile mural, will ship approximately one week after your order is placed.<br />
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Lastly, visit our dedicated <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/faqs/faq_search.cfm?s=1&c=8&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Ceramic Tile FAQs</a> page for any questions you may have. Of course, you can also call our office at 888.739.4972, and we would be more than happy to help with your purchasing decisions.<br />
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Designing with Tile</h2>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/aventetile/artisan-and-vintage-tiles/" title="Artisan and Vintage Tile "><img alt="Artisan and Vintage Tile " src="https://www.aventetile.com/images/content/1220.jpg" style="border: 1px currentColor; height: 257px; padding: 10px; text-align: left; width: 235px;" title="Artisan and Vintage Tile " /></a></div>
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"The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider's web." - Pablo Picasso, Artist</div>
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Creativity, art and geometrical shapes seem to go hand-in-hand. In this instance, instead of a pulled canvas, ceramic tile is the recipient of an artisan s brush stroke or hand-sculpted designs. For centuries, artisans have manipulated earthly components to reflect their will, inner feelings, or the world around them. <br />
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From linear sketches to curvaceous renditions, art and ceramic have flaunted their symbiotic relationship through their timeless appeal. Happily, these art works are enjoying a renaissance within the design world, too. <br />
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Moreover, despite ever-evolving trends, our tiles remain in vogue. In addition to the new David Shipley collection, we invite you to consider our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/154.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Geometric Cement tiles</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/172.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Arabesque Cement tiles</a>, and <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/77.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">Geometric Ceramic tiles</a>. <br />
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Want to see more? Or, perhaps we should say "hear more" because of this month's featured tile murals? Get the Conversation going! Hear and <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/77.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news" target="_blank">see all seven of David Shipley's Conversations</a>. These tiles are all about allowing you to make a statement. We show them in the standard mural format, but they can be mixed-and-matched to make a unique mosaic. What are you waiting for? Get talking!<br />
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<a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/71.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-mar-news&utm_content=button" style="font-color: #0066CC; font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b>See all of David Shipley's Conversations Tile Murals</b></a></div>
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Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3212644455999670683.post-63732940154452617742015-02-24T06:00:00.000-08:002015-02-26T09:54:11.866-08:00Geometric Tiles Create Style on any Budget<div style="text-align: right;">
By <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/company/about-bill-buyok.cfm" rel="author">Bill Buyok</a>, <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/" rel="publisher">Avente Tile</a></div>
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Geometric tiles in classic shapes, such as chevron, hexagon, stripes, honeycomb or octagon, are a great way to add style to your home's wall or floors. More intricate patterns reproduced on a single tile will always be more expensive than plain tiles. Here are a few tips to create style and accommodate just about any budget.<br />
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<b>Tip #1</b>.<b> Create a pattern using plain or solid-color tiles using different standard formats.</b> It's easy to create bold and unique patterns by mixing and matching less expensive plain or solid color tiles that would be less exciting on their own. Consider using field tiles from our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/176.cfm" target="_blank">Malibu</a> and <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/59.cfm" target="_blank">Yucatan </a>lines. There are hundreds of glazes and the high-fired tiles can be used on walls and floors, inside and out - even in areas subjects to hard freeze thaws. Grit can also be added if slip resistance is a concern for commercial and wet areas.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8632/15552663843_e4ae4836b1_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Plain tile can be used to create patterns and interest like this tile rug" border="0" height="400" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8632/15552663843_e4ae4836b1_z.jpg" title="Plain tile can be used to create patterns and interest like this tile rug" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plain tile can be used to create patterns and interest like this tile rug</td></tr>
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<b>Tip #2</b>. <b>Make a mosaic.</b> You can create a mosaic-like effect with cement tile using simple patterns like our Traditional Geo #3 shown here.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8672/16628171482_2fea916ef6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Geo 3 cement tile pattern creates a mosaic-tile design" border="0" height="400" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8672/16628171482_2fea916ef6.jpg" title="The Geo 3 cement tile pattern creates a mosaic-tile design" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Geo 3 cement tile pattern creates a mosaic tile effect at a fraction of the cost.<br />
Shown here in Pearl Gray, Sky King, and Autumn Eve</td></tr>
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For an accent strip in your bath or kitchen, consider our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/173.cfm" target="_blank">Fragments </a>line of easy-to-install, face-tape mounted mosaics. Fragments are colorful mosaic accent strips made from patterned cement tile. Available in four colorways - spring, summer, fall and winter - and in three formats (Small Squares, Large Squares, and Bar). We use a standard grout thickness of 3-4 mm on all formats.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2244_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fragments are an easy way to add a mosaic accent strip and come face-tape mounted" border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2244_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Fragments are an easy way to add a mosaic accent strip and come face-tape mounted" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fragments are an easy way to add a mosaic accent strip </td></tr>
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Thankfully, cement tile comes in a myriad of sizes and shapes, so it's not difficult to create a simple checkerboard in classic black and white, or any two tones you like. Cement tiles are also available in many more shapes than just square and rectangular formats. You can find hexagonal formats, colonial paver and arabesque formats, too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/87_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/projects/87_2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checkerboard pattern in Jet Black and Polk Gold provide color and style</td></tr>
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<b>Tip #3. Blend glazes or colors using tiles of the same shape.</b> Create a more complex and rich look by blending three or four colors. For a more organic look, blend the colors randomly. For a bold, contemporary design, you can run the colors in stripes or rows. A great example of creating a blend can be seen below with our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2332.cfm" target="_blank">Clay Arabesque Leon</a> pattern, which uses three colors from our Malibu Ceramic Field Tile collection: <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2413.cfm" target="_blank">Sea Foam Matte</a> (#5503u), <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2402.cfm" target="_blank">Mushroom Matte</a> (7504u), and <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/products/2428.cfm" target="_blank">Winter Grey</a> (#405c).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2332_G1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Clay Arabesque tiles in three glazes provide a rich look and are perfect for a backsplash." border="0" src="http://www.aventetile.com/images/products/2332_G1.jpg" height="320" title="Clay Arabesque tiles in three glazes provide a rich look and are perfect for a backsplash." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clay Arabesque tiles in three glazes provide a rich look and are perfect for a backsplash.</td></tr>
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A more contemporary look can be created using any <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm" target="_blank">Rustic Paver and Tile</a> in a square or rectangular format in using the Metro Blend. The soft neutral colors and earth tones in this blend are easy to work with. Shown here in a 3"-square format, the blend consists of equal parts Charley Brown, Natural Gray, and Charcoal.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8631/16445702059_e1d04d482c_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Metro Blend from our Rustic Paver line uses soft earth and neutral tones" border="0" height="400" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8631/16445702059_e1d04d482c_z.jpg" title="Metro Blend from our Rustic Paver line uses soft earth and neutral tones" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Metro Blend from our Rustic Paver line uses soft, earthy neutral tones</td></tr>
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</b> <b>Tip #4. Add texture to the color blend for a vintage look and lots of variation in color.</b> Take it a notch further with our <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/product_categories/171.cfm" target="_blank">Rustic Pavers and Arabesque</a> cement tiles by adding texture to the color blend. I love the look of these 6" Arabesque Hexagon tiles in Normandy Cream. This vintage look is created by blending both color and texture in these hand-crafted cement tiles. This classy color combination is created using equal parts Cotto Gold, Cotto Dark, Cafe, and Tuscan Mustard. Pieces are then finished with standard (smooth), Limestone, Travertine or Luna texture.<br />
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It's important to remember that the most cost-effective tips will be to use standard tile formats, existing colors and glazes without texture. Avente has the resources, experience and skill to make your dream a reality. <a href="http://www.aventetile.com/service/info_request.cfm?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=social&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=email-consult" target="_blank">Contact us</a> via email with your project timing, budget and design requirements. We will schedule a time to discuss options that meets your goals and budget.<br />
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Bill Buyokhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10144445983760052176noreply@blogger.com0