Magnificent Monochrome Tiles

Magnificent Monochromes

Mon•o•chrome |ˈmänəˌkrōm|

noun - A photograph or picture developed or executed in black and white or in varying tones of only one color.

ORIGIN mid 17th cent.: based on Greek – monokhrōmatos ‘of a single color.’

For years artists have been experimenting with monochrome to create different shades or tones of a particular colour.  The idea is to take one colour and use shades of the single colour to create light and dark areas creating beautiful monochromatic effects giving interest to certain areas.  It is thought that by creating a monochrome style room you create an area of tranquillity, free from distraction and conflicting elements.  You can create a monochrome room using the simplest of elements, by going back to basics and using simple forms, shapes and materials.

A monochrome look is a very good choice for a kitchen or bathroom, it is one of those styles that never really dates, a current look that can be very cutting edge and at the same time, timeless.  Going monochrome can also give you that calming feel, whether you go for black and white or shades of a colour.  As you will have seen greens and blues are very popular and traditional choices for a bathroom.  As more styles, colours and patterns are becoming readily available, people are becoming bolder with their choices.  We are doing more bright and edgy bathroom designs.  One monochrome that has really taken off is shades of pink.  A pink terrazzo style porcelain floor, dusty pink bricks and brass fittings are an absolutely stunning combination that is often overlooked.  If you prefer the more traditional colour range you could go for shades of blue, beautiful original styled blue 6x6” glazed tiles come with matching border and skirting tiles available in a whole range of shapes, sizes and shades or blues, greens, black white and greys.  The options are endless.

Monochrome works really well with textures so if patterns aren’t really your thing, don’t worry.  If you want to go with a simple, classic and timeless black and white or shades of grey why not add a bit of texture as your feature wall.  A beautiful matt black hexagonal tile or a satin white elongated brick style laid in a herringbone to give you that edge and add interest to your wall.  Go for gloss and use an arabesque, umbrella or chevron shaped tile.  These are available in shades of grey, black and white and are an absolutely stunning choice for a feature whether it is a shower, a dramatic wall in your living room or a splash-back in your kitchen.  This style can be really brought to life by adding some coloured, brass or beautifully finished accessories as the texture lends itself so well to being paired up with statement accessories.

If you want something more dramatic but without the detail of a pattern or texture the steel or copper effect porcelain tiles give an absolutely stunning feature wall while still keeping a monochrome style.

If statement pattern is more your thing, why not go for shades of olive green with a bold matching patterned floor or a striking black and white  patterned floor and feature wall.  Patterned tiles are now available in nearly every colour, with a bit of imagination the possibilities are endless.  You can go for very modern, crisp patterns in bright bold colours or black and white, or go for an antique look patterned tile in shades of blues.  These can be paired with a larger 60x60 in jean blue or shades or greys.   If you want that classic feel, a mix of white and black marble or marble effect porcelain gives a beautiful, cutting edge contemporary look.

 If you aren’t sure what to do we have put together a selection of images to help you out. 

Have a look at our Facebook- www.facebook.com/ThinkDreamCreate  Instagram,- www.instagram.com/ceramicaetc   Pinterest - www.pinterest.co.uk/ceramicaetc and website - www.ceramicaetc.co.uk for ideas of what is possible.

Ceramica Etc

Ceramica Etc is like no other tile shop around.  From the moment that you enter you realise the tremendous choice that is available to you.  Their showroom displays the cutting edge in design and current trends but also appeals to those who want something different, personal, exceptional.  Whether your style is modern, traditional, bohemian, avant-garde or something else entirely this showroom will appeal to you. 

They haven’t done the norm and created small kitchen or bathroom settings, instead they have created dramatic displays, pairing patterns and metro bricks, porcelain parquet wood with handmade ceramic tiles.  They have everything you can imagine from real stone to digitally printed porcelain, tile panels depicting jungle scenes to very large format porcelain or even hand painted decorative tiles. If you want wood they have very realistic, or aged and painted wood effect porcelain, that you can put in a shower.  They can offer everything from tiny personalised mosaic panels to 1.6 x 3.2m porcelain tiles.  They profess to holding  large volumes of stock and catching a glimpse into their massive warehouse, it is apparent that this is indeed the case.   If they don’t have what you are looking for then it probably doesn’t exist. 

It is a family run business that has been going for three generations and the enthusiasm and passion that they have is incredible.  This gives their showroom a very friendly approachable feel.  It is also important to note that while they carry some very cutting edge products, they do have an incredible number of options available in many different styles at pretty much every price bracket. 

Make a Statement!

Make a Statement!

With kitchen walls being one of the smallest areas that we tile this is an area where you can add a bit of drama.  This doesn’t always mean choosing a bold colour or striking pattern.  It can be as simple as rotating a brick style tile and laying it vertically rather than horizontally or herring-bone pattern. You could stack them rather than having them in a brick bond style.  If you are feeling a little bit more adventurous go for a chevron or ogee shaped tile in a gloss white or pale grey.  This will give you a beautiful finish that is just that bit different without being too loud.

If it is bright colours that you are drawn too then why not go for something simple but dramatic.  A deep blue, green or burgundy with a bit of variance between pieces gives a stunning handmade look while still giving an air of sophistication, and creating depth and interest.   On the other hand, if you want a more modern feel why not go for a glass tile, they are available in so many colours, in gloss or matt and in a variety of sizes.  You can even get metallic or glitter finishes if that is your style, if not go for a flat pop of colour in a statement glass splash-back with matching up-stands.

A mosaic panel can also offer a rather dramatic focal point in anything from a breathtaking miniature black glass and marble brick style mosaic to a multicoloured porcelain mix.  For a sleeker feel the polished marble mosaics add a touch of class, while iridescent glass gives you hints of rich colour.  If you want a bit of bling, there are even crystal, shimmer mixes available.  There really is a mosaic for everyone!

If it is a pattern that you are looking for there are endless options available, small patterned floor tiles are becoming increasingly popular as a choice for kitchen splash-backs to bring a bit of interest to your walls.  Geometric Eshler style patterns can give the increasingly popular industrial look while a random mix pattern can bring a bit of feature to slick modern kitchens.  There are so many options to choose from, and each one can dramatically change the style of your kitchen.

Mirror tiles are also becoming highly sought after as a choice for kitchen walls, especially those with limited natural light as they help to brighten up darker areas and create beautiful reflections.  The bevelled options give you a more scattered image while the flat mirror tiles give a near perfect reflection.  You can even go for different shades of metallic antique effect if you want that slightly softer feel.

Be brave, choose what you love, over what people tell you is the popular choice.  After all it is your kitchen, you are in it every day.  There are so many options available, check them out, follow you local tile stockists on Pinterest and Facebook to get ideas of what is available.  Borrow samples to see what suits your home and ask for their advice on what works.  After all they are there to help you. 

Why Not Pick A Patterned Tile?

Patterns…

Why not pick a patterned tile?

With so many options now readily available and affordable there are more possibilities than ever, so what look should you go for.  

People worry that patterns are on trend now but that this will not last.  We don’t think you need to worry too much about this.  The first proper production of patterned tiles was known as encaustic or inlaid tiles.  These went into production in the 12^th Century and by the 13^th Century were highly sought after.  To this day encaustic tiles remain an extremely desirable choice of flooring.  The Victorians loved a bit of style and grandeur in their entrances usually created with dramatic tiling.

While encaustics can be expensive, fortunately with advances in technology and photographic printing we now have many different types of patterns available in a whole range of prices.   These vary from digitally printed, computer-generated imagery to individually screen printed or even hand painted, patterned tiles.  For wet areas you can even get beautiful patterns in a rated non slip finish, so you can bring a bit of excitement to non slip bathrooms, kitchens, pathways and outdoor steps.  Alternatively, when it comes to Victorian floors you can create your own pattern from a mix of different sized, shaped and coloured pieces, you can even add a few screen printed, patterned pieces if you want something a bit more decorative.

As for style you can go for anything from modern to rustic, coloured to monochrome or even in contemporary shades of grey.  Terrazzo style, concrete look, geometric or random mix patterns.  There really are so many options available.

Choose a pattern that reflects your personality, your style, one that you love.  If bold patterns aren’t your thing there are so many other options available.  If you want a subtle hint there are lots of designs in muted colours with more delicate decoration.  If making a statement is more your style, why not go for bold bright dramatic patterns.  There is a pattern to suit everyone’s style, but don’t forget to choose something that also compliments the style and era of your house.

Shower Panels or Tiles?

Ceramica Etc’s expert team weigh on the debate . . .

Shower Panels vs Tiles.

Recently a new bathroom dilemma has surfaced causing some controversy, it is shower panelling versus tiling. The suppliers of panelling claim to solve all your problems, available in every colour and pattern, cheaper than tiling, no leaks etc etc etc.

I am putting my bit forward on behalf of the tile.  I want you to know why all the myths around how hard it is to look after grouting, how expensive tiling is and how you only get leaks when you use tiles are just that, Myths.

First lets begin with the figures aka your hard earned cash.  With most things in life, you get what you pay for.  Cheap shower panels will of course cost you less than expensive tiles and vice versa.  After some research it would seem that, like for like there really isn’t much difference in the overall cost of one against the other.  However with some of the better quality panels only coming with a 15 year guarantee and good grout and adhesives coming with a 25 year guarantee (a good tile can last forever) maybe that isn’t such a good deal after all.

What about Mould?  Tiles need grouted, this is what enhances the look and prevents them from letting water soak through to the wall/floor beneath.  If you buy a good, antibacterial grout with Microban this prevents the growth of mould.  The most common problem area used to be the silicone joints.  Whether you go for tiles or panels there are still some areas that will need a silicone joint to stop leaks.  Again go for a good antibacterial, mould resistant silicone and you will not have a problem with mould.  So grouting is no longer a problem, whether you go for a large format tile with minimal grouting, a metro brick or a tiny mosaic there really is nothing to worry about.  Choose the one you love the most, don’t let the myths put you off.  If you still aren’t sure, call in to your local suppliers who will be more than happy to help you choose the right products. 

Preparation is everything.   Whichever option you choose, it is important that the walls are even, sound and dry.  A bad surface can cause all sorts of problems, ask your supplier and fitter what is best and what you need to do to prepare.  Use a tanking kit, this is a relatively new system giving extra protection and will waterproof your shower or bathroom before tiles or panels are put up.  Used as a precaution to prevent leaks from doing any damage to the structure of your home.

Which one wins?

• So after all of that, in terms of longevity it would seem that tiles are the outright winner.  

• When it comes to price there really isn’t much difference.

• Time - although the actual installation of tiles may take a little longer, the panels need to be left flat in your bathroom for at least three days prior to being installed to acclimatise, putting your bathroom out of use for just as long if not longer than tiling.

• Overall appearance – With tiles there are endless options of colour, shapes, size and pattern in contemporary or traditional styles.  Over and above the choices seen in panelling.  

Tiles win every time!

So remember, with a lot of research and development by the technical departments.  Grouting is no longer an issue!  Neither is silicone.  Don’t let it put you off!  Ask for antibacterial grout, adhesive and silicone with a 25 year guarantee.  We recommend using BAL and FILA products, you can check their websites for more information and technical details.

Statement Colours!

Statement Colours!

Ceramica Etc’s knowledgeable team are on hand for any advice that their customers may need.  This month they share their tips on choosing colour and making a statement.

2017 Interiors

With a new year beginning, now is a good time to look for different ways to brighten up your house. If you are staying in your home there are lots of new ideas and products to enhance what you already have, create a fresh new look, whether it is a big project like a kitchen floor or a small porch. You could even give some old furniture a coat of Annie Sloan paint, now is a great time to start gathering inspiration.

If you are thinking of moving this year then have a look at all the ideas available for your new home and get creative.

Make a Statement

If you want to go bold, now is the perfect time, colours, patterns and statement walls are in.  With each of the factories developing and creating their own exciting ranges there are no limits to what you can create.  Our advice, be different, take a chance, you will love how you can tweak your designs to create your own dream home.  From vibrant coloured bricks to awe inspiring feature walls and classic patterns brought back with a twist.  There is so much to choose from with ranges to suit every budget.

Understated Classics with a twist

A simple, affordable brick style tile is anything but boring.  The way a tile is laid makes such a difference to the overall appearance. 

Herringbone, windmill, offset brick bond or stacked, each bring a completely different characteristic and style to the look of your room. 

Grouting also makes a massive difference to the appearance of the space, go white or grey, make it stand out or blend in.  There are so many decisions to be made even after choosing your tiles.

A Modern Touch, add Statement Colours

If you prefer to go for a simple contemporary look there are lots of choices this season.

The ever popular large format grey tiles look equally well on walls and floors. There are so many

beautiful colours available in accessories that any simple, timeless design can be enhanced with bright cushions, throws and vases to create your signature look.

Simple Elegance

Any house can be improved with the addition of some classic simple ideas. It might be that this year a Victorian hallway needs updated or restored or a new shower just need some simple white tiles. There are so many ideas to choose from. 

What is in?

This season, if you like colours there are lots of blues and greens available in both tiles and paint.

If patterns are your thing there are so many geometric, floral and moorish prints available. If colour and pattern aren’t what you are looking for then a simple contemporary elegant grey or white, concrete or metallic, stone or wood effect may appeal more to you.  Really our message for 2017,

There is something for everyone in every budget. 

Have a browse through Pinterest, and get inspired.  Show the images that you like to the staff at your local interiors shops and see if they can help you to create your own twist on the look that you are going for.

We are back Blogging!!!

It has been a while since we have updated our blog but we are back!  We have lots of gorgeous new tiles for your home!  First off are our new Victorian floor colours.  You can now make up these beautiful new patterns using the most gorgeous new greys and blues!

We also have brand new and exciting porcelain tiles made in Italy and brought in just for you!  These come in three different colours and finishes from a stunning matt to perfectly polished.  They are available from our showroom in Bangor, Northern Ireland.  Why not call in and see them.

Next are the breath taking 10 x 20cm bevelled mirror glass bricks.  Absolutely gorgeous and we have sourced them just for you because so many of you have been asking for them.

And last but not least.  We now stock Annie Sloan Paint!!!  Just for you in every possible colour.

Call in and see us at Ceramica Etc in Bangor, Northern Ireland.  We have a massive selection of Tiles, Stone, Mosaic's, Glass, Grout, adhesive, trims and sealers in stock.  Everything that you need to brighten up your home in time for summer.

So Many Beautiful Colours!!!

If you are wondering what to do to freshen up your kitchen or bathroom, then why not call in and have a chat with us at Ceramica Etc.  We have lots of bright new colours, sparkly mosaics, elegant stone, beautiful glass, and luxurious metal mosaics all waiting to smarten up your home just in time for Autumn.  It doesn't have to cost a fortune, so why not call in today and see what we can do to help you.  

Exciting New Displays and Ranges!!!

We have lots of new displays just up!  Call in and have a look around.  There are beautiful new wood effect porcelain tiles in a range of various colours for indoor and outdoor.  As well as this we beautiful muted grey and mink concrete effect and lots of new patterns and colours in various ranges.  The stock is flying out quickly so don't miss the chance to get your hands on some of these beautiful new product ranges.

Our Blog Is Now Up and Running!!

We Have A Blog!  Our new Website and blog are now up and running!  Keep an eye out here for lots of Special Offers and Sales as well as the latest in what is in and our new ranges of Tiles, Stone, Wood, Porcelain. 

 

Also Check out our brand new website at www.ceramicaetc.co.uk for more Images, Ideas and Inspiration!