blog, floors, interior design tips, walls
Spring colour palettes have the power to transform any room and bring fresh energy into your home. After months of dull winter tones, spring is the perfect time to brighten your space with colours that feel uplifting and new. Whether you’re updating your tiles, painting your walls or adding new accessories, spring is the perfect season to experiment with fresh colours.
Table of Content:
Why Spring Colour Palettes Work So Well
Fresh Neutrals with a Twist
Pastel Spring Colour Palettes
Bold Spring Shades
Mixing Patterns with Spring Colour Palettes
Simple Ways to Update Your Home
How to Bring It All Together
Why Spring Colour Palettes Work So Well
Spring brings longer days, warmer weather and more natural light. Lighter colours reflect that energy, making rooms feel bigger and more inviting. Think of soft pastels, warm neutrals and bold accents inspired by nature. Using these tones in your home can instantly lift your mood and create a space that feels balanced and stylish.
Fresh Neutrals with a Twist
Neutral tones are a great starting point for any spring colour palette. Soft beige, creamy white and light grey create a calming foundation that feels timeless. Once you’ve set this base, you can layer in brighter accents through cushions, rugs or wall art to bring energy into the space. The mix of neutral backdrops with splashes of colour keeps your home modern, light and welcoming. For added depth, pair these tones with textured finishes such as wood or natural stone-look tiles. Fresh neutrals work beautifully in kitchens and living rooms where you want a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.
Pastel Spring Colour Palettes
Pastels are a classic choice for spring because they’re light, airy and versatile. Soft pinks, mint greens and powder blues look stunning in bathrooms and bedrooms. You can use pastel wall tiles as a feature or bring in pastel tones through décor such as cushions, rugs, wallpaper or even kitchen accessories. Pastels also pair beautifully with white or light grey flooring, making them easy to layer into existing spaces.
Bold Spring Shades
Not every spring colour scheme needs to be soft. Bright accents like yellow, coral or turquoise can energise a space without overwhelming it. Consider adding a bold splashback in the kitchen or a feature wall in the living room. You can even use colourful mosaic tiles to create unique patterns that feel playful yet sophisticated. These accents work best when balanced with neutral or pastel backgrounds.
Nature-Inspired Shades
Bringing the outdoors in is one of the biggest interior trends, and spring is the ideal time to embrace it. Think leafy greens, earthy terracotta or ocean blues. These colours connect your home to nature and create a sense of calm. Outdoor spaces also benefit from this palette — slip-resistant tiles in earthy shades can turn your patio or pool area into a natural extension of your home.
Mixing Patterns with Spring Colour Palettes
Image credit: havenprints.com.au
Patterns are an easy way to show off your spring colour palette. Floral prints, soft stripes and geometric shapes look great when paired with seasonal colours. Try patterned cushions or a statement rug to tie your palette together. Patterns bring movement into a room and make the colours feel more dynamic.
Simple Ways to Update Your Home
Image credit: lorddecor.com
You do not need to repaint every wall to enjoy the benefits of spring colours. Small changes can have a big impact. Swap out heavy winter curtains for light linen ones, add pastel cushions to your sofa or place colourful flowers in a neutral vase. These small updates refresh your space and make it feel instantly brighter.
How to Bring It All Together
When working with spring colour palettes, the key is balance. Choose a base shade for your main surfaces like floors and walls, then add layers of colour through tiles, accessories and furniture. If you’re unsure where to start, focus on one room and build from there. Bathrooms and kitchens are great spaces to experiment with colour because tiles make a big impact.
bathroom, blog, floors, kitchen
If you are planning a renovation project you may by wondering if you can install tiles over your existing flooring instead of ripping everything out. The good news is that it is possible but you need to follow the right steps to make sure your tiles last and look professional.
Table of Content:
Why Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
How To Know If Your Floor is Suitable
Preparing the Surface Before You Begin
Essential Tools and Materials
Steps to Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Why Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Choosing to lay tiles on top of your current floor can save time, money and a lot of mess. You avoid the hassle of breaking up and disposing of old flooring and you can move forward with your renovation more quickly. This option is especially appealing for busy households or commercial spaces where downtime needs to be minimal.
How To Know If Your Floor is Suitable
Before you start you need to know if your current floors are suitable. The surface must be stable flat and free from cracks. Materials like ceramic, vinyl or even concrete are usually fine as long as they are in good condition. However carpets, uneven wood floors or anything with water damage will not work.
Preparing the Surface Before You Begin
Preparation is key to a lasting result. Start by giving the surface a thorough clean to remove grease dirt or dust. Fill in any small cracks or gaps and make sure the floor is level. In some cases you may need to roughen the surface slightly with sandpaper or apply a bonding agent to help the new tiles stick properly.
Essential Tools and Materials
Having the right tools will make the job smoother.
1. Tile adhesive
2. Grout
3. A notched trowel
4. A tile cutter
5. Tile spacers
6. A spirit level
6. A sponge and bucket
These basics will cover most installations whether you are working in a bathroom, kitchen or living space.
Steps to Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Follow these steps to ensure a neat finish:
1. Plan your layout and mark guide lines on the floor.
2. Apply adhesive with a notched trowel starting from the centre of the room.
3. Place tiles carefully using spacers to keep lines even.
4. Check regularly with a spirit level to maintain a flat surface.
5. Let the adhesive set before applying grout between the tiles.
6. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge.
Taking your time during these steps will make a big difference to the final look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Even with careful planning, small mistakes can affect the outcome. Skipping surface preparation, rushing the adhesive setting time or forgetting to seal your grout can all cause issues like loose tiles or water damage later on.
Updating your space by laying new tiles over your existing floor can save you effort and money while giving your home a fresh new look. The key is to prepare properly, use the right tools and follow the correct steps. If you are not confident in your DIY skills it is always a good idea to call in a professional tiler to ensure the job is done right.
blog, floors, walls
When it comes to transforming your space, picking the right tiles makes all the difference. If you’re deciding between the top tile choices for homes in Gauteng and Cape Town, it helps to know which styles work best in each location. Climate, lifestyle and design trends all play a role in helping you make the perfect choice for your home.
Table of Content:
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Gauteng
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Cape Town
Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Gauteng
Gauteng’s climate is generally warm with dry, cooler winters and summer thunderstorms. Homes in this region benefit from tiles that can handle fluctuating temperatures and the occasional splash of water.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are strong, durable and low maintenance, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. They handle Gauteng’s temperature swings without cracking and are available in a wide range of designs and styles to match any décor.
Wood-look tiles
Wood-look tiles give the warm aesthetic of timber without the maintenance issues caused by fluctuating temperatures.
Polished ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are affordable, easy to clean and ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Their water-resistant properties make them a practical option for busy family homes.
Gauteng homes often lean toward modern finishes with neutral colours and sleek designs, making these top tile choices both practical and stylish.
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Cape Town
Cape Town’s coastal climate brings a mix of humidity, sea air and cooler winters. This means you need tiles that can stand up to moisture and remain slip-resistant.
Slip-resistant porcelain tiles
With Cape Town’s rainy winters, non-slip tiles are essential for outdoor patios, pool areas and even bathrooms to prevent accidents in damp conditions.
Natural stone tiles
Natural stone tiles like slate, travertine or granite or concrete look tiles work beautifully in Cape Town’s coastal style homes, offering a textured, organic look that fits the natural surroundings. They’re perfect for adding a touch of luxury to bathrooms, outdoor patios and living spaces. However, it’s important to note that they may require sealing for protection against moisture.
Matt finish ceramic tiles
Matt ceramic tiles reduce glare from the strong Cape sunlight and are great for open-plan spaces with large windows.
Cape Town interiors often reflect a relaxed coastal vibe, so these top tile choices combine functionality with that light, airy style.
Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home
While both regions share the need for durable, attractive flooring, the best way to choose is to consider your home’s environment and your lifestyle. For Gauteng homes, durability and temperature resistance are key. For homes in Cape Town, the focus should be on moisture resistance and a design that complements your home’s coastal charm.
Choosing the right tiles is more than just about looks. It’s about finding the perfect balance between beauty, durability and climate suitability. Whether you live in bustling Gauteng or scenic Cape Town, these top tile choices will help you create a home that’s as practical as it is stylish.
Visit one of our showrooms in Johannesburg, Cape Town or KwaZulu-Natal to explore the best options for your home and get expert advice tailored to your needs.
blog, floors, walls
Renting your space doesn’t mean you have to live with dull floors or outdated kitchen splashbacks. With the right tiles and clever workarounds, you can refresh your home without upsetting your landlord or risking your deposit. Whether you want to add a bit of personality to your bathroom, kitchen or living area, there are renter-friendly tile solutions that let you style your space your way.
Table of Content:
Why Renters Need Flexible Tiles & Flooring Solutions
Peel-and-Stick Tiles: Your Best Friend
Removable Vinyl Tiles for Floors
Tile Rugs: A Trendy, Damage-Free Fix
Temporary Grout Pens and Tile Stickers
Speak to the Experts
Why Renters Need Flexible Tiles & Flooring Solutions
Unlike homeowners, renters need design choices that are easy to install, temporary and non-damaging. Most landlords won’t allow permanent changes like ripping out existing tiles or using adhesives that can’t be removed. That’s where peel-and-stick tiles, removable vinyl flooring and other non-permanent options come in.
These alternatives offer a smart way to personalise your space while still keeping things simple when it’s time to move out.
Peel-and-Stick Tiles: Your Best Friend
Peel-and-stick tiles are one of the most popular choices for renters. They’re affordable, easy to install and don’t require any tools. You simply peel off the backing and stick them directly over existing tiles or smooth surfaces.
You can use them for:
Kitchen backsplashes
Bathroom walls
Accent walls in the living room
Look for moisture-resistant peel-and-stick options if you’re using them in humid areas like bathrooms.
Removable Vinyl Tiles for Floors
Vinyl tiles are perfect for covering up tired or stained floors. You’ll find them in a range of designs, from realistic wood grain to bold geometric patterns. They’re thicker and more durable than peel-and-stick wall tiles, and most don’t need adhesive – they simply float over the existing floor.
These are ideal for:
Rental kitchens
Bathroom floors
Studio apartments with worn-out flooring
Bonus: many vinyl tiles are waterproof and easy to clean, making them as functional as they are stylish.
Browse our range of Vinyl Flooring
Tile Rugs: A Trendy, Damage-Free Fix
If you’re dealing with carpet or uneven flooring, a tile rug might be your best bet. These are made using interlocking vinyl or foam tiles that mimic ceramic patterns but don’t require adhesives. They’re especially popular for creating a tiled “zone” in open-plan spaces.
Think entryways, under coffee tables or even as a stylish solution under your home desk setup.
Temporary Grout Pens and Tile Stickers
Already have tiles but hate the colour or grout lines? Tile stickers and grout pens can breathe new life into old installations. These are renter-friendly hacks that let you transform the look of your tiles without removing them.
Use grout pens to freshen up yellowed grout or match it to your style. Add tile stickers to individual tiles to create a custom pattern or pop of colour.
Important Tips Before You Begin
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Always test a small area first to make sure the product comes off cleanly
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Check your lease to confirm what’s allowed in terms of temporary updates
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Save all original packaging so you can reverse the update before moving out if needed
Speak to the Experts
If you’re not sure which tile solution is right for your rental, pop into one of our showrooms in Cape Town, Johannesburg or Durban. Our team is happy to guide you through easy, stylish options that suit your space and your lease terms.
Ready to refresh your rental? Visit Tiletoria for smart tile solutions that are as flexible as they are beautiful. Whether you’re after removable tiles, design advice or inspiration, we’ve got what you need.
bathroom, blog
Choosing between an open shower and an enclosed one can shape the entire look and feel of your bathroom. While both have their strengths, the right layout depends on your space, lifestyle and style preferences. Whether you’re renovating or building from scratch, understanding the pros and cons of each option can help you make the best choice for your home.
Table of Content:
Open Shower
Pros of Open Shower
Cons of Open Shower
Enclosed Shower
Pros of Enclosed Shower
Cons of Enclosed Shower
Choosing the Right Option for You
Browse our range of Showers
Open Shower
Open showers, also known as walk-in showers, have become a favourite in modern bathroom design. They offer a sleek, minimal look with easy accessibility and a strong sense of space. With no doors or raised edges, the layout flows effortlessly into the rest of the bathroom.
Pros of Open Shower
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Spacious feel: Perfect for small bathrooms where you want to avoid visual clutter
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Easy access: Ideal for people with mobility issues or for ageing-in-place designs
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Modern aesthetic: Clean lines and open space give a contemporary spa-like feel
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Easy to clean: Fewer crevices and hardware mean quicker cleaning routines
Cons of Open Shower
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More splashing: Without doors or barriers, water can spread into other areas
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Temperature control: Open showers can feel cooler due to lack of enclosure
-
Privacy concerns: Not ideal for shared or multi-user bathrooms
Open showers work well in modern, minimalist spaces and can make a small bathroom feel bigger. They’re ideal if you value open layouts, ease of cleaning and a contemporary look. Just make sure you have proper waterproofing, good drainage and thoughtful tile placement to get the most out of this design.
Enclosed Shower
Enclosed showers are the traditional choice for a reason. They offer privacy, warmth and better water containment — making them practical and stylish in many layouts.
Pros of Enclosed Shower
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Water stays in: Doors and panels keep the rest of the bathroom dry
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More privacy: Great for shared bathrooms or family homes
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Warm and cosy: Enclosures retain heat for a more comfortable showering experience
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Design flexibility: Choose from hinged, sliding or corner enclosures to suit your space
Cons of Enclosed Shower
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More maintenance: Glass doors and frames may require more frequent cleaning
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Tighter space: Smaller bathrooms may feel cramped with a bulky enclosure
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Hardware wear: Hinges, seals and tracks can degrade over time
Enclosed showers offer a tried-and-true solution for anyone who prioritises privacy, warmth and a splash-free environment. They’re especially well-suited to busy family homes or anyone who enjoys a cocoon-like feel when showering. Choose sleek finishes and low-maintenance materials to keep your enclosure looking fresh and functional for years.
Choosing the Right Option for You
If you love a clean minimalist space with easy maintenance, an open shower might be your best fit. If you prefer warmth, privacy and a bit more control over water splashes, an enclosed shower is probably the better option.
Your decision should also factor in the size of your bathroom, who will use it and your overall design goals. A guest bathroom might benefit from a stylish open shower, while a main family bathroom could call for the comfort of an enclosure.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both open and enclosed showers can elevate your space — it’s all about what works for your lifestyle and layout.
Need help deciding?
Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or browse our latest tile and bathroom collections online. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek walk-in or a polished enclosure, we’ve got the perfect materials to bring your vision to life.
Browse our range of Showers
Browse all Showers here
bathroom, blog
Your bathroom vanity is more than just a sink and storage unit. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or simply want to upgrade your current setup, the right vanity design can make a big impact.
We’re breaking down everything you need to know about creating a vanity area that looks good and works hard — from layout tips to must-have features and design ideas that suit every budget.
Table of Content:
Start With the Right Layout
Vanity Storage That Works for You
Choose Stylish Finishes
Add Lighting That Works
Design Your Own Vanity Cabinet
Browse Our Range of Stylish Vanities
Start With the Right Layout
Before you choose colours or finishes, consider the layout. How much space do you have? Is it a shared bathroom or a private en-suite? A single vanity works well in compact bathrooms while a double vanity adds luxury and functionality in larger spaces.
Think about how the vanity fits into your daily routine. Leave enough room between the cabinet and shower or toilet for easy movement. If you’re short on space, consider floating vanities or corner units that save floor space and create a sleek modern look.
Vanity Storage That Works for You
Storage is key to keeping your vanity area clutter-free. Drawers with dividers help organise makeup, toothbrushes and skincare products. Cupboards are ideal for larger items like towels and cleaning supplies.
If your current cabinet doesn’t offer the storage you need or if the layout isn’t quite right, it might be time to consider a custom option.
Choose Stylish Finishes
Your choice of finish can transform your vanity from basic to beautiful. Wood tones add warmth and texture while high-gloss finishes create a clean contemporary feel. Matte black handles and brushed brass taps are trending right now and pair beautifully with both neutral and bold colour palettes.
Don’t forget the countertop – quartz and stone-look surfaces are not only stylish but also easy to clean and maintain.
Add Lighting That Works
Lighting makes a huge difference! Good task lighting is essential for grooming and makeup. Wall-mounted sconces on either side of the mirror provide even lighting without harsh shadows. If space allows, add a statement pendant or LED strip lighting under the cabinet for an extra touch of luxury.
Design Your Own Vanity Cabinet
tiletoria, paarden eiland showroom
Love a vanity style but wish it came in a different size or colour? At Tiletoria, you can design your own cabinet. Whether you want to change the countertop, handles or overall layout, our team can help bring your vision to life. Visit one of our showrooms in Cape Town, Johannesburg or Durban to chat with a consultant and explore the customisation options available. We’ll help you create something that fits your bathroom perfectly.
Ready to design a vanity that ticks all the boxes?
tiletoria, paarden eiland showroom
Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or browse our bathroom collections online. Whether you choose a ready-made unit or design your own cabinet from scratch, we’ll help you create a vanity area that’s both functional and beautiful.
Browse Our Range of Stylish Vanities
