Choosing the perfect tap finish can completely transform your kitchen or bathroom. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to decide between brass, chrome or matte black. Each finish has its own look, benefits and care needs.
In this guide, we’ll help you pick the right tap finish that suits your style, practical needs and budget.
The finish on your tap isn’t just about looks. It also affects durability, maintenance and how well the tap fits with the rest of your space. The right finish can highlight your design theme and add personality to your room, while the wrong one might clash or require too much upkeep.
Brass taps bring a warm golden glow that feels classic yet trendy. They work well in traditional, vintage or industrial-style bathrooms and kitchens. Brass has a natural resistance to corrosion and can develop a charming patina over time.
Chrome is the most popular tap finish for good reason. Its shiny, reflective surface creates a clean and modern look that fits almost any style from minimalist to classic. Chrome taps are easy to clean and resistant to tarnishing.
Matte black taps are a favourite for contemporary and industrial designs. Their bold, understated look creates a striking contrast against light tiles or countertops. Matte finishes also hide fingerprints and water marks better than shiny surfaces.
Pros:
Makes a strong style statement
Hides fingerprints and water spots
Works well with a variety of colours and materials
Choose a finish that complements or contrasts tastefully with your tiles, countertops and cabinetry.
Your choice of tap finish has a big impact on the look and feel of your space. Brass, chrome and matte black all offer unique styles and benefits. Think about your personal style, practical needs and existing décor to find the perfect match. Whether you want classic warmth, shiny modernity or bold drama, the right tap finish will help you create a kitchen or bathroom you love.
Ready to upgrade your taps? Explore our wide range of stylish finishes and find your perfect fit today!
If your bathroom feels more cramped than calming, you’re not alone. Many homes have compact bathrooms that can feel tight and awkward, but with the right design choices, you can easily transform your space into one that feels open, airy and more functional. Here’s how to make a small bathroom feel bigger using clever, practical design tips that really work.
Light colours instantly make a space feel larger. Opt for pale tiles, paint and accessories in shades like white, soft grey, beige or pastel tones. These reflect more light and give the illusion of space. Glossy finishes can also help bounce light around the room, creating a more open feel.
It might seem counterintuitive, but large-format tiles can actually make a small bathroom feel bigger. Fewer grout lines create a seamless look that visually expands the space. Floor-to-ceiling tiles on walls also draw the eye upward, making the room appear taller.
Use Mirrors to Add Depth
Image credit: the-rugs.com
A well-placed mirror can do wonders in a small bathroom. Large mirrors reflect both natural and artificial light, making the room feel brighter and more spacious. Consider a mirrored cabinet for added storage and style.
Opt for Floating Fixtures
Image Credit: msn.com
Wall-mounted toilets, vanities and basins free up floor space and help the room feel less cluttered. The visible floor area underneath these fixtures adds a sense of openness and flow.
Keep the Floor Clear
Image Credit: Houzz.com
The more visible your floor is, the bigger your bathroom will feel. Use slimline storage units, corner shelves and hooks to keep toiletries off the ground and surfaces tidy. A tidy space always feels roomier.
Use Glass Shower Panels
Image Credit: Houzz.com
Swap out shower curtains or bulky enclosures for clear glass panels. They open up the space visually, allowing your eye to travel across the room without interruption. Frameless panels are ideal for creating a sleek, modern look.
Choose Consistent Flooring
Image Credit: zephyrandstone.com.au
Using the same flooring throughout the bathroom, including inside the shower, can make the space look larger. Continuous flooring draws the eye through the room without any visual stops.
Let in Natural Light
Image Credit: zephyrandstone.com.au
If possible, maximise natural light. Frosted windows, skylights or solar tubes can brighten your bathroom without compromising privacy. More light = more space, even if it’s just an illusion.
Use Vertical Space
Image Credit: spacefactory.fr
When floor space is limited, think vertically. Install tall, narrow cabinets or open shelves above the toilet or door. These storage solutions free up space below while keeping essentials within reach.
Stick to a Simple Colour Scheme
Image Credit: zephyrandstone.com.au
Too many colours or patterns can overwhelm a small space. Stick to a cohesive palette for your tiles, walls and fixtures to maintain a sense of calm and continuity throughout.
You don’t need to knock down walls to make your bathroom feel bigger. Smart design choices, from light colours and large tiles to floating fixtures and clever storage, can completely transform your space.
Ready to upgrade your small bathroom? Visit tiletoria for a wide range of space-enhancing tiles and accessories to help you bring your vision to life.
Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025 is finally here, and it’s a rich, warm brown named Mocha Mousse (Pantone 17-1230). If you’re drawn to earthy tones that radiate warmth and comfort, this is the perfect hue to introduce into your home. It strikes a luxurious balance between taupe and dark chocolate—soft, inviting, and ideal for creating a cocooning atmosphere that makes any space feel more relaxing and grounded.
This year’s selection reflects a global desire for stability, comfort, and a deeper connection to nature, making Mocha Mousse the perfect shade to incorporate into your home. Whether you’re looking for subtle accents or bold statements, this versatile colour can enhance your space in a way that feels both sophisticated and cosy.
Pantone’s Colour of the Year is far more than just a trend—it’s a reflection of broader cultural shifts, societal movements, and evolving design preferences. Each year, Pantone, a globally recognized authority on colour, selects a shade that encapsulates the mood and themes of the year to come. This decision is influenced by various factors, including art, fashion, politics and global events. The Colour of the Year sets the tone for design trends, offering a glimpse into the collective psyche and the state of the world.
For 2025, Pantone has selected Mocha Mousse (Pantone 17-1230), a rich brown hue that exudes warmth, stability and simplicity. This colour evokes feelings of indulgence, drawing inspiration from comforting elements like coffee and chocolate, while simultaneously embracing earthy, grounded tones. Mocha Mousse reflects a move toward understated elegance, offering a sense of serenity and balance—qualities that are essential as we navigate uncertain times. It’s a colour that fosters connection and creates spaces that feel like home, perfectly suited for a year focused on comfort and emotional well-being.
Pantone has curated five distinct colour palettes featuring Mocha Mousse, each expressing a unique mood and atmosphere. Within each palette, you’ll find four harmonious shades that complement Mocha Mousse’s inviting warmth, creating the perfect setting for a variety of spaces and experiences.
Floral Pathways blends Mocha Mousse with floral and soft green tones, evoking the beauty and scent of a serene garden. These combinations allow for an organic, grounding effect, encouraging you to bask in simple pleasures and embrace moments of calm. It’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy the richness of life—whether through a nature walk, a quiet evening or the joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones.
Your living room is one of the most frequented areas in the home, and Mocha Mousse is the perfect choice for adding richness and warmth. Consider introducing this colour in furniture pieces such as a plush sofa, accent chairs or cushions. Mocha Mousse pairs beautifully with muted tones like sage green, dusky pink or even deeper earth tones, offering a grounding effect that enhances the entire space.
For a more subtle approach, you can bring the shade into the room with smaller items like vases, throws or wall art. The colour works wonderfully in both modern and traditional settings, making it versatile enough to match your existing decor.
Transform your bedroom into a luxurious retreat by embracing Mocha Mousse as the dominant hue. This soft brown is ideal for creating a calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and restful sleep. Start with bedding—opt for a Mocha Mousse duvet cover or throw pillows to create an inviting focal point.
If you’re feeling bolder, consider incorporating the colour into the walls or even the ceiling to fully envelop the space in comfort. Complement the brown tones with warm wood furniture, soft lighting and delicate textiles to further enhance the sanctuary vibe.
The kitchen is a space that often feels bright and airy, but adding Mocha Mousse can help ground it with a rich and indulgent touch. From cabinetry to counter tops, this earthy colour can be easily integrated into your kitchen design. Pair it with natural wood elements for a rustic yet refined look.
For an even more dynamic design, mix Mocha Mousse with lighter shades of cream, peach or terracotta. This creates a harmonious balance of warm tones that brings both vibrancy and tranquility into the heart of your home.
If you’re looking to make a statement in your bathroom, Mocha Mousse is the perfect choice. Whether it’s through luxurious towels, bath mats or even a feature wall, this warm tone can transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat. For a more subtle update, introduce the colour with accessories like soap dispensers, shower curtains or storage baskets.
Add Texture and Warmth with Mocha Mousse in Commercial Spaces
Mocha Mousse isn’t just for homes—this warm, neutral tone works wonders in commercial interiors too. Whether it’s an office, retail store or healthcare setting, Mocha Mousse brings sophistication and tranquility to high-traffic areas. In open-plan offices, use it for modular furniture, desk partitions or acoustic panels to promote focus and productivity.
In retail spaces, Mocha Mousse enhances the shopping experience by creating a welcoming environment. Incorporate it into shelving units, display backdrops or fitting rooms to elevate the customer journey.
If you’re not ready to commit to major changes, you can still infuse Mocha Mousse into your space with smaller touches. Artwork is an excellent way to bring in this year’s colour—think large-scale pieces, framed prints, or even a decorative mirror. By introducing this deep, earthy shade through your accessories, you’ll create a cohesive and stylish vibe in any room without overwhelming the space.
Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025 is a warm and inviting tone that speaks to our desire for comfort, stability and connection. Whether you’re redecorating your entire home or adding a few accents, Mocha Mousse offers endless possibilities to create a space that feels grounded, sophisticated and utterly comforting.
Are you ready to add this versatile shade to your interiors? From your kitchen to the bathroom, Mocha Mousse is a timeless colour that can work with a variety of design styles and will be a mainstay in interiors for years to come.
African-inspired interior design is gaining popularity both globally and locally, as more people seek unique décor that tells a story while supporting local artisans. Known for bold geometric patterns, rich textures, and earthy, vibrant colours, African design offers an exciting way to infuse personality and cultural depth into your space. Let’s take a closer look at the defining features of African-inspired interiors, explore how to incorporate them, and dive into some of the latest trends.
What Makes African-Inspired Interior Design Unique?
African décor stands apart from other styles because each piece tells a unique story, often reflecting traditions passed down through generations. Handmade using natural materials like wood, metal, ceramic, cotton, and clay, African-inspired pieces often become striking conversation starters in the home. Unlike mass-produced items, these pieces are crafted by hand, giving them an authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere. They serve not only as décor but as cultural statements that connect you to Southern Africa’s rich artistic history.
How to Incorporate African Design Into Your Space
Traditional African décor is known for its bright, bold colours, textured elements, and vibrant cultural motifs. However, modern interpretations of African interiors often take a more minimalist approach, using statement pieces that still capture the essence of the culture but with a refined, contemporary touch.
Five Ways to Bring African Design Into Your Home
1. Colours and Patterns
African design is famous for its rich palette and distinctive patterns. Earthy tones like warm reds, deep blues, and neutral beiges are common, inspired by Africa’s natural landscapes. You can use these tones as the base of your design, then add a pop of vibrant colour for contrast. Incorporating traditional African patterns in textiles, wallpaper, or murals will give your space an authentic, cultural feel.
African fabrics such as kuba cloth, mud cloth, batik, and wax prints are essential elements of African-inspired interiors. You can use these textiles in a variety of ways—think pillows, throws, table runners, or even wall hangings. They bring a sense of warmth and texture to a room, instantly adding depth to your space.
Africa boasts a long history of art and craftsmanship, making handmade items like carvings or woven baskets ideal for creating an authentic atmosphere. Whether used as décor or functional pieces, these artisanal items add character and a personal touch to your home.
To really capture the African aesthetic, opt for furniture with a primal, rustic vibe. Hand-carved wooden stools, root-wood tables, or cabinets with traditional African motifs can all serve as statement pieces in your interior. These unique items stand out and give your space a distinct sense of style.
A key theme in African design is harmony with nature. Materials like wood, wool, rattan, cotton, and clay are central to this aesthetic, offering not only sustainability but also a connection to the earth. Incorporating these materials into your space—whether through furniture, rugs, or decorative items—helps create an authentic African feel.
As the popularity of African-inspired interiors continues to grow, several trends are emerging:
Wall Basket Sets: Baskets aren’t just for storage—they’ve become trendy wall décor. Arranging a set of handcrafted baskets on your walls can create an eye-catching focal point.
Beaded Shields and Juju Hats: Items like beaded shields and feathered Juju hats from Cameroon are making waves in modern African-inspired interiors. These pieces add a touch of cultural artistry and are perfect for creating a statement wall.
Rattan Lighting: Handmade rattan basket lights are a popular trend in African-inspired spaces. Available in various sizes and styles, they offer a blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal.
Carved Wooden Stools: These stools or side tables are versatile pieces that can easily fit into both traditional and modern African designs. Their intricate carvings and natural finish make them a must-have for anyone looking to add African flair to their home.
Tribal Rugs: Geometric patterns, earthy tones, and ethnic designs are key elements of African rugs. Made from natural materials, they provide both comfort and visual interest.
Woven Cane Chairs: Perfect for outdoor spaces or patios, woven cane chairs are durable and trendy, adding a natural touch to your African-inspired space.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore African-inspired design or looking for the latest trends to enhance your space, this style offers an enriching way to incorporate culture, artistry, and sustainability into your home.
Leading the charge in this movement are individuals like Jason, the owner of African Creative Wholesale. He and his team travel to remote regions of Africa, seeking out artisans who craft these stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces that are rich with history and tradition. For a deeper dive into their work and the latest trends in African interior design, check out Ryan O’Connor’s fascinating two-part conversation with Jason below.
Tile splashbacks are gaining popularity for a reason. They add an eye-catching upgrade to your home and can rejuvenate your walls without breaking the bank. So, let’s splash right into the topic and explore how to choose the perfect tiles for your splashback.
A splashback, or backsplash, is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a protective surface installed in the kitchen or bathroom behind the sink or stove, where water, grease, and food tend to “splash” around. The primary purpose of a splashback is to catch the mess and prevent water or moisture damage to the wall behind the tiles.
Splashback tiles are a simple way to make your kitchen or bathroom feel brand new. They offer benefits like ease of cleaning and durability—it’s much easier to wipe down a tile than to scrub a wall! A splashback can be a few centimeters high or extend all the way to the ceiling.
Imagine standing in your kitchen, tackling that huge pile of dishes. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a beautiful feature to look at while you’re there?
Picking out tiles for your splashback is half the fun. You’re almost ready to create your dream splashback, but it’s important to consider a few key factors. Your kitchen and bathroom endure a lot, so it’s essential to choose tiles that are water-resistant. This helps protect your walls from excess moisture. Non-porous tiles are a must, as they don’t absorb water, air, or other fluids.
The tiles you select should be durable enough to withstand the daily hustle and bustle, allowing you to cook and clean without a worry.
When selecting the colour for your splashback tiles, think about the overall look you want to achieve.
Bold and Bright: If you’re looking to add colour and character to your space, go for bright and bold tiles. You can even opt for a different colored grout to make your tiles stand out.
Subtle and Minimalistic: For a more understated look, white, black, grey or beige tiles can tie the rest of your space together. Matching or contrasting grout can change the final look.
Smaller Tiles: These offer a detailed and uniform look.
Pro Tip
Always purchase more tiles than you think you’ll need. Mishaps happen, and it can be frustrating when you’re not prepared. You might need just half a tile to finish a small corner, so having extra on hand is always a good idea.
Consider Your Options of Tiles
Let’s explore the different types of tiles available for a splashback:
Porcelain Tiles: These are ideal due to their hard-wearing, durable nature. They are usually water-resistant, attractive, inexpensive, and available in various styles and colours.
Subway Tiles: These are popular for their easy-to-clean ceramic surface. They come in various colours, styles, and patterns, and are extremely durable.
Choosing the Tile Pattern
With so many different layouts to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out what works best for your space. Check out our previous blog on tile layout patterns for an in-depth review of all the tile pattern options you can choose from here.
Once you’ve considered the important factors for tiling your splashback, it’s time to bring it all together! Visit your nearest tiletoria showroom today to make your splashback dreams a reality.
Prefer to Watch?
Check out the video below where Ryan and Deon discuss the steps to find your perfect splashback tiles:
So, you’ve decided that tiling is the perfect option for your latest project, but how do you decide which tiles are best suited for each room of your home? We’re here to simplify the tiling selection process by sharing some tips and considerations for choosing the right tiles for each room.
Table of Content:
Smaller Rooms: Bathroom and Laundry Room
The Kitchen: The Heart of the Home
Hallways: Making a Great First Impression
Bedroom: A Growing Trend
Living Room: High Traffic and High Style
Outdoor: Extend Your Living Space
Smaller Rooms: Bathroom and Laundry Room
For smaller spaces like bathrooms and laundry rooms, smaller tiles are generally recommended. They can be fitted around fixtures and appliances more easily, reducing the need for extensive tile cutting. Popular options include marble or marble-inspired tiles, mosaic tiles, monochromatic tiles, and subway tiles.
Credits: @in.house.design
However, larger tiles like large format tiles can also work well in smaller rooms because they have fewer grout lines, creating the illusion of a larger space.
When choosing bathroom tiles, prioritize slip-resistant options that are easy to clean.
Browse some of our most popular bathroom and laundry room tiles to get started:
The Kitchen: The Heart of the Home
In larger rooms and open spaces, large format tiles can be the perfect choice. They create a uniform flooring and are becoming increasingly popular in open plan kitchens and living rooms. Large tiles offer a contemporary, hard-wearing feel, and slip-resistant tiles are recommended for the kitchen since it is a wet area.
Browse some of our most popular kitchen tiles to find the perfect match for your home:
Hallways: Making a Great First Impression
Hallways are often the first area guests see, so it’s important to make a lasting impression. Hallways need to be welcoming and attractive but also hard-wearing, as they endure a lot of foot traffic.
Ceramic tiles are a great choice because they are easy to clean and come in various bright colors and patterns.
Alternatively, large format tiles in neutral colors can create a simple, easy-to-clean look.
Decorative tiles are another popular option, adding a trendy touch to your hallway.
The choice depends on your style and whether you want a cohesive look throughout your home or different styles in each room.
Browse some of our most popular hallway tiles for inspiration:
Bedroom: A Growing Trend
Tiles in the bedroom are growing in popularity. Wood-look tiles add rustic, traditional charm to your cozy bedroom while offering ease of installation, cleaning, and maintenance.
Alternatively, large format glossy or matte tiles in neutral colors can provide the finishing touch to a minimalistic, contemporary-styled bedroom.
Credits: Emilgroup
Browse some of our most popular bedroom tiles to create your dream space:
Living Room: High Traffic and High Style
The living room is another high-traffic area. It’s important to choose tiles that are durable, hard-wearing, and easy to clean. For a unified look, consider using the same tiles throughout your home, from the kitchen to the bedroom to the living room. Wood-look tiles are a great option for creating a warm, homely feel in the living room.
Browse some of our most popular living room tiles to find your perfect fit:
Outdoor: Extend Your Living Space
Let’s take this conversation outside. Slip-resistantporcelain and ceramic tiles are ideal for outdoor areas because they are moisture and water-resistant. Porcelain tiles are particularly suitable for outdoor use due to their higher water resistance. A matte glazed finish can offer even more slip resistance.
Wood-look tiles are another excellent option for the outdoors if you prefer the look of a wooden deck but without the maintenance required with real wood decking.
Credits: Archi Expo
Browse some of our most popular outdoor tiles to enhance your outdoor living space:
Prefer to Watch?
Check out our two-part episode where Ryan and Deon walk you through everything you need to know and share some inspiration for tiles for each room of your home.
Tiletoria Trends – How to Choose Tiles By Room (Part 1)
Tiletoria Trends – How to Choose Tiles By Room (Part 2)
For more expert advice on which tiles are best suited for each room of your home, visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or check out our website for more information.
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