blog, floors, trends, walls
Terrazzo, a classic flooring material that originated in ancient times, has experienced a renaissance in contemporary interior design. The amalgamation of marble, granite, quartz, or glass chips with cement or epoxy resin creates a unique and versatile surface known for its durability and aesthetic appeal. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of design trends, terrazzo tiles have emerged as a timeless choice, seamlessly blending the old and the new. In this blog, we explore the resurgence of terrazzo in contemporary interior design and delve into the various trends that make it a captivating choice for modern spaces.
The Terrazzo Comeback
Terrazzo, born in ancient Rome, made its mark as a cost-effective flooring solution. Over the centuries, it evolved, gracing palaces and cathedrals, becoming synonymous with luxury. However, by the mid-20th century, it fell out of favor, giving way to more minimalistic and utilitarian design choices. Fast forward to the 21st century, and terrazzo has made a triumphant return to the forefront of interior design.
Contemporary Applications
One of the key reasons behind the resurgence of terrazzo is its adaptability to various spaces. From residential homes to commercial spaces, terrazzo tiles have found their way into modern interiors, offering a distinctive character that resonates with both designers and homeowners. The versatility of terrazzo extends beyond flooring to countertops, backsplashes, and even furniture, making it a multifaceted choice for those looking to infuse their spaces with character.
Colourful Variations
Traditionally, terrazzo was characterized by a neutral colour palette dominated by shades of white, gray, and beige. However, contemporary design has ushered in a new era of terrazzo, marked by a burst of vibrant and bold colours. Designers and homeowners are now opting for terrazzo tiles that feature a spectrum of hues, adding an element of playfulness and individuality to spaces. From soft pastels to deep jewel tones, the colourful variations of terrazzo allow for creative expression, transforming spaces into lively and dynamic environments.
Large-format Terrazzo Tiles
In the realm of contemporary interior design, the size of tiles plays a crucial role. Large-format tiles, a trend gaining momentum, contribute to a sense of continuity and openness in a space. Terrazzo, once confined to smaller tiles, has embraced this trend with larger slabs that showcase the intricate patterns and textures more prominently. The result is a visually striking surface that commands attention and elevates the overall design aesthetic.
Customization and Pattern Play
One of the most appealing aspects of terrazzo is the ability to customize the mix of aggregates, allowing for a truly unique design. Contemporary interiors often favor personalized elements that reflect the tastes and preferences of the occupants. Terrazzo caters to this demand by offering a canvas for creative expression. Whether it’s incorporating specific colours, types of aggregates, or creating intricate patterns, the customization options with terrazzo are vast, allowing designers and homeowners to craft spaces that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Seamless Integration with Other Materials
Terrazzo’s adaptability extends beyond its standalone application. Designers are increasingly exploring ways to seamlessly integrate terrazzo with other materials, creating a harmonious blend of textures and finishes. For instance, combining terrazzo flooring with wooden elements or metal accents can result in a balanced and visually appealing composition. This integration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also opens up new possibilities for creating diverse design narratives.
Eco-Friendly Terrazzo
As sustainability becomes a focal point in contemporary design, eco-friendly materials are gaining prominence. Terrazzo, with its composition of recycled materials and low environmental impact, aligns perfectly with this shift towards more sustainable practices. Manufacturers are now producing terrazzo tiles with recycled glass, porcelain, and other environmentally friendly components, making it an eco-conscious choice for those looking to create stylish yet responsible interiors.
In the dynamic world of interior design, Terrazzo’s resurgence as a timeless and versatile choice is undeniable. From its historical roots in ancient Rome to its present status as a design icon, Terrazzo has experienced a remarkable renaissance. The infusion of vibrant colours, the embrace of large-format tiles, customizable options, and its seamless integration with other materials highlight its enduring popularity. As trends evolve, Terrazzo’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modernity has made it a staple in both residential and commercial spaces.
As we explore the cyclical nature of design trends, we invite you to consider the enduring appeal of Terrazzo. Whether you are envisioning a vibrant and bold colour palette, the sophistication of large-format tiles, or a personalized touch through customization, Terrazzo offers a canvas for creative expression. Its adaptability and eco-friendly options align perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable design practices.
At Tiletoria, a leading supplier of tiles and sanitary ware, we understand the significance of staying ahead of design trends. Our curated collection of Terrazzo tiles reflects not only the classic elegance of this material but also its contemporary adaptations. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to infuse your space with character or a designer seeking versatile options, our Terrazzo tiles provide a perfect balance of tradition and modernity. Let Tiletoria be your partner in creating spaces that stand the test of time, where Terrazzo takes center stage as a symbol of enduring style and sophistication.
blog, kitchen, trends
Imagine stepping into your kitchen and being greeted by a world of colour, texture, and character. Your kitchen tiles are more than just practical surfaces; they are your canvas for creativity, a chance to infuse your space with personality. Whether adorning your walls or gracing your floors, Tiltoria Tiles are the ultimate expression of style and sophistication, offering a diverse range that caters to every taste.
A Symphony of Styles: 10 Captivating Kitchen Tile Ideas
1. Penny Tiles: Whimsical Elegance
Looking to add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your modern kitchen design? Look no further than penny tiles! These tiny, round tiles are making a big comeback in the world of interior design. With their delicate size and intricate patterns, penny tiles can transform any kitchen space into a charming oasis. Whether you opt for classic white or bold metallic hues, these versatile tiles offer countless design possibilities.
2. Rustic Charm: Brick Unveiled
Invite the rustic elegance of brick into your kitchen. Transform it into a sanctuary that echoes the warmth of the outdoors. With its inviting texture and resilience, brick bridges the gap between tradition and contemporary minimalism. It’s like a hug from nature that endures the hustle of your culinary adventures.
3. Mosaic Marvel: Glass Mosaic Backsplash
Elevate your kitchen’s style with a stunning glass mosaic backsplash. These shimmering tiles create a mesmerizing focal point that reflects light and adds a touch of luxury to your space. With a wide range of colours and patterns, you can customize your backsplash to match your kitchen’s aesthetic perfectly.
4. Imperfectly Perfect: Zellige Tiles
Zellige tiles tell a story of craftsmanship and imperfection. With their handcrafted allure, they redefine charm in your neutral haven. Their uneven finish, irregular shapes, and glaze variations draw the eye, forming a kaleidoscope of tones that tell tales of uniqueness.
5. The Gloss Renaissance: A Shimmering Shift
Shift from matte to gloss with a dash of audacious elegance. Dive into the world of glazed tiles that shimmer like stars in your kitchen. From rich hues to tantalizing neutrals, high gloss tiles redefine sophistication while providing a practical solution that’s easy to clean and admire.
6. Subway Splendor: From Bland to Bold
Subways tiles reignite with newfound charisma. Say goodbye to the mundane and hello to transformative design. Stretching from floor to ceiling, these tiles frame your kitchen with intriguing lines and captivating colours. The drama is in the details, and subways tiles are the stars of the show.
7. Terracotta Temptations: European Chic
Embrace European allure with terracotta floor tiles. They infuse your space with farmhouse charm, a testament to timeless beauty. Their hues dance between warmth and subtlety, making them the perfect backdrop for your kitchen’s stories.
8. Marble Slab Dreams: Elegance Redefined
Elevate elegance with marble slab tiles that paint a picture of opulence. Minimal grout lines and uninterrupted patterns create a seamless masterpiece. From countertop to backsplash, the marriage of marble and luxury is an everlasting affair.
9. A Whimsical Illusion: Striped Wonders
Play with perception through the magic of stripes. Transform your space into a canvas of illusion, making it feel larger and more open. From floors to backsplashes, stripes become an art form that captivates the eye.
10. Stove Showstopper: Encaustic Elegance
Let your stove area shine with encaustic tiles that exude European allure. These practical yet captivating tiles blend seamlessly with the kitchen’s narrative, turning functional spaces into focal points of beauty.
Choosing Your Canvas: The Perfect Tiles for Your Kitchen
When considering kitchen tiles, it’s essential to match the right tile with the right purpose. For kitchen floors, porcelain tiles reign supreme, providing durability and easy maintenance. Larger formats open up spaces, inviting a sense of openness. For walls, let your style dictate—whether it’s classic subways, textured 3D designs, or the rustic charm of zellige.
Trending Tides: Texture Takes Center Stage
In the ever-evolving world of kitchen tile trends, texture steals the limelight. Fluted designs, zellige tiles, and the timeless charm of terracotta have captured our hearts. These textures embrace the rustic kitchen trend, transforming spaces into cozy havens filled with tactile delights.
Of course, let’s not forget the enduring popularity of subway tiles. They’ve stood the test of time, providing a versatile canvas for creativity. The key lies in experimenting with finishes and grout colors, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Tiltoria Tiles: Elevating Your Kitchen Beyond Imagination
Whether you’re looking for a classic style or something more contemporary, Tiltoria Tiles have the perfect tiling option to fit any modern kitchen design. With the growing trend of texture taking center stage, why not make your space unique with encaustic tiles or zellige? From penny tiles to brick slips and marble slab dreams, let your creativity flow with endless possibilities! Start exploring our range today and find that perfect tile for your kitchen project.
Let us know what kind of kitchen tile design made you fall in love with your cooking corner in the comments below!
Disclaimer:
In conclusion, Tiletoria offers advice in this article for construction and renovation purposes. However, it’s crucial to recognize that this advice does not replace the expertise of certified building contractors. Each project is unique, and potential complexities vary. Readers should consult professionals before undertaking any projects. Our network of approved contractors ensures tailored guidance for safety and quality. While our article provides insights, collaboration with contractors remains vital. Contact us for assistance or connections with reputable professionals. Your project’s success and longevity are our priority.
blog, trends
With a reduced interest rate, high rates stock and of home loan approvals, if there’s ever a time to invest in a home, it’s now. While it may seem like a daunting process to navigate, preparing yourself will make all the difference. Here are 10 simple steps to take advantage of the property buyer’s market.
Establish your budget
Your very first step should be establishing how much you have to purchase a home and how much you are willing to spend. In order to qualify for a home loan, you’ll require a good credit score, which your bank or mortgage originator can assist you with. The consensus is that your bond repayment should not exceed a third of your monthly income.
Be prepared for a down payment
While first time buyers qualify for a home loan of up to 105%, you may need a cash security deposit of 10-15%. Investing your deposit is highly advisable as it brings the rate of your monthly repayments down and allows for an equity buffer of value in assets over liabilities.
Make provision for extra costs
Transfer duty, bond registration and conveyancing means you need to account for additional costs. For all home purchases over R900 000, there is a transfer duty cost. Don’t forget all the moving costs when relocating to your new home!
Be prepared for paperwork
Naturally purchasing a home means having to deal with a lot of admin, so it’s best to be prepared and get everything in order to alleviate any unnecessary stress. The paperwork required includes certified copies of IDs, marriage certificates (Ante Nuptial Contract where applicable), three months’ payslip plus 3 – 6 months’ current bank statements.
Decide where you want to live
The location you choose to move is vital as it should align with your everyday life as best as possible. Firstly, decide on the type of home you’d like to live in e.g. a house vs flat vs. studio loft, etc. Thereafter, decide the kind of area you’d like to live in and which qualities you prioritise in a neighbourhood. Narrow it down to a few and weigh up the pros and cons for each so that you make the decision best suited for you/ your family/ housemates.
Try searching for a home online first
Before going to open houses and viewings, have a look at potential homes online first to get a better look and feel of what you’d like in a home. Technology creates the huge benefit of online tours and viewings.
Hit the ground running
Make sure you mean business when viewing potential homes. Be extremely vigilant when going to viewings and look out for structural issues and poor maintenance before making any decisions. Should you want a home regardless of the future costs you will incur for fixing any issues, make the relevant negotiations with the owners.
Time for a home loan
A purchase offer is a legal contract which once accepted, requires you to secure a home loan. If you’re working with a real estate agent, they will assist you with this however you can attend to it on your own as well. The set of documents you were advised to gather before is now required. Once your bond is approved, it’s on to the next step!
Attorney time
At this point, the seller of the house will appoint a conveyancing attorney and the bank will appoint an attorney to handle the bond registration. At this point you will need to present the documents you acquired such as your ID, marriage certificate, payslips, etc. along with the deposit of the home where applicable and the transaction costs, which gets paid to the conveyancing attorney.
The conveyancer then prepares documents and makes the necessary payments in order to obtain a rates and service clearance certificate. Thereafter, the conveyancer lodges the documents in the local deeds office where they are inspected and once they are approved, the transfer is officially registered, which can take up to three months.
Getting ready to move
While waiting for the transfer to register, it’s advisable to prepare for the move. The conveyancer will inform you once the transfer is registered. If you are purchasing your home in cash, the title deed will be sent to you. If you are taking out a mortgage loan, it will be sent to the bank. Thereafter your bond repayments will commence and you can settle into your new space.
blog, interior design tips, trends
The colour palette and decor in your space could easily be the difference between a good home and a great one. While it’s important to bring your personal style into your home, a fresh change is always good if you are by the means to make one. Say goodbye to marble countertops and perfectly sleek spaces and say hello to bold colours and vibrant wallpapers with these top interior design trends for 2021.
Classic Blue
Classic Blue was selected as the colour of the year for 2021. The blues no longer signify sadness. Blue is synonymous with calmness, confidence, wisdom and stability, among other wonderful things. Resembling the endless sky at dusk, classic blue is a timeless hue, so it’s a good choice of colour to incorporate in your home through a statement wall or pops of classic blue decor, best suited for bedrooms or lounging spaces.
Neo Mint
Another strong contender in 2021’s top interior design colours is a pastel green, which has been coined ‘Neo Mint.’ A calming, fresh tone; this colour is sure to brighten up and modernise your space while adding an optimistic charm. Neo Mint is a softer, more comforting tone best suited for bathrooms and kitchen areas.
Bold monochromatics
Shying away from brighter shades is a thing of the past, with bold colours becoming a prevalent theme for 2021. Incorporate pops of colour into your home through artwork, ceramics, statement walls, etc. Colour blocking through bright primary colours adds an interesting appeal and
Mixing old and new design
“Something old, something new” is no longer reserved for walking down the aisle, with the marriage of modern and classic becoming an appealing aesthetic for lounging spaces inthe home. The juxtaposition creates an eclectic feel and tastefully contradicts the perfectionism in spaces that has been challenged with 2021 trends.
Fun with bathroom designs
A room that’s often ruled out as one to have fun with, the bathroom is a space with great potential. Forget the sleek bathroom design the 2010s have been known for and experiment with colourful wallpaper and bold bathroom decor to add some allure to a famously bland room.
Rattan and wicker furniture
For an earthy, rustic aesthetic, rattan and wicker furniture does the trick. What was once a more prevalent trend for outdoor home decor has moved its appeal indoors. A statement chair in your lounging area or dining chairs are a subtle yet impactful way to incorporate the trend into your home.
(Real) house plants
Greenery has become a huge trend over the last year and shows no signs of slowing down with practically every trendy space being filled with plants and ‘plant parenting’ soaring on social media. Understandably so, house plants add a wonderful charm to your space while giving it life and bringing a sense of serenity. Plus, it’s quite an inexpensive addition compared to most decor pieces.
Earth tones
In 2021, it’s out with cool tones and in with earth tones. Shades of brown, olive green and yellow ochre are on the rise and combined while light blues, greys and lilacs are on its way out. Combined with house plants, the earthy tones trend really thrives, making your home your very own sanctuary.
Multi-functional spaces/ home offices
With 2020 being the year many jobs become remote, home offices are a prevalent interior design trend. Spaces are becoming more functional in areas such as kitchens, lounges and bedrooms that were once strictly for relaxation and leisure. Spare bedrooms and unutilised spaces are also being transformed into home offices.
Floral wallpaper
For ages this trend has been strongly associated with grandmothers, but it can be a wonderful way to easily add vibrancy to your home while creating personality in your space. If you’re concerned about overwhelming your home with too much floral, incorporate it into an accent wall for a more subtle touch.
If you need some inspiration, make sure that you chat to our friendly staff at your closest Tiletoria showroom. We have exciting mood boards and experienced staff that work with some of the best interior designers in South Africa that would be delighted to give you their opinion.
blog, trends
Traditional brassware has been relatively limited to silver and chrome, and, while chrome has remained at the top of sophisticated interior design trends, there has been a serious surge in matt black taps. Here are just a few reasons why black is the brassware to have!
Simple doesn’t mean Simplistic
Adding a black tap to a minimalist interior look can create a striking feature in any room of your house! Black taps work particularly well against white walls, contrasting neutral background, industrial-type materials including concrete and metals, as well as various timber tones.
Marvel at Black and Marble
While black goes with anything (the general rule in any application, from clothes to interior design), black taps add an additional splash of class and sophistication when matched with marble. The taps can help to highlight those darker veins within the marble.
Suitable for ALL Applications
Ultimately, no matter what your style or application you are looking at, black taps create a chic, timeless and classic look that everyone will adore! Whether for use in commercial or residential applications, black taps are easy to maintain. Because most black taps are made with an electroplated finish, this provides durability and resistance to watermarks, fingerprints as well as wear and tear!
Visit a Tiletoria near you to view our range of black taps!
case studies/renovation projects, how to articles, trends
Compared with residential floors, commercial flooring spaces usually face more demanding conditions, as they experience much higher traffic and potentially face serious legal threats when accidents occur. While ceramic and porcelain tile floors are great for durability and functionality, taking care of them in a commercial environment such as a restaurant, public bathroom or highly trafficked walkway can be challenging.
Here are the five biggest issues that businesses and property managers face in maintaining their tile floors. Keep this in mind when advising on tiles and grout for shops, hotels, restaurants and other commercial spaces.
Dirty Grout
Stained grout is one of the most common grout issues in commercial settings, particularly in bathrooms and in restaurants where spills from food, oils and other contaminants are common. Due to the porous nature of grout and the fact that it is recessed below the surface of the tiles, it is both difficult to get to and can retain bacteria that sits beneath the surface.
Mops only move bacteria around and in bathrooms, bacteria feeds on urine and spreads. A Harris Interactive poll found that 79 percent of customers would not return to an establishment with a bathroom that they consider to be dirty. The numbers aren’t much better for dirty floors in other areas and these numbers do not account for the loss of reputation associated with unclean tile floors.
Bacteria and dirt trapped in grout lines not only looks bad but can retain unpleasant odors from spoiled foods, urine and unhygienic bacteria. Many cleaning solutions do not fully clean grout lines and can create additional discoloration as well as permanent damage. Hygiene concerns associated with this harmful bacteria are particularly a concern for health care facilities, restaurants and schools.
Stained, Discolored or Dirty Tiles
When tiles are porous, they will usually stain, most often, permanently. Textured tiles will retain ground dirt in the surface of the tiles. Some cleaning products and processes can assist with managing the problem but will not eliminate it. Tiles can also grow to have a cloudy appearance on the surface. This usually means the wrong cleaning product for that type of tile has been used. In other cases, if a sealer has been applied to tiles incorrectly, if a poor product has been used, or if the product has been applied to non-porous tiles it can cause a milky white appearance on the surface. In these situations, the sealer must be professionally stripped and redone. However, there is the chance of permanent tile damage occurring in these cases.
Mouldy Grout Lines
Shower and bathroom mould growth is probably the most common and frustrating tile and grout related problem. Mould is a product of wet, humid conditions. Rooms with poor ventilation provide the perfect breeding ground for mould. Soap residue and body oils also create a food source for mold to grow.
Quite often, mold growth in showers and bathrooms is caused by a leak somewhere in the recess. A small hole in the grout or cracks in the shower corners is likely to cause water build-up and mould growth.
When mould develops in porous grout joints, no amount of scrubbing with heavy chemicals will resolve the problem in any sustained way. In fact, using mold-killing chemicals actually damages grout by disintegrating it, creating a far worse problem.
Difficulty Cleaning / Dull Looking Tiles
This is a common issue that generally comes from one of several factors. Often it’s because the wrong cleaning products are used.
It is important to seek professional advice as to which cleaning products are right for your particular type of tile.
Another issue has to do with dirt that simply will not come up with standard cleaning products or has been so deeply ground into the porous tile surface that it cannot be removed without causing permanent damage to the tiles. In these cases, tiles have a dull or darkish appearance that simply isn’t attractive. Finally, the use of mops is perhaps the most common mistake used by cleaning crews. Mops simply move dirt around and do not create a clean surface. This has the same aesthetic effect and is generally unsanitary.
Slipping and Falling Risks
The danger of slip and fall accidents is particularly high on tile floors. In restaurants, bathrooms and anywhere moisture from outside might be tracked in by foot traffic, slip and fall concerns run high. Especially with large tiles, there is a good chance that feet will slide on these wet surfaces and create accidents. This is a huge liability for commercial properties and one that often is not considered until after floors are installed and problems begin to occur.
Talk to one of our Tiletoria sales consultants for the best advice on what tiles to use in commercial spaces, as well as the best grout and adhesives for your project application.
