Don’t treat grout as an afterthought, and treat it as another essential tiling tip

Don’t be afraid to mix and match

‘Some of the most interesting rooms come from combining things that, on paper, probably shouldn’t work together,’ says Sarah Watson, who doesn’t really believe in design rules. ‘Bathrooms are a good example,’ she adds. ‘Rather than using one plain tile throughout, I’d consider adding architectural detail with tiled skirtings, dados or cornices, or introducing a second or third color to create a horizontal band.’

But make sure there is a unifying factor

‘I think the key is to vary the scale, texture or color rather than introducing different competing patterns,’ says Carly from Fired Earth. ‘By using the same color across formats, you can introduce subtle contrast and texture while keeping the palette consistent. Similarly, using tiles of the same shape in different shades creates interest through color without introducing competing elements.’ Sarah Peake thinks of this as ‘limiting the number of competing sounds’ and suggests establishing your own ‘hierarchy’ with ‘one dominant tone or texture, and everything else in support’. ‘I also like some sort of connecting logic, shared color temperature, scale or material family so that the mix feels deliberate rather than decorative for its own sake,’ she adds. ‘Contrast is good, but needs editing.’

While decorating this dining room a A 15th-century house in SussexPhoebe Holland took inspiration from traditional tiling in Dutch homes by combining two Balinium designs for a distinctive finish.

Mark Roper

Don’t just tile the obvious spaces

For tiles and not only the kitchen And bathrooms – they can bring texture, depth, colour, pattern and what Sarah Peake poetically describes as ‘architectural permanence’ to any room. hallways, boot rooms, Utility room And outdoor spaces can be rewarding on all practical levels, but tiles can also be a delightful addition to a sitting room fireplace, the wall behind a bed (as an optional headboard) or even a windowsill.

You can also extend them across the room. ‘Fully tiled rooms have a long history throughout Britain and EuropeAnd they still feel incredibly immersive today,’ says Sarah Watson. If you’re planning to tile your ceiling – the very daring indeed – you should choose your materials carefully. ‘Glazed tiles are an ideal choice, not only because of their light weight, but their reflective finish helps bounce light around the room while creating visual continuity,’ says Burt & May’s Lee. ‘Avoid heavy materials like acoustic cement, terracotta and marble.’ Think twice before tiling rooms ‘where softness is required such as bedrooms and living areas’, advises Sarah Peek, ‘unless they are used in very few or specific architectural moments’.