How to Choose the Perfect Tiles for Your Kitchen

Are you looking to transform your kitchen into a stylish yet functional space? Selecting the perfect tiles for your kitchen is an important and long-term decision in interior design. With an overwhelming variety of options available, it can be challenging to navigate through the choices and make the best decision. That's where our expert tips come in...

The size of your kitchen can play a crucial role in tile selection dependent on the style you are aiming to acheive. For smaller kitchens, lighter coloured tiles can make the space feel bigger and brighter. Larger tiles can also create an illusion of more space where Rachel Crow of RealHomes writes "A small kitchen design can actually benefit from a large tile. With fewer grout lines the walls and floor are less cluttered and the room visually expanded". In contrast, larger kitchens can handle darker and matte finishes or more vibrant colours without feeling cramped.

Additionally, Consider the amount of natural light your kitchen receives. Light colours can brighten any space and glossy finishes allow light to bounce around the room, while matt finishes or darker colours might suit a kitchen with plenty of natural light. 

When it comes to designing your kitchen, the tiles you choose play a significant role in both the aesthetics and functionality of the space, applying to both kitchen floor tiles and kitchen wall/ splashback tiles. The right tiles can enhance the overall look of your kitchen while also providing durable and practical surfaces. Here are a few reasons why choosing the right kitchen tiles is crucial:

The kitchen is one of the busiest areas in your home, so your tiles need to withstand heavy foot traffic, spills, and stains. Opting for high-quality tiles ensures that they will stand the test of time and continue to look great for years to come.

The kitchen is prone to spills, splashes, and messes, which makes it more ideal to choose tiles that are easier to clean. Certain materials and finishes are more resistant to stains and require minimal maintenance, saving you time and effort in the long run - perfect for those with very busy households.

The right tiles can enhance the overall style of your kitchen, whether you're going for a contemporary, rustic, or traditional look. They can create a focal point, add texture, or provide a backdrop for other design elements. Choosing tiles that complement your desired aesthetic is key to achieving a cohesive and visually pleasing space.

In addition to looking great, your kitchen tiles should also be functional. Consider factors such as slip resistance, heat resistance, and water resistance when selecting your tiles. This ensures that your kitchen is not only beautiful but also safe and practical.

Before diving into the world of kitchen tiles, it's important to consider a few key factors that will influence your decision-making process. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that the tiles you choose align with your personal preferences and practical needs. Let's take a look at these factors:

Determining your budget upfront will help you narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Kitchen tiles come in a wide range of prices, which is also dependable on the product material, so it's essential to have a clear idea of how much you're willing to invest in your project. It is also wise to note a newly renovated kitchen can actually add interest to your property where Magnet Kitchens advises "On average, renovated kitchens can increase the selling price of your property by 5-6%". 

Consider the overall style, colour and theme of your kitchen. Are you aiming for a modern, traditional, or eclectic look? The tiles you choose should complement the existing design elements and create a cohesive and visually appealing space that you'll love for years to come. We recommend ordering samples to determine how they would look in your home as lighting can differ, seemingly making them appear different shades in different places. Additionally, why not create a mood board of all the styles you are interested in? You are able to do this on the likes of Pinterest where we share our customer projects for inspiration. 

The material you choose will play a significant role in the durability and maintenance of your kitchen tiles. Common options include ceramic, porcelain, glass and natural stone. Each material has its pros and cons, so it's important to understand them and take into your account your suitabilty in your household before making a decision. 

The size and shape of your tiles can greatly impact the overall look of your kitchen. Larger tiles can make a small kitchen appear more spacious due to less breaks in the form of groutlines, while smaller tiles can add interest and texture. Consider the size of your kitchen and the effect you want to achieve when selecting the tile size and shape. 

The colour and pattern of your kitchen tiles can set the tone for the entire space. Light-coloured tiles can make a kitchen feel bright and airy, while darker tones can add drama and sophistication. patterned tiles can add visual interest and texture, but be mindful of choosing a pattern that won't easily go out of style or that you'll still love for years to come. A style and re-emerged trend that has been around for decades is the use of chevron or herringbone tiling, and with good reason. Liza Fazzani writes in Ideal Home "Laying directional  flooring is a clever approach for how to make a small kitchen look bigger. A wide herringbone-pattern floor or chevron-format tile creates lines that draw the eye outwards and will make the kitchen floor feel wider and longer."

Think about the practical aspects of your kitchen when choosing tiles. If you have children or pets, slip-resistant tiles may be a priority. If you love to cook, heat-resistant tiles near the stove are a must. Consider your lifestyle and how the tiles will accommodate your daily activities and busy household. 

Safety is paramount, especially in a space where spills are common and young childern could be running around. So always conside the finish of your tiles and the everday needs of your kitchen. 

When it comes to kitchen tiles, there is a wide variety of options to choose from. Each type of tile has its unique characteristics and advantages. Understanding the different types will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your style preferences and practical needs. Let's explore the most popular types of kitchen tiles:

Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for kitchens due to their versatility, durability, and affordability. They come in a wide range of styles, colours, and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect match for your kitchen. Here at The Stone & Tile Company, we offer a stunning range of Ceramic splashback tiles. Our Lisbon brick wall tile range is especially popular for its handmade appearance that boasts a rippled surface, perfect for those looking to add visual texture to their space and suitable for modern and traditional homes alike. If you're looking for something more uniform, look no further than our Vedra brick wall tile range. Compromising of 6 different colours, their rich gloss glazing allows for light to bounce around the room. 

Porcelain tiles are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to stains, scratches, and moisture. They are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. Due to advanced ink-injecting technologies, porcelain tiles now come in various designs and finishes that can even cleverly mimic that of natural materials such as wood, marble and slate; allowing you to achieve the desired look for your space with lesser required maintenance and also at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. 

Natural stone tiles, such as limestone, marble, quartzite and slate, bring a timeless and luxurious look to your kitchen. From rustic natural slate floor tiles to glamarous quarzite split face wall cladding tiles, each stone has its unique characteristics, giving your kitchen a one-of-a-kind appeal. Natural stone tiles require regular sealing and maintenance for longevity and to keep them looking their best for years to come. 

Glass mosaic tiles add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any kitchen. They are available in a wide range of colours and designs that allow you to add more of a personal touch; creating stunning visual effects when used as splashbacks or accent pieces. Glass tiles are also easy to clean and maintain which is more preferable for busy households and make a mess when cooking (don't worry, all the best cooks do!) 

The colour scheme of your kitchen tiles can often set the tone for the entire space, especially if you’re looking for floor tiles. It can create a cohesive and harmonious look or make a bold statement. When selecting a colour scheme, consider the following:

The colour scheme should align with the overall style and theme of your kitchen. For a modern look, consider sleek neutrals or bold monochromatic tones. Traditional kitchens may benefit from warm earth tones or classic whites.

Take into account the natural and artificial lighting in your kitchen. Lighter-coloured tiles can make a small kitchen feel more spacious and bright, while darker tones can add drama and depth.

Different colours evoke different emotions and moods. For example, blue is calming and soothing, while red is energizing and passionate. Consider the atmosphere you want to create in your kitchen and choose colours accordingly.

Creating contrast in your colour scheme can add visual interest and depth. Pairing light-coloured tiles with dark-coloured cabinets or vice versa can create a striking and balanced look. According to Kerrie Kelly, in a recent Elle Décor article: “We’re witnessing a resurgence of dramatic colour tones that introduce powerful contrast, such as warm, saturated hues paired with understated neutrals.”

While it's tempting to follow the latest colour trends, consider the longevity of your colour scheme. Opting for timeless colours that won't easily go out of style ensures that your kitchen will remain visually appealing for years to come.

Patterns and designs can add personality and visual interest to your kitchen. Whether you prefer a subtle pattern or a bold statement, there are numerous options to choose from. Here are some popular patterns and designs for kitchen tiles:

Subway tiles are a timeless choice that adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. They can be laid in a traditional brick pattern or arranged in a herringbone or basketweave pattern for a unique twist.

Geometric patterns, such as chevron, hexagon, or Moroccan-inspired designs, can create a modern and eye-catching look. These patterns work well as focal points, backsplashes, or accent borders.

Mosaic tiles are small pieces of tile arranged together to create intricate patterns and designs. They are versatile and can be used to create stunning backsplashes, feature walls, or even artwork in your kitchen.

Patterned tiles come in a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. They can add a pop of colour and personality to your kitchen, creating a unique and vibrant space.

Wood Effect Kitchen Tiles are an excellent choice to add style to your kitchen. They offer all the charm of natural wood without the maintenance and expense that comes with it, and are a durable and hard-wearing choice. Wood effect tiles come in many different sizes and lengths so many on-trend patterns can be craeted such as herringbone.

One of the key advantages of stone effect and concrete effect kitchen tiles is their ability to create a sense of depth and texture in your kitchen. Whether you're looking to create a sleek modern kitchen or a country style look, these tiles will enhance the beauty and functionality of your kitchen. 

Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential to keeping your kitchen tiles looking their best for years to come. Here are some tips to help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your tiles:

Regularly sweep or vacuum your kitchen tiles to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp mop or cloth with a mild cleaning solution to wipe away spills and stains. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the tiles. 

Grout can accumulate dirt and grime over time. It's important to regularly clean and seal the grout to prevent staining and discoloration. Use a grout cleaner and a toothbrush to scrub away any dirt, and apply a grout sealer to protect against future stains.

 To prevent scratching your tiles, avoid dragging heavy objects or furniture across the floor. Use furniture pads or coasters to protect the tiles from scratches and dents.

Accidents happen in the kitchen, and spills are inevitable. To prevent stains and damage to your tiles, it is crucial to clean up spills promptly. Use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild cleaner to gently wipe away any spills or stains. Certain foods and liquids, such as red wine or tomato sauce, can stain porous tiles if left uncleaned. Be proactive in cleaning up spills to prevent permanent stains.

While most kitchen tiles are water-resistant, excessive water can seep into the grout lines. You can seal the grout to prevent it from absorbing moisture, dirt, and stains. Applying a grout sealer will help keep your kitchen floor tiles looking fresh and clean.

When selecting kitchen tiles, it's essential to consider not only their appearance but also their maintenance and cleaning requirements. After all, your kitchen is a high-traffic area that is prone to spills, stains, and moisture.

Choosing the right tiles for your kitchen involves balancing aesthetics with functionality. Consider the size and style of your kitchen, the practicality of different tile materials, your budget, and the overall look you want to achieve. With careful consideration, you can select tiles that will enhance your kitchen's beauty and stand up to the rigors of everyday use. Why not start by arranging some samples to be delivered and join our mailing list for the very latest in new tile designs and fantastic offers.