Tiles that glitter and tiles illuminated from within by LED bulbs are some of the latest and edgiest designs.

It is stylish to mix traditional and edgy tiles. For example, you might arrange tiles with contrasting textures or materials vertically to create subtle striped effects.

Bigger is Usually Better

Tile sizes have been trending larger. Rectangles of 12 by 48, 8 by 24, 24 by 48 inches, and up are common. Large tiles produce a cleaner look with fewer grout lines. Installation takes less time, too.

“Big tiles are turning into wall treatments,” says Best Tile’s Kely Estigarribia.

Big is stylish, but so are mosaic tiles, which are two by two inches or smaller. Preformed, intricate mosaic designs that come mounted on mesh are easier to install. Many mosaics are imported from China, India, and Turkey.

For drama on a budget, use basic porcelain or stone for large surfaces, then accent tiles for impact. For a modern look, buy enough tile to keep grout lines tight.

This article first appeared in the March 2009 issue of The Washingtonian. For more articles from that issue, click here.    

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