Tiles are the foundation of any bathroom design, directing the look and setting the mood of your bathroom renovation project. With so many tile styles, it has never been easier to make your bathroom look beautiful and functional. 

The ultimate goal for every Balnei & Colina bathroom renovation project is to create a bathroom tile scheme for your bathroom renovation that delivers maximum style with the least ongoing maintenance. 

Planning a bathroom renovation and looking for practical and stylish tile inspiration? In this month's B&C Home Journal, we’ve put together a handy guide to get you started. Enjoy!

Robert Fonti, 

Director Balnei & Colina Renovations

 

Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney

 

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HANDY TILE GUIDE: SELECTING AND CARING FOR BATHROOM TILES

In order to choose the right tile for your bathroom renovation project, it's important to understand the various tiles types. Let's explore them:

 

Tiles - The Basics 

Ceramic 

Ceramic tiles are made with clay fired in a kiln and finished with a glaze that gives the tile its colour or pattern. The glazed surface creates a non-porous and very durable product. Available in matt, satin and gloss finishes, affordable and easy to maintain, ceramic tiles are the most commonly used tiles in bathroom renovations.  

 

Porcelain

Porcelain and ceramic tiles share many of the same qualities, although porcelain is usually more hard-wearing than ceramic. Fine-grained porcelain tiles are used to mimic natural materials such as marble and wood. 

 

Natural stone 

Natural stone adds visual warmth and an earthy organic texture to your bathroom renovation. Marble, granite, limestone and slate are all popular materials available in various tile formats. 

 

Encaustic

Patterned encaustic tiles are handmade, and produced by pouring different coloured ceramic into metal moulds, meaning tile patterns won't wear off over time, and each tile is unique. If you are dreaming of an artisan-style bathroom renovation, encaustic tiles are for you.    

 

Design Tip: Handmade tiles can be tricky to lay due to their irregularities. For a beautiful finish, let the expert bathroom renovation team at Balnei & Colina look after your specific tiling needs.   

 

Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney

 

 

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Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney

 

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Size and Shape 

It's essential to consider your bathroom's dimensions when choosing tiles. Large-format tiles can make spaces feel roomier, while smaller tiles create a textured look and a more intimate feel. 

Subway and square tiles are classic choices, but alternate shapes like hexagons, Moroccan-inspired fish scales and penny rounds are also popular. These more shapely tiles provide contrast to a bathroom's straight lines and add greater interest. 

Before purchasing tiles, speak with a Balnei & Colina bathroom renovation expert to devise the perfect combination of tiles to suit your space and budget. 

Design Tip: If you choose a tile with measurements that neatly fit your bathroom space, less time is spent cutting tiles to size, saving you time and money. 

 

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Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney

 

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Colours and patterns 

Choose a scheme that reflects other parts of your home to ensure a cohesive feel throughout.  

Limit the number of tile selections to avoid overwhelming the area. The general guideline is no more than three tile styles for a bathroom renovation. 

Highly contrasting tiles have a visual impact and energise the space, while a selection of neutral tiles and softer patterns will instil a sense of calm. 

An intricate patterned tile can create a focal point in a small bathroom renovation or powder room renovation, especially if you contrast it with a more plain tile to balance it out. 

Consider using a statement tile to highlight a bathroom design feature, such as a wall niche or a built-in shower bench. 

 

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Caring for your bathroom tiles

Porcelain and ceramic

Porcelain and ceramic tiles have similar care requirements. Routine damp-mopping with a gentle cleanser and periodic sealing of the grout will increase their lifespan. 

 

Natural Stone

Natural stone and encaustic tiles are porous and require some extra attention and care. Ensure tiles are properly sealed to avoid permanent staining. Always use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner and avoid acidic or abrasive cleansers or products containing bleach.

 

Textural & Sculptural Tiles

Highly textural tiles, sculptural tiles with a raised profile, or intricate mosaics will prove to be a bit more fiddly to keep clean, as dust and grime tend to settle in the ridges. If you choose this tile style, locate the tiles in an area that is easily accessible to assist with maintenance.

 

Design Tip: Larger tiles require less grouting and are an excellent option for reducing cleaning time.

 

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Searching for more guidance on designing and building the ultimate bathroom? The bathroom renovation experts at Balnei & Colina can help. Simply book a consultation with a Balnei & Colina bathroom renovation expert today on 1300 450 320 or drop us an email info@balneiandcolina.com.au. 

You can also visit us at balneiandcolina.com.au or connect with us via Facebook or Instagram to stay updated with the latest bathroom design trends.

 

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Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney

 

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Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney

 

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Balnei & Colina | Bathroom Renovation Sydney