Hey there! You know, when it comes to designing the perfect living room, one element that often gets overlooked but plays a HUGE role is – yep, you guessed it – tiles!
Choosing the right tiles is like picking the right outfit.
Just as the perfect dress or suit can boost your confidence and make you the star of the evening, the right tiles can elevate the entire look and feel of your living room.
Not only do they add that splash of elegance and style, but they’re also incredibly practical.
In this article”Best Guide on how to select tiles for living room”, I will cover everything you need to know so that you can make an informed decision on selecting living room tiles.
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JUMP TO
Understanding Your Living Room
Types of Tiles for Living Rooms
Choosing the Right Color, Pattern, size, finishes and Shape
Durability, Maintenance, and Cost
Living Room Factors to consider
Choosing Grout, Edge Details, and Installation
Understanding Your Living Room
Alright, let’s dive deep into the world of living rooms, shall we?
Now, think about your living room.
It’s not just any room in the house.
It’s that special place where memories are made, where you relax after a long day, and where friends and family gather.
That’s why understanding your living room is so crucial.
For starters, consider the size.
If you have a small living room, your choice in living room tiles can either make the space feel cozy or more expansive.
Lighter tiles, for instance, can make small rooms appear larger and more airy.
On the flip side, if your living room is vast, you might want tiles that bring warmth and intimacy.
Then, let’s talk about style. Is your living room screaming modern vibes or is it more on the traditional side?
For a modern living room, think sleek, glossy tiles.
Maybe even play with geometric patterns.
But if you’re leaning towards a traditional look, matte finish tiles with classic designs can complement those living room walls beautifully.
Now, what’s the purpose of your living room?
Is it primarily a lounging area, or does it double up as a dining room? If you’re worried about food spills, easy-to-clean tiles might be your best friends.
And let’s not forget about your personal style!
Tiles offer a fantastic opportunity to reflect who you are.
Whether you love vibrant patterns or a seamless look, there’s something out there for everyone.
Lastly, remember that while living room tiles are vital, the same rules can apply to other spaces.
Those with small rooms elsewhere in the home can use similar tricks to make the most out of their space.
In the end, it all comes down to understanding the living room look you’re aiming for.
When you get the tiles right, everything else just falls into place.
Types of Tiles for Living Rooms
When jazzing up your living room, tiles play a starring role.
There are a lot of different types of tile available.
But which ones to pick?
Here are three most popular tile materials.
Ceramic Tiles:
For living rooms, ceramic tiles are a great option.
They’ve got this fantastic blend of style and utility that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’ve got a modern vibe going on or a more traditional look, ceramic tiles fit right in.
They’re versatile and, honestly, such a timeless pick.
RELATED: IS CERAMIC TILE WATERPROOF OR WATER RESISTANT
Porcelain Tiles:
Now, if we’re talking durability, porcelain tiles are a great flooring option.
These are the titans of the tile world.
Their low-maintenance qualities mean less fuss for you, and that’s always a win.
And, for those who have a larger space or are looking to give the illusion of one, large format tiles from the porcelain family are your go-to.
They can make your living room look expansive and elegant.
It’s impressive what a difference the right tile size can make.
Natural Stone Tiles:
Here’s where things get regal.
Natural stone tiles, like marble have this inherent elegance to them.
Natural materials are the best option to bring nature right into your living room.
And for those who love a little artistic flair, natural stone mosaic tiles could be the perfect addition.
They mesh together the timeless beauty of natural stone with intricate designs.
But remember, as stunning as they are, natural stone tiles do ask for a little more love and care.
To sum it up, regardless of your personal style or the living room look you’re aiming for, there’s a tile out there for you, be it ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone.
It’s all about finding that perfect fit.
PIN IT TO FIND IT LATER
Choosing the Right Color, Pattern, Size and Shape
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of color, pattern, and how they shape the mood of your living room.
Light Vs Dark Tiles
When you’re selecting tiles, the color of the tiles is an important consideration in setting the tone of your space.
Think of it like setting the ambiance with lighting, but with tiles.
For instance, light-coloured tiles can make a space feel open, airy, and larger than it actually is.
They’re great for spaces that you want to feel bright and welcoming.
On the flip side, darker tiles can create a cozy, intimate vibe.
Warm tones like beige and brown can make your room cozy.
and cool tones like blue and gray can provide a serene environment.
Now, if you’re trying to pick a color that complements your existing decor, here’s a tip:
Take a few samples of different types of tiles and lay them out in your living room. See how they look at different times of the day.
This can help you gauge which one gels best with your current setup.
Patterns
Let’s chat patterns. While they can add a dash of flair, it’s essential to strike a balance. If you’re going for bold patterns, you might want to consider balancing them with some neutral elements.
It ensures your space doesn’t feel overwhelming. For instance, if you’re using tiles with a vibrant pattern for your living room floor, consider more muted colors for the walls or furniture.
Selecting the Right Tile Size
The size of the tiles can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your living area. Consider the following options:
Large Format Tiles
Large format tiles, such as 24×24 inches or larger, create a sense of spaciousness and modernity.
They minimize grout lines, resulting in a more uniform appearance that can make smaller rooms appear larger.
Standard-Sized Tiles
Standard-sized tiles, like 12×12 or 18×18 inches, offer versatility and are suitable for various design styles.
They are easier to install and may be a more cost-effective choice.
RELATED : PROS & CONS OF LARGE FORMAT TILES
Tile Finishes
A matte finish offers an understated elegance, whereas a glossy finish can brighten up a room.
If you’re worried about slips, especially with kids or elderly family members, a textured finish might be your best bet.
Shapes
Don’t forget about the shape of the tiles and tile sizes.
Square tiles offer symmetry, but if you’re looking to add some zest, why not consider hexagons or other unusual shapes?
In the grand scheme of things, it’s all about balance. Whether it’s color, pattern, or the size of your tiles, every element should harmonize to create a living room that feels just right for you.
So, have fun experimenting and trust your instincts! Tiles are like the spices of interior design; get the mix right, and you’re in for a treat!
Durability, Maintenance, and Cost
Alright, let’s talk durability and maintenance, because nobody wants a gorgeous living room floor that can’t handle a little life, right?
You see, when it comes to areas in your home that see a lot of footfalls – like the living room, especially if it’s an open concept that connects to other parts of the house – the importance of choosing durable tiles cannot be emphasized enough.
Imagine hosting a party or having the kids run around; you’d want tiles that can withstand a lot of foot traffic without showing wear and tear.
That’s why, often, the kind of tiles you’d see in commercial spaces (think malls or busy offices) are built super tough.
And let’s not forget about spills.
Whether it’s a splash of wine, a drop of ketchup, or muddy footprints, life happens.
This is where opting for stain resistant tiles can be a game-changer.
They not only keep your space looking spick and span but also cut down your cleaning time.
And trust me, anything that reduces cleaning time is a win in my book!
Ever had a spill and found yourself scrubbing away endlessly, wishing you’d chosen a different floor?
Yup, we’ve all been there. So, when picking out tiles, think about their clean-up game.
Some tiles are naturally more stain-resistant than others.
Wood Look Porcelain tiles
The smoother and less porous the surface, the easier it usually is to clean.
For instance, glazed tiles or those labeled as “stain-resistant” can be your best pals when it comes to quick clean-ups.
A simple wipe, and voila, it’s like that coffee spill never happened!
Now, onto the budget talk.
Tiles can range from “Oh, that’s reasonable!” to “Wait, how much?!”
But here’s a secret: you don’t always have to splurge to get that high-end look.
There are plenty of cost-effective alternatives out there that look just as swanky.
For instance, instead of going for natural stone, which can be pricey, consider tiles that mimic the look of stone.
With today’s technology, it’s sometimes hard to tell the difference.
Also, do some research and price comparison.
Sometimes, local brands offer beautiful designs at a fraction of the cost of imported or designer tiles.
Living Room Factors to consider
There are various factors in the living room that should influence tile selection.
Size, Lighting, Layout and Purpose:
Size:
When you think about tiles, the size of the room can’t be ignored.
It’s kind of like picking an outfit. You wouldn’t wear oversized clothes on a petite frame, right?
Similarly, the size of your living room plays a big role in your tile choice.
For instance, if you have a more compact living room, you might want to use large tiles.
Why? Because they can give the illusion of a more spacious area.
Fewer grout lines mean an uninterrupted, clean look that can make the room feel more expansive.
On the other hand, for a sprawling living room, you’ve got a bit more flexibility.
You could go with larger tiles for a sleek look or even smaller tiles if you’re aiming for a design-rich environment.
The layout also plays its part. Let’s say you have alcoves or specific zones within your living room.
In such cases, you might want to play with tile sizes or patterns to define these areas.
For instance, a reading nook could have a different tile pattern, creating a cozy corner away from the main area.
RELATED : GLAZED VS UNGLAZED TILES
Lighting:
When it comes to tiles, lighting is an important factor.
Think about it: ever noticed how different the same color can look under a store light versus daylight?
Tiles work the same way.
Depending on the lighting, especially the amount of natural light a room receives, tiles can look dramatically different.
If your living room has loads of natural light, lucky you!
Almost any tile will look stunning.
However, lighter tiles can make the space look airy and open, maximizing that sunny feel.
On the other hand, if you’re working with limited natural light, glossy tiles can be a great choice.
Why? They reflect light, helping to brighten up the space.
It’s a neat trick to make the room feel lighter and larger than it really is.
Now, moving on to artificial lighting.
If you’ve got warm lighting, earth-toned tiles or those with a hint of red or yellow can be the best tiles and will complement it perfectly.
For cooler, white lights, you might lean towards grays or bluish tones.
But here’s a quick tip: always look at tile samples in the actual lighting of your room.
What looks great under the bright lights of a showroom might look quite different in your living room.
Purpose
what’s your living room’s vibe?
Is it that formal space where you host elegant soirées?
Or perhaps it’s that laid-back spot where family gathers for movie nights?
You see, the use and purpose of your living room can greatly dictate the type of tile you should be eyeing.
Let’s break it down:
If your living room has a formal aura, you’d probably want it be looking fancy.
This is where you might lean towards a type of tile that has a touch of class – think polished porcelain or perhaps natural stone like marble.
These choices give the room feel of luxury and can elevate the overall look.
Now, for family-centric spaces where there’s bound to be a spill or two (let’s be real, kids and some adults can be a bit messy), durability is key.
You might be thinking of tiles that are stain-resistant but still stylish.
Ceramic tiles can be a great pick here, offering both toughness and a wide range of designs to match your personal preference.
Ah, and for the entertainment spaces, where the aim is fun and vibrancy, why not play with bright colours?
You could go for vibrant patterned tiles or even colored mosaic ones.
Remember, the type of flooring here can set the tone for the entire room.
If you’re into frequent parties or movie marathons, consider tiles with a bit of texture to them; it adds to the ambiance while providing some practical grip.
At the end of the day, your living room’s tiles should resonate with its purpose and your style.
With the right tiles, every footstep will feel just right, and the overall ambiance will be a reflection of you.
Choosing Grout, Edge Details, and Installation
Alright, so you’ve picked out your dream tiles after hours of contemplation (and maybe a little debate with family or friends).
But guess what?
The journey isn’t over just yet.
We’ve got to chat about grout, edge details, and the actual laying down of those tiles in your living space.
Let’s dive in!
Grout isn’t just the “stuff between the tiles.”
It’s the unsung hero of your tile job.
The color and thickness of your grout can dramatically influence how those tiles pop or blend.
Let’s say you’ve got tiles with different patterns; a contrasting grout can make each pattern stand out, while a matching one can provide a seamless look.
It’s kind of like choosing the frame for a piece of art!
Now, let’s talk edge details.
You might have heard terms like “bullnose” or “square edge.”
These are basically how the visible edges of your tiles will look.
Bullnose has a rounded finish, giving a soft, smooth edge.
It’s great for areas where you might rub against the tiles.
RELATED: PROS & CONS OF TILE FLOORING
Square edges are, well, square, and they give a clean, modern look.
Your tile selection might also determine the best edge detail, so always ask for advice when buying.
Alright, now for the big finale: getting those tiles on your floor or wall.
Here are some installation tips.
While you might feel the DIY itch, if you’re unsure, it’s best to call in the pros.
Hiring a professional tile installer ensures the job gets done right the first time.
Check their reviews, ask to see previous work, and communicate your vision clearly.
A good installer will not only lay down those tiles perfectly but also give you advice on the best grout and edge details for your chosen tiles.
Additional things to consider
Let’s dive into some additional pointers when it comes to choosing those perfect tiles for your living room.
The devil’s in the details, they say!
Color of the Tiles:
Ever walked into a room and just felt a mood?
That’s what the right color of tiles can do for your space.
Darker hues can create a cozy, intimate ambiance, while lighter ones can make a room feel spacious and airy.
When deciding on a color, consider the overall theme of your room.
Is it warm and rustic?
Cool and contemporary?
Make sure your tile color complements that vibe.
If your walls and furnishings are neutral, perhaps a pop of color on the floor could be the zest your space needs.
And remember, while latest trends come and go, the feel of your room will stay, so choose wisely!
Stain Resistance:
Okay, life happens. And in the living room?
It happens A LOT. Spills, young children and drops, the occasional “Oops, I didn’t see that!”.
This is where stain-resistant tiles come into play.
Especially if your living room is a hub of activity, tiles that are easy to clean are a great option.
Porcelain tiles, for instance, are an excellent choice.
They’re not just sturdy but can tackle those accidental spills like a champ.
Personal Style and Preferences:
Now, here’s the fun part!
Your living room should be a reflection of you.
Your likes, your dislikes, your “Oh, I absolutely adore this!” moments.
So, when it comes to tiles, let your personal style shine.
Love bold? tiles with different patterns is a good choice.
Prefer calm and serene? Choose tiles in a variety of colors that soothe.
Want a dash of elegance? There’s a world of beautiful tiles out there that can add that touch of luxe.
And remember, it’s not just about individual tiles.
RELATED: WHAT ARE THE BEST TILE SIZES FOR BATHROOM
It’s about creating a cohesive look.
So, whether you’re going for a patterned style or a single color, consider the visual appeal and how all elements come together.
The style of tiles, their color, their pattern – they should all harmonize with your space and, more importantly, with you.
To wrap it up, while technical aspects like durability and size are essential, never sideline the heart of the matter: your personal touch.
Your living room should feel like, well, YOU.
For the final decision, explore options, and pick tiles that resonate with your spirit.
Here is good Video on choosing tiles for your home from Homebuyer’s School
FAQs
Is porcelain better than ceramic?
Porcelain is more durable but tends to be pricier than ceramic.
Can I use marble tiles in high-traffic areas?
Yes, but ensure they are sealed properly to avoid stains.
Are mosaic tiles hard to maintain?
They require more effort than larger tiles due to the numerous grout lines, but with regular cleaning, they can look pristine.
How often should I clean my tiles?
For high-traffic areas, weekly cleaning is advisable. Otherwise, every 15 days should do.
Can I mix and match different tiles?
Absolutely! Mixing different tile types can give your room a unique look. But ensure they complement each other.
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