When looking to make an interior design statement in areas such as Cave Creek-Carefree and North Scottsdale, tile is a powerful element. Whether it’s on the floor, walls, shower enclosure, kitchen backsplash, or a fireplace, tile can set the tone for a room and, in some cases, the entire home.
Ceramic and porcelain wood tile are extremely popular and are loved by many who like the appearance of a wood floor, but don’t want the maintenance of real deal. Other advantages of this popular product are the many sizes, colors and textures that are available. Wide plank, “handscraped” styles exude a casual effect that works for both rustic and transitional homes that are popular in the Cave Creek area; where thinner, more refined planks with minimal “wood grain” are more appropriate in a traditional or ultra-modern home.
Colors such as dark espresso or walnut are great choices to ground a home with mostly light walls and cabinets, where as lighter planks work well with darker cabinets and mid-tone walls.
Another popular choice is the 12×24 tile. Whether you choose a style that resembles stone (or is ACTUAL stone), concrete, woven fabric, or the waves of the ocean, this rectangular tile is an updated version of a typical square tile. This versatile shape can be laid staggered for a classic look, herringbone for the fashion forward, and stacked, for a modern vibe.
If you desire something with a pop of color, or an interesting shape/texture for a backsplash or statement wall, consider mosaic tiles. Moorish patterns feel graceful and feminine and oversized hexagons are a surprise modern-vintage feel. Natural-stone herringbone patterns are a current look and are a subtle way to add a European influence, which works beautifully with the architecture of our lovely and unique desert homes.
Article by Cave Creek – North Scottsdale Interior Designer, Michelle Samar of Mongrel Design Interiors.