Terrific Tile, Stunning Stone

The use of decorative tile dates back to the Egyptians who recognized its beauty and utility. It has been an art form for thousands of years and continued to be a favorite feature in Morocco, Rome, Spain, Portugal, France and the New World. The Moors used it to embellish their buildings and carried it to southern Europe where different creative uses were devised. Almost anything the imagination can dream up can be translated onto a tile.

There are soft matte finishes, glossy jewel tones and crackle glazes. Popular motifs are birds, animals, fruit, fish, geometric shapes, scenes, people, flowers, botanicals – the list is endless.

Tile can cover walls in the form of murals, be used as mosaic inlays on tabletops and surface fountains and water gardens. Traditional geometric patterns are now mixed with fantasy elements to highlight a kitchen backsplash or personalize the tub surround. It’s a great way to bring color into your kitchen, bath or patio.

In the Southwest, where the climate makes cool tile floors so welcome underfoot, both the Spanish Colonial and Mexican heritage are drawn upon. Saltillo and Talavera are used lavishly and have also moved to countertops, walls and furniture.

Making the new look old are stone, marble and granite tiles. You can have the rich elegance of marble or the ancient, weathered look of stone or slate. A wealth of pattern and color are can give you an antique, Old World feeling that gives years of easy care and lasting value. Choose a tile that fits in your decorating scheme to give a facelift to a dated room or area in your home.

by Jacque Ramsey