STYLE TILE: The Hexagon

June 27, 2017 Alice Mackenzie

The current tile heavy weight; the hexagon. Our website hits and client requests indicate that this style is still a clear favourite, and we don’t see it changing anytime soon.

The hexagon is on trend now, but it’s no fad. This mathematical design dates back to early ancient history. Typically used these days in bathrooms and as kitchen splash backs, they are also effective as flooring and feature walls. You can choose modern, urban designs in plain greys, detailed patterns, and iridescent tones, or traditional whites and blacks for a sophisticated finish. The styles, sizes, and materials are almost endless. The boundaries with the hexagon are being pushed too, by mixing them with another tile shape or wood look flooring to indicate a space division. Colour mixes and random tile selections are also a top of the design list.

Here’s some of our favourite hexagon tile examples…

Visit us at 22a Albert Street Rangiora to see our hexagon tile range.

HOW TO: Choose Grout

June 16, 2017 Alice Mackenzie

You need tiles. You’ll spend many hours toing and froing between tile choices; sizes, colours, textures. But not a second thought is given to grout choices, and more often than not is usually a rush decision during installation.

This can be a massive oversight. Grout creates a frame for your design, and can completely change the overall look achieved, whether drawing your eye to the larger pattern, or leaving the individual tile to be the attention getter.

WHICH TYPE?

Grout type is as important as colour. Where are the tiles going? Somewhere they are exposed to stains and moisture? Cement-based grout is the most common option, but won’t help in areas with high traffic or moisture and stains.
Epoxy grouts are more expensive but far more durable and resistant to stains, marks from harsh cleaners, and water damage. Come and see us to talk about the best options for your space.

WHAT ABOUT COLOUR?

What look do you want to achieve? If the tile itself is your priority, then go for a lighter grout. Try matching one to the colour of the tile. If the overall pattern is more the focus of your finished look, go for a contrast grout – Think about the space it will be in.

Looking for a safe option? Go neutral. Light greys and beiges will keep everything rather, well, neutral. Plus light greys, tans and browns will be far easier to keep clean. But don’t let that put you off being adventurous!

Come and see us for a selection of grout options. It doesn’t have to be daunting, and you don’t have to wait until it’s installed to realise it’s not what you were wanting. We can show you examples and give you an idea of the finished product before it’s been installed.

Staff Picks - Winter

June 12, 2017 Alice Mackenzie

Tiles are traditionally seen as a clean and fresh surface, so during these winter months it can be hard to use them to add warmth to a space. The addition of texture and rich, warm tones like brick and wood will definitely help achieve some cosiness in your space.

Here's our staff picks for the colder months.

WOOD LOOK

METALLICS

BRICK LOOK

HOW TO: Choose Bathroom Tiles

June 5, 2017 Alice Mackenzie

Bathrooms definitely are a unique space. It’s a chance to add a little personality to your decor if you haven’t been brave enough to go all out in the living spaces. Or maybe you dream of a tranquil setting to enjoy calm while you soak in the bath. Either way, here’s a few tips on how to make your bathroom tile selection.

Subway Tile Patterns

March 6, 2017 Mark Grigor

The stylish and always relevant 'bread and butter' choice of the tile world. The subway is having it's day in the sun, but you can be confident it's simplicity and clean lines can carry you through the years. We're big fans!
If you are looking at a simple subway look, remember you can change things up with a unique pattern lay. It's a great way to add your personality to a traditionally straight forward design.
Here's just a few ideas (of many):

STACK BOND

VERTICAL STACK BOND

VERTICAL OFFSET BOND

OFFSET

HERRINGBONE

CROSSHATCH

You can browse our subway tile range here to find the perfect tile for your next project.

Staff Picks - Spring

September 9, 2016 Meagan Harbott

Lush new greens dotted with bright tones are filling the landscape. It's spring!

We're inspired by the promise of warmer North Canterbury days and of course, longer sunshine hours. The chance to dust of the BBQ and dabble in some pre summer entertaining, all while dodging a few showers and potential pre vege garden planting frosts. It's a beautiful season for the new and fresh, so we want to share our favourite trending Spring inspired tile looks with you.