This unequaled feature scores high on looks and design — plus , tips on how to maximize the benefit .

Michelle Johnson ; Project : The Lake Placid LodgebyYou Should appease Here ; Interior Design : Twenty - Two TwelveandAutumn Hachey

Tiled countertops have descend a long elbow room since those dated kitchens outfitted with florescent light . If you ’re looking torefresh a work aerofoil — kitchen or bathroom — a tiled countertop can well become a featured assertion .

Kitchen with Checkered Tile Countertop

Credit:Michelle Johnson; Project:The Lake Placid LodgebyYou Should Stay Here; Interior Design:Twenty-Two TwelveandAutumn Hachey

Interior couturier Jillian Smith - Moher of Twenty - Two Twelve is n’t afraid to let the countertop do the talk in her projects , and one elbow room that she allow them drive the conversation is by employ tile . It ’s understandable that tile countertops can be a bit intimidate without the right expertness , which is why Smith - Moher has deal all her tips , tricks , and consideration for perfecting roofing tile countertop .

Jillian Smith - Moher one of the internal fashion designer behindTwenty - Two Twelve .

Why Choose Tiled Countertops?

When it follow to designing the home , nostalgia is a driving force-out for many homeowners . Tile countertop are an avenue that can deliver that heat of past . “ People are yearn for cozy and interesting space , ” sound out Smith - Moher . “ tile countertops evoke a opinion that is redolent and playful . ”

Beyond the feelings they suggest , tiled countertops also have a draw for those calculate to add a punch of personality to their space . Tile come with an chance toplay with pattern — whether it ’s acheckerboard - styleinstallation or tiles with graphic invention — and showcase the homeowner ’s unique aesthetical .

History of Tiled Countertops

According to anarticle by the Preservation Artisans Guild , the history of tile countertops dates back to the early 1900s and was bear from the increase consciousness of germs and cleanliness . Prior to this time , poriferous wood Earth’s surface act as countertop , which were simply the superlative of article of furniture chests and locker — not very healthful for nutrient contact and prepping . In response , tile and tight grout telephone circuit were used to contract back on lurking bacteria . Color , shape , and grout bank line would continue to evolve .

How to Modernize Tiled Countertops

Contrary to what they looked like in the past — glistening , thick roofing tile and chunky trim pieces — the alternatives for a more contemporary look to elevate your distance issue forth in a compass of colors , shapes , and finishes . Tiled countertop are " being installed in a cleaner direction that is more   advanced and   minimalistic , ” explain Smith - Moher . “ There has also been a shifting from glossy tiles to a lusterlessness finish , which   change the esthetic . ” crude colors andorganic shapescan inflect down the large presence that tiled countertop bring to the tabular array .

Designing Around a Bold Choice

“ As tiled countertop are by no definition formal , they do n’t ferment in every software , ” says Smith - Moher . “ They work well in spaces with a way-out , everyday but elated esthetic . ” The interior decorator says the trick is allow them to make whoopie in the spotlight , have other way pick in the space take a more subdued or subtle coming .

“ Tiling your countertop is a bold choice , so adding too many competing design   features would distract from the visual shock , ” she says . For Smith - Moher ’s Lake Placid Lodge project , project above , the designer called on a clean and beige checker board pattern that she line as “ both spectacular and neutral . ”

Choose a roofing tile with texture or a handcraft conclusion to make any wear over time less obtrusive .

When designing a way with tiled countertops , think soft neutral , instinctive element , and even minimal interior decoration and furnishings . A tiled countertop can be the focal point of a space , act both as a collector’s item of your bath , laundry room , or kitchen , and drive the room ’s manner and aesthetic . When deplumate off , tiled countertop marry both chassis and function in the best path .

Lifestyle Considerations

Porcelain and ceramic tileare the most ordinarily used tiles for countertops , which have the welfare of being able to resist high temperature , bread , and stains . These feature make them compelling choices for fighting family and base cooks while also providing a style - forward approach .

Be certain to check that the roofing tile choice can last a in high spirits level of wearable - and - rent as a countertop .

One drawback to consider is the grout lines , which canmake cleaning tricky . Grout is also prostrate to stains , though Smith - Moher says keepingBarkeepers Friendat the ready can help combat any discolouration and buildup .