We usually associate tile with bathrooms and kitchens, where its easy-to-clean and durable nature make it a natural fit for walls and floors. But tile can also be a useful material for covering other high-traffic or heavy-duty areas like entryways, halls, and fireplaces.

1. In Amy & Stephane's home, a hex tile foyer announces their address and sections off the entryway.
2. Dehlia's bathroom is a great example of the big impact tile can make in a small bathroom.
3. French company Novoceram makes tile that looks like wallpaper. It can be used to cover a hallway, living room, bathroom, or anywhere you'd like to use a wall pattern.
4. The bathroom at Pierluigi Molteni's Plug-In House uses tile to make a statement. This geometric red and black pattern is by Lea Ceramiche.
5. In Luciano and Marzia's bathroom, a little bit of high-end Bizassa tile goes a long way. The fixtures, by Philippe Starck, are another playful and high-quality detail. In a tiny bathroom, it's less intimidating to splurge on small details, since they become noticeable features.
6. Roberta's bathroom is covered in reflective, patterned tile. Although it's a dark, dramatic look, the reflective finish helps to open up the sense of space.
7. Jason's home is a good example of how tile can be used to divide rooms. In the open plan kitchen and living area, flooring helps to differentiate the two spaces from each other.
8. Tile is a functional and beautiful material to use on a fireplace surround, since it's heat-resistant and easy to clean.

Photos: Abby Cook (1), Dehlia (2), Novoceram (3), Sarah Coffey (4-6), Jason Weinbeck / Greg Jansen (7), Heath Ceramics (8)