Kitchens and bathrooms are a prime places to showcase striking tiles. We rounded up some of our favorite bathroom tile in this post and were recently thinking about the backsplash in our kitchen. We painted it a pretty blue but would so much rather have a shimmering swath of tile in its place. Unfortunately tile (especially good tile) can be expensive even in a small space like a back splash, but we've been doing research and have found some slightly more affordable options along with some truly inspiring ones:
Modwalls Tile make beautiful, classic tiles and they specialize in eco friendly and sustainable versions that are modern and fun. Check out their line of glass subway tiles and their sale section for ideas.
Heath is now offering a line of Modern Basics Tiles that are less expensive than their other lines but no less classic. It's a great excuse to check out their beautiful LA showroom too.
Try Granada Tiles for locally made completely stunning encaustic tiles. These over the top (in a good way) tiles totally sold Maxwell on his first trip to Intelligentsia. Andwhile they might not be a bargain, they're such beautiful tiles that you don't need to cover much space to make a statement. Choose a couple to use above the stove and then frame the rest with a basic tile like...
For basic subway tiles try a home improvement store like place like Home Depot for an affordable version and even splurge on marble subway tiles.
Cool Tiles has contemporary styles of glass and ceramic tiles at decent prices. You have to dig a bit, but it's worth it for the price.
That's all very well, but we can find out about nice tile practically anywhere. Shouldn't Apartment Therapy focus more on... well... the special issues relating to apartments? Most of us can't put new tile in our apartments. I realize those with condos and coops can, but as I say, there are lots of resources on basic renovation out there. Not so many resources on dealing with small spaces and rentals.
view Spotsalots's profile
Yeah, I would love to know an inexpensive way to cover up my rental's hideous wood paneling backsplash. We're considering those relatively inexpensive peel and stick metal tiles, but don't know anyone who has used them.
view inertia's profile
inertia - What about getting a sheet of stainless steel cut to fit the backsplash area?
view anh-minh's profile
Inertia--instead of stainless, try Wilsonart's laminate sheets. Much lighter than stainless and cool looking.
Personally, I collect those yellow crew signs from around town.
view Palmetto's profile
I recently bought glass tiles(sheets) from cooltiles. they are so pretty and look great.. if only there was an easier way to clean grout now!
view daiz's profile
anh minh great idea--i've been working on a place that's installing mirror as a backsplash. not totally cheap but interesting. also, I think I need to put together a diy/renter reversible solution backsplash post. Chime in if you've got a good one and I'll include it for renters everywhere!
view laure's profile
The single best place I've found to look for tile is FastFloors.com. Lousy navigation -- you have to click on each individual manufacturer/brand to look -- but man, do they ever have a LOT of stuff. Shipping is high, of course, but I'm sure there's a local supplier for pretty much anything you find on there.
I like the stainless-sheet backsplash idea! For similar things, check out the laminates at Outwater Architectural supplies (outwater.com). They've got a bazillion kinds of metal-clad (or metal-look) laminates with just about any texture or finish you could want.
And you know, you /could/ do tile, even in an apartment. Just have the hardware store cut you pieces of thin plywood to fit the space, and tile the plywood. Affix to the wall with a couple screws or adhesive, a little strip of edging, trim or caulk at top and bottom and you're good to go. Or...you never know. If the counters are that awful, ask the landlords if they'd consider replacing them with [your tile/surface choice] if you contribute to the cost.
view amandacollier's profile
Is it just me or does vertically laid subway tile look like it's sideways? I find it distracting...
view mjr's profile
Beautiful tiles, I recently just remodeled my kitchen backsplash and my bathroom and I've chosen to go with Moorish style or Moroccan style. Check out this place they have some amazing handmade tiles: http://www.sainttropezboutique.us/products/tiles/moroccan-tiles.aspx
Cheers,
Sandra,
view sandracohen1950's profile