5 Things to Consider When Choosing Tile for Your Home

interior design tile selection

When it comes to luxury interior design, the choosing tile properly can elevate a space from ordinary to exceptional. Whether you’re renovating a primary bathroom, designing a show-stopping kitchen, or finishing off a serene outdoor living area, tile plays a major role in both the function and the aesthetic of your home. But with so many options available, making the right choice can be overwhelming.

interior design tile selection

Here are five important things to pay attention to when selecting tile for your home:

1. Choose the Right Material for the Space

Not all tile is created equal. Porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, glass, and cement all have distinct properties and ideal use cases. For example, porcelain is incredibly durable and perfect for high-traffic areas, while marble adds timeless luxury but requires more maintenance. In wet areas like steam showers or pool decks, slip resistance and water absorption should also factor into your decision. Make sure you are choosing tile that is right for the space it is going in.

2. Know Where It’s Meant to Be Installed

Tile that works beautifully on a backsplash may not be appropriate for floors. Likewise, not all tiles are rated for outdoor use. Make sure your tile selection is rated for the intended application—be it floors, walls, wet areas, or exterior spaces. Indoor tiles exposed to outdoor conditions can crack, stain, or even become unsafe.

3. Don’t Overlook Grout Choices

Grout is more than a technicality—it can completely change the look of your tile installation. A contrasting grout color can create a bold, graphic effect, while a tone-on-tone grout offers a softer, more seamless finish. Beyond color, the width of the grout lines and the type of grout used (sanded, unsanded, epoxy) affect both the aesthetic and the long-term maintenance.

4. Plan for Tile Transitions

Tile rarely exists in isolation—it often meets hardwood, carpet, other types of flooring, or even different tile. Planning clean and thoughtful transitions between materials is essential for a polished final result. This includes choosing the right trim pieces, thresholds, or even using metal schluters for a modern edge.

5. Understand the Price Points

Tile pricing varies widely based on material, brand, finish, and size. A handcrafted zellige tile or high-end marble can cost significantly more per square foot than a basic porcelain. But price isn’t just about the tile itself—it also includes installation complexity, waste allowance, and required underlayments. Knowing your budget when choosing tile can be very helpful in keeping you focused and on the right track

Brenna Morgan Interiors tile selection

Choosing the right tile is both an art and a science. At Brenna Morgan Interiors, we guide our clients through every step of the selection process to ensure the materials not only reflect their personal style but also function beautifully for years to come. If you’re planning a renovation or new build and need expert guidance, we’d love to help you bring your vision to life—one stunning tile at a time.

comments +

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

We are a boutique interior design firm located in Lake Norman, NC