Confused About Tile? Three Popular Tiling Solutions to Move Your Design Forward
Confused About Tile? Three Popular Tiling Solutions to Move Your Design Forward
Whether you’re shopping for tile to remodel a bathroom/kitchen or have a more involved project in mind, your choice of materials is a key decision. The type of tile you choose will not only affect the total cost but also impact the overall quality of your design.
Then of course, there is durability, and product longevity to consider. When you redesign a space, you want to know it will hold up well for the foreseeable future. At Archant, we work hard to find design solutions that fit every type of household and commercial space.
Our large format porcelain can be used in any number of ways including flooring, walls, benchtops, splashbacks, and more. And while the thousands of clients who have used porcelain tiles will confirm how beautiful it is, this doesn’t automatically mean it’s the right choice for you.
It would be impossible to list all the alternatives available today. Instead, we’re focusing on three of the most asked-about options. Ceramic tiles, mosaic tiles, and large format porcelain.
At Archant, we strive to remove design barriers and make it easy to create the space of your dreams. We’ve researched for you and have presented it in a clear manner below. By the end, we believe you’ll have a much better idea of which direction to go.
*Disclaimer: While we work diligently to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, you may find prices that are higher or lower depending on several variables. Use this information as a starting point and be sure to do some comparative shopping as well.
1) Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is well priced and easy to find in most home improvement stores. You can expect to pay approximately $45-$60 per square meter in New Zealand. This option is popular due to its ease of maintenance, and ability to be applied as a DIY project. If you want to do the remodelling on your own, this is a wonderful option. Of course, if you are hiring someone to install ceramic tiles, you’ll need to factor in the cost of labour which can vary greatly.
There are endless styles with all kinds of colours, sizes, and patterns to choose from. They are popular for bathrooms with their moisture-resistant quality. They can also be used in kitchens, especially for splashbacks.
2) Mosaic Tiles
These smaller, more intricate patterns have experienced periods of popularity in the design world. They can be made from any number of materials including ceramic and glass. The pricing again will vary but average about $50 per square meter. The cost of installation is extra, but they can be applied by a homeowner with a bit of research and preparation.
The challenge with mosaic tiles is the extensive amount of grout involved. The smaller tiles make for a busy pattern, and therefore it’s harder to clean between all the crevices.
While the size of your tile comes down to your personal preference, we’re seeing a definitive shift to those who prefer larger format options, even in small spaces.
3) Archant Porcelain Tiles
If you’re looking to take your design to the next level, Archant offers some incredible porcelain slabs to consider. The large format design means there is less grout to maintain. Visually speaking, there is another huge benefit. The patterns are not interrupted quite as often, giving the space a more streamlined, and expansive feel.
These tiles are sized at 3200 x 1600mm and are made of the finest materials in Italy. They come with a lifetime warranty and are built to last. Depending on the collection you choose from, the price per square meter will vary. Expect to pay between $390 to $550 plus installation.
As for the potential for design applications, there’s truly no limit to how it can be used. Floors, shower and bathroom walls, splashback, benchtops, islands, and even outdoor spaces are all possible with porcelain. Add to this the unique ability to purchase bookmatched tiles that mirror each other, and patterns can extend throughout a space with a stunning cohesive appearance. It’s this kind of refined style that has made porcelain a prime choice for thousands of Archant clients here in New Zealand.
There are practical benefits to porcelain as well. Its non-porous surface makes it an ideal choice for areas where water is used. Porcelain is also resistant to stains, scratches, and even thermal stress from heat. When used outdoors the colour won’t fade or yellow as it’s impervious to the sun’s UV rays. While it’s true the initial investment for porcelain is higher than some alternatives, you are receiving a product that stands apart in terms of style and durability.
“A designer has a duty to create timeless design. To be timeless you have to think really far into the future, not next year, not in two years but in 20 years minimum.” - Phillip Starck, Interior Designer
We Can Help with Your Tiling Project
Now you have a better idea of three of the more popular options of tiling to consider. Even with all these details, the question may remain; Which tile is the best choice for your project?
We don’t our showrooms across New Zealand. We have inspiring spaces in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Havelock North. You can book an appointment and have a one-on-one talk with a consultant. Let us work with you to guide this important decision.
Seeing the products up close will allow you to visualise colour, feel the quality, and review the various patterns and collections. If you’re shopping online, you can also order free samples of our porcelain here.
Related Links
4 Stunning Ways to Use Porcelain in Your Next Home Remodel
How to Optimise Porcelain Sheet Size for Kitchen Benchtops and Island Design (A Complete Guide)
The Problem with Small Kitchens and Solutions to Improve Them (A How-To Design Guide)
Top 5 Design Tips on How to Refresh Your Kitchen
5 Stunning Ways to Use Large Format Porcelain in Your Design
The Ultimate Price Guide to Kitchen Splashbacks (Cost and Comparison)
How Much Should I Budget for My Kitchen Renovation in New Zealand? (Pricing Guide)
