Bling Where It’s Least Expected
Anyone who’s ever gone fishing with a flashy lure or held a baby while wearing blingy earrings knows that shiny things are attractive. There’s a magnetic draw to them. In fact, recent research suggests humans are innately drawn to shiny surfaces because they reflect an age-old quest for fresh water to ensure our survival. Thirsty or not, we can easily infuse our lives and homes with shine — at a minimum to ward off the threat of monotony. One way is by using metallic tiles.
Metal tiles gained popularity in the past decade or so with the explosion of stainless steel kitchen appliances, and stainless steel tiles were (and still are) great harmonizers. However, they’ve also made their way out of the kitchen — and all that glitters isn’t always stainless steel. Tiles are available in different metals, including bronze, copper and titanium, as well as different surfaces, such as brushed, polished and textured.
Metal tiles come in a bevy of shapes, sizes and patterns — basketweaves, herringbones, rocks and dots, to name a few. This bathroom’s cobblestone pattern, by Eden Mosaic Tile, has mixed polished and brushed surfaces that create a retro layered effect.
Most metal tile is fabricated and sold on mesh sheets, which helps with installation speed and alignment. Approximately 1-square-foot sheets are the most common.
Metal tiles aren’t all made the same, though. Some are made of solid metal, while others have a porcelain or resin body wrapped with a metal finish coating. Be sure to check with the manufacturer on the details of the product. Depending on the area of application, budget and performance expectations, you may want to go with one type over another. The cost for wrapped tile material generally ranges from about $16 to $75 per square foot.
Backsplashes
Backsplashes are probably the most popular application of metal tile. Although usually installed on only a fraction of the wall space, they provide a powerful punch.
This kitchen wouldn’t have the same appeal (or light) if not for the reflective quality of these miniature stainless steel subway tiles. The designer specified LED lights underneath the cabinets to accentuate them.
Because of the fluid nature of metal, most metal tiles have a clean, sleek look that supports a very contemporary aesthetic. However, the installation shown here carries over well into a transitional or traditional setting. The textured surface of these tiles (which the designer says are no longer available) is reminiscent of pressed tin.
Crossville is one of several manufacturers that sells textured metallic tiles. Crossville’s are made of metal covered resin or porcelain. They require a 4½-inch distance between the tile surface and a heating element, such as a stove — something to keep in mind when using a wrapped metal tile product on a kitchen backsplash.
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Bling Where It’s Least Expected
