Unique and Unexpected Tiles
Stone, ceramics, porcelain, glass, cement—they can all be fashioned into stylish tile for the home. Or you can unleash your imagination and consider these options.
The Gemme Collection by Italian brand Nextep Leathers offers an array of modular leather elements, textures, colors and shapes that can be mixed and matched to create customized coverings for walls, headboards and even bar countertops. The materials are durable, absorb sound, and resist stains and fire. Padded leather tiles range from $39 to $44 per square foot. Distributed in the United States by Pride S.r.l. and available through interior designers and architects. Pridesign.it.
Get the creative juices flowing and consider how many ways you can use Magna Recycled Glass Slab from Walker Zanger. Made of 100% recycled industrial glass and glass bottles, the material can be used for backsplashes, countertops or even a shower component to store washcloths and accessories as pictured. The material features a translucent optic that creates a crystal-like brilliance when light shines on it. Shown in Polar White with a honed finish. Starting at $64.35 per square foot. Walker Zanger in Perth Amboy. WalkerZanger.com.
Glazed lava stone wall tiles from Garden State Tile add a rustic vibe. The tiles, part of the Cobble Hill Collection, have an eroded look for a dramatic effect. Named for the seas, they are available in Adriatic (blue), Aegean (green) Caspian (white) and Black and can be installed on vertical surfaces in wet or dry conditions. $48.22 per square foot. Garden State Tile locations throughout New Jersey. GSTile.com.
Cosmique, a handmade mosaic shown in 24k Gold Glass, is part of the Aurora® Collection by New Ravenna. $356 per square foot. Mediterranean Tile in Fairfield and Bernardsville. NewRavenna.com.
Kayu-V-Wood tile is a modern design made of decades-old Indonesian teak heartwood. The tile, created by the Island Timber division of Island Stone, is crafted with distressed wood salvaged from tropical buildings and adhered to premium-grade pine. The wood ranges from golden hues to earth grays and smoky, dark tones. $35.20 per square foot for a natural/painted combination finish, $33.50 for a natural finish. Best Tile in East Brunswick, Keyport and Woodbridge or Wayne Tile in Hamburg, Ramsey or Wayne. IslandTimber.com.