Something a Little Different, But Not Too Different.

When most of us think of ceramic tiles in either our kitchen or bathroom, we think of plain white square tiles which don't exactly inspire us. Of course tiles are available in a variety of colours, but they don't come cheap and getting them professionally fitted only adds to the expense. So it's not surprising that many get cold feet and choose the safe, classic white tiles as opting for the bold blue or vibrant green tiles may not work as well as you'd hoped. And if the tiles are fitted by a professional tiler, choosing the wrong colour could be a costly error of judgement.

If you're bored of white tiles but feel choosing a colour may be a little too much on the eye, how about looking at some of the more unusual tiles which are available. For example, mosaic tiles can be used exclusively or as a border or frieze. If you're thinking the tiny mosaic tiles will be tricky to fit, then think again, as they come in sheet form which makes their installation a doddle, even for the amateur DIYer. Being available in a wide variety of colours, including white, cream, pink and beige for those of us who like a simple colour scheme, mosaic tiles offer a welcome break from the norm without being too adventurous.

Travertine sounds like a type of plastic not dissimilar to Melamine, but it couldn't be more different. Travertine is a natural lime stone which forms around hot springs and is popular in construction. It's colour ranges from white to cream and pale beige and being a naturally porous stone gives it a unique surface. Travertine tiles are popular because of its unique appearance, which is further enhanced by filling the pores with a resin to give them a smooth surface. Travertine tiles adorn the lobby of the Willis (AKA Sears) Tower in Chicago and is a favourite amongst architects and designers.

Adding a little sparkle to what would normally be a plain bathroom can really bring it to life. Sparkly tiles are available in a wide variety colours, finishes and materials including ceramics, quartz and granite. White or cream quartz tiles offer a bright reflective surface which are favoured in many bathrooms and the sparkly and shiny flecks of quartz or other materials give them a subtle yet distinctive shimmer. Available in mosaic or larger formats, pale sparkly tiles will certainly give your bathroom that wow factor without being overpowering.

If you don't want to be too adventurous in your bathroom choosing bold colours or vivid designs, you don't have to settle for plain white or cream tiles. Instead have a look at white or cream travertine tiles, sparkly tiles or adding a mosaic frieze to add interest instead. Just because you don't want to be too adventurous doesn't mean you have to be too boring either.