Tile Throws Archways a Curve
Tile sets off the shapely form of arches in a way that paint can't match, finishing the look of bathrooms, hallways and more
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating media and immediately discovered a new passion. An Atlanta native, I spent several years as an editor for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine before making the leap to national publications and websites such as Houzz, Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Accents. I live in Birmingham, Alabama, with my husband and son, who’ve gotten used to coming home and finding the furniture rearranged. When I'm not dragging case goods across the floor, I enjoy good food and wine, college football, music of all kinds, and traveling.
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating... More »
The graceful curve of an archway is one of the most pleasing architectural details you can add to a home — and when you deck it with tile, its beauty really comes to life. Tile adds a clean edge and a refined top note that can make a space look perfectly polished.
Although they're a mainstay of Mediterranean style, tiled arches work just as well in a cozy cottage or modern pied-à-terre. Here are eight distinctive approaches to inspire you.
Although they're a mainstay of Mediterranean style, tiled arches work just as well in a cozy cottage or modern pied-à-terre. Here are eight distinctive approaches to inspire you.
Cobalt blue tiles define the multiple arches in this bathroom. Not only do they enhance the architecture of the space, but they also enliven the neutral palette with a layer of intense color. The tile "rug" on the floor pulls the blue into the room.
Lined in shimmering aqua-green tiles, this bathtub niche feels jewellike. Tiling the entire arch, rather than just the edge, emphasizes the architecture and draws attention to the sleek curves that are repeated in the window.
Intricately painted tilework and wrought-iron accents give this bath a Mediterranean flavor. The colors of the tile even pick up the hue of the fountain seen through the window. Love that attention to detail!
Repetition amplifies the quiet effect of the archway tile in this space — a detail that's echoed beautifully by the progression of hanging pendants.
Tile doesn't have to be splashy to set off an arch. Light bounces off the barely-there subway tile framing this bathtub, creating an ethereal glow.
Think it's tile? Look closer. Painted trompe l'oeil detailing simulates ceramic in this slim archway. You could also achieve a similar look with stencils or even decals.
by Filmore Clark
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This arch wears a delicate pattern that adds a pleasing layer of visual texture, its full beauty revealed from the side.
by Abbott Moon
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The sinuous curves of this arched shower entry feel subtly Moorish — an impression that's enhanced by the exotic air of the shower and floor tiles. The designer could simply have painted the arch the same blue as the shower's ceiling, but the tile gives it a crisp, elegant presence.
More:
Arches Frame the Home and Landscape
Renovate With Arch Windows
More:
Arches Frame the Home and Landscape
Renovate With Arch Windows
Comments
Fine Art & Portraits by Laurel Wow! So many beautiful examples. Thanks for including my trompe l'oeil tiles.
14 months ago · Like
Filmore Clark Thanks including our bathroom picture!
14 months ago · Like
Samantha Hayward Love...
14 months ago · Like
mainegirl5 A little bit goes a long way. My favorite is the trompe l'oeil.
12 months ago · Like
jooney It reminds me of our house in Iran, absolutely beautiful.
12 months ago · Like
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Ideabook published on May 1, 2012.
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