When it comes to tiles or covering materials, the first thought goes to a floor, a kitchen worktop or a bathroom wall.

But why limit ourselves? There are many possibilities and alternative uses for covering materials. Today we’ll take a look at some of them.

DECORATED STAIRCASES

Here we aren’t talking about the tread, which is usually tiled or made of wood. The original idea is instead to decorate the riser, i.e. the vertical surface of each step, with decorated tiles, making the staircase the home’s focal point, where the eye falls immediately.

https://www.admiddleeast.com/architecture-interiors/homes/gio-pontis-planchart-villa-in-venuzuala-is-an-icon-of-mid-century-modern-design

BED HEADBOARD An original idea to replace the classic bed headboard is to recreate it using ceramic tiles or a beautiful stone slab or composite elements. The great thing is that you can also indulge with the shape: like a classic headboard or that embraces the bed and covers the entire height of the wall. All-clear for imagination. A headboard made of SM Marble – Palladio Moro, for example, would also be a great idea.

https://www.santamargherita.net/product/palladio-moro/
https://www.ignant.com/2017/01/11/masseria-moroseta-ostuni-italy/

KITCHEN ISLAND

What about covering the whole island instead of just the kitchen worktop? We’re talking about the vertical walls, the ones without furniture, almost like recreating a single static and imposing block that stands out at the centre of the kitchen. Even in this case there are several options, using either small-sized tiles or the larger stone slabs.

https://www.robsonrak.com.au/works/layer-house/

ON UNUSUAL WALLS

The belief that the walls to be covered are only those of the bathroom and kitchen is obsolete and it is certainly possible to look beyond. In fact, tiles can also be used in the living room, behind a piece of furniture and even continue on the ceiling. Never set limits.

http://www.kennedynolan.com.au/oak-tree-house-1

FIREPLACE

And what about covering the fireplace wall as well? All of it and not just around the opening. In this case, a ceramic or stone covering may be the most suitable solution for a result that is slightly over the top. From the 10×10 cm glossy tile, to the marble slab, it is possible to create different and original settings.

https://whitingarchitects.com/beaconsfield

The list is still long, but let’s stop here for today.

Francesca Grua

@unadesignerpertutti