Have I made the wrong decision?

9 years ago

Hi guys. This is my first post.

So I'm retiling the master bathroom and decided to use these encaustic cement tiles on the floor and a feature wall (at the shower area).

I'm afraid I've made a wrong tile choice by having these alongside the subway tiles! The blue ones in the middle didn't quite stand out either... What do you think? Appreciate any advice!

Featured Answer

PRO

Glartique

9 years ago

I like it, it's unusual and the juxtaposition of styles makes it a feature space. I would add a big ornate mirror and paint it the brightest blue from the floor, or even brighter . just found these on houzz: [https://www.houzz.com/products/howard-elliott-napoleon-glossy-royal-blue-mirror-prvw-vr~14025591[(https://www.houzz.com/products/howard-elliott-napoleon-glossy-royal-blue-mirror-prvw-vr~14025591) or [https://www.houzz.com/products/howard-elliott-talida-royal-blue-mirror-prvw-vr~17335981[(https://www.houzz.com/products/howard-elliott-talida-royal-blue-mirror-prvw-vr~17335981) and a blue chair or bench [https://www.houzz.com/products/mahogany-wooden-bench-in-turquoise-blue-for-3-4-persons-prvw-vr~14053696[(https://www.houzz.com/products/mahogany-wooden-bench-in-turquoise-blue-for-3-4-persons-prvw-vr~14053696) 'creativity takes courage' matisse

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Comments (57)

Emmanuelle
9 years ago
Love it!! Like the mixture of tiles and the patterns together! Go for it, lovely to see a " different " bathroom and not one of these white bathroom clones! I often feel the same when doing projects, especially if the style is a little out of the ordinary ... Is it the right decision? does it go together? That was expensive but is it really nice? Trust your initial judgement; you will love it when it is finished!! PS: send us a picture of the end result! XX
Kenneth Lim thanked Emmanuelle
PRO
Akiva Projects Ltd
9 years ago
Hello,

Let me tell you that you should not worry for the decision you made!

You have a spacious Bathroom and there is a lot you can still do with it. Maybe you have thought it was the wrong decision matching together Victorian style tiles with white metro tiles but as you see on this image below, this Bathroom has a traditional style with white tiles on the wall and Victorian floor tile. At the mean time it's also stylish and I also like the colour combinations.

What you can do to accent the blue tiles is that you should have some ornaments in blue or the fittings.

If I was you, I would mix and match traditional style with contemporary style.

I believe that with a bit of creativity and great design all can be fixed.

Hope this helped!

Best regards
Kenneth Lim thanked Akiva Projects Ltd
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melda15
9 years ago
I think it will work once you've got everything in. Don't forget that you won't notice the tiles as much once you get everything else in. When I renovated my house I found the bathroom the hardest for visualising & mixing different tiles and materials. As others have suggested, just own the blue in something else in the room.
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Kenneth Lim thanked melda15
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
This is such a lively community and I truly, truly appreciate the advice you've given. Can't say that enough.

@jonathandb1972 you're right. it's the different shades of white that threw me off when I first saw the semi-finished work. Bigger sized wall tiles would help too. And as @mrsmcee74 said, grey grout makes the whole place look busier. White would've worked better for subway tiles of that size.

But since I've missed all that out at the planning stage (I ordered the tiles in a hurry), I've taken note of the many recommendations you've given. A blue ornate mirror (thanks @Glartique) would look good in that space, just...the price tags... :-/. Agreed that key to making this bathroom work is accessories and fittings. @minnie101 the water closet (biggest piece in the bathroom) is all white, pretty standard. Unfortunately I don't have a picture of it. Taps etc are chrome plated. Basins are dug into the concrete top, with a nude plywood drawer hanging underneath. I haven't decided on lighting but I think with all that's going on on the floor (and walls) I should keep it very, very simple.

Echoing the blue is a great idea. Should've thought of it! I was tempted to cover the blue tiles with a muted, solid colour rug but after reading your comments, I think I should at least try and make it work. The rug would be my last resort LOL

I'll share more pictures when the project is nearer to completion. Thanks again everyone. And please share if you have more ideas on how to make this work!
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
@scoobyjoss thanks for the encouraging words. I have a thing for Turkish/Arabian/Middle Eastern/Moroccan/Islamic/whatever-you-want-to-call-it motives as you can see! :D
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Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
@ruthholmstock I'd say it's a mix of traditional and contemporary (just as @St James Design Interiors Ltd suggested). The space (floor, walls, sink, storage) is traditional. Lighting, accessories = contemporary. I might need more 'contemporaries' to even things out. Hehe
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mrsmcee74
9 years ago
Well actually metro tiles were a Victorian thing. Look at the London Underground!
Jassi Sekhon
9 years ago
It looks v good i love the tiles can i ask you where did you buy them ,I m doing a bathroom and love the tiles
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irenecb
9 years ago
REALLY STUNNING. NOTHING BETTER THAN A JUXTAPOSITION. YOU CAN FINISH OFF IN LOTS OF WAYS, BRIGHT BLUE LAQUERED MIRROR AND ORANGE TOWELS. A COPPER LIGHTFITTING A VERY MODERN ONE THAT YOU WOULDN;T EXPECT IN THE SPACE, EVEN COPPER TAPS. CHROME AND RED WOULD WORK JUST AS WELL. YOU HAVE DONE THE HARDEST BIT, ITS PAID OFF TILES OUTSTANDING.
clarencezy
9 years ago
hi there what a wonderful design you have created such courage to do that .its absolutely stunning cant wait to see the end result .wish I had a big bathroom like that .go with the suggestions of bringing in the blue some great advice from peolpe .best of luck
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
@Jassi Sekhon I ordered them at a local tile shop (I live in Malaysia). I believe they import the tiles from this manufacturer in Vietnam called Secoin ( http://vietnamtile.com). Look up 'encaustic cement tile' on the internet I'm sure you'll find a local tile shop who sells them. Hope that helps :)
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Tara
9 years ago
White grout for the subway tiles. Complementary finishes to the colorful tile and it will be great
stabmonkey
9 years ago
The white tiles are not right. White tiles of the same size and shade as the Victorian tiles would look better.
Stef Armitage
9 years ago
We've just done our bathroom with blue encaustic tiles on the floor too. I absolutely love them. We matched them with larger tiles in the same tone as the cream on them and it works brilliantly I think. We then have solid oak counter tops and features. I think it is gorgeous. I bet you will love yours when it's done. The only thing I would think about changing is the colour of the White tiles so they match.
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
@Stef I'm glad yours turned out well. Would you mind showing a picture of your bathroom? I would love to change the white tiles if budget wasn't an issue
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PRO
Akiva Projects Ltd
9 years ago

One more photo for you. Mix of contemporary and traditional can be also a good idea.
Heather W
9 years ago
It looks great!! You should be really happy with it, I absolutely love the patterned tiles.
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
Thanks @St James. Guess I'll just have to work with what I've got. thanks @heather :)
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PRO
Hampstead Design Hub
9 years ago
Hi there! You can be proud of yourself! You did a great job. It's very nice to see something different from the rest of the bathrooms. You can use blue towels in combination with white and grey.Please post the final pictures.
Emma Matthews
9 years ago
The tiles are fabulous but very busy. I think to quiet it down you should go for modern simple sanitary ware let the tiles speak for themselves, don't over complicate it with traditional fittings. An introduction of teak wood to bring in a natural texture would be nice, and a large ornate mirror!
PRO
Amber Jeavons Ltd
9 years ago
Hello Kenneth Lim, So a few ideas from me....I think I saw someone suggested changing the metro tiles.. The white ones... I say leave them be... They are very very in right now! Also I like that you have been bold with the patterned contrasting design. Add a large old mirror and some really nice sanitary ware. I'd go for something more classical I think... Also if you have not looked at taps... Lefroy Brooks 1930 Mackintosh taps are simply divine! You want to get the Silver Nickel (Like clean old silver colour) Beautiful! There are a few designs- shown below is one example of the cross head tap version that I think is their best style... Also having a more classical look isn't complicating things as long as they are quite a simple style... LB have a loo range as well but anyway.. It is what I would choose to go with what you have done... They are top of the range and I love them so naturally I'd suggest what I think is the best from quality and suitable design :))
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PRO
Stella Michael
9 years ago
Life is an adventure and this bathroom looks fab! So great to see some creativity and fun rather than more neutral boring rooms. I agree that it probably is the clas h of whites that doesn't quite gel but if you don't want to remove them, and they actually are ok then I agree it's about how you accessorize. Like adding a scarf and jewellry to an outfit to bring it together. I think the grey grout was a good idea as it breaks up the shiny white and also links with the greys in the other tiles.

With regards yo mirrors it's probably best to buy one in the style you want (in wood or painted white) and paint it to get the colours right. You could go with more linear designs as there are quite a lot of swirls (usually the opposite in bathrooms). Here are some that are more budget-friendly shall we say ... just for ideas. As much as I love brighter/deeper colours they would clash with the more muted tones in the tiles and make the whole room look cheap.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/New-Stunning-Burley-Vintage-Teal-Rectangular-Mirror-19-5-x-16-5-/231499939336?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item35e678be08

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Shabby-Chic-Large-Wall-MIRROR-FRAME-Annie-Sloan-Duck-Egg-Blue-55cm-x-65cm-/121705996464?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item1c563e20b0

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Reclaimed-Wood-Blue-Turquoise-Rustic-Mirror-Home-Interior-1-55-M-x-91-cm-Natural-/252033619003?hash=item3aae5fd43b

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bevel-edge-blue-enamel-wall-mounted-mirror-102-x-78-cm-/221842472880?hash=item33a6d77fb0

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/54-Tall-Rectangle-Mirror-Unique-Reclaimed-Wood-Multicolor-Blue-Green-Vintage-/331398989085?hash=item4d28eb451d

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SHABBY-CHIC-ANTIQUE-STYLE-FRENCH-DUCK-EGG-BLUE-ROUND-WALL-MIRROR-H15434-/151742059256?hash=item23548812f8

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Reclaimed-Wood-Blue-Shutter-Mirrror-/221843110445?hash=item33a6e13a2d

I'm not suggesting any of these in particular (although I think a large round slightly scruffy mirror that wasn't too modern or ornate would marry the floor and wall tiles really well) just have a look around. I find ebay a good place to browse even if you don't want to buy from there as it has such a range of things not just thing that are currently fashionable so worth a look to get ideas. I just put in 'blue mirror' and used some of the filters to browse. A lot depends on what style your fittings are and your personal tastes. I love a more interesting eclectic look but it needs to be tied together well to prevent it looking too much of a hotch potch.

As it's such a generous space and depending on the look you want I would also add some large/tall leafy plants in gorgeous pots. that would look amazing and lush. Even use terracotta pots to add to the earthy Moroccan feel and complement the blue. They would also reduce the clash between the whites and remind me of the Moroccan courtyards.

Remember to continue having fun with it and post after photos!
haylescakes
9 years ago
Can we see the after photos please?

Personally, the subway tiles need to be grouted white or replaced with a softer white tile matching that of the decorated tiles. The blue is beautiful and by introducing more of that colour will improve the look.

Well done for taking a risk with colour and pattern. You clearly have a good eye.
T J
9 years ago
LOVE THIS!!!....would love to see it finished with a splash of colour added with accessories or lighting!! Makes a change from the boring norm!!!....
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
Hi guys. Thanks for all the comments and ideas, they're really, really appreciated. The bathroom is nearly done. In use, in fact! I've officially moved in to the new apartment for a week now. But would just like to put a few finishing touches e.g. a glass shower screen before I show the 'after' pictures. Hopefully it'll be fully completed in a month or so!
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
So the bathroom isn't fully done but I thought I'd share a couple of photos anyway. Pardon the mess at the sink top!
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
One main feature that's currently missing is the glass shower screen
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PRO
Stella Michael
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
Wow, it looks amazing! Are you sure it needs a glass screen, is there any way to just put something on the floor to contain the water and just leave it open? It is fantastic and has wonderful personality. So good to see something with some individual style and boldness!! I also love the blue ceiling, brave choices that have paid off! I think this is the best bathroom I have ever seen on Houzz (my favourite!) ... and that's saying something! Well done!! I trust you are thrilled with it.
User
9 years ago
I think it looks fantastic!!
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
Thanks, Stella. Appreciate your comment and I'm glad you did not find the bathroom odd! It's not for everyone, let's just put it that way :) I do think it needs a shower screen - a clear tempered glass panel - for practicality.
haylescakes
9 years ago
I love it!
I'm in agreement about the shower screen, it will be better with one, perhaps two thirds of the way across with open access or a full-length with sliding door.
wish I was as brave as you because this is a big success
PRO
Stella Michael
9 years ago
Kenneth Lim I thought the same about the practicalities of a shower screen when doing my bathroom but I couldn't figure out what to put in without affecting the lines and aesthetic of the room and also keeping a spacious feel so I decided to wait unit everything was in and then decide. I also chose quite an unusual shaped bath so it made it even more difficult.

Once everything was in I tried tilting the shower head inward ever so slightly and I also just have a hand towel over the edge of the bath and I never needed the shower screen. The room is much more spacious, the lines and aesthetics are great and no need to clean it all the time! A win all around.

My bathroom is also substantially smaller than yours - about 1.9m x 2m and yet nothing gets wet. At the risk of boring people who have seen these images a number of times here are the pictures (second one is a stock photo to show shape) ...

So what I am saying is at least try it out and see how it goes, and as you have been quite adventurous with your bathroom, maybe stay with it and try something different, it doesn't have to be all or nothing. I definitely wouldn't be putting in anything to detract from that gorgeous wall, especially anything with a frame.

I find it very freeing and luxurious not to be enclosed by a screen when using the shower. It's worth trying for a few weeks and seeing how it goes. Like I said, you may need something lower down, especially if the tiles haven't been angled like a wet room but maybe only coming up a couple of feet at the most. Just encouraging you to continue your adventure by exploring further.
Kenneth Lim
Original Author
9 years ago
That's a strikingly beautiful bathroom, Stella. That bright red wall and the trapezium shaped tub, love'em!

I see what you mean. I'll do some more research on alternative ways of containing splatters of soapy water. I do notice them getting onto the toilet seat after three weeks of use. Hopefully I can come up with some brilliant solution!
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annken
9 years ago
soft orange might look well with this mix of colours.
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PRO
Stella Michael
9 years ago
Thanks Kenneth Lim ... it was so cold when I moved in that I kept painting it darker and darker (colour can affect our perception of temperature by up to 5-6C) until I got to deep orange so when the bathroom finally fell apart and needed renovation, I fell in love with these tiles so decided to go the whole hog with Salsa Red, it makes a huge difference, and I also love how it looks. Can't wait to see yours finished. I love it's fresh look (maybe in my next house somewhere warm).
crowningfashion
9 years ago
No way have you made a mistake! When the fittings are in this will look stunning. Your choice is bold (which I love) so be bold in the way you accessorise.
Chevan Chuenchomboon
9 years ago
Looks great!!
scott67
9 years ago
Looks cool - well done on just going for it! Keep your nerve..the in-between stage is always the hardest part.
PRO
Akiva Projects Ltd
9 years ago
Hello,

Your outcome so far looks pretty great. Love the sink!
Kenneth Lim thanked Akiva Projects Ltd
PRO
Drummonds Bathrooms
8 years ago
You haven't made the wrong decision at all! One of our clients made a similar design decision and look how beautifully it turned out! I hope this inspires you to love your new bathroom, best of luck with completing your project!

Drummond's Case Study: Victorian Terrace House, South-West London · More Info
Saba Gondal
8 years ago
It looks great! I wish I had been as brave - love the mix of styles
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PRO
R. White and Sons Tiling.
8 years ago
looks good I recon
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Sarah Chalker
8 years ago
I think it's absolutely gorgeous
rainbowgold1
7 years ago
I like it but not too keen on the brick tiles, but thats a personal choice. Maybe if they had a light grout so they didn't stand out, or were plainer/same size tiles as the feature ones. .
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Emma Shepherdson
7 years ago
I love this! Great choice!!!
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pdando
7 years ago
Love the angled bath in Stella Michaels photo. Please can you give me the supplier.
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PRO
ARC Bespoke Interiors
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
Amazing, liking the blue tiles on the floor ,its doing what it supposed to be doing , giving the felling of a rug in the room, i love to recommend to finish off with a Heritage range bathroom pack ex: Hartlebury dual control exposed shower valve, plain glass shower screen , Heritage range toilet ,sink and taps mirrors,cabinets, you could install a copper/or any free standing bathtub :) just by the wall on the right, giving you a feeling that your on a sofa lying down relaxing under a warm blanket :)
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donut99
7 years ago
Agree with the white grout for subway tiles. When sanitary ware in am sure it will look awesome!
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tezz4
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
Looks like an old thread but l'd like to comment anyway.

Leave it as is. This is a great Mediterranean look. The grout is fine - a white grout would look rather blank here, and l'm so glad the mirror is simple and you placed it on a simple wood backing. The concrete basin stand adds an understated industrial touch whilst the style of the porcelain fittings is perfectly timeless and l like taps too. The shower sure does need a glass screen to keep water from raining all over the place! You could make the blue pop out further by using a combination of grey and two blues in your towels. Well done for this brave success!
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Fiona Crawley
7 years ago
Yum
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