The Fireplace: A Hot New Trend in Cement Tile
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We get it. You’ve been scrolling through Instagram photos of stunning tile installations, secretly wishing you had a reason to redo your floors. Don’t “accidentally” take a sledgehammer to your existing interior just yet. There are ways to incorporate trendy cement tile that don’t require a full remodel. One of our favorite ideas? Jazz up your fireplace!
Read article12 / 15 / 2021
Burn, Baby, Burn!
Encaustic cement tiles are an ideal material for fireplace surrounds. They’re incredibly durable, and ornate patterns like our Porto design lend themselves well to smaller, prominently featured spaces like the fireplace. Our handmade cement tiles are known for another feature that sets them apart in the tile world; patina. As cement tiles age, they naturally develop a gorgeous antiqued finish - add in a little wood-smoke and you’ll have a fireplace that is trendy AND timeless. As far as tile trends are concerned, this is a bandwagon you’re definitely going to want to jump on.)
From Powder to Ka-Pow!
Cement tiles are handmade, one at a time, and that means no two tiles are exactly alike. Each unique piece harbors tonal variation with a marvelously matte textured finish. The tiles are made by layering a combination of white Portland cement, marble powder, fine sand, and natural mineral color pigments. They’re then placed in a handmade brass mold and the layers are bonded together by a hydraulic press. The coolest part about the process is that they’re never actually fired. That means they are way better for the environment, and leave a much smaller carbon footprint than fired ceramics.)
Installation options? Easy-Peasy.
Let’s start with a few ways to add a spark to that fireplace! If you want a simple pop of color or pattern, consider tiling the hearth. It’s the small space on the floor in front of the fireplace and an easy place to lay tile. It’s also a great way to give your space a touch of personality without breaking the bank. Another great place (and personal favorite) is the fireplace surround. This is the area below the mantle that surrounds the firebox and has traditionally featured decorative tile designs throughout the centuries. Whether you’re building from scratch or rehabing an existing fireplace, the surround is the perfect place to get a little more adventurous. Showcase a range of styles - from art deco to Spanish modern; scandifornian or minimalist monochrome; with cement tile, options for pattern and color are nearly infinite. And it’s a great way for a small space to have a big impact.)