How to Integrate Stairs into the Living Room Layout?

How to Integrate Stairs into the Living Room Layout?

Stairs in your living room are worth making the extra effort so that they become a vital part of the spatial arrangement. How can this be achieved? Properly selected floor tiles and porcelain tile treads can make this really easy. Which style should you choose to get the right effect? Check out our inspirations.

Stairs in the Living Room: Show or Hide?

This is the key question to answer while planning the design of this space. Just remember that both these strategies can be easily achieved with floor tiles. If you want to “mask” the stairs, simply choose porcelain tile treads with the same colour as your living room floor. To make them stand out, use a contrasting style. Both options have their advantages. It all depends on your stylistic preferences. Keep in mind:

  • stairs that blend in with the arrangement make the space seem visually larger and give it a sense of “continuity,” and give the interior a hint of subtle, subdued atmosphere;
  • stairs with a contrasting finish attract attention and will be the focal point of the whole design, so they are better suited for spacious interiors with a designer feel.

The decision is yours to make!

Porcelain Tiles on Stairs – What Makes Them the Best Choice?

You can use different materials to finish the stairs in the living room. However, the most popular choice is porcelain tiles. There are several reasons for this:

  • they are resistant to mechanical damage – which is important especially due to the intensity of foot traffic,
  • they have non-slip surfaces,
  • they are easy to keep clean,
  • they are available in a wide range of designs, which makes it easy to harmonise with the floor tile design.

Also note that special porcelain tile treads matching the shape of the stair can also be used. In many cases, they contain special grooves that provide additional protection against slipping.

What Kind of Stair Finishing should you Choose?

If you are looking for interesting stair finishing ideas using tiles, take a look at the solutions designed by Cerrad. Some of the collections you might want to consider are:

  • Mattina Sabbia – a wood-effect tile with a clear grain pattern and a classic, slightly rustic finish; this collection includes V-Shape treads, which allow you to subtly blend the stairs into the interior layout;
  • Cortone Crema – extremely subtle wood effect tiles, excellent for Scandinavian and modern interiors; they visually enlarge the living room – especially if they are also laid on the stairs; this collection also includes V-Shape treads;
  • Batista Desert – a collection inspired by natural stone; minimalist and very versatile, in a warm sandstone shade; treads contain special anti-slip grooves;
  • Batista Dust – a more industrial in its character than the Batista Desert, in a light grey shade; excellent for modern living rooms with a designer feel.

Explore our other collections including porcelain tile treads and find the perfect finishing for your living room!

What Should You Pay Attention to When Choosing Floor Tiles for Your Living Room?

The living room is one of the most representative interiors of the house, which is why you should make sure that it is both stylish and functional. Tiles are a fool proof solution to achieve both these things. But how can you choose the best tiles?

Living Room Tiles – What Makes Them a Good Choice?

It is no accident that tiles are gaining popularity. Modern solutions offered nowadays by ceramic tile manufacturers combine stunning design with outstanding functionality.

  • With tiles, you can create a uniform, stylistically consistent floor in the living area of a flat or a house – they harmonise with any interior: the hallway, the kitchen and the living room.
  • They are available in a wide range of designs – including those that imitate other popular but less durable materials such as wood.
  • They are very tough and retain their original appearance for years to come.
  • They are also highly resistant to mechanical damage, which is particularly important in the living room due to the intensity of foot traffic.
  • They are compatible with floor heating systems and retain warmth for a long time.
  • They are easy to clean and have a low absorption rate.

So, if you are considering a renovation or are in the process of finishing a flat or house, this is the kind of flooring you should invest in.

Key Parameters of Living Room Tiles

You already know why tiles are a good choice also for living rooms. But finding your way through the plethora of patterns, colours, formats and finishings might seem challenging. Here are some things to bear in mind:

  • design – keep an eye on modern, unique finishes such as wood effect tiles (for classic interiors in Italian, Provencal or Scandinavian styles) or concrete effect tiles (for loft-style and modern designs);
  • format – for a most stunning design, choose larger tiles such as 60 x 60 cm, 20 x 120 cm, 60 x 120 cm, or even 120 x 120 cm;
  • abrasion resistance class – a higher abrasion resistance class is better due to the high intensity of foot traffic in the living room;
  • finishing type – decide if you prefer floor tiles with a completely matte finish, or a matte/shiny texture called lappato with a semi-gloss appearance;
  • non-slip surface – this is important for the safety in the living room.

What Ceramic Living Room Tiles are Available?

Cerrad’s collection includes a wide range of stylish tiles with a designer feel which will be perfect for a fashionable living room. Some of the collections are:

  • Catalea Nugat – classy wood-effect tiles in a dark brown shade that perfectly match classic interiors;
  • Mattina Bianco – another wood-effect tile design, but with a more rustic and Scandinavian feel to it; brightens up the space and visually enlarges it;
  • Tacoma White – tiles inspired by the beauty of natural stone and the texture of concrete in a cool, light grey shade – a great choice for modern living rooms;
  • Batista Steel – especially in lappato finishing – concrete effect tiles with a unique finish; they are designed to be used both on the floor and on the wall.

For more inspiration, check our Catalogue.

Practical and Stylish Finishing of Your House Walls. Discover Trending Designs

A beautiful façade gives a house a touch of splendour. If you are wondering which finishing could be right for you, remember that there is a wide range of coverings and patterns available to choose from. If you are looking for a both fashionable and timeless solution, choose imitation stone or brick façade tiles. Discover their advantages.

Façade Tiles – Modern Wall Finishings

Façade tiles are becoming increasingly popular way of finishing the external walls of buildings. They are used for both business and commercial buildings as well as in private homes. Why? Because it is a very practical choice, when you examine the advantages.

High quality clinker façade tiles:

  • are frost-resistant,
  • are highly resistant to sunlight, which is why they keep their original appearance for years to come,
  • are available in a wide range of colours, sizes and designs – so you can easily find a design that closely matches your aesthetic vision; some collections include façade tiles, window sills, steps, stair tiles for a consistent design of the exterior of your home.

How to Choose the Right the Façade Tiles to Match the Building Design?

Before you choose a specific model, consider the effect you want to achieve. Nowadays, modern, rustic and English style finishes are very popular.

  • A Modern Façade

A modern façade is minimalist. Simplicity of form and lack of adornments add lightness and a designer feel to the building. This effect can be achieved by choosing imitation stone or brick façade tiles. Choose darker colours such as graphite or anthracite to give your building a touch of elegance.

  • A Rustic Charm

Aiming for a country house style with a warm, family atmosphere? This design can be achieved using façade tiles imitating natural stone in a delicate sandstone shade. Those with a white brick effect are just as interesting. Idyllic, welcoming atmosphere and fashionable design guaranteed!

  • English Style

Red bricks can be used to infuse an industrial and loft-style atmosphere, but also that of terraced English houses. If this look is what you desire, this kind of décor would be perfect for your façade. Red brick clinker tiles are always a great choice!

Cerrad Façade Tiles – Find Your Inspiration

Regardless of which style is closest to your original external wall finishing concept, Cerrad has an excellent selection of façade tiles to make your vision come true. Some of the collections you might consider are:

  • Loft Brick Chili – an old brick effect pattern, a great match for both English style houses and those with a touch of rustic flavour;
  • Aragon Sand – a subtle, irregular pattern of natural stone in a sandy shade, an excellent choice for both modern and rustic designs;
  • Kallio Tar – a unique, minimalist design on the edge between stone and brick; perfect for modern façades;
  • Canella Terra – an elegant yet rustic design inspired by natural stone that will make your façade look warm and inviting.

Explore the other Cerrad façade tile collections and find your own idea for finishing the external walls of your house.

Which Terrace Tiles Should You Choose? Explore the Possibilities!

The terrace is a unique place where you can rest and relax in the fresh air, while enjoying your privacy. This is one of the reasons proper design of the space is so important. Robust and stylish flooring is an absolute must. What to choose? Here are some of our inspirations.

The terrace, especially in the warmer months of the year, becomes the heart of many homes. This is why you should arrange this area to be a snug and safe place for the whole family.

Wood Effect Terrace Tiles – the Best Choice There Is

The functions of the terrace and the specificity of its surroundings are crucial when it comes to the choice of surface finishing materials. Porcelain and clinker tiles are best suited for use on the floor, since they:

  • are resistant to shifting weather conditions, such as frost, humidity and high temperatures;
  • keep the same look for many years, without losing their original appearance;
  • withstand high foot traffic.

But what about the pattern? Perhaps the terrace of your dreams is covered with wood to make it blend with the natural surroundings? Nowadays, wooden boards, that are extremely susceptible to moisture and regular maintenance, can be replaced with wood effect porcelain tiles terrace. These Cerrad tiles are practically indistinguishable from actual wood! They offer high strength and durability with a style to match your preference.

Cerrad Inspirations

Cerrad’s porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for those aiming for a natural terrace design. The following collections are a great match:

  • Catalea Gris – a subtle, cool shade of wood brightens up the terrace and gives it a touch of rustic charm;
  • Lussaca Nougat – has a distinct, warm and very elegant nutty shade;
  • Mattina Bianco – perfect tiles for rustic or Scandinavian style terraces;
  • Setim Honey – a versatile collection that gives your terrace a hint of timeless elegance.

A wooden terrace floor is a perfect stylish base for designing a rustic, environmental, Scandinavian, Provencal, elegant or classic layout. Wooden railings and flower pots are a great way to complement the whole design.

But remember that wood effect terrace tiles are not the only solution available. Concrete effect porcelain tiles, such as those from the Montego Antracyt collection, are also an interesting choice. This way of finishing the terrace floor – especially in combination with garden furniture made of metal (or pallets) and designer lighting – creates an industrial or loft-style look in perfect contrast with the natural surroundings. For a complete redesign of your home’s surroundings, you can use the Montego 2.0 collection tiles that work great not only on terraces, but also on footpaths and driveways.

Modern Bathroom Design – Which Tile Format Works Best?

Planning to change your bathroom décor? Although the fixtures and equipment installed in your bathroom are important, it is the walls and the floor that determine its style and overall look. Modern bathroom tiles are an obvious choice, but their sizes and patterns are a completely different story. Check out the best solutions worthy of your attention today.

Bathroom Tiles and Interior Design Trends

Tiles have been a crucial component of bathroom design for decades. It’s no wonder really. They offer the only type of surface that is able to keep up with the demanding bathroom environment, which is constantly exposed to moisture. They are also easy to keep clean. However, in addition to practicality, their design aspect also plays an important role. The right pattern and size of floor and wall tiles enable you to create the desired style and look in your bathroom. What is particularly noteworthy today? These styles are popular today:

  • Loft Style – industrial and lacking adornments; it gives your bathroom a very modern flair and designer quality; to achieve this style, use concrete effect or red brick tiles and combine this design framework with raw metal fixtures and plants added for contrast;
  • Scandinavian Style – both modern and drawing from nature and ethnic influences; you can achieve this style in your bathroom by choosing wood effect tiles that make it look brighter and warmer.
  • Retro Style – a free-standing art deco designer bathtub, a decadent art nouveau mirror and white brick imitation tiles – an excellent combination!

Bathroom Tile Formats

As you can see, nowadays you can choose from countless bathroom tile designs. However, design is not only about texture and colour, but also the format. In this case, if you want to achieve an interesting effect, the sky is the limit.

Large-format tiles are very popular – with sizes ranging from 60 x 60 cm, through to 20 x 120 cm, 60 x 120 cm, up to 80 x 160 cm or even 120 x 120 cm. They look great on both floors and walls – you can use them to create an almost monolithic surface to amplify the modern and minimalist look of your bathroom. To make a uniform pattern truly stand out, you can cover one of the walls or a part of it with tiles from the same collection, but in a different shade.

And what about smaller sizes? They still have their fans. The following sizes work well:

  • 30 x 60 cm – a great choice for walls,
  • 5 x 60 cm – they imitate floor boards perfectly, which makes it is the most popular format for wood effect patterns.

You can also create interesting décor by introducing mosaic patterns to give your bathroom an Oriental and ethnic vibe.

Cerrad Inspirations

Looking for interesting bathroom tiles that redefine the look of your bathroom? Take a look at several Cerrad tile collections available in different formats to suit your design.

A collection inspired by concrete surfaces, in a classic graphite shade. Excellent for loft-style, industrial and modern designs. For example, choose the classic 60 x 60 cm format and combine it with brick imitation tiles from the Foggia collection – in white, black or graphite – for a spectacular effect. Mosaic adornments are also available in the 30 x 30 cm size.

Wood effect tiles in shades of grey. Choose a 20 x 120 cm size for flooring. For a warmer colour effect, choose the Setim Nugat collection.

Also check out other collections such as: Concrete Beige or Tacoma White and the other collections available in the Cerrad portfolio. They can transform your bathroom, giving it a completely new look.

Inimitable style in harmony with nature. New products from Cerrad.

What is best is reflected in nature. Wood amazes with its colours and structure; it creates a remarkable atmosphere and adds cosiness to an interior. We are happy to present our new tile collections: Notta, Tramonto and Giornata, which will allow you to enjoy an excellent, timeless, functional interior.

During this year’s edition of the Cersaie Fair, for the first time in our exhibition history, we presented only new products, which were appreciated by experts in the field of interior design and architecture. The first ones will soon be available for sale. Our new collections feature tiles in a unique format: 11×60 cm, in five inspiring colour variants.

The colours and structures of the matte tiles from the Notta, Giornata and Tramonto collections are delightful and  provide infinite possibilities for creating interesting spaces, both classic and modern. They are a durable and practical means of filling each space. Thanks to their qualities, they are the perfect option for all interiors, and also for terraces and balconies.

How to Choose Stair Tiles?

Both, outdoor steps and indoor stairs must be covered with durable materials that fit aesthetically into the overall décor of the surrounding space. Porcelain tiles are a perfect solution that works well in any arrangement. Wondering which ones to choose? Here are some technical and aesthetic tips to help you make your decision.

Indoor and outdoor stair and step tiles

Stairs and steps – no matter where they are – must have a high load bearing capacity.  They should be durable, non-slip and highly wear-resistant. That’s why it’s so important to choose tiles that are up to the task and have:

  • a high load-bearing and abrasion resistance;
  • a non-slip surface – this is an important specification to minimize the risk of slipping;
  • frost resistance – that’s why they are great for use on outdoor steps;
  • an easy to clean surface.

If you want to use tiles on your outdoor steps, frost resistance, and therefore a low absorption rate of 3% or less, is equally as important.

What are the advantages of using porcelain tiles on stairs?

Porcelain tiles are a very popular solution for both indoor stairs and outdoor steps. The reasons are as follows:

  • Porcelain tiles are available in a wide range of designs – you can easily find tiles that perfectly imitate wood or architectural concrete (so materials which have been very popular for the past few seasons).
  • They are extremely durable, easy to install and clean.

These tiles are an easy way to create a trendy and stylish design without compromising durability or safety.

Porcelain tiles on stairs and steps:

  • Are a great choice for creating a cohesive design with the nearby floors – simply use stair and step treads with the same pattern or style as the base tile (such as those available in the Batista collection);
  • Don’t require any special care – they don’t require any special treatment and can be cleaned with standard cleaning agents;
  • They look like new for many years to come, keeping their original appearance for longer than other finishes;
  • Have a non-slip surface.

Simply choose the right pattern to create a fashionable, sturdy and reliable arrangement.

Imitating wood and concrete on stairs and steps – Cerrad inspirations

Check Cerrad’s collections to see how easy it is to design stairs and steps with wood-effect or concrete-inspired porcelain tiles.

Here are a few select porcelain stair and step treads that are the perfect choice for a stunning design:

  • Tassero Beige – elegant notched treads that go well with concrete texture tiles; they have a warm, versatile shade of beige, and special non-slip notches;
  • V-Shape Cortone Crema – V-shape treads with a phenomenal pattern suggestive of bright wooden planks; ideal for patio stairs, and modern, rustic or Scandinavian interiors;
  • Mattina Sabbia – porcelain V-shape treads with a wood-effect pattern in a warm, light shade; very versatile, perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Check out our other collections of stair and step treads along with matching porcelain tiles, and choose the one that suits your style

Façade tiles. The key facts.

The façade of a building is both, its most important visual feature and a protective layer from natural and other such elements. Therefore, choosing the right material is crucial. In recent years, clinker façade tiles have become increasingly popular. Why is this a better solution than an actual brick wall? Find out more.

What are façade tiles?

Clinker façade tiles are a modern material that can be used as a finish for both exterior and interior designs. Remember that not every wall that looks like brick is actually made of brick – façade tiles are able to provide an identical appearance. Although at first glance they look like brick, in reality they are special tiles that can be applied on any type of wall.

Clinker façade tiles fascinate with their impressive designs (with numerous styles available – both inspired by traditional brick aesthetics and patterns that resemble stone), excellent durability, and a quick and easy application.

Brick or façade tiles?

A brick façade is a tasteful and universal solution. It presents itself impressively on modern buildings, as well as on rustic or traditionally decorated dwellings.  Actual brick can easily and successfully be replaced with clinker tiles.

Curious about their advantages over real brick? In a nutshell, high quality façade tiles:

  • look like actual bricks, and not just at first glance – even their physical appearance and feel meticulously imitate the real thing;
  • are frost resistant and can withstand unfavourable weather conditions,
  • are extremely resistant to changing weather conditions, such as high and low temperatures, humidity and sunlight;
  • mark high on the hardness scale, which means they have an excellent resistance to mechanical damage.

How to arrange clinker bricks

Façade tiles imitating clinker bricks are perfect for exterior walls of detached houses, public spaces and many other various buildings. Check some of the Cerrad tile collections to see how versatile their design possibilities are. Here are some collections that may be right for you:

  • Retro Brick Chilli – a classic shade of red brick, with a classic English terraced house feel;
  • Retro Brick Curry – a more universal, warmer shade, great for both modern or classic designs;
  • Retro Brick Salt – in subtle shades of beige and light brown; these clinker tiles optically enlarge your building and give it a timeless look.

Complement the entire arrangement with the Cottage collection tiles – they are perfect for porch floors or patio steps.

Wood floors or wood-like tiles? See which you should choose.

Wood has always been used in interior design. Its natural texture and subtle colours add a unique touch to any interior. With wooden floors, all designs immediately become warmer and gain a timeless quality. The only question is whether you really need to invest in natural materials if you want this style for your own interior design. Wood inspired ceramic tiles are a great alternative.

Wood floors – a timeless trend

Wood designs are a great choice wherever you want to use them – they work great in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and even in bathrooms. Wooden flooring in your kitchen gives it a cosier, homey atmosphere; the living room becomes more sophisticated and elegant; and the bathroom becomes a modern-day spa. Whether you dream of a subtle arrangement with natural overtones or an exquisitely bold design, wood is the perfect choice for you.

Its characteristic design easily fits most styles – from austere and minimalist, to loft-style, to Scandinavian, and even to Provence and rustic styles. All you have to do, to make the perfect design, is choose the right type of flooring material. Today, natural wood is more often than not replaced by porcelain tiles that imitate its look perfectly. Wood-effect porcelain tiles combine the desired aesthetics with incredible durability, which makes them increasingly popular with each day.

Wood floors or wood-effect tiles – which should you choose?

At first you may think that a real wooden floor is always the best choice. But before you make your final decision, there are several factors that you need to consider. First of all, take into account the natural materials ability to resist being affected by moisture or mechanical damage. True, with professional treatment, the right type of wood provides a high degree of protection. However, this solution does not always work – especially in the bathroom or kitchen, where more often or not, it is exposed to increased humidity; or the living room for instance, where the floor is exposed to increased foot traffic.

Wood-effect porcelain tiles are the best alternative to classic floorboards for several reasons:

  • They imitate natural wood perfectly – they are made in sizes corresponding to traditional wooden floor boards, and their texture does not differ much from oak or pine boards; in addition, similarly to real wood, you can arrange them in a herringbone or checkerboard pattern for added authenticity;
  • You can use underfloor heating with them;
  • They are well-suited for places with heavy foot traffic;
  • They are easy to clean;
  • They are available in a wide range of colours – you can easily find a version that perfectly matches your specific design concept.

Wooden tiles – design options

Take a look at the most popular Cerrad tiles to see the diverse design options for wood-effect porcelain and clinker tiles. They include:

  • Cortone Crema – minimalistic, light shade wood-effect porcelain tiles; perfect for modern living rooms and bathrooms;
  • Fuerta Marrone – elegant, dark shade wood-effect tiles; add a touch of class to rustic or glamourous interiors;
  • Mattina Grigio – subtle porcelain tiles; perfect for rooms in rustic, Provence or classic styles;
  • Tonella Honey – colour body porcelain tiles in a warm shade; a perfect match for any interior design.

Check the Cerrad Catalogue for more inspiration, and add a touch of wood to your interior design without worrying about moisture and abrasion resistance.

What should you pay attention to when choosing floor tiles for your bathroom?

The bathroom is a special place in your home. It serves as your private spa and fulfils many practical functions; however, it is also necessary to mention that the humidity in bathrooms is usually pretty high. That is why selecting the right wall and floor finish is so important. How do you decide? See what factors you need to take into account when making your decision.

Stone, wood and concrete in the bathroom

There are many styles that can be used in modern bathrooms. However, the most popular design trends refer to the following styles:

  • minimalistic – with a focus on modest forms and large, monochromatic surfaces;
  • Scandinavian and eco-friendly – with clear references to materials such as wood;
  • industrial – raw, inspired by loft designs and other post-industrial spaces;
  • ethnic and glamourous – introducing more colour and pattern variance.

Wall and floor finishes are very important elements for each of the designs mentioned above. The Cerrad portfolio includes models that can be successfully used on both, floor and wall surfaces. What should you choose? In an industrial and minimalistic style for example, architectural concrete will look great; while wood is the right choice for a Scandinavian style; and natural stone is perfect in the case of a glamourous inferior design. Each choice, even though full of positive attributes, can also have some disadvantages. Wood and concrete for instance, are more susceptible to moisture absorption, while natural stone on the floor can increase the risk of slipping. But that does not mean that you have to completely abandon trendy textures, as each of these can be found in the Cerrad portfolio, in the modern stoneware and clinker tile collections!  These tiles are more durable than the natural materials mentioned above, they have much better specifications, plus their design is almost identical. Therefore, you are able to achieve the same aesthetic effect without compromising on the materials durability.

What are the ideal specifications for bathroom tiles?

Design is not the only aspect that is worth paying attention to when choosing porcelain or clinker tiles for the bathroom. Other important factors include:

  • Size – you can choose fashionable large format tiles in the following dimensions: 60 x 60 cm, 80 x 80 cm, 17.5 x 90 cm, 60 x 120 cm or even 80 x 160 cm;

Specific parameters –low water absorption, non-slip properties, resistance to mechanical damage and ease of cleaning; It’s also important to buy 10-15% more tiles than you will need to cover all your bathroom surfaces. This way you won’t run out of materials in the event of possible shortages.

Cerrad Inspirations

If you choose Cerrad’s high quality modern floor and wall tiles, durability is not an issue you need to be concerned with. Below are some of our featured collections that follow the latest trends. These are some of our favourites:

  • Acero Ochra – wood-effect tiles, made of Colour body porcelain tiles in a darker, natural shade. You can combine them with wooden elements and accents, or use them in modern, industrial bathrooms with darker colours.
  • Concrete Graphite – imitation concrete, Colour body mass-dyed porcelain tiles. Perfect for floors and walls in industrial and glamourous interiors. An excellent match for wood-effect or plain white tiles.
  • Tacoma Grey –colour body porcelain tiles. An ascetic, minimalistic design for your bathroom. They can be complimented with decorative tiles for a more vivid touch.
  • Lussaca Dust – subtle clinker tiles that imitate rustic, wooden flooring. Give your bathroom a warm and natural feeling. They are a great match for blue, yellow or cream-coloured Scandinavian style accessories.
  • Mustiq Honey – clinker tiles that imitate a warm, honey shade of wood. Perfect for Italian or glamourous interiors. Combine them with exclusive, sophisticated lighting and bright tiles on the walls for a greater effect.

Of course, these are just a handful of suggestions out of many, many more. So please take a look at the Cerrad Tile Catalogue and find your design concept of choice.