Americo Migliore Jr.'s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Tile for Any Room

When it comes to creating beautiful and functional spaces, choosing the right tile is a critical decision. The tile you select can significantly influence the aesthetic, feel, and durability of a room. Americo Migliore Jr., an expert in tile and stone installation based in New York, has spent years perfecting his knowledge of materials, design principles, and installation techniques. In this guide, he shares his expertise on how to select the perfect tile for any room, ensuring that your choices reflect both style and functionality.

Choosing the right tile involves understanding the specific needs of each room, considering the material, size, color, and design elements that will enhance the space. Americo’s approach is tailored to help homeowners and professionals alike create a cohesive, durable, and visually appealing result.

1. Assessing the Room’s Function and Needs

Before selecting a tile for any room, the first step is to understand the room’s function and how the tiles will perform under different conditions. For example, tiles used in bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms must be water-resistant, slip-resistant, and durable. In contrast, tiles for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas might prioritize aesthetics and comfort.

Americo begins his tile selection process by analyzing the room’s daily usage. For instance, in a bathroom, where high moisture and humidity levels are common, he recommends opting for ceramic or porcelain tiles, which are naturally water-resistant and easy to clean. On the other hand, for a high-traffic area like a kitchen or hallway, durability is key. Americo suggests using materials such as porcelain or natural stone that can withstand wear and tear while maintaining their integrity.

Americo also points out the importance of considering temperature changes, light exposure, and how the room is used. High-traffic areas benefit from scratch-resistant tiles, while low-maintenance rooms like bedrooms may offer more flexibility with softer or less durable materials.

2. Material Selection Based on Durability and Aesthetic

One of the most important decisions in tile selection is the material. Different materials offer unique benefits depending on the room’s requirements. Americo stresses that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing tile materials. Instead, each material offers specific qualities that suit certain spaces better.

Ceramic Tiles: Americo recommends ceramic tiles for bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas. Ceramic tiles are versatile, cost-effective, and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and finishes. They are also highly durable and easy to maintain, making them a top choice for high-traffic and water-heavy rooms.

Porcelain Tiles: Similar to ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles are highly durable but are more water-resistant and denser. Americo suggests using porcelain tiles in high-traffic areas or rooms exposed to water, like kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor patios. Porcelain is available in a range of styles, from polished and glossy to matte or textured finishes.

Natural Stone: For clients seeking a more luxurious or earthy look, Americo recommends natural stone tiles such as marble, granite, slate, or travertine. These materials offer timeless beauty and texture, but they do require proper sealing to ensure longevity. Americo carefully selects these for living rooms, entryways, and upscale spaces where appearance is paramount. However, he always advises sealing the stone to prevent staining or water damage.

Glass Tiles: Glass tiles are ideal for adding color and reflectivity. Americo suggests using glass tiles for accent walls, backsplashes, or feature areas in kitchens and bathrooms. They come in a wide variety of colors and can enhance the overall ambiance by reflecting light and adding a touch of elegance.

3. Matching the Tile with the Room's Style and Décor

Once the function and material have been chosen, the next step is to align the tile selection with the room’s overall style and décor. Americo emphasizes the importance of considering the existing design elements in the room, including color schemes, furniture, and lighting. The right tile should complement the overall design vision while adding its unique character to the space.

In a modern, minimalist space, Americo recommends using neutral-colored tiles like white, grey, or beige in large formats to create a clean and open feel. In contrast, for more traditional or rustic spaces, textured tiles such as those made from natural stone or vintage-style ceramics can enhance the room’s warmth and charm.

Americo is a strong advocate for using tiles to create a focal point in a room. For example, in bathrooms, a beautiful mosaic tile or colorful accent tiles around the shower or bathtub can serve as a stunning visual centerpiece. Similarly, in kitchens, using tiles with intricate patterns or bold colors on the backsplash can transform an ordinary kitchen into a stylish and vibrant space.

In living rooms and bedrooms, the choice of tile color and texture can help set the mood of the room. Americo encourages using soft, matte tiles in bedrooms for a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere, while glossy or polished tiles might work better in spaces where you want to create a sense of luxury or modernity.

4. Understanding Tile Size and Layout for the Best Visual Impact

Tile size is another crucial consideration in selecting the perfect tile for a room. Americo explains that larger tiles create a sense of spaciousness by reducing the number of grout lines and creating a seamless look. Large-format tiles, such as 24-inch by 24-inch squares or 12-inch by 24-inch rectangles, are ideal for open spaces or areas where you want to minimize visual interruption.

However, in smaller rooms, Americo recommends using smaller tiles to enhance the room’s proportions. Small tiles, such as subway tiles or mosaic tiles, can create intricate patterns that add texture and interest without overwhelming the space. In some cases, a combination of large and small tiles can be used to balance the room’s proportions, creating dynamic visual effects that highlight specific features or zones within the room.

Americo also highlights the importance of layout when it comes to tile installation. The way tiles are laid can have a dramatic impact on how a room feels. Diagonal patterns, for example, can make a room appear larger and more dynamic, while straight patterns or grid layouts provide a more traditional, orderly look. Choosing the right layout can help balance the proportions of the room and enhance its overall design.

5. Considering Practicality and Maintenance

While aesthetic appeal is important, Americo stresses that the practicality of the tile should never be overlooked. Some tiles require more maintenance than others, and choosing the right type of tile can save time and effort down the road.

For example, natural stone tiles such as marble and limestone may require more frequent cleaning and sealing due to their porous nature. While these stones offer luxurious beauty, they can stain easily if not maintained properly. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, require minimal upkeep and are often more resistant to staining and moisture, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic, busy rooms.

Americo also suggests considering the ease of installation when choosing tiles. For DIY projects, tiles that are easier to cut and install, such as ceramic or porcelain, are more suitable. More complex materials, like natural stone or mosaic tiles, may require professional installation to ensure they are laid properly, especially in intricate patterns.

6. Budget Considerations

Finally, Americo advises that budget is an important factor in the tile selection process. High-end materials such as marble or designer porcelain tiles can add significant cost to the project, while more budget-friendly options, like ceramic or vinyl tiles, can still offer beautiful results without breaking the bank.

Americo’s approach to tile selection involves helping clients prioritize where to spend more on high-impact areas and where to save. For example, it may be worth splurging on premium stone tiles for a kitchen island or a bathroom vanity but opting for more affordable materials for flooring or accent walls.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect tile for any room is a thoughtful process that requires a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and practicality. Americo Migliore Jr.’s approach to tile selection revolves around understanding the specific needs of each space, selecting the right material, and carefully considering design elements to create a cohesive and long-lasting result. Whether you’re renovating a bathroom, upgrading a kitchen, or adding style to your living room, following Americo’s expert advice will ensure that your tile selection elevates the space while standing the test of time.