Tile is often underestimated, but it's anything but ordinary. With various shapes, colors, patterns, and textures available, it's one of the most adaptable materials for any space. Tile complements countless design styles and fits seamlessly into nearly every area of the house, proving its timeless appeal.
Interior designer Shea McGee has become a trusted name in design. Recently, she showcased her tile expertise through a collaboration with a notable tile and plumbing brand. If you're searching for tile inspiration, Shea shared three unique tile concepts that include both classic designs and unexpected combinations. Here's why Shea believes tile is a top choice and how to use it throughout your home stylishly.
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Shea states, 'When I'm working with tile, I aim for designs that are both classic and enduring. Tile's versatility shines through in applications ranging from entryway floors to kitchen backsplashes and bathroom tiles. With so many layout and grout options, it's easy to express your personal style.' In a recent YouTube video, she explored her collection with the brand.
As part of her collaboration, Shea has crafted three stunning designs that highlight tile's potential. She provided insights into these spaces, showcasing the various ways the material can be utilized.
The first design is a refined entryway featuring muted black-and-white checkered flooring and a striking wooden archway. This space is finished with a chic console table and a large potted tree, creating a bold yet cohesive look. The impactful tiled floor complements Shea's signature aesthetic.
Shea explains, 'I adore a diamond floor pattern, especially in an entryway. We incorporated a border along the edges, which enhances the space's sophistication and adds a traditional touch. This border also creates a smooth transition between rooms.'
While the tile stands out, the border ensures a seamless flow to adjacent areas. Even if the tile doesn't extend into other spaces, the black border provides a purposeful connection, making it feel intentional rather than abrupt.
To offset the bold flooring, Shea opted for simpler walls, using oak paneling that frames the door and archway. This choice establishes a neutral yet elegant backdrop for the room. Hidden behind the arch is another tile detail: the Canyon Lake collection in Antique White.
Shea appreciates the subtle tonal variations in the tile, saying, 'It adds texture without being overwhelming. The matte finish complements the room's overall aesthetic and harmonizes beautifully with the flooring's tumbled texture.'
Shea McGee
Interior designer Shea McGee co-founded her renowned design firm, Studio McGee, with her husband in 2014. They later launched their e-commerce brand, McGee & Co, and starred in a Netflix series, Dream Home Makeover.
The second space is a light pastel blue mudroom featuring built-in shelving and a white basin sink. With tile on both the floor and walls, it exemplifies the material's adaptability.
Shea shares, 'I love how this mudroom turned out for several reasons. It effectively demonstrates how durable materials can be incorporated in an elegant way, starting with the flooring.'
The floor consists of the Studio McGee x Ann Sacks' Novah Tile in Sand, arranged in a herringbone pattern. Shea notes, 'This layout creates dynamic movement and authenticity.' The tile is not only stylish but also resilient enough for everyday use in the mudroom, complemented by Canyon Lake Tile in a glossy finish on the walls.
'This space shows how tiles can be mixed creatively. The matte finish on the floor contrasts beautifully with the glossy walls. I wanted to immerse you completely in the color,' Shea explains.
'When designing with tile, I usually choose one area to feature a bold pattern while keeping another surface classic. Here, I used herringbone on the floor and a brick layout on the walls, allowing the floor's design to stand out.'
For her final design, Shea often receives requests for 'clean and fresh' bathrooms, but she emphasizes that this doesn't necessarily mean 'all white' or 'flat.'
She explains, 'There are countless details to consider in bathroom designs, especially with tile. I love incorporating stripes, borders, and varied elements throughout each bathroom we design.'
In the bathroom, she chose Rylee marble mosaic for the floor, accented by the Brittania beige marble. For the walls, she drew inspiration from green Canyon Lake tile in Sea Salt, creating colorful stripes that run parallel to each other near the ceiling and floor.
She notes, 'This striped design is a signature Studio McGee touch, providing color and impact while maintaining a classic feel.'
Another tip Shea shares for this space is to mount mirrors, sconces, and decorative accents directly onto the tile instead of the wall behind: 'This approach adds a designer flair—don't hesitate to attach items to the tile for a striking effect.'
Tile offers endless possibilities, and Shea's beautiful designs illustrate just that. With various patterns and textures, tile can elevate any room and style.
'I envisioned this collection to be classic yet timeless, allowing for a playful touch. Tile gives you the freedom to create a space that reflects your unique style for years to come,' Shea concludes.
