Interior designer Emma Sims Hilditch reveals imaginative ways with wall tiles
“There are such a variety of great designs available when it comes to wall tiles, but pattern and color aren’t the only ways to get creative,” says Emma. “During a recent photo shoot at my house, we saw an opportunity to play with where we positioned the tiles, creating characterful and unique spaces throughout the interior.”
Here Emma shares her ideas for tiling a wall – and other surfaces – imaginatively.
Founded in 2009, the Sims Hilditch design practice has become one of the most trusted and respected in the industry. Her couture approach combines interior architecture, interior design and purchasing management within a fully bespoke service, from conception to completion. Creative Founder, Emma Sims-Hilditch is passionate about her belief that good design can transform not just how people live, but how they feel. By creating characterful, beautiful and intelligent interiors, Emma and the Sims Hilditch team enable customers to radically improve the quality of their lives.
1. Use tiles on an outdoor dining table
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch x Marlborough Tiles)
Outdoor dining ideas need a boost?
“One of the most intriguing ways to get creative with tiles is to style a tabletop using a checkerboard pattern. It’s a great way to add color to a home while keeping it practical. for cleaning,” says Emma.
“Alternatively, for outdoor spaces, tiling a table can be an unexpected addition to an English garden. Here we used the Marlborough Tiles Ana Tile (opens in a new tab) in an understated green colourway, paired with a plain white design. This pleasingly soft pattern is gentle and natural, meaning it doesn’t clash with the surrounding landscape.
2. Use tiles to create cohesion in a bathroom
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch x Marlborough Tiles)
Bathroom tile ideas don’t have to be limited to expected surfaces.
“When considering tiling a bathroom, the mind immediately jumps to a shower or the backsplash of the bath. For me, thinking about other more practical spaces such as window sills can be a good opportunity to use wall tiles in a home, especially for mullioned windows with deep sills,” says Emma.
“To thread the color palette from one space to another, try tiling a vanity or console table using the same colorway. These are simple additions that make a big difference in an interior. When you insert something into a room that is unexpected or not usually there, it naturally catches the eye and, in this case, brings a welcoming warmth to the space.
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch x Marlborough Tiles)
3. Use a Tile Pattern to Create a Statement Backsplash
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch x Marlborough Tiles)
Kitchen tile ideas usually include the kitchen backsplash, but how can you create one that really catches the eye?
“In a kitchen, one would often tile a backsplash behind a stove to protect the space from spills. In a recent photo shoot, we played with the pattern behind the cooker to create an interesting layout that would become a statement in the room,” says Emma.
“The first was a powder blue block, framed by a plain border. In my home in Wiltshire we have chosen a charcoal column style. This is a more cost effective option (using more plain tiles than patterned tiles) that still creates an impact.
