tile on entry way floor?
we are installing new (to us) main entry doors leading to the parlor-level vestibule. Our contractor has suggested ripping up the terracotta type tile that is currently on the floor and replacing it with new tile. What kind of tile would you suggest–or better yet, what kind of tile do you have in your entry…
we are installing new (to us) main entry doors leading to the parlor-level vestibule. Our contractor has suggested ripping up the terracotta type tile that is currently on the floor and replacing it with new tile. What kind of tile would you suggest–or better yet, what kind of tile do you have in your entry way and do you recommend it?
AEPE, I’d love to see the pic whenever you have the chance. Thanks!
Just any old matte, plain mosaic tile. Could be subway tile, could be small squares. I think the ubiqitious 4×4 tiles look 80s, cheap, and Home Depot — but they’re probably appropriate too.
Victorians had the encaustic tile. It’s still made. I think it’s beautiful. You see it on a lot of store floors in Manhattan. (Fresh on 18th St. has a copy of it.) The walls were plain, wainscott, or decorative plaster.
The teens houses had subway tile on the wall, with a decorative border, and more plain tile on the floor with a different and plainer decorative border — just two stripes going around in basic colors.
Vinca – I will take a pic of it and send it to you. It is multi-colored terra cotta circa 1925. I actually think the house is a bit older than that.
I am not actually looking for period tile, just a tile that is appropriate for vestibule entryways. Marble seems like it would be a bit slick and I’m not interested in the pennytile b/c I doubt my contractor will agree to lay that down. other than that, I’m open.
Thanks all.
My place, built in 1919/20 has very simple terra cotta square tile in the entry vestibule, which is original, maybe the same as the ones you’re considering removing. Seems to be quite durable. It’s unclear from your post whether you’re asking what would be period-appropriate (if so, how old is your house?) or just generally attractive and workable. The mid 1800s brownstone I was in before had two colors of marble inlaid in the entry vestibule, which was a bit weathered but structurally intact.
Depends on the age of the house. What year was it built?
If your tile is not being destroyed while being torn-up, I am interested in it. Can you drop me a line and/or send a photo to: vinca at ymail dot com. Thanks. This is one source for vintage-style tiles and patterns: http://www.restorationtile.com/installations.html
Mine has the original (very tired) marble.