Feature Tiles
Feature tiles are chosen for their visual impact and are often used in bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, outdoor areas, and commercial spaces. They bring texture, colour or pattern to a wall or floor and can help define the style of a room. At Cheap Tiles Online, you can compare many shapes and finishes across a large range, all supported by our Price Beat Guarantee.
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Popular Feature tile looks
Stone look
Stone look tiles add depth and gentle variation without the maintenance that real stone requires. They work well on bathroom walls, in living room niches and across outdoor entertaining areas where you want a natural feel but need something easier to look after.
Terrazzo look
Terrazzo look tiles feature a mix of colour chips that bring movement and interest to a room. They suit bathrooms, laundries and entry zones where a bit of pattern can lift the overall space. The speckled surface also pairs nicely with simple cabinetry and neutral wall colours.
Moroccan and artisan styles
Tiles with handmade or irregular finishes offer a softer, more character-driven look. These tiles suit splashbacks, shower walls and small feature areas where the texture can stand out without overwhelming the room. Their slight variation gives the surface a warm, lived-in feel.
Geometric and patterned designs
Patterned tiles make a clear design statement and can shift the mood of the room depending on the colours and shapes used. They suit both modern and traditional homes, whether you want a bold feature wall or a small highlight behind open shelving.
Textured surfaces
Textured tiles create shadow, movement and added interest. They are often used on feature walls or vertical surfaces where a plain tile might feel too flat. The texture helps break up the light and brings more character into the space.
Materials you can use for feature areas
Porcelain
Porcelain suits both floors and walls and is often chosen when durability is important. It handles high-use spaces well and works effectively for larger feature walls where a consistent finish is needed. Many porcelain options also replicate stone or concrete looks with very little upkeep.
Ceramic
Ceramic tiles are commonly used for feature walls, splashbacks and decorative accents. They come in a wide range of colours, shapes and finishes, making it easy to build a specific look without overcomplicating the installation. They are lightweight, simple to clean and often the most accessible choice for everyday feature areas.
Natural stone
Natural stone offers strong visual appeal, with each piece carrying its own variation and character. Stone is generally used for selective feature areas where you want a more premium, organic finish. It usually requires sealing and some ongoing care, but the result is a unique surface that stands out.
How to choose feature tiles?
Consider the room size
Feature wall tiles can completely change the feel of a room, so the scale of the space matters. Bold colours or strong patterns often work well in small feature sections, while larger rooms can carry bigger patterns or textured surfaces without feeling crowded. Bathroom feature wall tiles, for example, can make a compact shower or vanity wall feel more defined without overwhelming the room.
Think about contrast
A feature tile usually makes the most impact when it contrasts with the main tile in terms of colour, texture, or shape. This applies whether you are choosing indoor tiles or outdoor feature wall tiles for entry areas or alfresco spaces. If you prefer a more understated look, choose a tile that blends softly but still adds interest through texture or tone.
Check installation needs
Some feature layouts, such as herringbone, mosaics or slim vertical tiles, require more precise cutting and extra layout planning. Tiles used on curved or uneven walls may also need more adjustments during installation.
Plan the grout finish
Grout plays a significant role in how feature wall tiles appear once installed. A matching grout colour keeps the surface calm and blended, while a contrast grout highlights the tile pattern and makes each shape more noticeable.
Consider maintenance
Different feature tiles need different levels of care. Stone and heavily textured tiles may require a bit more ongoing cleaning than smooth ceramic or porcelain surfaces. This is worth keeping in mind if the feature wall is located near a cooktop, shower, or outdoor entertaining area.
Feature tile FAQs
Consider the area you want to highlight and the level of boldness you desire for the look. Start with the colour palette of your room and choose a tile that complements or adds contrast.
Either approach can work. Matching creates a soft shift in texture, while contrast creates a clear focal point. It depends on how much attention you want the feature to attract.
Small tiles add detail and suit compact areas. Larger tiles create a calmer surface and are suitable for wide walls. The best option depends on the room's scale.
Yes, as long as the tile is suitable for wet areas. Porcelain tiles are a good option here as they are naturally water-resistant.
Some patterned or shaped tiles can take more time to install. Your tiler can give a clearer cost once they see the layout.
It depends on the type of feature tile. Porcelain and ceramic do not need sealing. Natural stone usually does.
Contrast grout highlights patterns and shapes. Matching grout keeps the look smoother. The right choice depends on the effect you want.
Yes, samples help you see the colour and texture in your own light. It is the easiest way to confirm your choice before placing an order.
