ROCCIA Design Centre
Opening Times:
Mon-Fri: 9:00am - 5:30pm
Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sun: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Christmas / New Year Opening Times:
Tue 23rd Dec: 9am - 4pm
Wed 24th Dec to Fri 26th Dec: CLOSED
Sat 27th Dec to Tue 30th Dec: 10am - 4pm
Wed 31st & Thu 1st Jan: CLOSED
The showroom times will operate as usual from Friday 2nd Jan onwards.
Bolton Showroom
Opening Times:
Mon-Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Sat: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Sun: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Christmas / New Year Opening Times:
Tue 23rd Dec: 8am - 4pm
Wed 24th Dec to Fri 26th Dec: CLOSED
Sat 27th Dec to Tue 30th Dec: 10am - 4pm
Wed 31st & Thu 1st Jan: CLOSED
The showroom times will operate as usual from Friday 2nd Jan onwards.
Tiles On Display
Design & Ideas
Bathroom Metro Tiles: A Classic Trend for Modern Bathrooms
Bathroom Metro Tiles: A Classic Trend for Modern Bathrooms Bathroom metro tiles have remained one of the most enduring choices in bathroom design, a classic look that continues to evolve alongside contemporary interiors. While tile trends shift toward larger formats and bold materials, metro tiles hold their place thanks to their timeless appeal, clean lines, and remarkable versatility. Today, there is a wide variety of metro tiles available, with options in different sizes, styles, finishes, and colors to suit any bathroom design. Whether used across full wall tiles, shower enclosures, or feature walls, metro tiles offer a perfect balance between practicality and style, making them ideal for both modern homes and more traditional spaces. What Are Metro Tiles - and Why Do They Work So Well in Bathrooms? Metro tiles, often referred to as subway tiles, originated in early underground transport stations, where glazed, water resistant wall tiles were needed to reflect light and withstand high traffic areas. Metro tiles originated in early 20th-century subway systems, particularly in Paris and New York, and the 'York' style draws inspiration from these classic urban environments. Today, those same qualities make bathroom metro tiles a natural fit for wet environments. Their compact size, durability, and easy-clean surface allow them to perform beautifully in moisture-heavy areas such as showers and splash zones. Metro tiles are typically made from ceramic or porcelain, often feature a glossy finish and beveled edge, and traditionally measure 10x20 cm (4x8 inches). From a design perspective, metro wall tiles also bring structure. Their linear shape introduces rhythm across bathroom walls, creating order without overwhelming the space. The glazed surface of metro tiles is resistant to moisture and stains, making them easy to clean and ideal for bathrooms. Metro tiles are a cost-effective way to achieve a high-end look without the expense of larger stone slabs. Subway Tiles vs Metro Brick Tiles: Understanding the Difference While the terms are often used interchangeably, subtle differences exist between subway tiles and metro brick tiles. Traditional subway tiles tend to have flatter faces and softer edges, creating a smoother, more contemporary surface once laid. Metro brick tiles often feature a bevelled edge, adding depth and shadow lines across the wall. This bevelled detailing enhances the classic look, giving the tile more definition under changing light. Both styles offer versatility, homeowners can choose between sleek minimalism or a more characterful, layered look depending on their style preferences. Sizes, Finishes, and the Evolving Metro Tile Collection Metro tiles now come in a wide range of sizes, finishes, proportions, and colours, far beyond the original small white format. Elongated metro tiles can stretch visual height, while oversized options create fewer grout lines for a calmer finish. Skinny tiles lend themselves beautifully to herringbone or vertical patterns, introducing movement into the room. Finish also plays a defining role: Gloss metro tiles reflect light, create a shimmering effect, and feel fresh, ideal for smaller bathrooms Matt finishes feel softer and more architectural Glazed surfaces offer the highest water resistance From cream and white metro tiles to black and coloured variations, today’s metro tile collection offers a wide selection suited to different bathroom styles. Metro tiles are available in a wide variety of colours, from classic white and black to bold tones like emerald green and navy blue, allowing you to create the perfect atmosphere for your bathroom. Choosing the Right Metro Tiles for Your Bathroom Style The beauty of metro tiles lies in how easily they complement surrounding materials. White metro tiles remain a go-to for brightening bathrooms with limited natural light. Their reflective surface helps smaller spaces feel open and clean. Darker tones, including black or deep green, create moodier, more contemporary bathrooms, particularly when paired with brass or matte black fittings. For industrial bathrooms, matt metro wall tiles paired with concrete or wood finishes create texture and contrast. In more traditional homes, bevelled white tiles paired with polished chrome taps reinforce a classic aesthetic. Layouts That Transform Metro Tile Walls Layout is where metro tiles truly come to life. Brick Bond: The Timeless Foundation Brick bond remains the most recognisable layout, where tiles are staggered horizontally. This arrangement enhances the timeless appeal of metro tiles and suits both modern and traditional bathrooms. Herringbone Patterns Herringbone layouts introduce movement and craftsmanship. Often used in feature walls, shower niches, or backsplash-style vanity walls, this pattern adds detail without overwhelming the room. Vertical Stacking Vertically laid metro tiles are a growing trend in contemporary bathrooms. This orientation draws the eye upward, making ceilings feel higher and spaces more architectural. Grout as a Design Element Grout colour dramatically influences the final look. Matching grout creates a seamless surface, while contrasting grout emphasises tile shape and pattern. Used thoughtfully, grout can shift metro tiles from subtle to striking. Where to Use Bathroom Metro Tiles Metro wall tiles are most commonly used in showers, behind basins, and across full bathroom walls. Full-height tiling creates cohesion, while half-height applications paired with painted walls feel lighter and more decorative. Feature walls behind vanities or bathtubs allow metro tiles to create focal points without dominating the entire room. Because they’re durable and water resistant, metro tiles also work beautifully in kitchens, particularly as splash backs, reinforcing their cross-room versatility. Installation and Practical Considerations Because metro tiles are smaller format wall tiles, careful installation is essential. Consistent spacing, level alignment, and clean grout lines all contribute to a refined result. Bathrooms require moisture-resistant substrates, particularly in shower areas. Professional installation is recommended for intricate layouts like herringbone, where precision matters most. Maintenance, Durability, and Everyday Care Metro tiles are known for their easy maintenance, one of the reasons they remain so widely stocked and specified. Glazed surfaces resist spills and stains, requiring only mild cleaners and a damp cloth to maintain their shine. Regular grout cleaning helps keep the installation looking fresh over time. Their durability makes them ideal for busy family homes where bathrooms see daily use. Styling Inspiration: Modern Ways to Use Metro Tiles Metro tiles continue to inspire designers because of how easily they adapt. A white gloss subway tile bathroom feels clean and spa-like. Black metro tiles paired with gold fittings create a sleek, luxurious contrast. Coloured tiles, from soft cream to deep jewel tones, add personality, while bevelled metro brick tiles introduce subtle shadow and texture across walls. From minimalist ensuites to industrial family bathrooms, metro tiles offer endless inspiration while maintaining a cohesive foundation. Final Thoughts: Why Metro Tiles Remain a Bathroom Staple Few wall tiles offer the same balance of affordability, durability, and stylistic flexibility as metro tiles. Their ability to reflect light, complement varied materials, and adapt to evolving bathroom styles ensures they remain a classic trend within modern homes. Whether you opt for gloss white, matt black, or a coloured metro selection, the result is a bathroom that feels timeless, practical, and effortlessly stylish. Metro tile prices can vary, with options starting around £9.89 per sqm and going up to over £40 per sqm depending on the style and material. Ready to transform your space? Shop our collection of metro tiles to find the perfect fit for your home.
Marble Bathroom: Floor-to-Ceiling Designs That Feel Soft, Not Showy
Marble Bathroom: Floor-to-Ceiling Designs That Feel Soft, Not Showy A marble bathroom has long been a symbol of luxury, but floor-to-ceiling marble can sometimes feel intimidating. For many homeowners, the question isn’t whether marble is beautiful, it’s whether using it extensively will feel too grand, too cool, or overly formal. Generally, when considering marble in bathroom design, it’s important to weigh factors like cost, maintenance, and the practical differences between natural marble and marble-look alternatives. In reality, when approached with care, a marble bathroom can feel soft, elegant, and deeply atmospheric rather than showy. The beauty of marble tiles lies in their ability to wrap a bathroom in a continuous surface, creating calm rather than visual noise. Real marble is generally expensive and requires more maintenance compared to alternatives like porcelain. This guide explores bathroom design ideas for creating floor-to-ceiling marble spaces that feel refined, warm, and timeless, whether you’re designing a modern ensuite or a more classic family bathroom. Rethinking the Marble Bathroom The concept of a marble bathroom often brings to mind polished hotel interiors, glossy walls, dramatic contrast, and high shine. But residential bathroom design benefits from a softer interpretation. When marble floor tiles, wall tiles, and shower surfaces are installed cohesively, the room becomes immersive rather than decorative. Instead of acting as a feature, marble becomes the architecture of the space itself. This approach works particularly well in bathrooms with good natural light, where stone surfaces can reflect and diffuse light gently across the room. The result is a sense of quiet grandeur, elegant but never overwhelming. A designer can help achieve the perfect balance between luxury and comfort in a marble bathroom, ensuring the space feels both sophisticated and inviting. The Role of Finish: How Surface Treatment Shapes Atmosphere Finish is one of the most influential, yet underestimated, design decisions in a marble bathroom. Polished marble has a reflective surface that enhances shine and amplifies light. It can feel striking and luxurious, especially when paired with brass or gold fittings, but too much polish can tip a space toward formality. Honed marble, by contrast, offers a softer, more refined finish. It absorbs rather than reflects light, creating a calm, velvety impression that feels particularly suited to bathrooms designed for relaxation. For safety, honed (matte) finishes are recommended on marble floors to improve slip resistance. Textured or brushed stone surfaces introduce depth and improve grip underfoot, ideal for marble floor tiles in wet zones such as a walk-in shower. Incorporating round edges on marble surfaces or using penny round mosaic tiles can further enhance both the aesthetic softness and functional safety of a marble bathroom. The choice of finish ultimately shapes whether the room feels sleek and modern or warm and timeless. Scale and Tile Size: Creating Visual Calm Tile scale plays a crucial role in how floor-to-ceiling marble is experienced. Large marble tiles reduce grout lines and visual breaks, allowing veining and natural pattern to flow uninterrupted across walls and floors. This continuity enhances the sense of space, making even smaller bathrooms feel expansive. Tiles with thick veining can create a bold visual impact and significantly influence the overall ambiance of the marble bathroom. Smaller tile formats, mosaics, geometric shapes, or decorative inserts, can still be incorporated, but work best as detail moments. For example, a mosaic shower floor or vanity backdrop adds texture and provides a visual break in the marble surface, adding interest and contrast without interrupting the overall calmness. In essence, large tiles create serenity; smaller tiles create emphasis. Marble-Look Alternatives: Practical and Affordable Options While natural stone carries undeniable allure, marble-look ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles offer a more affordable and practical solution, particularly in family bathrooms or high-traffic spaces. Competitors generally compare real marble and marble-look alternatives, noting that marble-look materials are more practical and cost-effective for many homeowners. Advances in manufacturing mean ceramic tiles can now replicate the shades, veining, and texture of real marble with impressive accuracy. They’re also more durable, less porous, and easier to maintain. Marble-look alternatives are usually much easier to care for and less expensive than real marble. High-quality marble-look alternatives can provide a similar aesthetic to real marble without the associated costs. For homeowners balancing budget with beauty, combining real marble in focal areas with marble-look tiles elsewhere can create the perfect blend of luxury and practicality. Real marble is unique, with natural markings not replicated in marble-look alternatives, and it generally has a higher resale value. Both real marble and marble-look materials can be chosen to suit the specific needs and style of your bathroom. Exploring Marble Colours and Their Design Impact White Marble: Light-Reflecting Elegance White marble is often considered the most classic and elegant choice for floor-to-ceiling bathrooms, with Carrara marble being a well-known variety. Its ability to reflect natural light keeps the room feeling fresh, open, and expansive. Pair white marble with brushed brass taps, warm wood furniture, or soft gold accents to introduce warmth and prevent the space from feeling too cool. This combination feels elegant, timeless, and quietly luxurious. Carrara Marble: Soft Veining and Versatility Carrara marble is one of the most recognisable natural stones, loved for its feathery grey veining and softer contrast. Carrara works beautifully across floors, shower walls, and vanity splashbacks, offering movement without heaviness. Adding a bit of mosaic detail, such as penny round or herringbone patterns, can enhance the space and give your marble bathroom a bit more personality while maintaining cohesion. Marble mosaics, such as penny round or herringbone patterns, are trending for their aesthetic appeal and versatility. Because carrara marble is porous, sealing is essential to preserve its beauty over time. Black Marble: Depth and Drama Black and dark-toned marble tiles introduce contrast and mood, creating a moody, sophisticated atmosphere in the bathroom. When balanced with lighter stone, reflective mirrors, or warm metallic elements, black marble feels dramatic without overwhelming the room. Pairing black stone floors with lighter walls, for example, creates visual grounding while maintaining openness. Green Marble: Biophilic and Spa-Inspired Green marble has grown in popularity thanks to its connection to nature. Its layered colours, from deep forest to pale sage, introduce a calming, biophilic quality. Paired with plants, wood accents, and soft lighting, green marble bathrooms feel restorative and spa-like, blending luxury with natural inspiration. Designing Marble Bathrooms That Feel Layered While floor-to-ceiling marble creates cohesion, layering is key to preventing flatness. Designers often introduce variation through: Bookmatched marble slabs Mosaic insets Framed bath or vanity walls Contrasting grout or subtle pattern shifts These elements add depth and texture while maintaining a refined overall impression. Where Marble Works Best in the Bathroom Marble can be used extensively or selectively depending on lifestyle and budget. It works particularly well on: Bathroom floors Shower enclosures Vanity countertops Full-height feature walls Bathtub backdrops When carried across floor, walls, and even ceiling in some designs, marble creates a seamless envelope that feels immersive and luxurious. Maintenance, Durability, and Everyday Function Natural marble requires thoughtful care, but with the right maintenance it remains both beautiful and durable. Regular sealing protects against stains, while gentle, pH-neutral cleaners preserve the stone’s surface. Immediate attention to spills, particularly in shower or bath zones, helps maintain long-term performance. Marble-look ceramic tiles, meanwhile, offer a lower-maintenance alternative for households prioritising ease of upkeep. Final Thoughts: The Soft Power of Marble A floor-to-ceiling marble bathroom doesn’t have to feel imposing. When balanced with warm materials, softer finishes, and thoughtful lighting, marble becomes calming rather than commanding. The result is a bathroom that feels elegant, stylish, and timeless, a space where natural stone, light, and design come together to create quiet luxury that endures well beyond trends. Frequently Asked Questions about Marble Bathrooms 1. How do I maintain and care for marble surfaces in my bathroom? To keep marble looking its best, regular sealing is essential to protect against stains. Use gentle, pH-neutral cleaners and avoid acidic substances that can etch the surface. Dry marble surfaces after cleaning to prevent water spots, and reseal the marble every 6 to 12 months depending on use. 2. Are marble-look tiles a good alternative to real marble in bathrooms? Yes, marble-look ceramic and porcelain tiles offer a practical and affordable alternative. They replicate the appearance of real marble with less maintenance, greater durability, and better resistance to water, making them ideal for high-traffic or family bathrooms. 3. What types of marble are most popular for bathroom design? White marble, especially Carrara marble, is a classic choice for its light-reflecting qualities and timeless elegance. Black marble offers dramatic contrast, while green marble adds a natural, spa-like feel. Each type brings its own unique character to a bathroom space. 4. Can marble be used safely in wet areas like showers? Marble is suitable for wet areas if properly sealed and maintained. Honed or textured finishes improve slip resistance, making them safer choices for floors and shower surfaces. Regular maintenance helps prevent water damage and staining. 5. How can I incorporate marble into my bathroom without it feeling too cold or formal? Balance marble surfaces with warm materials such as wood vanities, brass or gold fixtures, and soft lighting. Adding plants or textured tiles can create a layered, inviting atmosphere that complements the natural beauty of marble without overwhelming the space.
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas That Elevate Your Space
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas That Elevate Your Space A kitchen backsplash is often one of the final elements chosen in a kitchen renovation project, yet it has the power to transform the entire room. More than just a practical splashback, the right backsplash tiles protect kitchen walls from spills and heat while acting as a striking design feature that ties together cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. A backsplash can also be a low-maintenance option that adds a personalised look to kitchen walls, allowing you to showcase your unique style with ease. Kitchen backsplash tile ideas can also serve as inspiration for homeowners, helping you visualise and plan a stylish and functional kitchen space. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or refining details in your dream kitchen, thoughtful kitchen backsplash tile ideas can add texture, character, and lasting style to your cooking space. Why the Kitchen Backsplash Matters in Kitchen Design At its most functional, a kitchen backsplash protects the wall behind the hob and worktop from cooking splashes, heat, and stains. But from a design perspective, it does far more. A well-designed kitchen backsplash: Anchors the kitchen visually Introduces texture, colour, or pattern without overwhelming the space Creates a natural transition between cabinetry and worktop surfaces Adds personality while maintaining a timeless look Because the backsplash occupies a focused area, it’s the perfect place to introduce detail or contrast in an otherwise restrained kitchen design. A kitchen backsplash can also serve as a piece of art, becoming a decorative focal point that elevates the overall aesthetic of the space. Kitchen Backsplash Ideas: Finding the Right Style Direction There’s a growing trend toward using backsplash tiles as a design moment rather than a background surface. Some kitchens benefit from subtle, tone-on-tone tile choices that quietly complement wood cabinetry or marble countertops. Others use bold patterns, mosaics, or handmade tiles to create a more personalised, statement-making design that reflects your unique style. When exploring kitchen backsplash ideas, it helps to decide early whether you want: A backsplash that blends seamlessly into the kitchen walls A tile backsplash that acts as a focal point A balance between the two, where texture does the talking rather than colour Bolder geometric patterns are favored in contemporary spaces for backsplash design. This clarity makes it easier to narrow down tile materials, shapes, and layouts. Choosing the Right Tiles for a Kitchen Backsplash Different kitchen tiles offer different visual and practical benefits, making material choice one of the most important decisions. Ceramic tile remains a favourite for backsplash tiles thanks to its versatility, durability, and wide range of colours and finishes. From classic subway tiles to modern shapes, ceramic tiles suit both traditional and modern kitchens. Porcelain tiles offer excellent durability and stain resistance, making them ideal for busy cooking spaces where spills are part of daily life. Glass tiles reflect light beautifully and can help smaller kitchens feel brighter, though they show marks more easily and require regular wiping with a damp cloth. Stainless steel tiles work particularly well in modern kitchens and pair effortlessly with stainless steel appliances, creating a cohesive, professional feel around the hob. Natural stone tiles, such as marble, add natural variation and elegance, but they require sealing and careful maintenance to protect against stains. Hand painted tiles introduce charm and individuality, offering a unique style that feels handcrafted rather than mass-produced. Tile Backsplash Materials and Durability Durability is just as important as appearance, especially in high-heat zones near the hob or range. Porcelain and stainless steel perform particularly well where heat and moisture are constant. Ceramic tiles are durable and easy to maintain, while natural stone and handmade tiles need a little more care to preserve their beauty. Choosing materials that suit how you cook ensures your backsplash continues to look stylish long after installation. Hand Painted and Handmade Tile Backsplashes Hand painted tiles are often chosen for their character and artistic quality. Slight variations in colour, pattern, and shape give these tiles a depth that machine-made options can’t replicate. They work beautifully as: A framed splashback behind a range A decorative panel in an otherwise modern kitchen A subtle pop of colour in a neutral space Because handmade tiles are often more porous, sealing is essential to protect them from spills and stains, particularly in areas exposed to cooking splashes. Styling Kitchen Backsplashes for a Timeless Look While trends come and go, certain backsplash styling choices tend to age better than others. Full-height tile backsplashes that run from worktop to ceiling create a clean, architectural look that feels intentional and modern. Subway tiles laid in a simple pattern offer a timeless look, while mosaics or bold shapes add interest when used in moderation. Colour plays a key role too. Dark tiles can add drama and contrast, while lighter tiles reflect light and help keep the space feeling open. Even a subtle yellow or green tone can add warmth without overpowering the room. Designing a Backsplash Around Stainless Steel Appliances Stainless steel appliances often act as visual anchors in a modern kitchen. Pairing them with backsplash tiles that complement their finish creates a more cohesive look. Matt or softly textured tiles balance the reflective nature of stainless steel, while grout colour choices can subtly enhance or soften contrast. Stainless steel tile sections behind the hob can also echo appliances while providing excellent heat resistance. Installation and Maintenance Considerations Some backsplash tiles are suitable for confident DIY installation, but complex patterns, mosaics, or large-format tiles are often best installed by a professional. Many tiles, such as ceramic, subway, and mosaic tiles, are designed for easy DIY install, allowing homeowners to install a backsplash in a weekend. Peel and Stick Tile is ideal for backsplashes that can be installed in one weekend for a DIY project. Maintenance is generally simple: Wipe tiles regularly with a damp cloth or mild cleaner to keep backsplash kitchen tiles looking fresh Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage grout or surfaces Reseal grout or natural stone as needed Good installation and aftercare protect both the tile and the kitchen wall tiles beneath. Kitchen Design Tips Using Backsplash Tiles In smaller kitchens, simpler tile layouts and lighter colours help keep the space feeling balanced. Larger kitchens can handle bolder patterns or darker tones without feeling heavy. The backsplash should complement, not compete with, cabinetry, floor finishes, and worktops. Even when using bold tile, keeping surrounding surfaces calm allows the backsplash to shine without overwhelming the room. Budgeting for a Kitchen Backsplash Backsplashes offer one of the best opportunities to introduce style without exceeding budget. Because the tiled area is relatively small, investing in higher-quality or handmade tiles can still be achievable. Ordering samples allows you to see how tiles interact with light, wood tones, marble surfaces, and cabinetry before committing, an essential step for achieving a perfect blend. Final Thoughts: Elevating the Kitchen Through Thoughtful Tile Choices Kitchen backsplash tiles may cover only a small surface, but their impact on the room is significant. When chosen with care, they protect, enhance, and personalise the kitchen, turning a functional splashback into a lasting design feature. Whether your style is bold or subtle, modern or classic, the right backsplash tiles bring character, durability, and elegance to the heart of the home, and that’s what makes a kitchen truly complete.
