Spotlight

SAVOY

24th April 2017

While I’ve always imagined that my future kitchen or bathroom would feature white subway tiles – as it’s a timeless look that I can’t get enough of – I was considering a project over the last few weeks that challenged this ideal. The kitchen in question was tucked at the back of an open plan living space, so it was darker than most, while the bathroom was internal, and I realised that while white subway tiling could look great in both spaces, deeper and warmer tones could look even better.

Which brings me to these hexagon tiles from the Savoy range by Gemini Tiles. I’m always drawn to geometric tiles whenever I see a photo popping up on Instagram or Pinterest where this style has been used in a kitchen or bathroom, and this range stands out for its beautiful colour palette of seven hues: Noir, Leaf, Steel, Dew, Caraway, Grain and Oat.

Savoy hexagon tiles by Gemini Tiles.

Also, crucially, my idea of panelled timber cabinetry simply wasn’t going to work in this particular kitchen – it needed to be crisp and contemporary. I was visualising sleek handleless cabinets, perhaps in a dark timber or rich grey finish, which meant that the walls, if anything, became even more important. And these hexagon tiles in a gorgeous subtle grey tone could have created just enough impact.

Savoy Steel hexagon tiles by Gemini Tiles

The hexagonal tiles can either be used in one colour, as photographed here, or mixed and matched for a bolder take on pattern. With these hues, it would be tempting to add a very subtle mix on a larger expanse of wall – in a walk-in shower, for example, where you could add a touch of pattern without making the walls feel too busy.

Personally though, I’d stick with one colour and let the detailing itself create impact. I was visualising black taps here, or brass against the warm grey tones – or against the gorgeous rich brown tones of Caraway. And if this hexagonal shape feels too much used in a whole bathroom, the Savoy range also features a rectangular tile in the same hues and in two different sizes – 200 x 10 x 6.5mm and 300 x 100 x 10mm. Perfect for that classic subway look but with a modern twist.

Savoy hexagon tiles by Gemini Tiles

See the Savoy range from Gemini Tiles.

All photography from Gemini Tiles.

  • Lorien 13th May 2017 at 1:49 pm

    Love these wall tiles, very different and sophisticated!