1. DOT-TO-DOT
Modern and retro at the same time, penny round tiles have timeless appeal. These little glazed porcelain gems from Daltile come in 12-by-12-inch sheets with 13 color choices and cost $14.98 per square foot. Find them at Unique Tile & Marble Center in Rockville (301-230-1425; uniquetileandmarblecenter.com).
2. GRACEFUL CIRCLES
Go for glamour with these glossy, 15-by- 15-inch tiles inspired by Art Deco and Hollywood Regency. The Paramount pattern from Walker Zanger features interlocking circles; is available in four colors, including Clover, pictured; and is priced at $81.70 per square foot through Architectural Ceramics in Chevy Chase (301-718-8343; architecturalceramics.com) and Rockville (301-251-3555; architecturalceramics.com).
3. SOPHISTICATED SPIRALS
Metal lends shimmer and shine to a kitchen, and balances out warm wood tones. Stylish circular patterns from Crossville also provide an element of texture. The squares are available in a wide range of sizes and are $71.04 per square foot through Mosaic Tile in Rockville (301-881-2520; mosaictileco.com).
4. FLOWER POWER
Add vintage Mediterranean charm with a mix of floral and geometric designs. The Barcelona ceramic wall tiles come in 12-by-35-inch sheets that are 1/4-inch thick, in black-and-gray and shades of blue for $12.95 per square foot at Porcelanosa in North Bethesda (240-290-1120; porcelanosa.com).
5. DOUBLE DUTY
For those torn between sleek, modern glass and earthy, natural stone, fret no more. The Westhampton mosaic mix blends the two materials in neutral tones from dark chocolate to pale cream. The combinations of narrow, horizontal tiles are sold in 12-by-12-inch sheets for $19.99 per square foot at The Tile Shop in Rockville (301-610-5070; tileshop.com).
6. A WALL OF WOW
A tile mural can be a fabulous focal point over a range or wet-bar area. This climbing vine mosaic design is customizable with any glass or stone colors. The cost, as shown, with aquamarine and quartz jewel glass, is $191.25 per square foot at Architectural Ceramics in Chevy Chase (301-718-8343; architecturalceramics.com) and Rockville (301-251-3555; architecturalceramics.com).
