Tile is a telltale sign of an era. Think about the colors that defined certain decades: the avocado of the 1970s or the black of the 1980s. Shape too reveals a specific time period: consider the hexagons of the 1920s and the subway tiles of the 1910s. Large 30 x 60 rectangular tiles may be the sleek emblem of contemporary design—I surmise they will act as ambassadors to the noughts (or noughties, for the Brits). Big enough to attract attention, this tile size offers extra style power if they have a special glitter, glow, or gleam. One such dramatic number is the Light Lusion collection by Villeroy & Boch.

Light Lusion Tile Collection. Manufactured by Villeroy & Boch.

Rectangular Tiles Combine Relief and Refulgence

Available in white, silver, crème, and bronze metallic, these tiles showcase luster: “Light Lusion’s innovative design comprises reliefs whose interplay of light and shadow creates unusual colour nuances.” There are two décor themes: a mod pattern of swirls in an oval design and squares in a basketweave configuration (in radiant white and scintillating silver); and a textural pattern of circles in a diagonal grid and hexagons in a striped configuration (in coruscating crème and brilliant bronze). The idea behind Light Lusion is that the designs effect a 3D illusion, making the tiles look like bas-relief sculptures come to life.

From the kitchen to the bathroom, the living room to the office, the Light Lusion Collection makes a bold statement. The layers of pattern combined with the shiny finish give the tiles unbelievable depth. This in turn translates to an astonishing sense of texture.

About the Manufacturer: Villeroy & Boch may be more recognizable for their iconic tableware, as they offer a “complete range of products for a perfectly laid table,” including dinner services, crystalware, cutlery, and gifts and accessories. But the German company–in business for more than 260 years, since its founding in 1748—offers much more than beautiful plates. Villeroy & Boch’s Bathroom & Wellness division designs and manufactures ceramic bathroom collections, high-class bathroom furniture, fittings, tiles, accessories, and radiators, as well as shower, bath, and whirlpool systems.