In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman visits the Clay & Rock showroom in Fulham and chats with Jamie Moakes, the store manager. Together, they explore the vast and creative world of tiles, from wall and floor solutions to choosing the right materials for practicality and style. With Clay & Rock’s strong design-led philosophy and manufacturing expertise, Jamie and Faye discuss how to navigate tile selection confidently, whether you're embarking on a full kitchen renovation or just looking to refresh a space.

Key Takeaways

Tiles are an excellent way to inject character into your kitchen. Like cushions in a living room, they can reflect your style and pull a scheme together with colour, texture, and pattern.

Porcelain tiles are the top choice for practicality, especially in high-traffic kitchen areas. They are durable, easy to clean, and have minimal maintenance compared to natural stone.

Natural stone offers unmatched beauty and character but requires more upkeep. Porcelain mimics natural materials effectively and is ideal if you prefer a 'fit and forget' solution.

Jamie emphasises the importance of early planning, choosing tiles before booking tradespeople to ensure seamless design and avoid last-minute compromises.

Best Moments

“Tiles are almost like the cushions of the kitchen, they bring energy, colour, and a personal touch.”

“Grout is a practical solution, not a feature. You’re buying tiles, not grout!”

“Start early. The earlier you plan, the more choices you’ll have and the better your results will be.”

“Design isn’t just about what’s in fashion—it’s about what you truly love.”

About Clay & Rock

Clay & Rock is a design-led tile retailer and part of the Original Style Group, offering high-quality wall and floor tiles for every space. With showrooms across the UK, including their flagship in Fulham, they combine expert craftsmanship with bespoke options, from traditional Victorian floors to custom decorative designs. Clay & Rock are known for their attention to detail, from unique glazes to perfectly finished trims, helping customers create beautifully tailored interiors with both style and substance.

https://www.clayandrock.co.uk/

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

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