National Tiles Day: Why & How to Celebrate it?

Happy National Tiles Day!

Around 4000 BC, the first use of decorative tiles was discovered in Egypt. The Romans and Greeks were also fans of decorative tiles, and some beautiful tile work can be found in mosaics, murals, and several other places.

The Elamite Temple at Chogha Zanbil, which dates from the 13th century BC, is one of the earliest uses of tiles. Another stunning example is Babylon's Ishtar Gate, which dates from around 575 BC. The Achaemenid Empire also used glazed tiles to decorate their buildings. The Sassanid Empire valued decorative tiles as well, which were used to create geometric designs of flowers, plants, birds, and people.

For thousands of years, tiles have been used to create elegant and beautiful spaces. However, there has been a significant increase in the creativity, methodology, and application of tiles in recent years. They are used to create breathtaking displays both outside and inside homes, businesses, and institutions of all types. Modern tiles are available in a wide range of colours and can be ordered for everything from swimming pools and walls on the outside to bathrooms, kitchens, and even works of art on the inside.

To appreciate the history, use, and durability of tiles, February 23rd is celebrated as National Tile Day. The day honours a perpetual element of architecture and design. From the simple to the majestic, tile is one of the most practical and beautiful building materials. Tiles are not just to add beauty to the space, but they have an essential utility to them. The surfaces that people walk on should be made in such a way that their day-to-day lives are comforted with the right design and surface of tiles. 

For some, Tile Day is just another day, but it deserves to be recognized. Consider the maker to be an artist, and the work to be art. Value and acknowledge the fact that this century-old art form has evolved in such a way that it is still relevant, useful, and commercially successful. Celebrate it for its cultural roots as well as India's global strides in the $300 billion ceramic-tile industry. India has been progressing to become the market leader in the tile industry. So the day does not remain just another boring day, it holds a special place due to its history and art, and it is a prominent part of India’s growth story. 

How should you celebrate the day?

• Take a moment to appreciate the fine craftsmanship of the tile work around you.

• Consider using tile in your design if you are planning a renovation or new construction.

• Surf Tileswale's website and app for tile designs for your home or business.

• Make a preview on Tilesview to see how your chosen tiles will look in your space.

• Save and share those preview images on Instagram and Twitter with the hashtags #NationalTileDay and #Tileswalatileday to show off your best-designed space.

On this special day, the only limit to what you can create with today's stunning tiles is your imagination. Appreciate and spread awareness of how beautifully tiles are made and how beautiful tiles make our spaces. 

Happy National Tile Day to everyone from Tileswale.