Those considering renovating their home with kitchen tiling and taking inspiration from contemporary design trends may wish to consider installing a central island.
Helen Bygraves and Jenny Weiss, directors of hillhouseinteriors.com and members of the Society of British Interior design, claimed this is currently in vogue.
The trend was attributed to a growing desire to entertain guests in the home, so stools were recommended to aid a sociable feel to the workspaces.
"Open-plan living is an opportunity when you're designing your kitchen and having more of an open space is much more in vogue," the experts remarked.
In terms of flooring, they suggested opting for traditional dark colourings, possibly influenced by wood styling or metallic options for a high-tech feel.
Interior designer George Bond suggested this may also be a popular option for those who are giving their bathrooms a makeover in 2012, explaining this is even the case in much older houses.
