When it comes to remodeling, many people think cabinets, countertops, and lighting should come first. But there’s a case to be made for starting with tile. Why? Because tile sets the tone. It determines the mood, the color palette, and often the functionality of a space. At APW Flooring, we believe tile-first thinking can take a remodel from good to unforgettable.
Think about your bathroom remodel in Fuquay-Varina. You might dream of a rainfall shower and a freestanding tub — but until you choose your tile, you won’t know if you’re creating a coastal retreat, modern oasis, or art deco hideaway. Tile helps shape the story of your space, right from the start.
In Angier, many of our clients begin their remodels by choosing a showpiece tile — maybe a marble mosaic, a deep indigo subway, or a patterned encaustic floor. From there, we build the rest of the room’s design — vanity, wall color, lighting — around that star element.
In Dunn and Kennebec, large-format tile is becoming a favorite for bathrooms and kitchens. These oversized slabs mean fewer grout lines, which creates a sleek, seamless look that makes rooms appear larger and cleaner. Plus, they’re easier to maintain — a huge bonus for busy households.
Accent walls in tile are also on the rise. A floor-to-ceiling tiled wall behind a vanity or kitchen range adds drama and sophistication. Textured tiles, like wave patterns or stacked stone, create depth and interest even in monochromatic spaces.
Color-wise, we’re seeing a resurgence of earthy tones in tile: terracotta, olive, sand, and clay. These pair beautifully with natural woods, matte black fixtures, and brushed gold accents. Clients in Holly Springs and Chalybeate Springs are loving the warm, grounded energy this palette brings to their homes.
Tile also plays well with modern technology. Digital printing means you can now get ultra-realistic stone and wood looks — complete with knots, veins, and texture — on porcelain or ceramic tiles that are easier to clean and far more affordable.
And for those in Buies Creek or Willow Spring planning full remodels, don’t overlook transitional areas like the laundry room or mudroom. Durable, water-resistant tile with fun pops of pattern can elevate these utility spaces into places you actually enjoy using.
At APW Flooring, we work from the ground up — literally. By starting your remodel with tile in mind, we create cohesive, customized spaces that feel deliberate, connected, and truly yours. From the floor beneath your feet to the accents on your walls, tile is more than just a material — it’s your home’s foundation of style.
