Americo Migliore Advice on Sourcing Unique Tile Materials

Introduction

When it comes to designing remarkable living spaces, tile selection often plays a defining role. While standard options like ceramic, porcelain, and subway tiles are widely used, the magic truly happens when homeowners and designers look beyond the ordinary to source unique tile materials.

These unconventional choices introduce individuality, character, and personality into interiors and exteriors, making spaces stand apart from cookie-cutter designs.

At the forefront of guiding homeowners toward these choices is Americo Migliore, a renowned expert in tile and stone installation based in New York, who has built his career on identifying and working with both timeless and rare tile materials.

His advice is particularly valuable in a market where originality matters more than ever. Americo emphasizes that choosing unique tiles is not only about aesthetics but also about balancing practicality, durability, and sourcing ethics.

Why Unique Tile Materials Matter in Modern Design

Tiles are no longer just functional coverings for floors and walls. They are central to how a home communicates style and identity. Using unique tile materials transforms ordinary rooms into showpieces. For example, recycled glass tiles may add an eco-friendly sparkle, while hand-painted Moroccan zellige tiles create cultural depth.

According to Americo Migliore, homeowners who seek distinctive materials are also investing in long-term value. Rare or customized tiles not only differentiate a space but also withstand passing trends. In high-end markets, particularly in places like New York, unique tile selections signal sophistication and intentional design choices. Americo often reminds clients that the materials they choose today will tell the story of their home for decades to come.

Exploring Natural Stone Beyond the Usual Choices

One of Americo’s primary recommendations is to explore natural stones that are less commonly used. While marble, granite, and slate are household names, there are dozens of other natural stones with striking textures and colors.

For example, soapstone tiles offer a velvety surface that darkens with age, lending warmth to kitchens and bathrooms. Travertine creates a timeless, Mediterranean feel, while limestone provides subtle elegance with its soft hues. Americo advises homeowners to also consider quartzite, which combines the visual appeal of marble with the durability of granite.

In his projects, he often sources natural stone from specialty quarries or trusted distributors who prioritize quality. He stresses that natural stones can dramatically elevate spaces if they are properly sealed and maintained, blending luxury with practicality.

The Revival of Handcrafted Tiles

Another cornerstone of Americo Migliore’s advice lies in handcrafted tiles. In a world of mass production, handmade tiles deliver unparalleled charm. Each tile bears slight variations in shape, glaze, and color, offering authenticity and artistry that machines cannot replicate.

He often recommends Moroccan zellige tiles, which are hand-chiseled and glazed using centuries-old techniques. These tiles bring depth, shine, and individuality to spaces, especially in bathrooms and accent walls. Similarly, hand-painted Spanish or Italian tiles provide bursts of cultural heritage and storytelling.

Americo acknowledges that handcrafted tiles can be more expensive, but he views them as investments. Their timeless quality and ability to infuse spaces with personality ensure they remain appealing long after trends fade.

Recycled and Eco-Friendly Options

With sustainability becoming a priority for many homeowners, Americo Migliore is a strong advocate for exploring recycled and eco-friendly tile materials. Recycled glass tiles, for example, are visually stunning and available in a wide spectrum of colors. They are also resistant to moisture and mold, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and pools.

Another eco-conscious option is tiles made from reclaimed wood or stone, repurposed from older structures. These materials bring history and character into modern spaces while reducing environmental impact.

Americo emphasizes that eco-friendly does not mean compromising on style. Many manufacturers now produce sustainable tiles with cutting-edge designs, proving that luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Metal, Concrete, and Other Modern Alternatives

For clients seeking bold and unconventional looks, Americo suggests exploring tiles made from materials like metal, concrete, and resin.

Metal tiles, often crafted from stainless steel, copper, or brass, introduce industrial flair and are perfect for backsplashes or modern accent walls. Concrete tiles, on the other hand, allow for endless customization in terms of color, pattern, and texture. Resin tiles bring flexibility in design, as they can mimic the appearance of stone, glass, or even fabric.

Americo warns that while these tiles are visually striking, they may require specialized installation or maintenance. His expertise ensures that these unique materials are used effectively without sacrificing functionality.

Custom-Made Tiles for a Personalized Touch

Sometimes, the best way to achieve uniqueness is through custom-made tiles. Americo Migliore frequently collaborates with artisans and manufacturers to create bespoke tile designs tailored to specific projects. These might include tiles with etched family initials, custom glazes to match a homeowner’s color palette, or patterns inspired by a particular era or culture.

By sourcing custom tiles, homeowners ensure that no other space in the world has the same look. Americo highlights this as one of the most powerful ways to create interiors that truly reflect personal identity and taste.

The Importance of Quality Sourcing

Finding unique tiles is only half the challenge; sourcing them responsibly and ensuring they meet high standards is equally critical. Americo Migliore advises homeowners to work only with reputable suppliers who can guarantee authenticity, durability, and ethical sourcing.

For natural stones, this means ensuring tiles are properly graded and cut. For handmade or imported tiles, it involves verifying that they come from skilled artisans who use sustainable practices. Americo often travels to suppliers or works with trusted distributors to ensure his clients receive materials that meet his exacting standards.

Mixing Unique Tiles with Traditional Options

Americo often explains that unique tiles work best when balanced with more traditional or neutral materials. For example, pairing bold encaustic cement tiles with plain white porcelain creates harmony, preventing the design from becoming overwhelming. Similarly, a backsplash featuring metallic tiles can be softened by surrounding it with classic subway tiles.

This approach ensures that unique tiles shine as focal points rather than competing for attention across every surface. Americo’s design philosophy emphasizes that balance is what turns unique materials into timeless elements.

Overcoming Common Challenges with Unique Tiles

While unique tile materials bring unmatched beauty, they also pose challenges. Limited availability, higher costs, and specialized installation requirements can make them intimidating for some homeowners.

Americo’s experience allows him to navigate these challenges smoothly. For instance, if a particular handcrafted tile is limited in stock, he may recommend using it only as an accent rather than across an entire floor. If installation is complex, he employs advanced techniques and tools to ensure flawless results.

He reassures clients that while sourcing and working with unique tiles may require more effort, the final outcome is always worth the investment.

The Long-Term Value of Distinctive Materials

Ultimately, Americo Migliore sees unique tile materials as long-term investments in a home’s beauty and value. While trends may change, the individuality and artistry of these tiles remain timeless. Homes that incorporate rare materials often command higher resale values and leave lasting impressions on visitors.

In New York’s competitive real estate market, Americo has seen firsthand how distinctive tile choices set properties apart. Whether in luxury apartments, brownstones, or suburban homes, unique tiles are conversation starters and reflections of a homeowner’s taste.

Final Thoughts

Sourcing unique tile materials requires vision, expertise, and a discerning eye. Americo Migliore has dedicated his career to helping homeowners and designers embrace originality without sacrificing function or quality. His advice highlights the importance of balancing aesthetics, durability, and ethical sourcing when selecting rare or unconventional tiles.

From handcrafted zellige to recycled glass, from custom creations to little-known natural stones, Americo proves that tile is more than just a building material—it’s an expression of personality and culture. By carefully incorporating these materials into modern spaces, he ensures that every project he undertakes becomes not just a home improvement but a lasting work of art.

For homeowners who want their bathrooms, kitchens, or living spaces to reflect uniqueness, Americo’s guidance is clear: step beyond the ordinary and explore the world of tile materials that tell stories, honor traditions, and define individuality.