Rasta

Shaquille T. Sailsman Literature and Composition March 26,2013 Rastafarianism The Rastafarian religion has a wide range of components. These components include: history, convictions, customs/culture, festivities, and revering. Rastafarians put stock in the celestial idea of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, whose title before his crowning ceremony of 1930 who Ras Tafari (Prince of the House of Tafari). The name Haile Selassie implies â€Å"Power of Trinity. † He was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930-1974. Haile Selassie never viewed himself as God, nor did he stick to Rastafari.According to iconn. organization, Rastafarians see Haile Selassie I as God in light of the fact that Marcus Garvey’s prescience †â€Å"Look to Africa where a dark ruler will be delegated, he will be the Redeemer† †was quickly trailed by the rising of Haile Selassie as Emperor of Ethiopia. Haile Selassie I is viewed by Rastafarians as the God of the dark race. The Rastafarian religion started in Jamaica during the 1930s. The religion was shaped after times of subjection. Rastafarians viewed Jamaica as hellfire and Ethiopia as heaven.Rastafarians called Jamaica damnation since Africans were split and sent to goals all through the world, by and large as captives to whites. This is the reason numerous Africans ended up in Jamaica. Ethiopia, the country, was viewed as a position of affectionate recollections of opportunity and life before abuse. This implied it in the end became viewed as paradise. â€Å"Rastafarians trusts Jah (God) lives on in some structure, and accepts that one day he will achieve the arrival of every dark individuals to their hereditary home in Africa,† (Breuilly, O’Brien, Palmer, 152).When Rastafarians have children, they bring up their children to have confidence in Jah and after a particular age they ought to have the option to distinguish what his identity is. They are additionally raised to accept that one day he will be raised from the dead and take them back to Africa, their alleged country. Rastafarians devote themselves to getting ready for this homecoming, developing nearer to Jah, (Breuilly, O’Brien, Palmer). They do this by developing harmony and amicability with all and by living in a manner that is near nature, imitating Jah.Another way Rastas attempt to mirror Jah is by dismissing rehearses presented from white culture, which is emblematically called â€Å"Babylon. † The way of life of Rastafarian is to censure the eating of meat. They are for the most part vegans. So as to profoundly develop as an individual, meat must be continuously dispensed with from the eating regimen. As per www. iconn. organization, â€Å"the fundamental explanation Rastafarians don't eat meat is on the grounds that creatures make a decent attempt to escape. The dread of the creatures can be found in their eyes.It is apparent that they are asking for leniency. Rastafarians should show kindness. I nside the book of beginning, the LORD gave man domain over creatures. It was not to eat them yet to think about them. † A productive sound body is exceptionally fundamental. The Rastafarian's eating regimen is intended to meet their own needs. The Rastafarian's food is typically alluded to as ital food inside the Rastafarian culture. The most customary approach to realize a Rastafarian is by their dreadlocks. A few people may wear their hair the Rastafarian way †dreadlocks †without being focused on Rastafarian conviction or way of life, while numerous devotees feel committed to forsake the conventional hairdos for picking up or staying in employment,† (Breuilly, O’Brien, Palmer, 152). Rastas wear dreadlocks since they don't have confidence in trimming or brushing their hair. It is additionally the manner in which some antiquated African clerics and Israelites wore their hair. In some cases you see a green, red and yellow shaded cap over a Rasta's hair. T hese are the shades of the banner of Ethiopia.Rastas additionally wear a turban, which is a headband dependent on fabric twisting, over their head to secure and keep their dreadlocks clean. As per www. iconn. organization, the sacred herb, or referred to most as cannabis or ganja, is utilized in all significant Rastafarian festivals to improve sentiments of harmony and network, help reflection and move strict dreams. There has regularly been contention concerning the sanctioning of cannabis. Rastafarians are maybe most popular for their strict utilization of maryjane, which develops copiously in Jamaica. Notwithstanding custom use, Rastas additionally use maryjane for therapeutic purposes, applying it o an assortment of illnesses including colds. Numerous devotees likewise accept that pot helps in the love of God, Bible investigation, and contemplation. In spite of the fact that not all Rastafarians use maryjane, most trust it will carry an individual closer to God. Reggae music beg an as a significant piece of Rastafarian festivals †declaring the pride and poise of dark individuals, dismissal of white abuse, the magnificence of Africa and dreams of a serene future. Reggae music is personally associated with Rastafari and its verses regularly talk about persecution, destitution, servitude, politically-sanctioned racial segregation and human rights.One of the most significant figures in attempting to spread reggae music was Bob Marley. Conceived Nesta Robert Marley (1974â€1981), he remains the most generally known and the smash hit entertainer of reggae music, and is credited with helping spread both Jamaican music and the Rastafari development to an overall crowd. A Nyabingi service unites devotees from a more extensive region, and regularly last from a few days. At these services, there are reciting, drumming, singing, supplicating, and moving just as shaving of vegan food and smoking of marijuana.Some events for a Nyabingi depend on the Julian schedul e utilized by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church; with the Rastafarian confidence has solid connections. Sacred days and occasions are times of serious occasions for the Rastafarian people group around the world. The Holy days are to supplicate and request retribution, satisfying 2 Chronicles 7v14, â€Å"If my kin who are called by my name, will lower themselves and implore, scan for me and atone of their insidious ways, at that point I will get notification from paradise and pardon their wrongdoings and recuperate their territory. † (Himchurch. org).Some Rastafarian festivals incorporates: Ethiopian New Year †Sept eleventh (speaks to a vacation, which is, saw with a short Prayer Service from 10am-11am), Christmas Day †Jan. seventh (Rastafarians watched this as a vacation), Haile Selassie’s Birthday †July 23rd, and the Anniversary of his crowning celebration †Nov. second, (Breuilly, O’Brien, Palmer, 153). Compelling prophets and instructors may li kewise be recognized, yet there is no official celebration schedule. Rastafarians don't have a particular strict structure that is saved for worshipping.They normally meet week by week, either in a believers’ home or in a public venue. The gatherings are alluded to as Reasoning Sessions. They give a chance to serenades, supplications and singing, and for collective issues to be talked about. Maryjane might be smoked to create elevated otherworldly states. The music utilized at these gatherings is known as Nyabingi, thus when gatherings are generally melodic they are frequently alluded to as Nyabingi gatherings. Gatherings may likewise incorporate huge dining experiences. Rastafarians lay incredible weight on singular book of scriptures study and understanding. Rasta Shaquille T. Sailsman Literature and Composition March 26,2013 Rastafarianism The Rastafarian religion has a wide range of components. These components include: history, convictions, customs/culture, festivities, and loving. Rastafarians have faith in the awesome idea of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, whose title before his royal celebration of 1930 who Ras Tafari (Prince of the House of Tafari). The name Haile Selassie implies â€Å"Power of Trinity. † He was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930-1974. Haile Selassie never viewed himself as God, nor did he hold fast to Rastafari.According to iconn. organization, Rastafarians view Haile Selassie I as God in light of the fact that Marcus Garvey’s prediction †â€Å"Look to Africa where a dark ruler will be delegated, he will be the Redeemer† †was quickly trailed by the climb of Haile Selassie as Emperor of Ethiopia. Haile Selassie I is viewed by Rastafarians as the God of the dark race. The Rastafarian religion started in Jamaica during the 1930s. The religion was framed after times of subjugation. Rastafarians viewed Jamaica as damnation and Ethiopia as heaven.Rastafarians called Jamaica hellfire since Africans were split and sent to goals all through the world, by and large as captives to whites. This is the reason numerous Africans ended up in Jamaica. Ethiopia, the country, was viewed as a position of affectionate recollections of opportunity and life before abuse. This implied it in the long run became viewed as paradise. â€Å"Rastafarians trusts Jah (God) lives on in some structure, and accepts that one day he will realize the arrival of every single dark individuals to their tribal home in Africa,† (Breuilly, O’Brien, Palmer, 152).When Rastafarians have children, they bring up their children to have confidence in Jah and after a specific age they ought to have the option to distinguish what his identity is. They are likewise raised to accept that one day he will be raised from the dead and take them back to Africa, their alleged country. Rastafarians devote themselves to getting ready for this homecoming, developing nearer to Jah, (Breuilly, O’Brien, Palmer). They do this by developing harmony and congruity with all and by living in a manner that is near nature, copying Jah.Another way Rastas attempt to emulate Jah is by dismissing rehearses presented from white culture, which is emblematically called â€Å"Babylon. † The way of life of Rastafarian is to denounce the eating of meat. They are for the most part veggie lovers. So as to profoundly develop as an individual, meat must be bit by bit disposed of from the eating routine. As per www. iconn. organization, â€Å"the principle reason Rastafarians don't eat meat is on the grounds that creatures make a decent attempt to escape. The dread of the creatures can be found in their eyes.It is clear that they are beggi

Employee Recognition and Retention at McDonalds

Question: Examine about theEmployee Recognition and Retention at McDonalds. Answer: Presentation Thinking about the expanding intensity in business sectors, drawing in and holding representatives is one of the significant worries of any association. In spite of the fact that the opposition may have subsided following the monetary emergency in certain nations, in some different nations, the work markets stay tight for certain occupations, since there is a maintenance of laborers. For example, this is obviously portrayed on account of the McDonalds association. It utilizes the business marking system in pulling in the human capital, which is planned for permitting the firm to accomplish its primary concern targets. Hierarchical marking profoundly imparts the advantages of utilizing McDonalds administrations to its customers and representatives among other essential factors that implant this association. Marking process occurs through the formation of remarkable picture or name of the administrations offered to the shoppers through methods for commercial to the customers. The marki ng procedure impacts the convictions of the purchasers concerning the administration. Therefore, the convictions become the piece of the brand picture in the association, which summons its acknowledgment. Acknowledgment and Retention in Organizations When all is said in done, the ideas prompting worker fascination and enlistment structure, the estimation of associations passes on to the potential representatives conviction that their needs will in the long run be met. It implies that similarly as the buyers rely upon the marking marvel to separate their items, laborers utilize a comparative strategy in recognizing different managers to decide whether a specific business will assist them with attaining their own targets. In McDonalds the businesses control the industrys fascination and enlistment process which will in the long run decide whether the workers will decide to stay in their employments. Another fundamental point of view that is helpful while checking that factor that draws in youngsters to occupations in the McDonalds association is the thought of building their vocation ways. A person's profession way is proportionate to their mental self portrait capacity, essential qualities, abilities and vocation thought processes . Basically, to create ones vocation helps an individual addition both work and calling experience which prompts settling on sound profession choices. The McDonalds culture helps in supporting the organization to situate itself and accomplish its objectives and goals. McDonalds is the greatest player in the overall cheap food industry. It utilizes its way of life as an instrument to draw in clients and the most qualified representatives. Especially, the association's way of life educates additionally regarding the qualities and conventions that it uses to impact its representatives conduct. With the best conduct of laborers and great administration, there is the probability of pulling in clients and holding them. To upgrade business proficiency with respect to creation and different administrations, McDonald's organization culture calls for learning. Through learning, there is proceeded with development of the firm pondering its adequacy in applying its corporate culture to accomplish the best degrees of human asset. This condition plainly focuses to the significance of hierarchical culture as a factor to improve achievement, espec ially in worldwide business (Saha and Theingi, 2009). Eminently, the McDonalds societies demand the improvement of its human asset segment, to upgrade its productivity. This is on the grounds that it bolsters business development and achievement. Extraordinarily the association has four significant qualities organized by McDonalds as follows - individuals, singular learning, authoritative learning, and the decent variety and consideration. Pioneers ought to be in a situation to comprehend representative acknowledgment brain science to accomplish the best out of their laborers. For example, if a worker gives the best administrations in their activity, they ought to be perceived by the administration. In the wake of getting such acknowledgment, these representatives are probably going to work more enthusiastically since they might want to keep being perceived. They likewise anticipate accepting endowments or another sort of appreciation. McDonald's accomplishes this basic by perceiving its representatives at the month to month, quarterly and yearly interims. Besides, the organization additionally gives an extraordinary achievers grant. The beneficiary of this honor is resolved through a careful procedure, which involves the contribution of different directors. The champ additionally gets a $500 blessing voucher. The representative acknowledgment is the most significant of all culture rehearses in the McDonalds association for what's to come pioneers' program since it intercedes the impacts of laborers maintenance. The nature of administration is a shrewd arbiter of the connection between work fulfillment and the consumer loyalty. Subsequently, to fulfill the clients, it is fundamental to guarantee that the laborers are themselves completely placated. Accomplishing this happiness involves improving laborers fulfillment, as this will prompt an improvement in the nature of administrations dependent on the hypothesis of social trade (Yee, Yeung, and Cheng, 2008). As indicated by this hypothesis, when people get blessings, a sentiment of appreciation follows. Therefore, they long to respond. With regards to McDonalds plot, acknowledgment urges laborers to give the best information, which adds to the acknowledgment of the objectives of the association. Representative consolation can likewise be comprehended from the point of view of inspiration, which is one of the devices that human asset chiefs usually utilize in their training. One such hypothesis is Abraham Maslows progressive system of necessities. This hypothesis sorts the requirements of people into five classes, which are physiological, security, love and having a place, regard lastly self-realization. These necessities may additionally be ordered into lower level needs and more significant level needs. The initial three classes are the lower level needs while the two residual classes establish the more significant level of requirements. Maslow fought that on the off chance that an individual gets mollified with a specific class of requirements, at that point this class turns out to be less significant. In their vocation portrayal, McDonalds doesn't underscore on the lower level of requirements maybe in light of the fact that the work in this firm is protected. Nonetheless, the association puts more accentuation on the adaptability of working time and the experience that people secure from their work (Milleta, 2008). The McDonald's organization has an away from of its representatives needs, in this manner deciding to concentrate essentially on the more significant level of requirements in the Maslow chain of command. From this hypothesis, while persuading representatives or laborers, it is essential to obviously comprehend their necessities. Another celebrated hypothesis is Taylor's standards of logical administration. In his hypothesis, Taylor expect that cash is the primary help in an association. The hypothesis attempts to build up the implies that is the most effective for the exhibition of an assignment. Thus, the hypothesis suggests the piece rate method of installment to such an extent that those representatives who work quickest get rewards. In the McDonalds installment approach, this guideline is executed through an arrangement of serious wages. Nonetheless, McDonalds doesn't see compensation as the main inspiration since the association gives different advantages, which likewise go about as helpers. One can likewise see parts of Herzbergs help cleanliness hypothesis. In this hypothesis, there are two arrangements of components that have an impact on workers, which are the inspiration and cleanliness factors. Helpers incorporate the intrigue that an individual has just as future open doors that give laborers work fulfillment while then again, cleanliness factors incorporate the workplace, which can prompt the laborers to getting disappointed (Farndale et al., 2011). McDonalds depicts thoughts of a conviction that the helpers in this hypothesis can prompt the fulfillment of the representatives. Thusly, the prizes got from astounding execution, and the odds of future improvement are utilized in inspiring representatives in McDonalds. The administration of gifts is a significant zone of center in the laborers' maintenance, however it does not have an unmistakable definition. It essentially fixates on the representative being an exceptionally indispensable and significant asset with the ability to giving an upper hand. The ability maintenance focuses on a completely extraordinary arrangement of people instead of worker maintenance (Schlosser, 2012). The ability the executives is just worried about the maintenance of the most skilled people whom the firm has perceived to being able to possess the key position. One of the constraining elements in relationship with the maintenance approaches is that they end up in the maintenance of the representatives including the individuals who have low execution. In any case, with the ability the executives, an association can center the two its endeavors and assets on the workers who have potential in possessing the top positions. This hypothesis is exhibited unmistakably in McD onalds through its future chief's projects. The association can distinguish and hold the most capable people by remembering them. The dynamic for the not-for-profit association is similarly significant simply like the business associations. At that point note that the non-benefit simply like different associations depend on their work force in executing their methodologies to propel their objectives and targets. Thus, the non-benefit firms needs to go to comparable undertakings as the business association that they share when confronted with the issue of building up and keeping up a solid workforce. To accomplish this, the Spastic Center, which is a non-benefit association, addresses the accompanying faculty issues as outlined by the human asset the executives. They incorporate surveying people needs, enrolling new ones, screening, choosing and employing, direction of the enhanced one lastly settling on the best technique for pay. A decent administrator in the non-benefit association must guarantee that they get more performanc

Help With My Research Paper - Where to Get Help With My Research Paper

Help With My Research Paper - Where to Get Help With My Research PaperHelp with my research paper can be a valuable asset to a student. It helps him or her to think out of the box and to come up with useful ideas. One thing that people do not realize is that these ideas come from one place only.A problem can occur anytime. If you do not deal with your problems, then you cannot think of ways to resolve them.There are many places where you can find help with my research paper. You can find various tips, tricks and techniques on how to write a good paper. However, it is not enough that you can learn how to write a paper. It is necessary that you should know where to get help with my research paper.The first place where you can go to get help with my research paper is the internet. Here you will be able to find lots of literature that can help you. You can also get plenty of advice from your colleagues, teachers, friends and others. All you need to do is to check and see what kind of hel p is available for you. Once you find what is needed, you have to find the best resource for it.You have to work your own way. There are certain resources available for all. This means that it does not matter whether you want to use the internet, books, other sources, etc.In your research paper, you should make sure that you use relevant ideas. You have to state what you have in mind and come up with good ideas. At the same time, you have to focus on certain issues and not another issue.This will be a great idea because this will help you identify what you need to say. You can put everything in one page or put it in an appendix. The choice is yours. But you should make sure that you use a method which will help you to find the best way to complete your research paper.

Comparing Jane Eyre, Cinderella, and Beauty and the Beast

Many themes are brought into the readers attention in Charlotte Brontà «s Jane Eyre and when first reading the novel, we all tend to see it as a work built around the theme of family and Janes continuous search for home and acceptance. The love story seems to fall into second place and I believe that the special relationship between Jane and Mr. Rochester needs to be thoroughly discussed and interpreted, because it holds many captivating elements, such as mystery, passion or even betrayal. The aim of this essay is to analyze the love story between the two protagonists and to illustrate how the elements forming their relationship resemble the ones in fairy tales. Jane Eyre has been often compared to fairy tales such as†¦show more content†¦Fairfax, Adele and of course, Edward Rochester, her master. The love relationship between Jane and Mr. Rochester is not one to be called at first sight, because at their first encounter, Jane does not seem to feel any kind of attraction to wards the one who in the end will become her husband. Their love grows steady, it is not spoken and it is built with baby-steps, through gestures I believe the two protagonists are not completely aware of. Jane finds Mr. Rochester fascinating in a good and bad way, at the same time: The ease of his manner freed me from painful restraint; the friendly frankness, as correct as cordial, with which he treated me, drew me to him (Chapter 15). A new territory is revealed before Janes eyes and her strict religious beliefs seem to fade in front of her growing passion for her master. The passion I am arguing about is so strong that it eventually makes the heroin think of nothing but her ideal lover. Passion is physically present in the novel through the symbol of fire, first in the night when Rochesters bed is set fire and finally, when the castle of Thornfield burns to the ground. In the first situation the reader surprises an intimate moment between the protagonists, when Jane rescues her master and he speaks to her in a manner which confused and yet gave her wings: Strange energy was in his voice, strange fire in his look. [...] But he still retained my hand, and I could not free it. I bethought myself of anShow MoreRelated Reactions to Patriarchal Oppression by Jane Eyre and Bertha Mason3826 Words   |  16 PagesReactions to Patriarchal Oppression by Jane Eyre and Bertha Mason Missing Works Cited    Jane Eyre and Bertha Mason are both oppressed by the British patriarchal system were men are the makers, interpreters, and enforcers of social and political rules. However, these two women differ greatly in the ways that they accept and cope with the reality of their place in society, and it is these differences that ultimately determine their fate. Jane Eyre follows the rules. Although she initially revolts

The University Of Utah Health Care Information Technology...

The strategic plan I chose to research was the University of Utah Health Care Information Technology Strategic Plan. The University of Utah Health Care (UUHC) Medical Center is one of the top organizations in Utah that is consistently on the cutting edge of information technology. UUHC is infamous for its revolutionary medical research in the region and highly sophisticated biomedical informatics programs in the country (University of Utah, 2010). In past years, they were the second organization in Utah to implement the electronic medical record (EMR) system and computerized physician order entry (CPOE) process. The purpose of this paper is to identify and summarize the long-term and short-term goals in the plan, summarize the strategic thinking and key stakeholders, and describe the strategies evident in the plan. Long-Term UUHC goals UUHC’s vision involves enhancing a patient-centric clinical organization dedicated on delivering individualized care that is extremely and constantly accessible and promotes patient confidence by bolstering the patient as an involved contributor in their plan of care. As such, their long-term goals reinforce and solidify the achievement of their vision. UUHC’s stated long-term goals include transferring all clinical functions into the EpicCare software and assimilating it with the Epic for Business, which is a patient management and accounting application. The ability to undertake this goal will take approximately four to five years due toShow MoreRelatedMt 460-02 Management Policy and Strategy2356 Words   |  10 PagesUnit Seven Scotts Miracle-Gro Case Study Analysis XXX Kaplan University MT 460-02 Management Policy and Strategy Dr. Carrie A. O’Hare April 22, 2013 Unit Seven Scotts Miracle-Gro Case Study Analysis Introduction The submitted report identifies Scotts Miracle-Gro’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) (Pearce amp; Robinson, 2011, p. 140). Key issues will be explored concerning Scotts Miracle-Gro’s external environment and solutions developed to maximize its opportunitiesRead MorePeace Domestic Violence Agency Essay2172 Words   |  9 PagesPEACE Domestic Violence Agency HSM 270 - Program Summary Axia – University of Phoenix STUDENT’S NAME Date, 2009 OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAM PEACE Domestic Violence Agency provides a variety of ways to improve the efficiency of domesticated issues, servicing victims of sexual assaults and domestic violence. Their central focus is derived from a strategic mission statement, consequential approach, which essentially regulates the business’ calculated goals. Central Focus: I.) Decrease victimRead MoreDarden Mba Resumes16768 Words   |  68 Pages249-7645 ï‚ · AgrawalA11@darden.virginia.edu EDUCATION Darden Graduate School of Business Administration University of Virginia Candidate for Master of Business Administration, May 2011 ï‚ · Awarded Batten Innovation Scholarship (merit-based full tuition scholarship); ï‚ · GMAT: 730; AWA: 5.5 ï‚ · Member of Finance Club, Energy Club and Darden Capital Management Club Charlottesville, VA Nanyang Technological University Singapore Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Engineering) and Minor in Business, June 2006 ï‚ · AwardedRead More1234567897581 Words   |  31 PagesAdministration University of Montana Missoula, MT 59812 (406) 243-2920; (406) 243-2086 (fax) Jakki.Mohr@business.umt.edu http://www.business.umt.edu/faculty/mohr/ EDUCATION Ph.D. 1989 University of Wisconsin-Madison Marketing (Emphasis in Organizational Sociology) M.S. 1983 Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado Marketing B.B.A. 1982 Boise State University, Boise, Idaho ACADEMIC EMPLOYMENT 2002 to present Professor of Marketing, University of Montana-Missoula Read MoreWal-Mart Value Creation4782 Words   |  20 PagesWal-Mart’s Strategic Value Creation Darien O’Neal Brandman University Business amp; Professional Studies Business Process Analysis and Innovation BUSU 630 Professor Helen Eckmann April 27th 2013 Statement of the Case Facts The key facts in this case analysis are analyzing Wal-Mart’s weaknesses according to Shahzad Trading amp; Consulting FZE SWOT amp; TOWS statements conducted on Wal-Mart and arguing against their theory of Wal-Mart’s Business Strategy. In stating the problem or opportunityRead MoreWal-Mart: Strategic Management11571 Words   |  47 PagesWal-Mart: Strategic Management An in depth analysis of Wal-Mart and its global strategic management and electronic distribution Analysis for Business Policy: Strategic Management. Instructor: Dr. M. Reitzel, DeVry University, February 2007, Austin, TX. Members of the Team: Marcus Bedford Jon Cable Wayne Oulicky Constince Sanchez Table of Contents: Executive Summary.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.2 Problem Statement †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...2 Situational Description and Strategic Analyses †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Read MoreWal-Mart: Strategic Management11565 Words   |  47 PagesWal-Mart: Strategic Management An in depth analysis of Wal-Mart and its global strategic management and electronic distribution Analysis for Business Policy: Strategic Management. Instructor: Dr. M. Reitzel, DeVry University, February 2007, Austin, TX. Members of the Team: Marcus Bedford Jon Cable Wayne Oulicky Constince Sanchez Table of Contents: Executive Summary.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.2 Problem Statement †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...2 Situational Description and Strategic Analyses †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Read MoreBusiness Research : Mcdonalds Corp.2833 Words   |  12 PagesResearch: McDonald’s Corporation C. Michael Larpenter, Justin Dowdy, Whitney White, Varonika Allen Business Research 351 University of Phoenix Debra Bacon October 29, 2012 Read MoreEssay swot subway3181 Words   |  13 Pagesthe specific business model. The overall picture of the company aligns the policies and strategic in a right direction and helps a great deal toward stable future of the company. The key role of SWOT is to be helped to develop consciousness of all factors that may influence strategic planning and decision making. Besides that, we know the current situation of the company through SWOT analysis and help to plan a future well in advance. 2.2 Company History Subway was firstlyRead MoreHuman Resources Management150900 Words   |  604 PagesHR challenges currently facing organizations and managers. List and define each of the seven major categories of HR activities. Identify the three different roles of HR management. Discuss the three dimensions associated with HR management as a strategic business contributor. Explain why HR professionals and operating managers must view HR management as an interface. Discuss why ethical issues and professionalism affect HR management as a career field. ââ€"  ââ€"  ââ€"  ââ€"  ââ€"  3 HR TRANSITIONS

6 Cs of Communication free essay sample

Challenge Statement Kindergarten students should transition from books that offer chants, songs and memorized text to books that offer an opportunity to build decoding skills, sight vocabulary and slightly more difficult text. Instructional/Learning model specified Six Cs of Motivation will be used to expose the kindergarteners to diverse types of literature and to encourage a love of reading through the use of the Georgia Picture Storybook Award winners and nominees for the award. Explanation of Instructional/Learning model Students have been given the basic letters and letter sounds to learn with no choice. Now is the next step of turning the students into motivated readers. The 6 C’s of Motivation will be the ideal theory to put into practice with this next step. Choice – Giving the students a more challenging selection of books such as the Georgia Picture Storybooks award winners and nominees demands a large next step in enthusiasm from the student. We will write a custom essay sample on 6 Cs of Communication or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page A major reason for the program is to get students involved in reading without creating a scenario where failure seems inevitable. Students strive to meet a reading/learning challenge. Adding the next level of books to the classroom reading time and leisure time will help the students to focus on this reading goal. Challenge – Students strive to meet a reading/learning challenge. Adding the next level of books to the classroom reading time and leisure time will help the students to focus on their next reading goal. Control – When students are given a wide selection, and control over what topic of book to read then they feel like they have ownership in their task. If the topic of the book is interesting to them then they will be motivated to read and learn the new words. Collaboration – The kindergarteners enjoy their Book Buddy (5th grade students) time. Book Buddies will come in and select a book with their apprentice and take turns reading it to each other and discussing what is going on in the story. Constructive Meaning – If the MKO (Book Buddy/parent/teacher) shows an interest in the new level of reading books and find meaning in what is written then the student will also find meaning n the words, sentences and story. The student finds value in being able to read the story and find that others value what the students is reading to them. They need to be given an opportunity to write and speak what the story was about. Consequences – Students will be given the opportunity to share with their Book Buddy class the story that was read together. These opportunities to share what they read will include pictures and written text that summarizes the story. The event will conclude with an ice cream party. When students become motivated, they choose to practice reading books that are more and more challenging. The six Cs of Motivation provides six concepts that could be applied to encourage the development of intrinsic student motivation. As they continue to improve, they become even more excited about improving their reading skills. This process repeats itself while teachers, parents, and book buddies (MKO) praise the kids on their progress. The Six C’s of Motivation is the best choice of theories to use in this type of reading development.

Reasons for Communication an Example by

Reasons for Communication Why bother to communicate, you may ask? There are several reasons for this and some of these are the following: First of all, to communicate is to keep a good quality relationship (Adams 2007). If one does initiate communication then he or she will not be able to maintain association, as well as, rapport with another individual (Adams 2007). For example, a suitor ought to communicate with the one he is courting to be able to make a good impression on the lady, which may consequently lead to a romantic and high quality relationship (Adams 2007). Need essay sample on "Reasons for Communication" topic? We will write a custom essay sample specifically for you Proceed Second, for instance, for a manager, it is essential to communicate with his or her subordinates to make sure that everything that needs to be done in the company/organization will be carried out properly (Thomson 2007). Students Usually Tell EssayLab writers:I'm not in the mood to write my paper. Because I want to spend time with my boyfriendEssay writers suggest: Help With Essay Writing. Here Is Your Life Vest!Buy Essay Online Reviews Essay Writing Service Reviews Cheap Essay Writing Write My Essay Reviews Without communication, misunderstanding and misrepresentation may occur and whats expected to be accomplished by the subordinates may not be achieved (Thomson 2007). Third, communication plays a large role in motivating people (Thomson 2007). For instance, a basketball coach who is currently playing a losing game may communicate with his players and lift their spirits or motivate them to play with heart even though they are already in a hopeless situation (Thomson 2007). In this particular case, communication will contribute largely to the morale of his players consequently leading to inspiration, extreme willingness to go for it in spite of the situation, as well as, performing better to probably even win (Thomson 2007). Fourth, employees are typically required of reports either verbally or written communication (Thomson 2007). Through communication of reports, their managers will be able to detect if everything has been carried out properly, good results came out of the operations, or if improvements should be called for (Thomson 2007). Last but not least, communication is very important in relaying relevant information (Thomson 2007). A good example would be sharing important details about a certain crime. Bibliography Adams, G. J. 2007, The Importance of Communication Skills in All Areas of Life, Ezine Thomson, S.. 2007, Importance of Communication in an Organization, Ezine.

expanding universe essays

expanding universe essays Compare and Contrast the formation of the Universe and Solar System The two most common beliefs of the formation of the Universe and Solar System are The Expanding Universe Theory and The Big Bang. There are some comparisons between the two and some contrasts. Almost all astronomers believe that the universe is expanding although they may have different theories on how this is happening. The Expanding Universe Theory is based on the Doppler Effect, the redshift of different galaxies and the assumption of the Hubble Law. The Doppler effect occurs when a wave-emmitting object moves toward or away from an observer and the sound has a change in pitch as the object continues to move. For example the sound a police car siren when it comes from behind and passes you. The redshift of different galaxies is the change or shift in the light radiated by an object such as a star of galaxy that indicates the objects motion. Scientists have used redshifts to measure the speed and direction of distant galaxies. The Hubble law showed that the further away the galaxies were the higher the redshift was, that means the more distant galaxies were moving away at a much faster velocity than those closer to us. The Expanding Universe theory is merely an assumption by astronomers that all the galaxies in the universe are moving away from the earth. The more distant the galaxy the faster it s moving away from us. According to the Big Bang theory a gigantic explosion created the universe billions of years ago. It appeared that the universe we now see could be the remnants of an enormous explosion of the distant past. Many discrepancies between observations and the theory have appeared, each requiring alteratio Compare and Contrast the formation of the Universe and Solar System The two most common beliefs of the formation of the Universe and Solar System are The Expanding Universe Theory and The Big Bang. There are some compari ...

Architectural Textbook on How to Draw Perspective

Before going to the store, think about the character of your new bath. Are you interested in a traditional bathroom with historical references, something with fixtures and finishes that remind you of an earlier time? Or are you dreaming of something more sleek and modern? Regardless of the style of bathroom you choose, designing a tile installation requires forethought. The accompanying drawings illustrate key areas to consider when developing a tile design and show how the traditional or modern character of the room might influence tile selection and layout. As part of the planning process, I recommend making detailed drawings that show which tiles go where on both the floor and the walls. An accurate, scaled sketch of a section of wall and floor, plus any special corner conditions, makes it much easier to order, lay out, and correctly install the tile. Start by Planning the Walls There are three standard heights to consider when tiling a bathroom wall: wainscot height, shower height, and full-wall height. You may use one, two, or all three of these heights in a single bathroom, depending on the look you are trying to achieve and on your budget. Because tiled walls are more expensive than wallboard, tile often is used only where it is needed most: on the lower portion of the wall that requires water protection. This wainscot is usually between 36 in. and 42 in. tall, enough to provide a backsplash of 4 in. or so above the sink. Tile protects the walls below towel bars from wet towels, and the walls around the toilet from the spray of rambunctious kids. Tiling to wainscot height may be adequate protection around tubs without showers as most splashes occur below this line. In a shower area, however, all enclosure walls should be tiled high enough to protect the walls from water spray, at least 72 in. and preferably to the ceiling. 78 Details for a Traditional Bathroom 3-in. by 6-in. brick tiles 1-in. by 6-in. color band Fixtures are centered on tile layout. 1 Shower enclosure is tiled to at least 72 in. At least 4 in. 36 in. to 42 in. Bullnose tiles 2 Border tiles define limits of the room. 6-in. by 6-in. tiles 1. TURNING CORNERS Profiled edge tiles 2. INSIDE CORNERS A bathroom with traditional characteristics has plumbing fixtures that take their styling cues from an earlier era, generally the 1920s or 1930s. The tile should reinforce these historical references. Small wall tiles, such as 3 in. by 6 in. , 4 in. by 4 in. , and even smaller mosaics, were typical in the old days, in part because the adhesive available could not support tiles that were much larger and heavier than 6 in. q. Traditional styles often celebrate the edges where tile meets wall or where wall meets floor with a border or fancy molding profile. Borders run around the perimeter of the floor and/or walls, defining the limits of the room. Bathroom-Tile Design 79 Choose the Right Tile Tiles finished on only the front face are called field tiles. When installed, they are butted next to each other with grout filling the spaces in between. Wherever wall tile stops short of the ceiling, field tiles should not be installed on the top row because the raw, unfinished edge of the tiles will be exposed. For these locations, use tile with at least one finished edge. Typically, the finished edge is a rounded bullnose shape that makes an elegant transition from tile to wall surface. In bathrooms with traditional styling, this transitional edge frequently is celebrated with a decorative border that intro- duces a band of color, a pattern, a texture, or a special profile (see the drawings on p. 79). Borders Create a Transition Although a decorative border is a great way to handle the tile-to-wall transition, you’ll need to consider how to handle the border when the tile goes from a lower to a taller height. In a traditionally styled bath, I prefer to turn the edging and keep the border moving up, over, and down again, using mitered corners at each turn. I find that a miter creates a crisp, clean look and allows the flexi- Details for a Modern Bathroom The details in a modern room imply expansiveness and continuity. Tile frequently runs continuously from floor to ceiling or from corner to corner. Borders like those found in a traditional bath are seldom used because they would feel constrictive. Luxurious materials, such as stone, are treated simply so that nothing competes with or detracts from the beauty of the aterial itself. Modern designs often use larger tiles—8 in. by 8 in. , 6 in. by 12 in. , 12 in. by 12 in. , or 16 in. by 16 in. —because they feel more expansive. Visual interest comes from the use of multiple materials, patterns, textures, and plane changes. In this example, the height change at the shower area is emphasized with a bump-out separating the plumbing wall into two different planes. Within the shower, 12-in. by 12-in. stone tiles run floor to ceiling. The side edges of the stone tile are mitered to finish the outside corner. Outside the shower, 6-in. by 12-in. ceramic tiles are used on the walls. The running-bond pattern helps to tie the different materials together. 12-in. by 12-in. stone tiles Running-bond pattern is an easy, inexpensive way to add visual interest. Bump-out, 2 in. minimum 6-in. by 12-in. ceramic tiles 3 3. ChaNGING plaNES Room feels more expansive with large floor tiles. Inside corner marks transition from large shower tiles to smaller wall tiles. Mitered outside corner 80 Bathroom Projects bility to use border designs without a special corner tile (see the inset drawing on p. 79). Other areas that demand careful planning are corner borders at wall intersections. If your bath has only inside corners, you will need tiles that are finished only on the face and one edge. Outside corners—those that project into the room—require tiles finished on the face, the top, and one side. If you use tile with a profile, you’ll need a special outside-corner tile. Not all tile manufacturers or lines include these special pieces. The baseboard area, at the junction of wall and floor, is another opportunity for a decorative border. If you used a color band at the top of the tiled wall, a second band of color would work well at the bottom. If not, consider a base tile that is taller than the wainscot tiles. You can choose base tiles with a profile that incorporates a radius to meet the floor tiles. cutting the tiles around the perimeter to fit. These guidelines recommend centering the pattern on either a tile or a grout line, depending on which choice results in the largest tiles around the edges of the room. This is a good place to start, but you may want to adjust your design in response to other features in the room. One of the typical ways your eye determines whether a pattern is centered is by comparing the end tiles: If the tiles on each end are equal in size, you assume the pattern is centered. However, if your eye cannot easily compare the end tiles to each other, you’ll look for other cues, such as alignment. Sometimes, especially in large rooms, it is preferable to center tiles along lines of sight or movement. By following this strategy, the tile pattern is centered on the person using the bathroom. Tiles centered on the entry door are centered on the person who walks through that door; wall tiles centered on the sink and on the mirror above are centered on the person looking in that mirror. Tiles centered on the showerhead and control valves also are centered on the person using the shower. If tile has been centered on the key sink and shower walls, the layout frequently is mirrored on the opposite wall. Centering tile on the sink and the shower controls may be difficult if the sink and the shower are on the same continuous wall; but this design should be possible if the distance between the centerline of the shower or tub fittings and the sink is a multiple of the tile size. Mark out the tile design before any rough plumbing work is done; then adjust fixture placements as required for the most attractive finished room. Alignment and centering of fixtures, tiles, and sightlines reinforces the organizing principles of the design. People subconsciously find that reinforcement reassuring and, consequently, attractive. Lynn Hopkins (www. lhopkinsarch. com), an architect specializing in residential design, is based in Lexington, Massachusetts. Floor Tiles Take a Cue From the Walls Floor tiles need to be more durable and slipresistant than wall tiles, so be sure to select a type intended for floor installation. The safety and durability characteristics of floor tiles may give them a different look than that of wall tiles. To tie the two surfaces together visually, use the same color, texture, pattern, or other design feature from the walls in the flooring. In a traditional bath, for instance, you might use a border of the same color on the walls and the floor. Another strategy is a floor patterned with a mix of small and large tiles, where the color of the small tiles matches that of the wall tile. Smaller tiles result in more grout lines, which give the floor more texture and make it less slippery. The additional grout is more susceptible to dirt and mildew, however. Center Tile Layout on Entries and Fixtures Many tile-layout guidelines suggest positioning the layout on the center of the room and Bathroom-Tile Design 81 1 BatHroom projects Details from Great Bathrooms Benches, shelves, and hooks. Don’t overlook the convenience of a small bench where you can sit and shave, shelves that can hold soap and shampoo, and some open wall space for towel hooks and bars. 82 Tile put to good use. Variations in tile size highlight architectural details, while glassblock tiles let in plenty of light. Bold and beautiful. the play of light and color in this bathroom isn’t an accident. t’s what happens when an architect plans a bathroom remodel with an artist. Details from Great Bathrooms 83 accentuate the positive. Large, rectangular porcelain tiles installed vertically draw attention to the shower’s high ceiling while the mosaic-tile floor provides plenty of traction. liven up a bland room. Blue and white mosaics splash color across the sink wall in this st. paul, minnesota, remodel. Color coordination. staying in the same color family ties together the mosaic pebble floor and the wall of sleek subway tiles. Updating a tradition. Designed to capture the calm richness of traditional japanese architecture but with a modern focus, this bathroom was created with wall and shower tiles by casalgrande padana and custom-cut slate floor tiles. 84 Bathroom Projects Balancing the budget. saving on white ceramic floor and wall tile freed up money for the aquacolored glass mosaic wall tile. let loose. a child’s bathroom is a great place to have fun with tile. this bathroom features a whimsical countertop of brightly colored tile. Use tile to differentiate. on the floor, a switch from 13-in. eramic tile to 2-in. tile (by cerim ceramiche) distinguishes the shower from the dry part of the room. on the walls, a mosaic strip (by ceramica tres estilos) adds zip. Details from Great Bathrooms 85 2 KITChen projeCTs Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen by Lane Meehan O ur black Lab, Bogey, is a walking mud factory and sheds so much that for tile are granite, marble, and limestone, with granite being the hardest. Stone in its natural state is porous, so wherever it’s used in a kitchen, it must be sealed to resist staining and discoloration. Stone tile has color all the way through, so deep scratches won’t expose a different base color. However, a highly polished surface on a stone tile seems to accentuate even the smallest scratches. Stone can be installed on floors, countertops or backsplashes; however, it does tend to be a high-maintenance product. On the other hand, ceramic tile is made from clay rolled flat and either sun-baked or fired in a kiln. There are hundreds of different clays, each with its own characteristics that can vary the tile’s performance. Color is applied to ceramic tile in the form of baked-on glazes that also seal the tile. In the past, ceramic-tile finishes had problems standing up to heavy use and abuse, but with recent technical advances, ceramic tile now performs better than it used to. With most ceramic tile, the color is he should be bald. When it came time to choose tile for our kitchen floor, we looked for tile that would help disguise evidence of Bogey and our three active boys. We chose a tile that looks like stone but in a color and finish that could hide dirt and dog hair until I had a spare moment to run the vacuum. Our choice was based primarily on ease of maintenance, just one consideration when choosing kitchen tile. As a tile-store owner with a background in design, I field questions all the time about incorporating tile into clients’ kitchens. This chapter addresses the questions I am asked most frequently. What Types of Tile Can I Choose From? The two most basic categories of tile are stone and ceramic. Stone tile is a natural product, mined or quarried directly from the earth. The three most common stones used 86 Tile outlines and defines kitchen spaces. a tile border gives the island in this kitchen, designed by Tim Quigley of Minneapolis, its own separate visual space. The backsplash behind the stove forms a functional accent. Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 87 just on the surface, so deep scratches expose the clay below. Porcelain is another manmade tile product. Porcelain is much denser than ordinary ceramic, making it harder to scratch and break. But as with stone, the shinier the surface of ceramic or porcelain, the more scratches will show. So I try not to use highgloss tiles anywhere in a kitchen except on backsplashes, areas that are less susceptible to scratching. In the past, porcelain has been more expensive than ceramic, but improvements in technology have reduced the price. Beyond the amount of gloss, tile finishes can vary greatly. Tile finishes are graded by their ability to resist wear due to traffic; a light-industrial tile has a higher durability rating than most residential-grade tiles. Industrial-rated tile is a bit more expensive, but the extra cost makes sense if your kitchen resembles a freeway. In addition to a durability rating, the Tile Council of America (see â€Å"Sources† on p. 94) gives tile a coefficient of friction (COF) rating, which indicates how slippery the surface will be underfoot. But if the tile feels too smooth or too slick to the touch, it will probably be too slippery to use on the floor. How Do Lifestyle and Lighting Affect Choices? The first thing I ask clients about is their family, their lifestyle, and the way their kitchen is going to be used. For example, for a client who has a large family or who does a lot of entertaining, the kitchen is a busy hub with a casual atmosphere. For this kitchen, I might suggest warm-colored tile with perhaps a softer stone look. After the client’s lifestyle, I look at the type of lighting in the kitchen. If it is blessed with a great deal of natural light from windows or skylights, tumbled marble tile or tile with a matte finish will absorb light and create a softer look (see the photo on p. 90). A textured surface on the tile softens the effect even further. On the other hand, tile with a glossy finish reflects light and helps brighten areas of a kitchen that are dimly lighted or that receive little or no natural light. Remember that glossy tile used in a kitchen with a lot of light, either natural or artificial, requires more frequent cleaning because fingerprints and water spots tend to show up more. When choosing tile, I also look at the color and finish of the cabinets and countertops. If the counters and cabinets have a matte or satin finish, then I try to keep the same feel in the floors and the backsplash. By the same token, if the kitchen has the Tile Offers Almost Endless Options Multipurpose porcelain Ceramic wall tile with blue crackle glaze Commercial ceramic wall tile Rosso-Verona tumbled marble Handmade glazed wall tile Handmade sanded floor tile Porcelain floor tile Limestone tile Stone look-alike ceramic tile Marble floor or wall tile 88 Kitchen Projects Ceramic Tile: Porcelain vs. Nonporcelain l tiles made of clay and cured by heat are ceramic tiles. However, ceramic tile is best understood by dividing it into two product classifications: porcelain and nonporcelain. Their availability and look are roughly the same, but their durability is not. Thanks to a balance in the market, porcelain tiles can now be had at nearly the same price as nonporcelain products. a when the tiles are glazed. Also, when some porcelain tiles are glazed, they are no longer guaranteed to be frostproof. nonporcelain tile is easier to work with Nonporcelain tiles are made primarily of clay mixed with minerals and water. The material is then fired to solidify the tiles into a bisque form. This process creates tile that isn’t as hard as porcelain, so it can be worked more easily with basic snap cutters and nippers instead of a wet saw. In most cases, a sealer and a glaze are applied to the surface of nonporcelain tile to create color and texture before the tile receives a second firing. The glaze applied to nonporcelain tile can make it extremely durable, but never as durable as porcelain. Nonporcelain tile’s main weakness is that it has a water-absorption rate of greater than 0. %. As a result, the tile doesn’t perform nearly as well as unglazed porcelain tile in outdoor freeze/thaw environments. porcelain tile is more durable Porcelain tiles are created by mixing porcelain clay and very finely ground sand, and curing them with high heat and pressure. Porcelain tile is denser and harder than nonporcelain tile and has a lower water-absorption rate of 0. 5% or less. Porcelainâ€⠄¢s density makes it highly resistant to physical damage, while its low absorption rate makes the tile frost resistant, allowing it to be used outdoors. Unglazed porcelain tile is sought after for its full-body characteristics, which means its color remains consistent throughout the tile. Surface scratches and damage are less noticeable as a result, a benefit that diminishes The top choice when strength matters most. although nonporcelain tiles can be quite durable, none are as resilient as porcelain. Buy what looks good. even though damage to nonporcelain tiles is more noticeable than with some porcelain tile, they can be purchased in grades that are perfectly suited for high-contact areas like kitchen counters and floors. Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 89 Tile can act as a dimmer switch. This kitchen gets lots of light from two sides. The natural colors and matte finish of the tumbled-marble countertop and backsplash help soften the light and cut down on glare in a kitchen with a lot of windows. polished, streamlined look of many contemporary kitchens, I suggest a straightforward tile pattern with a glossy finish. Tile color can make a large contribution toward a warm or cool feel in a kitchen. The earthy tones of limestone or tumbled marble are the warmest of the tile colors, while bright whites and blues tend to be quite cool. But even cool colors can be warmed with colored grout. For example, an ivory or off-white grout color can take the cool edge off bright white. The reverse can be true if you’re trying to achieve a formal or industrial feel with gray or blue tile. A steel-gray grout helps create a crisp, cool look. A quick vacuum and an occasional mopping, and you’re off and running. If cooking and entertaining are big parts of your life, then I’d suggest tile that won’t stain if hot grease and oil or an occasional glass of wine is spilled on it. A glazed ceramic tile works best in this situation, but for an Old World look, you can use a real stone, such as limestone. If you select a stone-tile floor, be sure to treat it with a good sealer according to the manufacturer’s directions. We recommend either Miracle Sealants’ Porous Plus or One Master Marble and Stone Care’s Gold Shield (see â€Å"Sources† on p. 94) for sealing stone tile. No matter what tile you choose for your kitchen floor, the grout should also be sealed. To make the grout more impervious to spills and stains, I recommend starting with a latex-modified grout or one that is mixed with a latex additive instead of water. Once the grout has cured properly, a sealer such as Miracle Sealants’ Porous Plus will fight off most food incursions. Another grout option is epoxy, which is stain resistant and does not require sealing. But because epoxy is harder to work with for the installer, we generally use it for smaller Will My Three Boys and the Family Dog Hurt My Tile Floor? A client’s lifestyle has the biggest bearing on the choice of floor tile. If you’d rather spend time with your three growing boys than take care of your kitchen floor, I suggest tile that hides a multitude of sins (and dirt) and always seems to look nice, such as a ceramic-stone look-alike (see the photo on the facing page). 90 Kitchen Projects No time for cleaning? For busy, active families with kids and pets, consider a tile floor with a lot of color variations such as this stone look-alike. It stays better looking longer between cleanings. areas, such as countertops. With some tile, such as limestone, epoxy grout is not recommended, so be sure to check with manufacturers’ suggestions. some sort of threshold to create a clean transition into the next room. Tile thickness can also affect doors that swing into the kitchen, as well as appliances, such as dishwashers or trash compactors, that have to fit under the countertops in a kitchen. How Does a Tile Floor Relate to Adjacent Rooms? The kitchen-floor tile should help establish a visual flow into the surrounding areas, so I ask clients about the colors and materials on the floors of the rooms that are adjoining the kitchen. For example, if the kitchen floor joins up with a dark wood floor in the dining room, consider using tile with a warm, medium color to cut down on the visual contrast between rooms. If the kitchen floor meets colored carpet in an adjacent room, keep in mind that you’ll probably change the carpet at some point, so choose a neutral tile color that will go with future carpet choices. Tile thickness is another consideration. Whether the kitchen floor butts up against other existing tile, hardwood floors, or carpet, the tile installer will need to install Can Tile Make My Tiny Kitchen Look Bigger? Tile layout can have a big impact on a room’s appearance. While a parallel or straight pattern can intensify the narrowness of a kitchen, a diagonal tile pattern makes a room look wider (see the sidebar on p. 93). Tile size can also affect the appearance of the room. The smaller the tile, the busier the grout–joint pattern. The simple grout–joint pattern you get with larger 10-in. to 12-in. tiles can make a small room look larger. Smaller 4-in. to 6-in. iles on a floor can have the opposite effect, creating a mosaic pattern or a cobblestone look. Clipping the corners of square tiles creates hexagons or octagons with small square spaces left between. The small tiles (called Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 91 dots) that fill the spaces can introduce a dash of color to the floor in a patter n that breaks up the simple straight lines. Irregular tile patterns such as block random (using three sizes of tile) or a pinwheel pattern can help unify a kitchen that has many entrances and exits. These patterns also work well to blend together tile that is highly varied in color. A tile border on the floor can make a kitchen look cozier by bringing the eye in or by creating a frame around the kitchen table or an island (see the photo on p. 87). slab. And with granite tile, it’s easy to add a border to accent or complement the color of the stone. One drawback to stone tile on a countertop is the edges. Although you can round over the edges, granite tile is thinner than a solid slab (3? 8 in. to 1? 2 in. compared with 11? 4 in. , normal thickness for a granite slab), so it’s tougher to get the same full-slab look. Another drawback is not being able to install an undermount sink with granite tile. Although the tight grout joints of granite tile create a good, smooth work surface, machine-made ceramic tile with standard grout joints makes a slightly rougher work surface. Handmade tile is usually installed with wider grout joints that are charming, but its inherently bumpy surface can be difficult to work on and can cause wine glasses and bowls to tip over (see the photos at left). The edges of a tile countertop can be addressed in various ways. Continuing the tile over the edge gives the countertop a thick look. Relief tile, such as a rope pattern, can turn countertop edges into a visual focal point. Wooden edges that match or complement cabinets are also popular. As on floors, borders on countertops can add decoration. But if it’s used in too large an area or if a lot of items are stored on the counter, a border can be lost or distracting. Tile can also be combined with other types of surfaces for a dramatic look (see the photo on p. 90). For instance, the savings from tiling most of the countertop might leave enough money for a solid slab of granite in the sink area for an undermount sink. A stone slab or a wood surface on only the island could make a bold statement while providing a smooth surface for an informal eating area. Is Tile OK for a Kitchen Countertop? Granite-slab countertops have long been popular in high-end kitchens. Tile countertops, both ceramic and stone, have some of the same attributes as slabs, such as durability and heat resistance, but at less than half the cost, depending on the tile you choose. Granite tile can be installed with tight grout joints to give the impression of a solid Handmade tile is pretty but uneven. The irregular surface of handmade ceramic tile is a challenge to work on and can be hazardous to wine glasses. Cutting boards should always be used on tile countertops. 92 Kitchen Projects Tile Patterns at Work he right pattern can make a kitchen look wider. Floor tile installed in a straight pattern makes a narrow room seem narrower (see the left photo below) while tile in a T diagonal pattern softens the tunnel effect of a long, narrow kitchen, making it seem wider (see the right photo below). Can Tile Be Used as a Cutting Board? Although few tile or stone surfaces can stand up to a sharp kitchen knife, most hold up well under other kitchen rigors such as abuse from pots and pans. Limestone scratches easily, but those scratches can be sanded out. Surfaces such as glossy tile or highly polished granite tend to show marks more readily, and their scratches are harder to remove or cover up. Stone or ceramic tile with a matte finish tends to hide scratches and surface abrasions better. Stone tile is also porous, so it has to be sealed properly to resist staining from things such as red wine and grease. And some ceramic tiles, as well as polished stone such as granite or marble, can lose their shine when exposed to some food acids. As in floors, latex-modified grout should be used on tiled countertops along with a good coat of grout sealer. Again, epoxy grout, which costs a little more and is a little harder to install, will make the grout impenetrable. Should the Backsplash Blend or Make a Splash? A tile backsplash is the spot where you can be really creative with tile in the kitchen (see the photos on p. 94). Because a backsplash functions to protect the wall from splashes and splatters that come from cooking and preparing food, the only prerequisite is that backsplash tile be easy to keep clean. Beyond that, the choices become mainly aesthetic. I always ask clients how much stuff they plan to keep on their countertops. Toasters, microwaves, and canisters tend to block the backsplash, and in that case, the backsplash just provides a backdrop of color and tex- Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 93 sources Miracle Sealants Company 800-350-1901 www. miraclesealants. com ture. I usually recommend extending the tile from the countertop all the way to the bottoms of the wall cabinets so that the backsplash acts as a visual connection between the upper and lower cabinets. Borders usually work best above long stretches of counter that are uninterrupted by windows or appliances. And when installed three-quarters of the way up the backsplash, a border won’t get lost near the countertop or under the wall cabinets. At that height, a border will usually clear the height of the toaster or a bowl of fruit for a continuous line. If the client is thinking of having decorative tiles scattered randomly throughout the backsplash, I suggest taping playing cards to the wall at random to see if the effect works in that particular kitchen. Playing cards can also be used in a line to test the visual power of a border. Isn’t Tile Expensive? Tile varies greatly in price, and budget is a concern for the vast majority of my clients. So here’s my strategy for keeping costs down. First, use reasonably priced machinemade tile for large areas in the kitchen. Then there will be money left for those handmade borders, small murals, or strategically placed accent tiles that will give your kitchen a rich look without breaking the bank (see the right photo below). Installation prices can vary greatly depending on the type of tile, the layout, and the conditions of the existing floors and walls. A tile installer can explain what your options are and how much each option costs. Even if you opt for a less expensive installation, always seal the tile. Sealing tile is pretty easy, so you can save a little by doing it yourself. Spend some money on a good sealer. Lane Meehan is a tile maker and designer of decorative tiles. She and her husband, Tom, own and manage Cape Cod Tileworks in Harwich, Massachusetts. orous plus One Master Marble and Stone Care 760-406-1097 www. onemastermarble. com Gold shield The Tile Council of America 864-646-8453 www. tileusa. com Tile Art and Accents he backsplash of cows in a pasture (see the left photo below) in this kitchen designed by Randy Fritz of Lakeside, Calif. , combines the art of Roger Dunham of Petaluma, Calif. , with the practicality of T ceramic tile. Random decorative tiles in a backsplash of less expens ive, machine-made tile (see the right photo below) give this kitchen a colorful accent. 94 Kitchen Projects Architectural Textbook on How to Draw Perspective Before going to the store, think about the character of your new bath. Are you interested in a traditional bathroom with historical references, something with fixtures and finishes that remind you of an earlier time? Or are you dreaming of something more sleek and modern? Regardless of the style of bathroom you choose, designing a tile installation requires forethought. The accompanying drawings illustrate key areas to consider when developing a tile design and show how the traditional or modern character of the room might influence tile selection and layout. As part of the planning process, I recommend making detailed drawings that show which tiles go where on both the floor and the walls. An accurate, scaled sketch of a section of wall and floor, plus any special corner conditions, makes it much easier to order, lay out, and correctly install the tile. Start by Planning the Walls There are three standard heights to consider when tiling a bathroom wall: wainscot height, shower height, and full-wall height. You may use one, two, or all three of these heights in a single bathroom, depending on the look you are trying to achieve and on your budget. Because tiled walls are more expensive than wallboard, tile often is used only where it is needed most: on the lower portion of the wall that requires water protection. This wainscot is usually between 36 in. and 42 in. tall, enough to provide a backsplash of 4 in. or so above the sink. Tile protects the walls below towel bars from wet towels, and the walls around the toilet from the spray of rambunctious kids. Tiling to wainscot height may be adequate protection around tubs without showers as most splashes occur below this line. In a shower area, however, all enclosure walls should be tiled high enough to protect the walls from water spray, at least 72 in. and preferably to the ceiling. 78 Details for a Traditional Bathroom 3-in. by 6-in. brick tiles 1-in. by 6-in. color band Fixtures are centered on tile layout. 1 Shower enclosure is tiled to at least 72 in. At least 4 in. 36 in. to 42 in. Bullnose tiles 2 Border tiles define limits of the room. 6-in. by 6-in. tiles 1. TURNING CORNERS Profiled edge tiles 2. INSIDE CORNERS A bathroom with traditional characteristics has plumbing fixtures that take their styling cues from an earlier era, generally the 1920s or 1930s. The tile should reinforce these historical references. Small wall tiles, such as 3 in. by 6 in. , 4 in. by 4 in. , and even smaller mosaics, were typical in the old days, in part because the adhesive available could not support tiles that were much larger and heavier than 6 in. q. Traditional styles often celebrate the edges where tile meets wall or where wall meets floor with a border or fancy molding profile. Borders run around the perimeter of the floor and/or walls, defining the limits of the room. Bathroom-Tile Design 79 Choose the Right Tile Tiles finished on only the front face are called field tiles. When installed, they are butted next to each other with grout filling the spaces in between. Wherever wall tile stops short of the ceiling, field tiles should not be installed on the top row because the raw, unfinished edge of the tiles will be exposed. For these locations, use tile with at least one finished edge. Typically, the finished edge is a rounded bullnose shape that makes an elegant transition from tile to wall surface. In bathrooms with traditional styling, this transitional edge frequently is celebrated with a decorative border that intro- duces a band of color, a pattern, a texture, or a special profile (see the drawings on p. 79). Borders Create a Transition Although a decorative border is a great way to handle the tile-to-wall transition, you’ll need to consider how to handle the border when the tile goes from a lower to a taller height. In a traditionally styled bath, I prefer to turn the edging and keep the border moving up, over, and down again, using mitered corners at each turn. I find that a miter creates a crisp, clean look and allows the flexi- Details for a Modern Bathroom The details in a modern room imply expansiveness and continuity. Tile frequently runs continuously from floor to ceiling or from corner to corner. Borders like those found in a traditional bath are seldom used because they would feel constrictive. Luxurious materials, such as stone, are treated simply so that nothing competes with or detracts from the beauty of the aterial itself. Modern designs often use larger tiles—8 in. by 8 in. , 6 in. by 12 in. , 12 in. by 12 in. , or 16 in. by 16 in. —because they feel more expansive. Visual interest comes from the use of multiple materials, patterns, textures, and plane changes. In this example, the height change at the shower area is emphasized with a bump-out separating the plumbing wall into two different planes. Within the shower, 12-in. by 12-in. stone tiles run floor to ceiling. The side edges of the stone tile are mitered to finish the outside corner. Outside the shower, 6-in. by 12-in. ceramic tiles are used on the walls. The running-bond pattern helps to tie the different materials together. 12-in. by 12-in. stone tiles Running-bond pattern is an easy, inexpensive way to add visual interest. Bump-out, 2 in. minimum 6-in. by 12-in. ceramic tiles 3 3. ChaNGING plaNES Room feels more expansive with large floor tiles. Inside corner marks transition from large shower tiles to smaller wall tiles. Mitered outside corner 80 Bathroom Projects bility to use border designs without a special corner tile (see the inset drawing on p. 79). Other areas that demand careful planning are corner borders at wall intersections. If your bath has only inside corners, you will need tiles that are finished only on the face and one edge. Outside corners—those that project into the room—require tiles finished on the face, the top, and one side. If you use tile with a profile, you’ll need a special outside-corner tile. Not all tile manufacturers or lines include these special pieces. The baseboard area, at the junction of wall and floor, is another opportunity for a decorative border. If you used a color band at the top of the tiled wall, a second band of color would work well at the bottom. If not, consider a base tile that is taller than the wainscot tiles. You can choose base tiles with a profile that incorporates a radius to meet the floor tiles. cutting the tiles around the perimeter to fit. These guidelines recommend centering the pattern on either a tile or a grout line, depending on which choice results in the largest tiles around the edges of the room. This is a good place to start, but you may want to adjust your design in response to other features in the room. One of the typical ways your eye determines whether a pattern is centered is by comparing the end tiles: If the tiles on each end are equal in size, you assume the pattern is centered. However, if your eye cannot easily compare the end tiles to each other, you’ll look for other cues, such as alignment. Sometimes, especially in large rooms, it is preferable to center tiles along lines of sight or movement. By following this strategy, the tile pattern is centered on the person using the bathroom. Tiles centered on the entry door are centered on the person who walks through that door; wall tiles centered on the sink and on the mirror above are centered on the person looking in that mirror. Tiles centered on the showerhead and control valves also are centered on the person using the shower. If tile has been centered on the key sink and shower walls, the layout frequently is mirrored on the opposite wall. Centering tile on the sink and the shower controls may be difficult if the sink and the shower are on the same continuous wall; but this design should be possible if the distance between the centerline of the shower or tub fittings and the sink is a multiple of the tile size. Mark out the tile design before any rough plumbing work is done; then adjust fixture placements as required for the most attractive finished room. Alignment and centering of fixtures, tiles, and sightlines reinforces the organizing principles of the design. People subconsciously find that reinforcement reassuring and, consequently, attractive. Lynn Hopkins (www. lhopkinsarch. com), an architect specializing in residential design, is based in Lexington, Massachusetts. Floor Tiles Take a Cue From the Walls Floor tiles need to be more durable and slipresistant than wall tiles, so be sure to select a type intended for floor installation. The safety and durability characteristics of floor tiles may give them a different look than that of wall tiles. To tie the two surfaces together visually, use the same color, texture, pattern, or other design feature from the walls in the flooring. In a traditional bath, for instance, you might use a border of the same color on the walls and the floor. Another strategy is a floor patterned with a mix of small and large tiles, where the color of the small tiles matches that of the wall tile. Smaller tiles result in more grout lines, which give the floor more texture and make it less slippery. The additional grout is more susceptible to dirt and mildew, however. Center Tile Layout on Entries and Fixtures Many tile-layout guidelines suggest positioning the layout on the center of the room and Bathroom-Tile Design 81 1 BatHroom projects Details from Great Bathrooms Benches, shelves, and hooks. Don’t overlook the convenience of a small bench where you can sit and shave, shelves that can hold soap and shampoo, and some open wall space for towel hooks and bars. 82 Tile put to good use. Variations in tile size highlight architectural details, while glassblock tiles let in plenty of light. Bold and beautiful. the play of light and color in this bathroom isn’t an accident. t’s what happens when an architect plans a bathroom remodel with an artist. Details from Great Bathrooms 83 accentuate the positive. Large, rectangular porcelain tiles installed vertically draw attention to the shower’s high ceiling while the mosaic-tile floor provides plenty of traction. liven up a bland room. Blue and white mosaics splash color across the sink wall in this st. paul, minnesota, remodel. Color coordination. staying in the same color family ties together the mosaic pebble floor and the wall of sleek subway tiles. Updating a tradition. Designed to capture the calm richness of traditional japanese architecture but with a modern focus, this bathroom was created with wall and shower tiles by casalgrande padana and custom-cut slate floor tiles. 84 Bathroom Projects Balancing the budget. saving on white ceramic floor and wall tile freed up money for the aquacolored glass mosaic wall tile. let loose. a child’s bathroom is a great place to have fun with tile. this bathroom features a whimsical countertop of brightly colored tile. Use tile to differentiate. on the floor, a switch from 13-in. eramic tile to 2-in. tile (by cerim ceramiche) distinguishes the shower from the dry part of the room. on the walls, a mosaic strip (by ceramica tres estilos) adds zip. Details from Great Bathrooms 85 2 KITChen projeCTs Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen by Lane Meehan O ur black Lab, Bogey, is a walking mud factory and sheds so much that for tile are granite, marble, and limestone, with granite being the hardest. Stone in its natural state is porous, so wherever it’s used in a kitchen, it must be sealed to resist staining and discoloration. Stone tile has color all the way through, so deep scratches won’t expose a different base color. However, a highly polished surface on a stone tile seems to accentuate even the smallest scratches. Stone can be installed on floors, countertops or backsplashes; however, it does tend to be a high-maintenance product. On the other hand, ceramic tile is made from clay rolled flat and either sun-baked or fired in a kiln. There are hundreds of different clays, each with its own characteristics that can vary the tile’s performance. Color is applied to ceramic tile in the form of baked-on glazes that also seal the tile. In the past, ceramic-tile finishes had problems standing up to heavy use and abuse, but with recent technical advances, ceramic tile now performs better than it used to. With most ceramic tile, the color is he should be bald. When it came time to choose tile for our kitchen floor, we looked for tile that would help disguise evidence of Bogey and our three active boys. We chose a tile that looks like stone but in a color and finish that could hide dirt and dog hair until I had a spare moment to run the vacuum. Our choice was based primarily on ease of maintenance, just one consideration when choosing kitchen tile. As a tile-store owner with a background in design, I field questions all the time about incorporating tile into clients’ kitchens. This chapter addresses the questions I am asked most frequently. What Types of Tile Can I Choose From? The two most basic categories of tile are stone and ceramic. Stone tile is a natural product, mined or quarried directly from the earth. The three most common stones used 86 Tile outlines and defines kitchen spaces. a tile border gives the island in this kitchen, designed by Tim Quigley of Minneapolis, its own separate visual space. The backsplash behind the stove forms a functional accent. Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 87 just on the surface, so deep scratches expose the clay below. Porcelain is another manmade tile product. Porcelain is much denser than ordinary ceramic, making it harder to scratch and break. But as with stone, the shinier the surface of ceramic or porcelain, the more scratches will show. So I try not to use highgloss tiles anywhere in a kitchen except on backsplashes, areas that are less susceptible to scratching. In the past, porcelain has been more expensive than ceramic, but improvements in technology have reduced the price. Beyond the amount of gloss, tile finishes can vary greatly. Tile finishes are graded by their ability to resist wear due to traffic; a light-industrial tile has a higher durability rating than most residential-grade tiles. Industrial-rated tile is a bit more expensive, but the extra cost makes sense if your kitchen resembles a freeway. In addition to a durability rating, the Tile Council of America (see â€Å"Sources† on p. 94) gives tile a coefficient of friction (COF) rating, which indicates how slippery the surface will be underfoot. But if the tile feels too smooth or too slick to the touch, it will probably be too slippery to use on the floor. How Do Lifestyle and Lighting Affect Choices? The first thing I ask clients about is their family, their lifestyle, and the way their kitchen is going to be used. For example, for a client who has a large family or who does a lot of entertaining, the kitchen is a busy hub with a casual atmosphere. For this kitchen, I might suggest warm-colored tile with perhaps a softer stone look. After the client’s lifestyle, I look at the type of lighting in the kitchen. If it is blessed with a great deal of natural light from windows or skylights, tumbled marble tile or tile with a matte finish will absorb light and create a softer look (see the photo on p. 90). A textured surface on the tile softens the effect even further. On the other hand, tile with a glossy finish reflects light and helps brighten areas of a kitchen that are dimly lighted or that receive little or no natural light. Remember that glossy tile used in a kitchen with a lot of light, either natural or artificial, requires more frequent cleaning because fingerprints and water spots tend to show up more. When choosing tile, I also look at the color and finish of the cabinets and countertops. If the counters and cabinets have a matte or satin finish, then I try to keep the same feel in the floors and the backsplash. By the same token, if the kitchen has the Tile Offers Almost Endless Options Multipurpose porcelain Ceramic wall tile with blue crackle glaze Commercial ceramic wall tile Rosso-Verona tumbled marble Handmade glazed wall tile Handmade sanded floor tile Porcelain floor tile Limestone tile Stone look-alike ceramic tile Marble floor or wall tile 88 Kitchen Projects Ceramic Tile: Porcelain vs. Nonporcelain l tiles made of clay and cured by heat are ceramic tiles. However, ceramic tile is best understood by dividing it into two product classifications: porcelain and nonporcelain. Their availability and look are roughly the same, but their durability is not. Thanks to a balance in the market, porcelain tiles can now be had at nearly the same price as nonporcelain products. a when the tiles are glazed. Also, when some porcelain tiles are glazed, they are no longer guaranteed to be frostproof. nonporcelain tile is easier to work with Nonporcelain tiles are made primarily of clay mixed with minerals and water. The material is then fired to solidify the tiles into a bisque form. This process creates tile that isn’t as hard as porcelain, so it can be worked more easily with basic snap cutters and nippers instead of a wet saw. In most cases, a sealer and a glaze are applied to the surface of nonporcelain tile to create color and texture before the tile receives a second firing. The glaze applied to nonporcelain tile can make it extremely durable, but never as durable as porcelain. Nonporcelain tile’s main weakness is that it has a water-absorption rate of greater than 0. %. As a result, the tile doesn’t perform nearly as well as unglazed porcelain tile in outdoor freeze/thaw environments. porcelain tile is more durable Porcelain tiles are created by mixing porcelain clay and very finely ground sand, and curing them with high heat and pressure. Porcelain tile is denser and harder than nonporcelain tile and has a lower water-absorption rate of 0. 5% or less. Porcelainâ€⠄¢s density makes it highly resistant to physical damage, while its low absorption rate makes the tile frost resistant, allowing it to be used outdoors. Unglazed porcelain tile is sought after for its full-body characteristics, which means its color remains consistent throughout the tile. Surface scratches and damage are less noticeable as a result, a benefit that diminishes The top choice when strength matters most. although nonporcelain tiles can be quite durable, none are as resilient as porcelain. Buy what looks good. even though damage to nonporcelain tiles is more noticeable than with some porcelain tile, they can be purchased in grades that are perfectly suited for high-contact areas like kitchen counters and floors. Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 89 Tile can act as a dimmer switch. This kitchen gets lots of light from two sides. The natural colors and matte finish of the tumbled-marble countertop and backsplash help soften the light and cut down on glare in a kitchen with a lot of windows. polished, streamlined look of many contemporary kitchens, I suggest a straightforward tile pattern with a glossy finish. Tile color can make a large contribution toward a warm or cool feel in a kitchen. The earthy tones of limestone or tumbled marble are the warmest of the tile colors, while bright whites and blues tend to be quite cool. But even cool colors can be warmed with colored grout. For example, an ivory or off-white grout color can take the cool edge off bright white. The reverse can be true if you’re trying to achieve a formal or industrial feel with gray or blue tile. A steel-gray grout helps create a crisp, cool look. A quick vacuum and an occasional mopping, and you’re off and running. If cooking and entertaining are big parts of your life, then I’d suggest tile that won’t stain if hot grease and oil or an occasional glass of wine is spilled on it. A glazed ceramic tile works best in this situation, but for an Old World look, you can use a real stone, such as limestone. If you select a stone-tile floor, be sure to treat it with a good sealer according to the manufacturer’s directions. We recommend either Miracle Sealants’ Porous Plus or One Master Marble and Stone Care’s Gold Shield (see â€Å"Sources† on p. 94) for sealing stone tile. No matter what tile you choose for your kitchen floor, the grout should also be sealed. To make the grout more impervious to spills and stains, I recommend starting with a latex-modified grout or one that is mixed with a latex additive instead of water. Once the grout has cured properly, a sealer such as Miracle Sealants’ Porous Plus will fight off most food incursions. Another grout option is epoxy, which is stain resistant and does not require sealing. But because epoxy is harder to work with for the installer, we generally use it for smaller Will My Three Boys and the Family Dog Hurt My Tile Floor? A client’s lifestyle has the biggest bearing on the choice of floor tile. If you’d rather spend time with your three growing boys than take care of your kitchen floor, I suggest tile that hides a multitude of sins (and dirt) and always seems to look nice, such as a ceramic-stone look-alike (see the photo on the facing page). 90 Kitchen Projects No time for cleaning? For busy, active families with kids and pets, consider a tile floor with a lot of color variations such as this stone look-alike. It stays better looking longer between cleanings. areas, such as countertops. With some tile, such as limestone, epoxy grout is not recommended, so be sure to check with manufacturers’ suggestions. some sort of threshold to create a clean transition into the next room. Tile thickness can also affect doors that swing into the kitchen, as well as appliances, such as dishwashers or trash compactors, that have to fit under the countertops in a kitchen. How Does a Tile Floor Relate to Adjacent Rooms? The kitchen-floor tile should help establish a visual flow into the surrounding areas, so I ask clients about the colors and materials on the floors of the rooms that are adjoining the kitchen. For example, if the kitchen floor joins up with a dark wood floor in the dining room, consider using tile with a warm, medium color to cut down on the visual contrast between rooms. If the kitchen floor meets colored carpet in an adjacent room, keep in mind that you’ll probably change the carpet at some point, so choose a neutral tile color that will go with future carpet choices. Tile thickness is another consideration. Whether the kitchen floor butts up against other existing tile, hardwood floors, or carpet, the tile installer will need to install Can Tile Make My Tiny Kitchen Look Bigger? Tile layout can have a big impact on a room’s appearance. While a parallel or straight pattern can intensify the narrowness of a kitchen, a diagonal tile pattern makes a room look wider (see the sidebar on p. 93). Tile size can also affect the appearance of the room. The smaller the tile, the busier the grout–joint pattern. The simple grout–joint pattern you get with larger 10-in. to 12-in. tiles can make a small room look larger. Smaller 4-in. to 6-in. iles on a floor can have the opposite effect, creating a mosaic pattern or a cobblestone look. Clipping the corners of square tiles creates hexagons or octagons with small square spaces left between. The small tiles (called Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 91 dots) that fill the spaces can introduce a dash of color to the floor in a patter n that breaks up the simple straight lines. Irregular tile patterns such as block random (using three sizes of tile) or a pinwheel pattern can help unify a kitchen that has many entrances and exits. These patterns also work well to blend together tile that is highly varied in color. A tile border on the floor can make a kitchen look cozier by bringing the eye in or by creating a frame around the kitchen table or an island (see the photo on p. 87). slab. And with granite tile, it’s easy to add a border to accent or complement the color of the stone. One drawback to stone tile on a countertop is the edges. Although you can round over the edges, granite tile is thinner than a solid slab (3? 8 in. to 1? 2 in. compared with 11? 4 in. , normal thickness for a granite slab), so it’s tougher to get the same full-slab look. Another drawback is not being able to install an undermount sink with granite tile. Although the tight grout joints of granite tile create a good, smooth work surface, machine-made ceramic tile with standard grout joints makes a slightly rougher work surface. Handmade tile is usually installed with wider grout joints that are charming, but its inherently bumpy surface can be difficult to work on and can cause wine glasses and bowls to tip over (see the photos at left). The edges of a tile countertop can be addressed in various ways. Continuing the tile over the edge gives the countertop a thick look. Relief tile, such as a rope pattern, can turn countertop edges into a visual focal point. Wooden edges that match or complement cabinets are also popular. As on floors, borders on countertops can add decoration. But if it’s used in too large an area or if a lot of items are stored on the counter, a border can be lost or distracting. Tile can also be combined with other types of surfaces for a dramatic look (see the photo on p. 90). For instance, the savings from tiling most of the countertop might leave enough money for a solid slab of granite in the sink area for an undermount sink. A stone slab or a wood surface on only the island could make a bold statement while providing a smooth surface for an informal eating area. Is Tile OK for a Kitchen Countertop? Granite-slab countertops have long been popular in high-end kitchens. Tile countertops, both ceramic and stone, have some of the same attributes as slabs, such as durability and heat resistance, but at less than half the cost, depending on the tile you choose. Granite tile can be installed with tight grout joints to give the impression of a solid Handmade tile is pretty but uneven. The irregular surface of handmade ceramic tile is a challenge to work on and can be hazardous to wine glasses. Cutting boards should always be used on tile countertops. 92 Kitchen Projects Tile Patterns at Work he right pattern can make a kitchen look wider. Floor tile installed in a straight pattern makes a narrow room seem narrower (see the left photo below) while tile in a T diagonal pattern softens the tunnel effect of a long, narrow kitchen, making it seem wider (see the right photo below). Can Tile Be Used as a Cutting Board? Although few tile or stone surfaces can stand up to a sharp kitchen knife, most hold up well under other kitchen rigors such as abuse from pots and pans. Limestone scratches easily, but those scratches can be sanded out. Surfaces such as glossy tile or highly polished granite tend to show marks more readily, and their scratches are harder to remove or cover up. Stone or ceramic tile with a matte finish tends to hide scratches and surface abrasions better. Stone tile is also porous, so it has to be sealed properly to resist staining from things such as red wine and grease. And some ceramic tiles, as well as polished stone such as granite or marble, can lose their shine when exposed to some food acids. As in floors, latex-modified grout should be used on tiled countertops along with a good coat of grout sealer. Again, epoxy grout, which costs a little more and is a little harder to install, will make the grout impenetrable. Should the Backsplash Blend or Make a Splash? A tile backsplash is the spot where you can be really creative with tile in the kitchen (see the photos on p. 94). Because a backsplash functions to protect the wall from splashes and splatters that come from cooking and preparing food, the only prerequisite is that backsplash tile be easy to keep clean. Beyond that, the choices become mainly aesthetic. I always ask clients how much stuff they plan to keep on their countertops. Toasters, microwaves, and canisters tend to block the backsplash, and in that case, the backsplash just provides a backdrop of color and tex- Putting Tile to Work in the Kitchen 93 sources Miracle Sealants Company 800-350-1901 www. miraclesealants. com ture. I usually recommend extending the tile from the countertop all the way to the bottoms of the wall cabinets so that the backsplash acts as a visual connection between the upper and lower cabinets. Borders usually work best above long stretches of counter that are uninterrupted by windows or appliances. And when installed three-quarters of the way up the backsplash, a border won’t get lost near the countertop or under the wall cabinets. At that height, a border will usually clear the height of the toaster or a bowl of fruit for a continuous line. If the client is thinking of having decorative tiles scattered randomly throughout the backsplash, I suggest taping playing cards to the wall at random to see if the effect works in that particular kitchen. Playing cards can also be used in a line to test the visual power of a border. Isn’t Tile Expensive? Tile varies greatly in price, and budget is a concern for the vast majority of my clients. So here’s my strategy for keeping costs down. First, use reasonably priced machinemade tile for large areas in the kitchen. Then there will be money left for those handmade borders, small murals, or strategically placed accent tiles that will give your kitchen a rich look without breaking the bank (see the right photo below). Installation prices can vary greatly depending on the type of tile, the layout, and the conditions of the existing floors and walls. A tile installer can explain what your options are and how much each option costs. Even if you opt for a less expensive installation, always seal the tile. Sealing tile is pretty easy, so you can save a little by doing it yourself. Spend some money on a good sealer. Lane Meehan is a tile maker and designer of decorative tiles. She and her husband, Tom, own and manage Cape Cod Tileworks in Harwich, Massachusetts. orous plus One Master Marble and Stone Care 760-406-1097 www. onemastermarble. com Gold shield The Tile Council of America 864-646-8453 www. tileusa. com Tile Art and Accents he backsplash of cows in a pasture (see the left photo below) in this kitchen designed by Randy Fritz of Lakeside, Calif. , combines the art of Roger Dunham of Petaluma, Calif. , with the practicality of T ceramic tile. Random decorative tiles in a backsplash of less expens ive, machine-made tile (see the right photo below) give this kitchen a colorful accent. 94 Kitchen Projects