How to Design a Ceramic Layout for an Entryway Using Multiple Colors

Choose a layout based in part on the size of your foyer. For smaller foyers, stick to one color in a diagonal pattern to make the space feel more expansive. Choose small, 1- to 2-inch tiles set at each intersecting corner when the main tile is set diagonally. The small tiles may be patterned or textured for greater effect.

Accent larger foyers with a center medallion or a "tile rug" – a mosaic design that mimics the look of an oriental or other type of area rug. A center medallion should be no larger than one-third the total width of the foyer. A tile rug can be a bit larger, but should cover no more than half the width.

Choose two coordinating colors of tile and lay the darker color around the edges of the foyer as a border. Lay the contrasting lighter color in a diagonal pattern inside the border. Choose a third coordinating color to apply in a single line of small mosaic tiles -– about 1-inch square. Lay the mosaic line just inside the outer border. For even more contrast, choose a mosaic tile with a metallic sheen or a glass tile.

Select two complementary colors of tile and lay them in a checkerboard pattern. For a subtle effect, the two colors should be close in value to one another. Alternatively, make a checkerboard of tiles in the same color, but with half polished and half matte.