Victorian Floor Tiles in the Chatsworth Pattern - Foyer, North Yorkshire - Horners Tiling

Tiling by the exceptional Mickey Horner

From Open Porch to Dream Foyer: A Victorian Tile Transformation in North Yorkshire.

Tucked away in a leafy cul-de-sac up in North Yorkshire, we might have just witnessed the foyer of our dreams. What was once an exposed, weather-worn entrance has been reimagined into a light-filled, welcoming space that sets the tone for the entire home. This inspiring renovation, completed by a client who relocated from London, proves how thoughtful design - and the right Victorian floor tiles - can completely redefine the way you arrive home.



Before its transformation, the property featured an open, stone-built porch with little character and even less warmth. While charming in its own way, the entrance lacked definition, just paving slabs and a plain overhang, with no true sense of arrival.

The clients, passionate about period detailing and beautiful finishes, were determined to change that. Inspired by the elegant tiled pathways so common at the front of London homes, they dreamed of bringing that same sense of craftsmanship and charm to their life in Yorkshire.

The first major decision was to extend and fully enclose the porch, turning it into a proper entryway. By moving the front door to the right-hand side of the property, the flow of the entrance was improved and the proportions instantly felt more balanced. Large glazed panels now frame leafy garden views and flood the space with natural light, while the solid stone exterior still anchors the house in its rural setting.

The result is a transitional space, part hallway, part boot room, that welcomes guests while also providing practical everyday function. It’s proof that entryway interior design isn’t just about first impressions; it’s about creating a hardworking, beautiful space you enjoy stepping into every single day.

At the core of this transformation lies the flooring. Our client selected Original Style Victorian floor tiles in the enduring Chatsworth pattern, supplied by us at European Heritage. This choice was pivotal: the intricate geometric layout instantly elevated the new space, while the carefully curated colour palette brought warmth and personality.

The scheme features Brown, Green, Carnation Pink, Dover White and Revival Grey - a combination that feels both historic and surprisingly fresh. The gentle pink softens the design, the earthy brown and olive tones ground it, while grey and white add balance and lightness. Together, these hues create an entryway that feels warm, inviting, and unmistakably bespoke.

Victorian hallway tiles have long been loved for their ability to make a statement without overwhelming a space. Here, the Chatsworth pattern draws the eye inward, subtly guiding guests from the front door into the heart of the home. It’s an effect that’s not only practical but deeply welcoming.

Victorian floor tiles offer something modern alternatives rarely achieve: heritage character and timeless longevity. For homeowners, that means:

Design versatility - patterns and borders can be personalised to suit both traditional and contemporary spaces.

Durability - fired clay tiles like these are built to last for decades.

Instant kerb appeal - whether used inside or out, they create a sense of craftsmanship that’s hard to replicate.

In this North Yorkshire project, the Victorian look also connects to the client’s London roots, bringing a piece of that architectural language northwards and blending it seamlessly into a countryside home.

Choosing a patterned tile can feel daunting - but with the right guidance, it’s an opportunity to express your style in a lasting way. Our client wanted a space that felt welcoming and lived-in, yet elegant. By balancing the playful Carnation Pink with more muted greens and earthy neutrals, the result is inviting without being overly bold.

Lighting also plays a huge role. The new glazed foyer allows sunlight to play across the tiles during the day, while warm pendant lighting picks up the subtle colour shifts at night. The effect is undeniably charming - cosy yet sophisticated.



If you’ve been dreaming of refreshing your own hallway or creating a striking first impression, we’d love to help. Our showrooms are filled with Victorian floor tiles, contemporary patterns, and inspiring room sets. More importantly, our specialists can work with you to design a layout that feels right for your home and lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or simply updating an entrance, we’re here to guide you through every step - from colours and patterns to practical installation advice. Talk to our experts or visit one of our showrooms to start shaping your own design story.