Marbonite or vitrified are the modern choice of tiles for homes. They are available in a wide range of designs and colours in pre-sized and pre-polished form. These are rectified tiles, which means that all the tiles are exactly the same size, resulting in thinner grout lines. This reduces maintenance to a bear minimum.

In comparison with marble, vitrified tiles are more durable. They do not absorb liquid and do not discolour. Besides, marbonite is more economically priced.

Indian homes are known to have the strongest and tastiest spices, so a stain here and there is inevitable. That's why, the special stain proof and water resistant quality of marbonite tiles is ideal.

"Though available in various colours, creams and off whites are the best for an elegant look," says Architect Varun D'mello. The standard size of 2'x2' is available between Rs.70 to Rs.90 per square foot. The price of these tiles depends on their size, colour and texture.

"Nowadays people opt for the bigger range of tiles for a grand look," says Architect Varun D'mello. Though 2'x2' is the widest selling size, they are also available in 3'x3', 4'x4', 3'x4', 4'x2', etc. Besides, the cost of labour is much less for big tiles.