WASHINGTON - Those wondrously intricate tile mosaics that adorn medieval Islamic architecture may cloak a mastery of geometry not matched in the West for hundreds of years.

While small patterns can make a huge impact on your space, tiny tiles are difficult to install. To get around this downside, discover the micro-patterns trend.

This pattern, oddly enough, is called random ashlar, because the intention is to make it appear the slate tiles are placed willy-nilly. If you pay attention to detail, you can install slate tile.

Two researchers have proved that Penrose tilings, famous patterns that never repeat, are mathematically equivalent to a kind of quantum error correction.

If you're choosing tile for a patio, you don't have to stick with a boring square pattern. Check out the wide range of patterned tile suitable for patios.

Living Couple celebrates the beauty of these marbled patterns on paper, silk and tile Published: Apr. 10, 2011, 11:57 a.m.