Checkerboard tile projects to leave you inspired
When you think classic tile designs, checkerboard tiles are often top of the list of styles that first come to mind. Steeped in history, checkerboard tiles were a common design feature in many eras over the years from floors of European churches and other buildings in the Middle Ages to the American-style diners in the 1950s. Traditionally, the tile shades were almost always black and white and opting for this style meant creating a simple, enduring look.
These days we are seeing, checkerboard tiles return in modern, contemporary design thanks to their timeless appeal as well as their versatility. As well as their versatility, the tiles’ ability to create the illusion of space has also helped the design’s popularity endure over the years. While many people still adore the traditional black and white classic design, this forever favourite is no longer the sole option for 2024 and beyond. Pastels and muted colours are also popular choices and can freshen up almost any bathroom design.
Has the checkerboard tiles’ comeback caught your eye? Get inspired by our curated list of real-life examples of spaces that have incorporated checkerboard tiles to impressive effect.
Bronte Checkerboard Terracotta and White Tiles
When sisters Brooke and Gemma Cavallaro wanted to give their Airbnb’s bathroom in Jervis Bay, NSW a “glow-up”, they knew exactly what they were aiming for. They wanted to bring in warmth, character and some colour.
“We've always been drawn to colour and patterns that bring warmth into every room and had always loved a checkerboard floor,” the sisters said. To achieve their desired aesthetic for their bathroom, Brooke and Gemma chose Bronte Checkerboard Terracotta and White tiles for the floor – and were ecstatic about the results.
Paddington Terracotta Terrazzo look tiles and Paddington White terrazzo
At the Olea Villa Estate in NSW’s Byron Bay hinterland, you could be forgiven for thinking you were worlds away in Italy. The two artists behind this vision used Paddington Terracotta Terazzo Look tiles and Paddington White Terrazzo tiles to help create their Italian-inspired balcony masterpiece. This design choice oozes a tranquil energy among a sophisticated space. The fact that it’s situated among a panoramic 18-acre olive estate just adds that extra special touch.
Bronte Checkerboard and Sage
Over at Kawa Heart Studio’s Instagram page, Dee Kawai Tang showcases the design elements of her studio. In this gorgeous Aussie cottage’s former garage, Dee opted for Bronte Checkerboard and Sage tiles as the flooring choice. “This flooring was stirred by the opening scenes in the film #slumberland where the main character lives inside a weathered lighthouse with her old man & they sit for tea in their kitchen with worn checked flooring,” she wrote of the design choice for “The Shack”.
Bronte Checkerboard Terracotta and White Tiles
Showing just how versatile checkerboard tiles can be is Studio Peachey, a Byron Bay-based interior designer. Like the sisters, Studio Peachey opted for Bronte Checkerboard Terracotta and White Tiles for a recent renovation. Instead of using them for flooring, the checkerboard tiles were incorporated into the wall design when the “The Shed” was transformed – perfectly complementing the rustic charm of the space.
“Can we talk about this bathroom?!” the caption on an Instagram post showcasing the bathroom reads. “It’s the perfect blend of country-rustic, elegant and a touch of playful fun (think: cabin in the woods meets Alice in Wonderland).”
Bronte Checkerboard and Sage
The Bronte Checkerboard and Sage tiles were also incorporated into this bathroom project worked on by Render X. The Checkerboard tiles were used on both the floor and bathtub while microcement was chosen for the walls. In a nice, added touch, the Checkboard tiles were also utilised for the shelving element in this small bathroom space. The result? It all came together seamlessly to beautiful effect.
Boat Harbour Terracotta Encaustic Look tile & Silver Beach White Encaustic Look
Another look to use as inspo if you want to pull away from the traditional black and white checkered tiles of yesteryear is landing on a brown hue instead. The Boat Harbour Terracotta Encaustic Look tiles teamed with Silver Beach White Encaustic Look tiles were the perfect option for this bathroom’s floor. Complementing the wooden vanity as well as the Antique Brass Tapware, the tiles’ colour palette was an ideal way to aesthetically bring together the bathroom’s key features without overwhelming the space.
Florence Kelly
Head of Brand and Co-Founder of online store TileCloud, Floss has extensive experience in the home renovations and interior industry. She skillfully uses her background in design and ceramics to bring your dream home to life.