Global Tile Inspirations: 10 Cultural Designs to Transform Your Space

To explore how global influences are showing up in homes today, we asked industry experts to share the tile designs that inspire them, the tile trends they’re seeing in homes today, and how to use them in a way that feels intentional, not overdone.

Tile inspiration from different corners of the world

Tiles have been a fundamental part of architectural and interior design for centuries, reflecting the culture, artistry and materials of their regions. From bold colours and intricate details to natural textures, exploring tile trends from around the world can help you find the perfect look to suit your home.

Moroccan zellige tiles

Zellige tiles have been around since the 10th century and to this day, are still made by hand. Each one is shaped by hand from natural clay, glazed and fired, which means no two tiles are exactly the same. Lay them across a wall and you’ll get a surface that’s full of texture, movement and subtle variation. It’s less about precision and more about the natural finish.

Alex Smith, co-owner of 3D architectural rendering firm,Render3DQuick, says: “Zellige has this handcrafted texture that adds depth and personality to a space. I like how every piece has slight imperfections — it makes the design feel alive.”

They’re a great choice for kitchen splashbacks, laundry rooms or bathroom walls where you want texture without a bold pattern.

Spanish Talavera tiles

Spanish tiles are known for their colour and craft, and Talavera is one of the boldest examples. A blend of Spanish and Mexican traditions, these tiles are hand-painted with strong colours, detailed patterns and florals, and a sense of symmetry that makes them instantly recognisable.

Daniel Roberts, home renovator and CEO ofLava Roofing, says: “Spanish Talavera tiles serve as my top pick because their vibrant, intricate designs naturally transfer a liveliness into any room.”

Michael Hartel, CEO of Cabinet IQ, adds that tiles with bold patterns, like Spanish or Moroccan styles, can instantly bring personality to a space. “I’m especially drawn to simple, geometric patterns or tonal textures that add depth without overwhelming a space.”

Spanish tiles work best in spaces that can handle a bit of drama — like a kitchen splashback, fireplace border or even tiled table legs. These tiles are the feature, so it’s worth keeping everything else simple around them.

Japanese geometric tiles

Japanese tilework is often minimalist but detailed. Repeating patterns, shapes like hexagons, and clean lines are common. Colours tend to be neutral or slightly warm.

These tiles work well in calm spaces like bathrooms or entryways. They add structure without feeling loud, and they pair nicely with timber or concrete finishes. ”These patterns have a quiet precision to them that works really well in minimalist interiors,” Alex adds.

You’ll also see this kind of look used in Japandi style — a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design that focuses on warmth, simplicity and function. It’s a good fit if you’re into natural materials, neutral tones and uncluttered spaces.

Italian terrazzo

There’s something unmistakable about Italian terrazzo — it instantly brings to mind old-world staircases, grand foyers and polished floors that have stood the test of time. It’s been used in Italy for centuries, made by embedding marble or stone chips into cement or resin to create a durable, speckled surface.

When it comes to the latest tile trends, interior designerMichele Iapiccosays she’s excited to see terrazzo making a comeback. “It’s classic and timeless, especially in kitchens and high-traffic spaces.”

Terrazzo tiles are also extremely versatile, as patterns can be fine and subtle or more chunky and graphic, depending on thedesign styleyou’re going for.

Portuguese azulejos

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Azulejos are ceramic tiles from Portugal, often in blue and white, with floral or geometric designs. They’ve been used for centuries across walls, floors and facades — not just for decoration, but to help control temperature and moisture in homes.

You’ll find traditional designs that feature repeating patterns, borders and heritage motifs, but also more minimalist interpretations. Some tiles use earthy colours or soft greens to modernise the look without losing the history behind them.

These tiles pair well with soft-tonedwall tiles, and work best in places where the detail can be appreciated, like splashbacks, fireplace surrounds or feature walls in smaller spaces.

Middle Eastern mosaics

Mosaic tiles are a staple of tile design in regions like Turkey and Iran, where small tile pieces are used to create detailed, flowing designs. They're practical for curved surfaces and wet areas thanks to the added grip from the grout lines.

“Mosaics are ideal for showers — they add traction and help prevent slipping. They also bring in texture without taking over the space”, Michelle says.

Use mosaic tiles in bathroom niches, splashbacks or paired with larger format tiles on the floor.

Indian inlay tile

Inlay tiles are made by embedding different materials (like brass or marble) into a tile surface. It’s a traditional style seen in Indian design, and it's often very precise.

They’re especially effective behind vanities, on feature walls or in powder rooms where they’ll get noticed without being overused. If you’re leaning into warmer tones, try pairing them with brushed brass bathroom hardware.

French encaustic cement tiles

You might not recognise the name straight away, but you’ve definitely seen encaustic tiles before, especially in French or Mediterranean-style homes. Unlike printed tiles, encaustic tiles are coloured all the way through, which makes them more durable and gives them a soft, matte finish that pairs well with natural materials.

Michele explains, “I always think about the style of the home first. For something more traditional or Mediterranean, encaustic and natural stone can bring warmth and cohesion.”

They’re great for bathroom floors, kitchen splashbacks or any room that gets a lot of foot traffic.

Scandinavian stone-look tiles

When you think of Scandinavian interiors, you probably picture soft tones, clean lines and a calm, uncluttered feel. Tiles in this style tend to be simple and natural — soft greys, beiges and textures that mimic stone. They’re perfect if you’re looking for something clean and calming, especially in open-plan homes or pared-back interiors.

Scandinavian tilesare a reliable go-to if you’re after a minimal, functional look that still feels warm.

Australian clay tiles

Locally made clay tiles are becoming more popular — especially in finishes that suit the Australian climate and lifestyle. Think earthy tones, matte textures and materials that hold up well both indoors and out. They’re a solid choice for high-traffic areas, mudrooms or indoor–outdoor spaces where durability matters just as much as appearance.

ManyAustralian-made tilesoptions focus on neutral shades and timeless shapes that work well across different styles — from contemporary homes to more coastal or rural builds. You’ll find everything from warm terracotta tones to pale sand and stone-inspired finishes that sit comfortably alongside timber and natural materials.

They’re also a good option if you’re after something that feels grounded and long-lasting without drawing too much attention to itself.

How to make global styles work in your home

Not sure how to tie different styles together? Mixing tile trends across your home is completely fine — the key is choosing what works best for each space. It’s less about making everything match and more about making sure the transitions between rooms feel intentional.

Blending colours and patterns without clashing

If you’re drawn to styles from all over the world, you might be wondering how you can bring in different colours or patterns without it all clashing.

It helps to look at the whole picture — not just the tiles, but the materials, finishes and furniture around them. Start by figuring out what kind of tones you’re naturally drawn to. Once you know your general direction, it becomes easier to mix tile styles while keeping everything connected.

“If you’re incorporating global tile styles, the key is balance,” says Michael. “Let the tile be the feature, whether it’s a kitchen backsplash or a bathroom accent wall, and keep surrounding finishes more subtle. It’s all about letting one element shine while everything else supports it.”

If you’re not sure where to begin, this guide to colour psychology can help you think about how colour impacts mood and how different tones work in different spaces.

Start small

If you’re drawn to bold tile styles but not ready to commit to a whole room, start with smaller areas. “Backsplashes, kids baths, guest baths and laundry rooms are fun ways to bring in pattern and colour through tile,” says Michele. “Small touches feel less overwhelming and can be unexpected, which adds to the overall experience in their home.”

Alex agrees: “The best way to bring in international tile styles without overpowering the room is to treat them like an accent. A backsplash, feature wall or floor border can be enough to add personality without turning into visual clutter.”

These smaller moments often have the most impact, especially when the rest of the space is kept simple.

Think about function

Before choosing a tile just because it looks great, think about what the space needs to handle day to day. Kitchens get messy — so smooth, glazed tiles are often the easiest to keep clean. Bathrooms need grip, especially on floors, where smaller formats or textured finishes can help prevent slipping.

“Functionally, I recommend larger format tiles for kitchens and expansive rooms, while mosaics are ideal for showers as they add traction and help prevent slipping (just don’t forget to seal the grout!),” says Michele.

If you’re working with outdoor areas or semi-covered spaces, check that the tile is rated for exterior use and can handle weather changes. If you need help working out what’s right for your space, these outdoor tile ideas cover everything from patios to pool areas.

Still figuring out what suits your space?

If you’re taking inspiration from lots of different places but not quite sure which tiles to choose, take our Style Quizto see what suits your space, or check out our wall tile selection guidefor more ideas.