Top Tile Trends for Modern Interior Design
Thinking about renovating your space? Tiles are incredibly practical, last for years and come in an endless range of styles. They can also turn a one-dimensional space into something you’re proud of. From dramatic bathroom makeovers to a kitchen backsplash update, there's a perfect tile out there to fit the vibe you’re going for. Feeling stuck on ideas? We've got you covered! We share the tile trends that homeowners and designers are loving right now.
Kitchen tile trends
Vertical subways
Subway tiles have been around forever, and their clean lines and classic design make them super adaptable. But modern innovation is breathing new life into them. Vertically stacked subways (instead of the classic brick-bond backsplash) offer a fresh perspective, transforming the tiles from a simple backdrop to a focal point. This layout can also elongate your space making it appear as though you have higher ceilings. In this reno, our Albert Park Vanilla Gloss Subway Tiles strike a beautiful balance between subtle and statement-making in this kitchen reno.
While traditionally seen in pristine glossy white, you can now get subway tiles in a wide range of colours and finishes, so you can get as creative as you like. Whether you're aiming for a monochromatic or dramatic kitchen, subway tiles have got your back.
Peachy Mediterranean
Sun-drenched simplicity sums up the hottest kitchen backsplash trend: modern Mediterranean. These Thirroul Terracotta Look Matte Subway Tiles lean into a soft, neutral palette of beiges and browns. Recreating the natural warmth of the Mediterranean with sunbaked earth and sandy beaches without going too traditional.
Mediterranean colours also keep the space feeling airy and open, perfect for modern, minimalist kitchens — but don't mistake minimal for boring! These tiles have subtle variations in shade and texture, adding visual interest without being overwhelming. This keeps the backsplash from feeling flat.
These tiles pair well with warm metals like antique brass and natural elements like rattan and dry floral arrangements.
Handmade tiles
It feels counterintuitive to call centuries-old Moroccan tiles ‘trendy’, but in the case of zellige tiles, that’s exactly what’s happening. With a growing appreciation for handmade treasures, zellige tiles — with their slight variations in size, shape and shade — certainly fit the bill.
Who said a kitchen had to be sterile and uniform in look — zellige tiles bring something special to otherwise quite utility-focused kitchens. Our zellige tiles come in four perfect neutrals — taupe, bone, white and beige. Play with classic patterns like herringbone or basketweave, or get creative with a horizontally or vertically stacked look.
It's a design that's both classic and on trend, guaranteed to spark compliments and become a conversation starter in your home.
Bathroom tile trends
Colourful kit kats
White, large-format tiles may be classic, but modern bathrooms are craving a touch of personality! Say hello to Kit Kat tiles, long and slim just like the famous chocolate bar. These tiles are a versatile, playful and unique design element for your space.
From muted pastels to bold hues, kit kat tiles come in a bunch of colours to match lots of design styles. For example, the Coogee Antique Pink Kit Kat Mosaic tile has a retro vibe, while the Brunswick Kit Kat Matte White Tile is a more modern-looking choice.
One of the best parts of kit kat tiles is you can control their impact — go subtle with a sink backsplash, have fun with a statement wall or commit fully to a whole kit kat bathroom renovation. Their vertical or horizontal alignment can play with perception, making walls appear taller, or rooms seem wider.
Mix-and-match shapes
Moving away from uniformity is a growing trend. By mixing-and-matching tiles and combining different shapes you can create a dynamic feel in your space.
This trend breaks free from the constraints of traditional layouts, fostering creativity and customisation. This freedom lets homeowners express their personal style and transform their spaces into true reflections of their taste. In the shower above, our Newport Matte Square and Subway Tiles make for a bathroom that feels both modern and vintage.
Statement mosaics
These aren't your grandma's mosaics — this Palm Springs-inspired bathroom features pink mosaic tiles and white grout, a combination that makes you wish you were lounging by a hotel pool.
Mosaics may have been around a while, but this take is a breath of fresh air and super versatile. Love a minimalist aesthetic? Go for a neutral mosaic in a small area. Want something bold? Go for a colourful tile and floor-to-ceiling design. Whatever your vision, there's a statement mosaic waiting to make your bathroom the envy of everyone who visits.
Beyond aesthetics, statement mosaics offer practical benefits. The smaller size of the tiles allows for tiling on curved surfaces like archways, shower niches or curved walls.
Outdoor tile trends
Colourful checkerboards
Some like it classic, and others prefer something a little more eclectic. When it comes to patios and outdoor walkways, homeowners and designers are embracing fun patterns and colours to create eye-catching outdoor spaces.
Checkerboard tiles may seem dated, but they’ve made a huge resurgence. We’re seeing checkerboard with a slight twist on the classic, with homeowners embracing playful combinations like white and sage, white and terracotta and white and butter yellow. This classic design can be laid in a couple of ways — classic or diamond.
The beauty of this trend lies in its ability to cater to all tastes. Those who love a statement can go for high-contrast colour combinations. Those who prefer a more neutral look can go for less contrast through subtle variations in texture within a single colour palette.
Faux-pavers
Want the look of pavers without the hassle of wet-laying, sealing and expensive maintenance? Apparently, so does everyone else. This outdoor tile trend is all about creating effortlessly cool spaces that blend in with the landscape and don’t require too much work.
Create a natural look with paver-look tiles made from porcelain that’s still put-together and intentional. The tiles mimic real brick, concrete or stone, with natural variations in shape, size and shade.
These tiles aren’t purely for aesthetics; while we don’t condone running around a pool, our textured stone-look crazy pavers are a great safety feature, providing good traction when wet.
Bonus: coloured grout
Grout is no longer an afterthought — with so many colour possibilities, it makes a statement in its own right. This trend breathes new life into tiled surfaces, transforming them from strictly functional to fun.
The classic white-on-white tile combo never goes out of style, but for those craving a bolder look, consider swapping out the white grout for a pop of colour with jasmine-coloured grout. Or perhaps a modern bathroom floor where Manhattan grey grout emphasises the clean lines of large format tiles.
Here are some more good things about coloured grout:
- Highlighting specific shapes: Think crisp white grout emphasising sage squares in a kitchen backsplash, drawing attention to their size and texture.
- Adding depth: Lighter grout colours can make a room appear larger, while darker colours define the tiles more clearly, adding visual depth.
- Practicality: While lighter colours might not be ideal for high-traffic areas due to staining, darker tones can effectively hide inevitable staining, making them a great choice for busy hallways or entryways.
TileCloud: Your renovation partner
Choosing the right tile is like adding a piece of art to your space. It reflects your style, personality and design philosophy. Trends come and go, so pick something you’re sure will stand the test of time in your home.
Want to take your ideas from vision board to reality? Book a free TileCloud design appointment. Our interior design experts are passionate about guiding you through the latest trends and working with you to understand your wants and needs. Book today and get expert advice and personalised recommendations with no pressure.
Layla Sawyer
Layla is a creative at heart, with an Advanced Diploma in Interior Design and being the Senior Marketing and Ecommerce Coordinator here at TileCloud she has a passion for staying up to date with the latest trends within the industry. Known for going down a rabbit hole on Pinterest and being a sucker for a good mood board to kick off any project.