In or Out? Get Up to Date on Tile Trends

In the constantly shifting world of home decor trends, tile is hugely variable. Today’s tile manufacturers have access to cutting-edge technology that allows them to produce tiles of virtually every shape, size, color, and texture. As a result, tile trends are constantly changing to reflect the new processes.

With the whirlwind of tile options, you may be tempted to cover everything in classic white subway and forgo the fickle trends. Don’t do it! We’re here to provide you with some insight on what’s in, what’s out, and what will always be acceptable (no promises, though).

Bubble tile

Splashy round tiles, mosaic-style, found their way into bathrooms everywhere and even on kitchen backsplashes.

The verdict: out. But the bubbly aspect makes them okay for bathrooms; they’re not dated yet, but they’re not the newest thing.

Penny tile

Penny-shaped tiles, both in penny copper and other colors, made its way into homes everywhere over the last few years.

Bathroom by Kelly Scanlon Interior Design

The verdict: still in. The shape is classic and trendy simultaneously, so don’t worry about it going out of style too soon.

Crushed glass

The crackly finish of crushed glass tiles is available in different shapes and sizes, typically in mosaics.

The verdict: in, but probably not for much longer. It won’t be dated quickly, though, so feel free to use it if you love it.

Hex tile

The hex shape recently made a comeback and was instantly popular again.

The verdict: very in, along with other geometrics.

Textured and 3D tile

Touchable tiles and visually interesting 3-dimensional pieces have taken the tile market by storm.

The verdict: in, and expected to stay in for a while. Artisanal and hand-crafted tiles are also hugely popular due to their unique appearance and rich textures.

Mosaic and pencil tile

Small tiles in repetitive patterns have appeared in bathrooms and kitchens for years, becoming almost ubiquitous. Slim pencil tile as an accent has risen in popularity as well.

The verdict: out. Replace busy mosaics with large-format tile, which makes the room look larger and is easier to clean, with fewer grout lines.

Kitchen by Archipelago Hawaii Luxury Home Designs

Copycat tiles

Wood-look (reclaimed, cross-grain, whitewashed, weathered), brick-look, cement-look, marble-look (especially Calacatta) tile; other materials are accurately mimicked in these tiles.

The verdict: in. It’s cost-effective, and the technology used to create the tiles makes them practically indistinguishable from the real thing with lower maintenance.

Subway tile

Everyone has them; they’ve been in style for decades. But are they still trendy?

Bathroom by Carriage Lane Design-Build Inc.

The verdict: hung jury. Classic subway will always be classic, but it’s definitely not the latest trend any more. If you like to play it safe, your best bet is subway or other classic tiles laid in creative patterns or in different colors, sizes, and textures.