Patterned Floor Tiles Are Out, But Here's How To Use Them In A Way That Still Feels Fresh

Whether you fancy more personality in your bathroom or crave more charm in your kitchen, it's understandable that you might consider adding patterned floor tiles. However, as trends shift, some designers are advising us to move away from patterned floor tiles in favor of simpler and sleeker alternatives. Patterned tile still has its place in the home, but coating our floors in busy aesthetics is no longer in style. Instead, many people recommend using patterned tiles on walls, backsplashes, and other smaller areas.

You may have noticed a surge in patterned tile, particularly black and white encaustic-inspired designs, back in the mid-2010s. This kind of tile gained popularity in 2015, namely inspired by Joanna Gaines' Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast. The building, redesigned by Gaines, featured striking black and white encaustic tile in the bathroom. 

While this aesthetic was courageous for the time, it has become outdated in many homes. Trends have shifted towards a less manufactured look. Natural stone, zellige, neutral tones, and simple designs are more receptive to the current market. Though, patterned tile is still having its moment. The checkerboard pattern is a must-have for many homeowners, replacing the overly-manufactured look while still adding a classic and timeless pattern to the space. Of course, Moroccan, Talavera, and encaustic tiles still have a place, but rather than covering the entire floor, these eye-catching designs are making a splash as accents instead. There are several mistakes to avoid when tiling, and right now, overly-patterned floors could be one of them.

Patterned tile adds a playful look to your space, highlighting your unique personality. But rather than going overboard and covering the entire floor, designers encourage homeowners to sprinkle pattern throughout their space as an accent. Statement walls, backsplashes, stair treads, fireplaces, tabletops, and outdoor areas can benefit from patterned tiles. Pairing these daring tiles with simpler, muted pieces can allow the tile to shine and become a statement piece that feels intentional instead of overwhelming. Consider using a bold, patterned tile as a backsplash alongside classic shaker cabinets or a butcher block countertop. Embolden a stairway with patterned tile along the stair risers, which is a trendy renovation idea right now. 

Alternatively, you could add encaustic or other patterned tiles to an accent wall. Patterned tile along one wall of your shower could add some drama to the room. While you could add tile to an accent wall in any space, drenching the room in pattern has become the interior design trend that's replacing outdated accent walls instead. If you wish to tile drench, these patterned tiles may not be the best choice. Further, if you crave the geometric design of patterned tiles, consider choosing a tile with more subtle hues, penny tiles, or simple grid tiles, which still offer the striking geometric design you're aiming for. Natural colors and subtle patterns are some of the tile trends that are dominating now and will be in the years to come.