Tile is an incredibly versatile surface for the home, adding interest and functionality to floors, backsplashes, showers, fireplaces, and more. It has been a staple within interiors for centuries, with a fascinating evolution of shapes, sizes, materials, colors, and patterns. This year, we will see a departure from cookie-cutter shapes and monochromatic tones of white and grey and a newfound enthusiasm for nature-inspired tile styles with an emphasis on texture, organic shapes, and bold color. Let’s dive into these six standout tile trends for 2024!
1. SURFACE DRENCHING
Surface drenching involves every surface within a room being the same as the next. Think color drenching, but for surfaces! For example, the same tile surface could be used on countertops, but also for a backsplash, flooring, or on walls. The result? A uniquely uniform effect that is highly aesthetic and soothing to the eye. Surface drenching is particularly impressive in primary bathrooms, where the flooring, walls, sinks, and showers all blend into one another. With this method, smaller spaces can appear larger if using light colors, or dark and dramatic with the use of a darker color.
2. BOLD MARBLE TILE
In 2024, we will marvel at large-format marble tile. Marble provides a striking look for any kitchen or bath, and this upcoming year we will marble in a bold way. Marble is incredibly versatile; it can add a lightness and airiness to a space, or create a darker and moodier feel. In 2024, expect to see black marble, as well as marble with burgundy, purple, and green tones. In terms of placement in the home, marble tile is ideal for flooring, showers, statement walls, and backsplashes. If sealed properly, marble is an extremely durable material that will last a lifetime. Another benefit of large-format marble tile is that it’s a breeze to clean in comparison to smaller tiles with more grout lines.
3. TEXTURED TILE
Textured tile (also known as tactile or 3D tile), leans on its raised and recessed qualities to add dimension and interest to a space. According to Colin King from Vogue, “Textured and three-dimensional tiles will be everywhere in 2024. From floors and backsplashes, to shower stalls, fireplaces, and even entire walls, tactile tiles give any surface that organic, handcrafted feel while still holding very subtle contrasts and variations.” Different types of textured tiles include fluted tile, slate, mosaic, wood-look, stack stone, and metal. If you’re looking to add visual interest to your home but aren’t a fan of color, textured tile is a fantastic way to add interest to a room without going too outside of your comfort zone. While textured tile provides much visual interest to a space, it is important to keep in mind the upkeep of this category of tile. Kathy Greene of Emser Tile shares that “it is also important to realize that due to its textural characteristics, cleaning of the tile can be more challenging since dirt can often settle into the grooves and indentations of the surface.”
4. WOOD EFFECT TILE
We anticipate that wood effect tile styles will rise in popularity in 2024. Why? Natural wood is a classic design element that never goes out of style, but hard wood is expensive and more susceptible to damage from foot traffic, scratches, and stains. This is where wood effect tile comes in, as this option offers a certain durability that hard wood cannot promise. Wood-look tile is a manufactured tile made of either porcelain or ceramic, and in addition to being extremely durable, it is also waterproof and more affordable. Try this option inside for kitchen or bathroom floors, showers, or accent walls for a high-impact look. For outdoors, opt for wood effect tile flooring in a slip-resistant design.
5. RICH TONES
In 2024, we will see an influx of color palettes that are inspired by nature including deep blues, purples, greens, as well as warm, desert inspired neutrals. As wellness has become such an important theme in society over the past few years, homeowners are likely being drawn to cultivate a grounding, soothing atmosphere in their home. Rich tones such as terracotta, deep blues, and lush greens are ideal for creating a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of nature. Terracotta, meaning “baked earth,” is a specific shade that will be in vogue, as it adds a warm, yet rich look and feel to a space. This specific trend is ideal for a statement backsplash in a kitchen or statement wall in a bathroom, and overall is the antithesis of the craze for neutrals in past years.
6. GEOMETRIC PATTERNS
Geometric patterns will make their return in 2024, in a whole host of shapes, sizes, and colors. Patterned tiles allow you the opportunity to create a unique and personal look in your home, with many exciting options available in porcelain, ceramic, or encaustic tile. Moroccan tile is a great option, as well as tile printed with emblems such as stars, circles, lines, and abstract shapes. We expect to see geometric patterns for backsplashes, acting as the focal point for kitchens or bathrooms. However, patterned tiles can also be used for flooring, or for a cheery wall feature. We especially love the use of pattern in Joseph Rodriguez’s Napa-inspired kitchen, where the green and brown tiles complement this transitional farmhouse kitchen. The use of pattern and color only serves to infuse your home with personality and character, making it undeniably yours!
