Kitchen tiles can transform the look and feel of your cooking space. With so many new tile styles available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right option for your kitchen remodel or renovation. In this article, we will explore some of the latest tile trends that are both beautiful and functional for kitchen floors, walls, backsplashes, and countertops.
Why Tile is a Great Choice for Kitchens
Tile is an excellent material for kitchens for several reasons:
- Durability: Tile is very durable, long-lasting, and stands up well to heavy use, spills, heat, and moisture. Ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles are some of the most resilient kitchen flooring options.
- Easy to Clean: Tile surfaces are relatively non-porous, making them very easy to clean. A quick mopping is all that is needed to keep tile looking fresh.
- Design Options: From colors and patterns to textures and shapes, tile provides endless design possibilities to create a unique look. Mixing and matching tiles is trendy.
- Affordability: While some tile can be pricey, there are many affordable tile options. Less expensive tiles can still provide an attractive, high-quality surface when installed properly.
Hot New Trends in Kitchen Tiles
Here are some of the most popular new kitchen tile styles:
Large Format Tiles
Gone are the days of only using small mosaics or 4-inch tiles in kitchens. Large format tiles with dimensions 12-inches or greater are a hot new trend. Minimal grout lines provide a sleek, seamless look. These oversized tiles make small kitchens appear larger. Popular options include 12×24 inch, 16×16 inch, or 24×48 inch porcelain tiles.
Hexagon Tiles
Hexagon shaped tiles provide a honeycomb style pattern that packs visual punch. These playful geometric tiles inject fun and uniqueness into kitchens. Use them on floors, walls, or backsplashes. Combine them with rectangular subway tiles for contrast. Hex tiles come in ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone.
Bold Colors and Patterns
White and neutral tiles are classic, but bold saturated colors and eye-catching patterns like chevron, herringbone, and moroccan-style tiles liven up kitchens. Blend colorful tiles with neutral ones or use as an accent. Florals, geometrics, and nature-inspired looks are options too.
Mixed Materials
Mixing natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, and glass tiles together is an eclectic trend. Combining materials, colors, shapes, and sizes creates depth and interest. Using tile that mimics natural materials like wood, cement, or terrazzo is also popular.
Brick-look Tiles
The vintage appeal of brick remains on-trend but without the maintenance issues. Brick-look tiles simulate the visuals and texture of weathered brick. Use red, brown, grey, or multi-colored options in geometric or stacked bond patterns. Great for backsplashes, floors, and walls.
Subway Tile
Subway tile has staying power as a classic choice for kitchens. The simple rectangular shape comes in bright glossy white, muted matte finishes, or color. Subway tiles have a vintage yet modern, clean appeal. Use them as a backsplash, on the wall behind a stove, or as an accent.
Marble and Natural Stone Tiles
For an elegant, timeless look, marble tiles and other natural stones like travertine, limestone, and slate bring beauty to kitchens. Available in many colors and patterns like Carrara white marble, natural stone has visual depth. Use these tiles sparingly due to higher maintenance.
Moroccan-inspired and Encaustic Cement Tile
Moroccan and encaustic cement tiles provide handmade artisanal visual appeal. Often colorful, these intricate tiles may have custom patterns. Use them on backsplashes or as accents. The designs and texture lend unique character to kitchens.
Tips for Selecting the Best Tiles for Your Kitchen
When choosing new tiles, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider your overall decor style – match classic, modern, rustic or eclectic themes.
- Look at tile quality, durability, and porosity, especially for floors.
- Calculation tile square footage needed and create a tile layout pattern.
- Pick grout color carefully as it will impact the look. Contrasting or matching grout both work.
- Look at slip resistance rating for floor tiles, higher is better.
- Cleaning needs vary by tile material; choose lower maintenance options if desired.
- Cost may differ based on tile material, size, and quality. Compare pricing.
- Acquire samples to view true colors, patterns, and textures before deciding.
- Hire an experienced tile installation professional for best results.
FAQs About New Kitchen Tile Styles
Here are some common questions about kitchen tile trends:
What are the most durable kitchen floor tiles?
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are very durable kitchen flooring options. Porcelain is denser and even more stain and scratch resistant. Mosaics hold up well too. Natural stone tiles like slate and granite are also extremely durable but need sealing.
What tile colors are best for small kitchens?
Lighter neutral colors such as white, beige, or gray help small spaces appear larger. Mini subway tiles also enhance space. Use dark or bold colors sparingly as accents in a small area.
Should I mix tile materials in my kitchen?
Mixing tile types, colors, shapes, and sizes is a trendy look. For example combine subway tile, marble, and ceramic. Or place wood-look porcelain planks with mosaics. Mixing creates visual interest but follow a pattern.
How do I clean and maintain kitchen tiles?
Most ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles only need a mild detergent, water, and damp mop for cleaning. Grout between tiles may need some scrubbing. Seal grout and natural stone annually. Use tile-safe cleaners only, avoid acidic cleaners.
Can tile backsplash go all the way to ceiling?
Yes, tile can be installed to extend all the way up to the ceiling for a dramatic look. Often seen behind a stove with a focal point tile design extended to the top. Measure height to calculate tile needs.
What are the best tiles for a white kitchen?
White glossy subway tiles are a popular backsplash choice. Also white marble, off-white ceramic bricks, or white hexagon tiles. Mix in some light gray or beige tiles for contrast. Use sparingly for variety.
Conclusion
Kitchen tile trends offer endless possibilities to create a stylish, functional space. Large format tiles, hexagons, bold colors, mixed materials, brick looks, marble, and subway tiles are some of the latest and greatest styles. Consider your kitchen size, decor, durability needs, and budget when selecting tiles. Proper installation combined with routine cleaning will keep your new tiles looking fabulous. With so many trending tile options available, you can find beautiful new tiles to upgrade your kitchen design.
