What’s In and What’s Out with Designer Tile in 2025

If you’re considering a home renovation or just looking to update your interiors, tile is one of the most impactful elements to transform your space. Whether it’s your kitchen backsplash, bathroom flooring, or outdoor patio, the right tile can make all the difference. But as with any trend, some styles are on their way out while others are gaining momentum. In 2025, we’re seeing a shift towards sustainability, bold aesthetics, and natural influences. Here’s what’s in and what’s out when it comes to tile trends for the year ahead.

What’s In: Trending Tile Materials

1. Sustainable and Recycled Tiles

Eco-conscious living is at the forefront of design trends in 2025. Homeowners and designers are opting for tiles made from recycled materials such as glass, ceramic, and even upcycled stone. Brands are pushing boundaries with innovative production techniques that reduce waste while maintaining high-quality finishes.

2. Terrazzo Tiles

Terrazzo is making a massive comeback but with a modern twist. Once a mid-century staple, today’s terrazzo tiles feature larger, more dramatic stone chips embedded in resin or concrete bases, creating an artistic and unique look. They’re perfect for adding personality to bathrooms, kitchens, and even living room floors.

3. Natural Stone Tiles

In 2025, stone tiles continue to reign, with homeowners gravitating toward limestone, travertine, and marble. These natural materials bring an organic feel to spaces, and the variation in veining makes every installation unique. Large-format stone tiles are particularly popular in open-plan areas and bathrooms.

4. Textured Ceramic and Handmade Tiles

Gone are the days of plain, glossy ceramic tiles. Instead, textured ceramics with handcrafted finishes are stealing the show. These tiles provide depth and interest to walls and backsplashes, creating a more personalized and artisanal vibe in homes.

What’s Out: Tile Materials to Avoid

1. Glossy White Subway Tiles

While classic subway tiles will never truly go out of style, the glossy white versions are losing their appeal. Homeowners are seeking alternatives with bolder colors, matte finishes, or unique textures to add more character to their kitchens and bathrooms.

2. Faux Wood Tiles

Although wood-look porcelain tiles were trendy for several years, they’re gradually phasing out as real wood and luxury vinyl alternatives gain traction. Natural wood floors offer a more authentic and warm aesthetic that faux wood tiles just can’t fully replicate.

3. Small Mosaic Tiles

While mosaic tiles were once popular for accent walls and shower floors, many homeowners are moving towards larger formats that create a more seamless look with fewer grout lines. Small mosaics can feel cluttered, whereas bigger tiles offer a more expansive, luxurious feel.

What’s In: Patterns and Layouts

1. Bold Geometric Patterns

Geometric designs with striking angles and dynamic shapes are taking center stage in 2025. Bold patterns such as hexagon, chevron, and diamond motifs are all making their way into kitchens and bathrooms for a fun yet sophisticated look.

2. Checkerboard and High-Contrast Floors

The timeless black-and-white checkerboard floor is making a grand return, but with a fresh take. Instead of traditional squares, homeowners are experimenting with diagonal layouts, different color variations, and even stone checkerboard floors to make a bold statement.

3. Statement Borders and Inlays

Rather than fully patterned floors, statement borders and decorative inlays are gaining traction. This approach allows for a refined, artistic touch and visual interest without overwhelming the space.

4. Vertical and Stacked Tile Layouts

Instead of the standard horizontal subway tile layout, 2025 is embracing vertical stacking. This method elongates walls, making ceilings feel taller and spaces more open. Stacked tiles, particularly in muted or earthy tones, create a sleek and modern aesthetic.

What’s Out: Dated Tile Patterns

1. Overly Busy Backsplashes

Elaborate, intricate mosaic backsplashes are being replaced by simple, elegant designs. The focus is shifting towards clean lines, natural stone slabs, or subtle textures for a timeless appeal.

2. Fish Scale Tiles

While mermaid and fish scale tiles had their moment, they are becoming less popular as homeowners lean towards more structured geometric patterns and classic shapes.

3. Random Patchwork Tiles

Mixing multiple patterns in a single space can feel chaotic, and in 2025, the trend is moving toward more cohesive, streamlined designs rather than haphazardly combining various tile prints.

What’s In: Color Trends

1. Earthy and Muted Tones

Soft, nature-inspired colors and earth tones like terracotta, sage green, and warm beige are dominating tile trends. These hues create a sense of calm and blend seamlessly with both modern and rustic aesthetics.

2. Deep Blues and Greens

Bold jewel tones, especially deep blues and emerald greens, are making a statement in both kitchens and bathrooms. This color palette adds richness and depth to spaces, particularly when paired with textured or matte finishes.

3. Monochromatic Looks

Interior designers are embracing a monochrome approach, using different shades of the same color for a cohesive and elegant look. This trend works particularly well in bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes, where varying textures within the same color family create interest.

What’s Out: Color Trends to Avoid

1. Stark White and Gray

Pure white and cold gray tiles are losing favor in 2025 as homeowners seek warmer, more inviting spaces. Instead, off-white and taupe tones are being used for a softer, more natural look.

2. Overly Vibrant Colors

While bold colors are in, overly vibrant tiles are being replaced with richer, more grounded tones that provide sophistication rather than overpowering a room.

3. High-Contrast Black and White

Though checkerboard floors are making a comeback, the stark black-and-white tile combinations of the past are becoming less desirable. Instead, softer, more organic variations of contrast—such as charcoal with ivory or soft beige with deep brown—are being favored.

Tile Ideas for Different Parts of the Home

Kitchen Tile Trends

Backsplashes: Large-format stone slabs or Zellige tiles for a more organic feel.
Floors: Checkerboard or muted terrazzo tiles for a stylish but functional aesthetic.
Islands: Waterfall countertops extending down to the floor with seamless tile designs.

Bathroom Tile Trends

Showers: Large-scale tiles with minimal grout lines for a spa-like atmosphere.
Floors: Textured stone bathroom floor tiles for a natural, slip-resistant finish.
Walls: Vertical subway tiles or soft, earthy tones on bathroom walls for a serene ambiance.

Outdoor Tile Trends

Patios: Textured natural stone for a timeless, weather-resistant surface.
Pool Areas: Bold geometric tiles in blues and greens for a Mediterranean-inspired touch.
Walkways: Terrazzo or concrete-look tiles for a contemporary feel.

Final Thoughts

Tile trends in 2025 are all about embracing nature, sustainability, and timeless design elements. Whether you’re drawn to bold geometric patterns, earthy textures, or classic stone finishes, this year’s trends encourage personality and practicality in every space. While some traditional styles like glossy subway tiles and faux wood porcelain are fading, fresh and artistic designs are taking their place.

If you’re planning a renovation, consider how these trends fit in with the interior design of your home. With the right tile choice, you can elevate your home and create a space that feels both modern and timeless for years to come. Visit our online tile shop for endless options!