Blog/News
March 28, 2017
7 Tile Trends We Can’t Get Enough Of

Another year has come and gone and everyone is on the lookout for the year’s biggest design trends. But don’t reach for the crystal ball just yet—we’ve compiled a list of our favorite up-and-coming tile trends that are already starting to make their way into the home.
(Supplier: Atlas Concorde)
- Large Format Floor Tiles
This look gained a lot of traction last year, with wood-look tiles taking over restaurants, offices and homes all over Southern Florida. This year, the trend will continue with a big focus on concrete, marble and marble-look tiles larger than 12”X24”. These massive tiles are the perfect way to make a big impact without overwhelming the rest of your design.
Try this look in your kitchen and boost your impact with a seamless waterfall island.
- Finger Tiles
Also known as “Kit-Kat” tiles, these long, slender tiles closely resemble the shape of the candy it takes its name from. While they are often found in matte, chocolatey browns, they come in a variety of colors and look great when mixed and matched.
Try this popular new backsplash option and use subtle hints of color or sheen to accent a neutral palette.
(Supplier: AKDO)
(Supplier: Renaissance Tile & Bath)
- Encaustic Tile Mosaics
You may not recognize the name, but you’re likely to recognize these tiles by their bold patterns seen in classic hotels and historic buildings. Unlike painted tiles, the patterns of encaustic tiles are made using different colors of clay, adding a layer of depth unique to this style of craftsmanship.
Encaustic tiles rose in popularity almost overnight after years of falling out of favor. Expect to see a lot more of this trend over the next few years.
Create a stunning entrance for your home with an encaustic tile mosaic, or add color, depth and texture to your kitchen with an encaustic tile backsplash.
- Metallic Tiles
Over the last few years, we’ve seen rose gold and shiny copper rise and fade in popularity. Today, dark metallic shades are in, and matte finishes are replacing pristine, high-gloss hardware in kitchens and bathrooms.
Use pops of gunmetal to accent a more subdued tile, or make a statement with a full-on metal backsplash.
(Supplier: AKDO)
(Supplier: Oceanside Glasstile)
- Textured Tiles
Texture can add an organic flair to mass-produced tiles, making them feel warmer, more inviting and more interesting. Tiles made to mimic linen and leather make cleaning a breeze, and tempt you to reach out and touch them.
While tiles have dominated floors and countertops, we’re starting to see them replace traditional textured wallpaper on statement walls and in bathrooms, where moisture often limits your wallpaper choices.
Add floor-to-ceiling textured tiles to your walk-in shower, or fireplace surround.
- Jewel Tones
Bold jewel tones like emerald green are poised to become 2017’s most popular and desired colors. If you’re feeling underwhelmed by too many pastels, jewel tones can offer welcomed relief. But you don’t have to start repainting walls or replacing tiles just yet—you can use jewel tones to accent and breathe new life into those more subdued hues.
Tile companies like Atlas Concordia offer bold, large-scale jewel tone tiles, as well as smaller tiles that can be used as accents. Use jewel tone tiles to brighten rooms that lack an abundance of natural light, like bathrooms.
(Supplier: AKDO)
(Supplier: Atlas Concorde)
- Terrazzo
Terrazzo, a unique material made from a composite of natural stone aggregate, glass and concrete, is as durable as it is intriguing. Popular mid-century, terrazzo has a nostalgic feel, however, it can feel right at home in modern and contemporary spaces. The options for customization are virtually limitless and there are many applications available, from floors to countertops to elaborate mosaics—all staples of classic Florida design.
While Terrazzo is typically poured in place on site—a lengthy and intensive application process—homeowners now have access to a growing supply of easy-to-install terrazzo tiles that still offer the personalization of traditional installations. We’re sure to see more terrazzo in foyers, high-end bathroom en suites and indoor/outdoor spaces in the years to come.
Love one of these looks? Florida Design Works can help you incorporate any of these styles into your next design project. Our designers work closely with you to create a custom look that speaks to your style and endures for years to come. Drop us a line to get started, ask questions, or just say hello.