Spring is a perfect time to start a reno. One of the first details you’ll notice when you step into a bathroom or a kitchen are the tiles. Whether it’s the flooring, backsplash, or shower walls, you can add a sense of personality to any room with the right tiles.
With a new year comes exciting new changes in interior design, and 2024’s tile trends are no different! From layouts to shapes and patterns, homeowners and interior designers are reimagining the role of the house tile and giving it a chance to shine.
The one-of-a-kind look
According to Jennifer Knight of Dlux Design & Co in Winnipeg, Manitoba, 2024 is ushering in the “perfectly flawed” aesthetic of handmade tiles.
“We’ve been gravitating towards handmade tiles and natural stone tiles,” she says. “In the kitchen, we’re seeing them used as backsplashes.”
Homeowners are also using handmade tiles to add artisanal touches to the bathroom — think shower tiles and flooring.
Handmade tiles are a surefire way to show off your unique personality in your home. You’ll be able to choose colours, materials, and finishes that speak to your personality and aesthetic — something no one else will match.
But, no need to replace your entire kitchen and bathroom tiles to incorporate this trend. A few artfully arranged handmade tiles in the centre of your current tile layout are enough to create a striking focal point and frame a little story.
Playful layouts
While horizontal subway tiles have been a staple for years, homeowners are getting more confident experimenting with different layouts.
“We’ve been seeing a lot of basic tiles being installed in fun patterns,” Knight shares. “For instance, a standard subway tile being laid in a parquet pattern. We’re also loving the use of textured square 5×5” tiles in showers.”
Some retro layouts are also enjoying a resurgence. Herringbone tiles are being used to create a recognizable elegant look, while basketweave tiles are becoming a popular choice with homeowners looking to add more texture to their space.
Geometric and abstract
Industry players at Cersaie Bologna, the world’s largest tile fair, have predicted a shift towards playfully abstract designs that create a kaleidoscopic effect. Geometric patterns are back, in a big way. Knight expects to see both classic and modern iterations of this trend.
“We’ve seen checkerboard floor tiles make a big comeback in 2023 and we think that this traditional style will be here to stay in 2024,” she explains.
Homeowners can play up the geometric aesthetic by utilizing them in standalone areas. For instance, Knight suggests incorporating checkerboard tiles in spaces like the pantry, entryway or mudroom. As she explains, “you want to make a statement without having it be too overwhelming.”
Bigger tiles in small spaces
Larger slab tiles are also making a comeback. Designers and homeowners are increasingly opting for larger tiles to create a clean, minimalist look. They also reduce grout lines and make your space appear larger. Using larger tiles highlights the pattern more, which also makes it the perfect way to show off 2024’s geometric design choices.
Nature’s hues and textures
Terrazzo is also enjoying a revival, with homeowners gravitating towards the natural textures and warm hues that have influenced recent trends in interior design. Knight notes terrazzo isn’t the only natural tile that homeowners are currently favouring.
According to her, tiles made from travertine, marble and zellige will also continue to make their way into spaces in 2024. Interior designers are loving these natural tiles because, not only do they add depth and texture to your space, their distinctive flowing pattern is hard to replicate.
Eco-friendly elegance
Sustainability’s impact can be seen in many of this year’s trends. Designers are finding more ways to repurpose old tiles to reduce waste and create striking designs.
Homeowners are also increasingly choosing sustainable material options.
Knight reports that a lot of clients are opting for natural materials, which can reduce their carbon footprint and withstand the test of time. This means we’ll be seeing more tiles made from recycled material using eco-friendly methods. You can incorporate sustainable design into your space by repurposing old tiles to create a mosaic look that will stand out in any layout.
When it comes to adopting these exciting new tile trends, Knight advises homeowners to be intentional with their application.
“Tiles can be expensive to replace so we always ensure that it is being used in a suitable space,” she says. “If you are looking to experiment more with tile and push the boundaries, opt for a smaller room like a powder room floor or fireplace surround to make a statement.”
As you start planning out your new tile projects, take a look at the top paint colours and kitchen trends for this year as inspiration, so you can make sure your design is cohesive and on trend! Not sure if it’s a good investment? Ask a REALTOR®!
— REALTOR.ca