Looking for a quick and easy way to upgrade your kitchen? Then, how about showing your walls and floors some love with help from the hottest tile designs of the moment?
Whether you’re after the latest designs to complement your new kitchen, or simply want to add a breath of fresh air in your scheme, tiles have the power to totally transform your space. Zone your cooking and dining areas with clever laying techniques, swap your old kitchen splashback, or create a bistro-style aesthetic – all by simply choosing the right tiles.
I’ve got five kitchen tile trends on my radar this year that I think you’ll definitely love too. Let’s take a look…
Zellige tiles
First of all, what are Zellige tiles? Well, they are handcrafted clay tiles that originate from Morocco. I’ve spotted these square-shaped designs in a variety of shades, from soft neutrals to bright hues like aqua blues and forest greens. Do keep in mind that each Zellige tile can vary in shape, size, colour and texture – but that’s what makes them unique.
Simply update your splashback and get that modern-rustic look in your kitchen with a mossy green design or go all-out and tile the entire wall behind your cooking area. If you’ve cleverly placed your range cooker in a fireplace alcove and have a built-in extractor right above, why not tile the exterior, too? It will definitely create a stunning focal feature in your kitchen. Take a peek below…
Inspired by the Morrocan Zellige tiles, the Moulay tiles in Rosewater, £54.72 per sq m, from Claybrook are perfect for adding charm to your splashback.
Pretty hexagonal tiles
You’ve probably already spotted these honeycomb-shaped tiles everywhere – but they’re certainly here to stay for 2022. They can spice up your kitchen – from clean and plain, to marble-effect and boldly patterned. The choice is yours.
For example, you can use hexagonal tiles to cleverly zone your kitchen. If you’ve got a large open-plan space, then choose a monochromatic tile in your living-dining area, and a patterned design in a similar colour palette in your cooking zone.
But do dry lay them first, so you can ensure you’ll love the result.
You can apply the same laying technique on your walls, too. And you don’t have to stick to a single tile shape – mix and match your favourite kitchen tile trends for a statement look.
For example, you don’t have to choose a bold pattern, you can keep it simple with a monochromatic tile like the Hex plain hexagon encaustic cement tile in Bosco, £134.40 per sq m, from Otto Tiles. Just have fun with the laying pattern.
Geometric pattern galore
Leave the timeless period-inspired tiles to the side for a bit (even though they are still a go-to for many renovators) and make way for modern geo designs. The latest styles include simple linear patterns that you can use to create your own unique design – how cool is that?
Create an optical illusion behind your worktops, or make a statement through a feature wall using these geometric designs. Scroll down for an inspiration overload and screenshot your favourite for your next renovation project.
Micro tiles
Yes, you read that right. Your favourite tile shapes come in mini versions, too – think hexagonal, square, diamond, metro and more. The mosaic-format tiles have had a modern upgrade and are perfect for adding depth and interest to your kitchen.
Go for a penny-shaped mosaic in a bright pop of colour to revive your cooking and baking area, or refresh your washing up zone with mini textured clay tiles laid in the classic herringbone pattern or stacked vertically for a trendy look.
Modern metro
And lastly, the metro-style tiles are still very popular in 2022. And I say metro-style because unlike the classic shaped design, inspired by the tiled walls in Underground and metro stations (hence the name), the latest styles don’t feature the bevelled edge and can be laid flush.
Find them in a multitude of colours and textures – plus, they can be laid in so many different patterns. From the ever-loved herringbone and simply stacked to stand-out zig-zag patterns.
So, which trend is your favourite? Let me know in the comments.
Want to upgrade your bathroom with tiles, too? I’ve got eight stylish ways to use metro tiles. Take a look here.
Oh and if you feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start when buying tiles, take a look at our guide first.