Modern Tile Patterns: How To Choose One for Your Home

A home’s floors and walls may not be the first thing people notice, but once they do, they’ll see how they tie in with the rest of your interior. Tile patterns on floors and walls have a particular way of changing the overall aesthetic. When installed correctly, tiles can even boost the resale value of your home by 55%-70%. (1)

Want to improve your home with gorgeous modern tile patterns? Then, check out this piece, which explores the different types so you can choose the best option for your home.

What Defines Modern Tile Patterns?

Many homeowners nowadays incorporate modern styles in their interiors, including their flooring and walls. They prioritize clean lines, geometric shapes, and minimalist approaches over the intricate floral prints and dated borders of past years.

These are some characteristics that define modern tile patterns:

Shapes

Contemporary tiles now come in many shapes besides the square. You’ll find hexagons, rectangles, and even triangles. With these unique shapes, you’ll have more choices for patterns.

Colors

When choosing tile colors, avoid the tacky, bright options that were once popular. Neutrals are the way to go! Consider white, gray, or black tiles. You can still use metallics and pops of color strategically to add character to your interiors.

Finishes

Some people prefer matte for modern tile looks, but glossy, high-shine, and textured tiles are still great. Feel free to use these finishes, too, since they still have a place in modern home design.

Materials

Ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles are popular choices for modern homes. Glass tiles, on the other hand, add a touch of luxury, but they should be used sparingly.

With so many types of tiles available, deciding on a pattern might take a lot of work. Don’t worry, though. You can check out online resources such as a Why Tile compilation of over 70 modern tile patterns. Browse your options and consider whether or not they fit your taste and interior space. You can also choose whether you want to use only one type of tile or a combination of a few.

Popular Modern Tile Pattern Ideas

For starters, take a look at these popular modern tile patterns many homes now have:

Subway Tiles

This traditional pattern still finds its way into modern home aesthetics. It uses narrow rectangular-shaped tiles laid horizontally, similar to how bricks are commonly arranged.

If you prefer a timeless look on the bathroom or kitchen walls, a subway tile pattern would be a good choice. For a modern twist, try a herringbone pattern, which adds a touch of dynamism and visual interest.

Large-Format Tiles

Large-format tiles are your friend if you love the clean lines of modern tile design. This pattern’s nearly lineless features make it appealing to homeowners who prefer to spend less time on grout maintenance. Homes with smaller spaces also benefit from large-format tile patterns by appearing much bigger than they actually are.

Geometric Tiles

Do you want to add a hint of drama to an otherwise minimalist space? Go for geometric tiles! They’re fantastic head-turners when applied to walls and even the floor.

To get that eye-catching effect, you’ll need tiles in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Chevrons, triangles, and hexagonal tiles in contrasting colors could provide that. You could even consider using ‘The Hat’ tile, which mathematicians discovered could cover a surface without repeating a pattern. (2)

Mosaic Tiles

If you’re after something a little more different, mosaic tiles might be your answer. Instead of only using regular tiles, include ones made of glass or metal.

Neutral colors work best for mosaic tile patterns for a sophisticated touch. But vibrant colors are also amazing for achieving that classic mosaic look at home.

Choosing the Right Modern Tile Patterns

Now that you have an idea of modern tile patterns you can use, it’s time to choose! Review these factors to help you make the right decision:

Location Matters

Where will you put your tiles? Small mosaics or subway tiles work well for a kitchen backsplash. However, large-format tiles might be a better choice for a bathroom floor.

Style Synergy

Consider your home’s overall style. If you have a mid-century modern look, use a geometric pattern. Do you live in a Scandinavian-inspired home? Then, opt for a subway pattern in light, airy colors with a matte finish.

Tips for Selecting and Installing Modern Tiles

Before you head to the store and fill your cart with stunning modern tiles, here are some tips to remember:

See It To Believe It: Order samples before you commit. Seeing and feeling the tiles in person will give you a better sense of how they’ll look and function in your space.
Maintenance Matters: Think about how easy the tiles will be to maintain. Glossy tiles might show water spots more easily than matte ones. Consider your lifestyle and choose accordingly.
Grout with Gusto: The grout color can significantly impact the overall look. A dark grout can make small tiles appear even smaller, while a light one can create a clean, seamless look.
Safety First: Depending on the type, some tiles may be less slip-resistant than others. Try glazed tiles with no finish since they offer better slip resistance, according to a study. (3)

If you need additional assistance, feel free to enlist the help of an interior designer. They can suggest the best type of tile for your home, lifestyle, and budget.