Tile is an incredibly versatile surface for the home, adding interest and functionality to floors, backsplashes, showers, fireplaces, and more. It has been a staple within interiors for centuries, with a fascinating evolution of shapes, sizes, materials, colors, and patterns. This year, we will see a departure from cookie-cutter shapes and monochromatic tones of white and grey and a newfound enthusiasm for bolder tile styles with an emphasis on texture, organic shapes, and bold color. Let’s dive into these 6 tile trends for 2023!
1. ZELLIGE TILE
Originating from Morocco, Zellige tile is a handcrafted clay tile that is known for its variations in color, edging, shape, and texture. No two zellige tiles are alike, imparting an organic and artisanal feel to your space. Suitable for kitchen backsplashes, walls, and floors, this rustic tile is a versatile option for any design scheme. In 2023, we will see zellige in bold, powerful shades of green, blue, and rust as well as classic neutrals which create a calm environment in a kitchen or bathroom. In terms of installing zellige tile, make sure to consult with a professional as this type of tile requires skill and experience to install correctly!
2. High Gloss TILE
High gloss tile has a shiny, reflective surface that is smooth and easy to clean, “created by adding a glass-like glaze layer to the surface of either ceramic or porcelain material…” stated Kathy Green of Emser Tile. They are a great way to make a space feel brighter as they naturally reflect light and help create a warm, illuminating effect in kitchens and bathrooms alike. Previously seen in monochromatic greys and whites, in 2023, Karen Okner of Design Collaborative predicts “we will see high gloss tiles in more vibrant colors as well as in metallic shades such as warm brasses, bold coppers, and iridescent tones.” High gloss tiles come in various shapes and sizes, such as the classic horizontal subway tile which is an excellent choice for kitchen backsplashes and bathroom or shower walls. Kathy Greene of Emser Tile adds that with its “lower slip resistance, high gloss tile is specified more for walls than floors.”
3. Textured TILE
In contrast, textured tile (also known as tactile or 3D tile), leans on its raised and recessed qualities to add dimension and interest to a space. According to Colin King from Vogue, “Textured and three-dimensional tiles will be everywhere in 2023. From floors and backsplashes, to shower stalls, fireplaces, and even entire walls, tactile tiles give any surface that organic, handcrafted feel while still holding very subtle contrasts and variations.” Different types of textured tiles include fluted tile, slate, mosaic, wood-look, stack stone, and metal. If you’re looking to add visual interest to your home but aren’t a fan of color, textured tile is a fantastic way to add interest to a room without going too outside of your comfort zone. While textured tile provides much visual interest to a space, it is important to keep in mind the upkeep of this category of tile. Kathy Greene of Emser Tile shares that “it is also important to realize that due to its textural characteristics, cleaning of the tile can be more challenging since dirt can often settle into the grooves and indentations of the surface.”
4. MONOCHROMATIC CHECKERBOARD TILE
While high-contrast checkerboard tile is timeless, think black-and-white checkerboard tiles, this classic pattern will take on a more modern look in 2023 with a monochrome twist. However, monochrome doesn’t equal boring. Monochromatic checkerboard tile involves choosing one standout color for a backsplash or wall and letting the subtle contrasts in the tile speak for themselves. Zellige or another type of textured tile is a popular choice to take on this trend, as each tile has subtle variations that create dimension in a monochromatic color palette. This trend is specifically taking over Instagram and Pinterest in rich tones of mauve, terracotta, green, and blue.
5. TERRAZZO TILE
Terrazzo is a type of concrete that contains bits of marble or other stone, popularized in the 1970’s as an alternative to traditional tile floors and walls. According to Karen Okner of Design Collaborative, “Its unique look makes it a popular option for high-traffic areas in homes, such as entryways, kitchens, bathrooms, and family rooms. Terrazzo tile is also durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain, making it a great choice for homeowners looking for a flooring option that will stand the test of time.” This spunky tile is available in a variety of colors and finishes, ranging from finely speckled to a large, bold speckle. Designers are especially loving large-format terrazzo with minimal grout lines, which can make a space look and feel larger and is easy to clean!
6. Rich Tones
In 2023, we will see an influx of color palettes that are inspired by nature including deep blues, purples, greens, as well as warm, desert inspired neutrals. As wellness has become such an important theme in society over the past few years, homeowners are likely being drawn to cultivate a grounding, soothing atmosphere in their home. Rich tones such as terracotta, deep blues, and lush greens are ideal for creating a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of nature. Terracotta, meaning “baked earth,” is a specific shade that will be in vogue, as it adds a warm, yet rich look and feel to a space. Rich greens will remain in-demand and may be paired with another trend such as high gloss tile, zellige tile, or in a monochromatic checkerboard pattern. This specific trend is ideal for a statement backsplash in a kitchen or statement wall in a bathroom, and overall is the antithesis of the craze for neutrals in past years.
No matter what your design style is, these 2023 tile trends can suit anyone’s taste. 2023 is truly all about developing your own personal design style, and then marrying function with beauty. Furthermore, this list is by no means all-inclusive. Numerous other types of tiles will also see a resurgence this year, including maximalist styles with playful shapes and patterns, decorative natural stones like onyx and travertine, metallic finishes, large format tile, and more! According to Kathy Greene of Emser Tile, the most important thing to understand when choosing tile is “to properly select a product that will perform well in the area of your home that it will be installed, while also providing the style and color that you are looking to achieve.”
Want to learn more about our tile offerings? Visit a PIRCH showroom near you and speak with one of our knowledgeable sales consultants.
If you’d like to learn more about Emser Tile, visit here.
If you’d like to learn more about Design Collaborative Tile, visit here.
