Creative, considered tile layouts can take a kitchen or bathroom design to a whole new level, adding visual interest and design value to the space. But with so many colors, materials and layouts to choose from, creating a space with a fresh take on tile can feel quite daunting. These are the tile ideas and layouts designers say are worth trying in 2024 – and they range from classic to custom.
7 creative tile layouts to try in 2024
Tiled backsplashes, showers and flooring will never go out of style, but the layouts and materials we choose have changed quite a bit over time. When it comes to layout, the options are endless – and there's so much room for creativity. These are the top tile layout ideas designers say they're trying out in 2024.
1. Stripes
Decorating with stripes has gained a less-than-perfect reputation in the design world, as they're sometimes over-the-top, and can lean into kitsch. But when done right, striped tile layouts in the bathroom or kitchen bring visual interest and fun to a space.
Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca'Pietra, says that stripes are 'in, in a big way' this year – and they aren't relegated to 'circus stripe cushions.'
'Style up your bathroom with striped tiles and you’ll find yourself at the top of the decor charts. You can also get creative with how you create your stripes, choosing to add layers of stripes into the same room. Lay them vertical and horizontal in the same space, and if you want to get bold, create unique patterns such as a rug effect with your striped tiles – think of it as stripes on stripes!' says Grazzie.
Grazzie Wilson is head of creative at Ca'Pietra, a luxury stone and tile brand based in the UK.
2. Tile framing
Tile framing – or using tiles to frame a design feature – is another creative way to spice up your tile layout, says Grazzie. In the black-and-white bathroom pictured here, bold black tile frames the shower's hardware, atop a background of sleek white tile.
'A more subtle way to lay tiles but with lots of impact, tiles can be used to highlight various features of your home, for example shower brassware or even your bath. Either choose tiles in the same color palette as the rest of the room, or go bold and use an additional, bolder color,' she says.
3. Two-toned tiles
If creating a pattern with the tiles – whether as simple as stripes or as thought-out as framing – goes a bit too far for your taste, Grazzie suggests creating a tonal scheme using two shades of the same color for a two-toned look. She says this use of color 'creates the pattern and texture' she's after without the need for 'any crazy new patterns.'
'Two-tonal is a great example of how this can work, using two different shades and laying them in various layouts within the same area. Why not combine two tonal with stripes, and several variations of stripes at that,' says Grazzie.
4. Herringbone
Devin Kimmel, architect and managing principal of Kimmel Studio Architects, says that classic tile layouts are coming back strong in 2024. From the well-loved subway tile look to classic square formats, he says the traditional looks are getting modern upgrades with the ever-increasing variety of materials and patterns available.
'Zellige tiles have surged in popularity, thanks to their artisanal appeal and rich simplicity. With their handmade pottery feel and deep, multi-dimensional colors, these tiles offer endless design possibilities,' says Devin.' When it comes to layout, vertical straight, herringbone and basketweave patterns are proving popular, 'adding sophistication and texture to any space.'
'And for finishing touches, coordinating grout colors that complement the tiles, rather than contrasting them, can enhance the overall aesthetic and elevate the design,' adds Devin.
Devin Kimmel, AIA, ASLA, is an award-winning architect and the Managing Principal of Kimmel Studio Architects, an architecture firm based in Annapolis, Maryland.
5. Basketweave
'Creative tile installation will be a mainstay in interior design trends of 2024 as consumers aim to infuse more character into their homes,' says Audrey Scheck, designer and founder of Audrey Scheck Design.
Audrey says that striped layouts will be big in bathrooms this year, creating impact and design flair. When it comes to kitchen backsplash trends, she notes vertical and horizontal stacks of tiles 'will continue to be dominant given that they are classic and universally appealing.'
'Basketweave pattern is also another fun way to bring more interest to a simple tile. To achieve this, alternate between two, three, or four vertical stacked tiles and the same number of horizontal stacked tiles,' says Audrey.
With more than a half-dozen years of experience in remodels and renovations, Audrey Scheck leads Audrey Scheck Design, a full-service interior design firm based in Austin, Texas.
6. Checkered
Checkered and harlequin-style tile layouts have been oscillating between in and out of style for quite some time, but 2024 will see new upgrades to the tile design. Lauren Gilberthorpe, interior designer and founder of Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors, says when combined with fresh color, this pattern can bring new life to a neutral or earthy space.
'The harlequin tiles incorporated into the barn kitchen design introduced a surprising burst of color, infusing a lively and whimsical touch into the predominantly organic color palette,' she says.
Lauren Gilberthorpe is the founder and creative driving force behind her interior design practice. She heads up and oversees a carefully assembled design team, offering direction and inspiration from her wealth of experience based on a decade and more in the industry.
7. Custom design
Bespoke interiors will never go out of style, and bathroom and kitchen tiles are no exception. Emma Beryl, says she thinks 2024 will see custom tile designs that combine unique shapes with eye-catching patterns. 'It is a level up from the herringbone or cross stitch tile layout and it brings in some fun and creativity to the space,' she says.
Color will also come into play in 2024, she says, with simple designs and sporadic inclusion of bright-colored tile.
'Imagine a vertical stacked blush subway tile but every so often there is a white tile thrown into the mix. It creates interest while not being anything too crazy,' says Emma.
And in the kitchen, Emma says tile could be used to create a beautiful, personalized mural: 'It feels unique to your space and each tile is different than the others but they create a gorgeous image when all together.'
Emma Beryl is the founder of her eponymous design firm based in New York. After training at the New York School of Interior Design, Emma worked on an array of international projects before settling in the city. She was recently named as a top new designer to watch by Lonny Mag.
2024 is set to be an exciting year in the world of tile, and there's so much room for customization. The design opportunities have only grown – and there's truly something fit for every space.
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