Tile trends you need to know

Beautiful and durable, tiles have been around for thousands of years, but there’s probably never been such a choice of shapes, sizes, colours, patterns and finishes as there is right now. “Tiles are no longer just practical – they’re also being used as statement pieces,” says Bunnings trend and design manager Jane Wright. While the plethora of tiles on offer might make decision-making tricky, it also means that whatever the look or space you have in mind, from high-traffic hub to showering sanctuary, there’s a tile out there to make it work. We take a look at some of the recent trending tiles.

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Tiling in living rooms, entryways and bedrooms

Tiled hallways are an obvious choice for practical reasons, and can also act as a visual starting point to your home’s aesthetic. But more recently, this form-meets-function material has moved into ‘softer’ living areas. “The trend is driven by the growing variety of tile designs, textures and finishes that offer warmth and style while being practical,” says Jane. “Tiles that mimic wood, for example, are becoming popular in living rooms, entryways and even bedrooms. The versatility of large-format tiles, which can create minimalistic looks, is also a factor – they can be used on walls, floors and even as art pieces.” And a feature such as a tiled fire surround or chimneybreast can bring serious design kudos – and decorative flair – to a space.

Artisan and stone neutral patterning tiling trend

Wet zones are the tile’s natural home. We’ve seen plenty of powder-room panache in recent years, but we’re now looking at giving larger spaces personality plus. “Bathroom design is evolving to become more crafted, detailed and expressive,” says Jane. “Strong, saturated colour and vivid design details take centre stage, radiating warmth and personality.”

Going forward, tile trends will be influenced by a blend of sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship and strong neutral patterning, adds Jane. One fashion-forward look is the ‘one-tile’ effect: essentially using the same tile across walls, floors and even benchtops. It’s more economical to use one large-size tile, says interior designer Kathryn Durham of NSW-based building company PurposeBuild. “And by reducing finishes on the floors and walls in one zone, you create a feeling of space and also consistency throughout the home in all wet areas,” she says. “This provides a great canvas to add detail in the tapware, furniture and lighting.”

Tiled kitchen benchtops are back

While tiles are ideal for kitchen floors and walls, they can also be used to turn splashbacks into a decorative statement with a feature mosaic, colour, pattern, shape or even a mural. Tiles were once used extensively as a work-top material, and the demise of engineered stone as a kitchen surface has reignited this approach. “We will see the comeback of tiled kitchen benchtops,” predicts Kathryn. “With natural stone, porcelain and metals being the main other options, tiles provide greater choice of colour and are much more economical.” However, to avoid maintenance issues, Kathryn says it’s important to use the right grout – epoxy grout is ideal for kitchen benchtops due to its stain-resistance and durability. Tiled panels on the floor are another trending feature. “Tiles are increasingly being used in high-traffic zones, especially in areas like the kitchen work zone,” says Jane. “Tiled sections in floors can help delineate work areas while providing extra durability and easy-to-clean surfaces.”

Tile trends move outdoors

A nod to yesteryear is the tiled pathway or floor on the front porch – tessellated and encaustic designs are the traditional choice but, with such a wide range of outdoor-friendly styles available, the only restriction is your imagination. Increasingly, tiles are the go-to for much more extensive areas, such as patios, pool zones and balconies. “Outdoor tiles like porcelain are designed for durability and are being used to create seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces,” explains Jane. “Often used on floors, walls and even outdoor kitchens, they come in various textures and finishes to suit different tastes and environments.”

Inspiring new tile trends

• Impact makers: “The overall trend is a move toward more creative and bold tile designs in general,” says Jane. “Designers are experimenting with geometric patterns, unique textures and vibrant colours.”
• Warm colours: Expect to see creamy tones, natural, earthy hues, deep blues and rich burgundy.
• Artisanal: Look out for more tiles with a handmade appearance, like traditional Moroccan zellige.
• Mosaics: Sheets of tiny tiles are still here and still beautiful, with endless creative possibilities to mix and match or form unique designs.
• Marble: Go big with strong colours and bold veining.
• Coloured grout: “Contrasting bright-coloured grout, on small (50-70mm) square tiles on feature walls, goes well with modern bathroom furniture,” says Kathryn.
• Micro tiles: “These are the smaller cousins of the zellige,” explains Jane. “Expect these to take hold in 2026 in neutral and strong colourways.”
• Green: “Fresher and cleaner green shades are beginning to emerge, offering more vibrant and positive directions in interior design,” says Jane.
• Murals: “My prediction is that large-scale wall murals and wet-area wallpaper will make a return to the design scene,” says Kathryn.

Now you’re on top of the tiling trends…

Follow our guide to tiling a bathroom wall.

Photo credit: Bureaux, Kaboodle Kitchen.