Tile Trends to Watch: What’s Out and What’s In for 2025

As the home design landscape evolves, so do the materials that shape our living spaces. Tile, a staple in homes across the globe, is about to undergo a fresh transformation as we move into 2025. This year marks a departure from minimalism towards an embrace of bold colors and unique textures, capturing the spirit of maximalism that is taking the design world by storm. House Digest consulted a panel of seven seasoned design experts to keep you updated on the trends you may want to leave behind and those to embrace in the upcoming year.

Bidding Farewell to Wood-Look and Marble-Look Tiles

For many homeowners, wood-look tiles have been a godsend, offering the aesthetic of hardwood floors without the relentless maintenance. Similarly, marble-look tiles offered a sophisticated finish, especially in high-traffic areas. However, their faux appeal is now beginning to fade. Courtney Batten, an NCIDQ-certified interior designer, claims, “Wood-look tiles and the ubiquitous white marble tiles that have dominated design over the past decade are starting to feel dated and overly 'builder-grade.'”

Instead, homeowners are gravitating towards natural materials that display character and uniqueness. Batten advocates for the use of real marble or stone tiles, handmade zellige tiles, and hand-painted concrete tiles. Each option brings a certain warmth and individuality, elements that are currently much sought after in modern home design.

Neutral Tones Are Out; Bold Colors Are In

For numerous years, neutral tones ruled the tile world due to their versatility and ability to appeal to a wide range of design styles. However, as we enter 2025, color is making a triumphant return. Interior designer Camilla Masi notes, “We will be seeing neutral tones taking a back seat as we see a return to maximalism. 2025 is about bold and joyous colors, many of them classic shades, in rich saturations and unexpected combinations.'

Expect earthy hues such as subdued greens, rich browns, and terracotta to begin surfacing in homes, allowing for vibrant feature walls and transformative spaces that convey personality and warmth.

Say Goodbye to Mosaic Bands

The classic mosaic bands have been a staple in home decor since the '90s, adding vibrant accents to kitchens and bathrooms. However, trends indicate that it might be time for these installed strips to step aside. Courtney Cole, an interior designer at TileCloud, suggests that “Mosaic bands used as a singular design element are becoming less popular. They can feel dated and overly contrived.”

Today’s aesthetic leans towards more unified designs, such as full-wall tiling that enhances a space's visual appeal and expands it, making the room feel larger.

Moving On from White Subway Tiles

Although white subway tiles have been a reliable favorite for their simple elegance, they are becoming less favored as homeowners explore warmer and more textured finishes. Alexey Beliy, owner of HEX General Contractors, explains that while subway tiles were chosen for their versatility, they may lose favor due to their clinical appearance. He emphasizes a shift towards “dark tiles and unique patterns or designs,” allowing for more creative expression that stands out rather than blending in.

The Decline of Cool Gray Tiles

For years, gray tiles have been celebrated for their adaptability across various design styles. However, the cool gray palette is losing traction as buyers increasingly seek warmth and inviting spaces. Cole highlights that “an all-gray palette is starting to feel cold and overdone.'

Instead, earthy tones like terracotta and muted greens are emerging as the preferred choice, as they offer a sense of comfort and timelessness that resonates better with homeowners’ desires today.

The End of Large-Format Tiles for Flooring

Large-format tiles flooded the market in 2023, providing a sleek, modern appearance. However, designer Shiva Samiei reports that the trend is changing course as homeowners yearn for more dynamic, personalized designs. “Oversized tiles and monochromatic gray color schemes are quickly becoming passé,” she states.

Smaller format tiles, mixed materials, and vibrant colors are making headway, inviting unique combinations that promote individual aesthetics while adding texture and warmth to spaces.

A Shift from Contrasting Grout Colors

Once a design statement, contrasting grout colors are now under scrutiny. Interior designer Erika Dale suggests that this trend may hinder rather than help, often leading to visual clutter. The new direction points towards matching or subtly contrasting grout shades that harmonize with tile colors.

Dale notes a surge in neutral grout tones, allowing for a sleek and cohesive look that elevates tile designs without competing for attention.

Conclusion

As we embark on 2025, the world of tiles is set to transform dramatically, inviting homeowners to explore new avenues of design that reflect warmth, individuality, and creativity. By leaving behind outdated trends, you can create vibrant spaces that truly resonate with contemporary aesthetics and personal style. With a variety of artisanal options and rich colors at your disposal, this year promises to redefine the role of tile in home interior design.