6 Interesting Tile Trends To Know For 2026

Tactile Terracotta Flooring

Natural materials never really go out of style, but terracotta tiles bring a warmth and tactility that’s particularly timeless.

The clay material provides a perfect earthy contrast for homes with crisp white interiors, and the durability makes terracotta flooring an ideal way to incorporate colour in communal spaces like the living room or kitchen without it becoming overpowering. Embrace large tiles with a rustic finish for a Tuscan-inspired look, like in the home of designer Poppy Lissiman, or smaller format porcelain tiles in a terracotta colourway for a more polished vibe.

Tiled Kitchen Benchtops

Tiled kitchen benchtops were a big thing in the 1970s and ’80s, and we’re so happy to see this trend making a resurgence!

It’s a budget-friendly alternative to some of the more expensive benchtop materials like marble and stone, and there’s plenty of different options you can play with — from glossy Zellige tiles, matte greens, and matching grout colours, the sky is the limit for personalisation.

Bold + Colourful Patterns

With a vision and the right tiles, you can turn any surface into an eye-catching hero feature. Go for stripes, checks, or use tiles with their own individual patterns (like the innovative tie dye-style glaze by Palet!) to create a bold accent on a splashback or fireplace hearth.

Some clever local studios are even taking this to the next level with intricate large scale custom designs, for example – YSG ‘s colourful porcelain tiles placed in pixelated patterns inspired by Persian rugs, or the gradient mosaic in the bathroom of designer Mardi Doherty’s own home.

Mini Mosaic Tiles

We’re big fans of mid-century style, and small-format mosaic tiles are a signature of the era that’s also come back around. This time the trend is a bit more elevated, using singular colours like butter yellow, moody greys, or off-white shades that allow the repetitive detail and textured appearance of all the tiny tiles combined do the heavy lifting.

Tiled Accents + Trims

This trend is less about what the tiles look like and more about where they are placed. Adding tiles to an awkward structural column, the edge of a bench seat, or for a specific feature wall can cleverly add a subtle pop of texture in places that you might not expect. It’s a small and sophisticated touch!

Contemporary Checkerboards

Checkerboard tiles have been a classic for centuries, appearing in architecture from the Renaissance, Art Deco homes, and country cottages alike.

In 2026, however, the look is a bit more contemporary. Think medium to smaller-sized tiles that can be used on splashbacks, bench tops, or even outdoors. And rather than the traditional black-and-white, go for more playful tonal colours, or opt for a contemporary take on the traditional contrast that pairs cream tiles with soft browns and terracotta hues.

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