Not all tile trends are created equal. Some are timeless, others are temporary, and a few look good in theory but never really work in practice. At Dynamic Tile & Stone, we work with homeowners, designers, and builders who all bring different visions to the table. Over the years, we have seen which styles stand the test of time and which ones end up getting torn out.
This blog is not about judging personal taste. If you love something, go for it. But if you are planning a tile project and want input from people who work with these materials every day, here are some trends we believe are worth considering and a few we suggest thinking through before committing.
Tile Trends We Like
These styles continue to look good, feel fresh, and function well in real homes. They are easy to live with and often easier to maintain than some of the flashier choices.
1. Large Format Tile
Big tiles are not new, but they are getting better. Whether it is floor tile or wall panels, larger formats reduce grout lines, create a cleaner look, and make smaller spaces feel more open.
They are especially popular in bathrooms, entryways, and open-concept kitchens. They work well with modern and minimalist designs and are practical for everyday use.
We like large format tile because it blends visual impact with durability. When installed correctly, it creates a seamless surface that holds up well over time.
2. Textured and Matte Finishes
Glossy tiles still have their place, but matte and textured finishes are gaining popularity for good reason. They offer a more natural, understated look and tend to show fewer smudges, streaks, and water spots.
We especially like matte finishes in showers and floors because they add traction and feel a little more grounded. Texture also brings depth to simple color palettes without overpowering the room.
3. Earth Tones and Warm Neutrals
Soft beiges, greiges, warm whites, and clay-inspired tones have replaced the stark gray trend of the past decade. These warmer hues work well with wood, stone, and natural materials, making spaces feel welcoming and calm.
We like this shift because it feels more connected to timeless design. It gives people flexibility in decorating and does not lock them into a cold or overly modern look.
4. Vertical Stacking and Clean Lines
Traditional brick patterns will always have a place, but vertical stacking has become a favorite for giving classic tiles a fresh look. Straight-set vertical layouts feel modern but not too trendy. They work especially well with subway tile or slim rectangular shapes.
This trend allows for symmetry, clean edges, and a tailored finish that still feels approachable.
5. Natural Stone and Stone Look Porcelain
Natural stone has always been a favorite of ours, and the newer porcelain options that mimic it have come a long way. Both give you rich detail and variation that artificial patterns cannot duplicate.
Whether you choose real stone or a convincing lookalike, this trend adds texture, depth, and authenticity to any space.
Tile Trends We Are Not Sold On
Trends come and go, and these are a few that either do not hold up over time or make life harder than it needs to be. That does not mean they are wrong. It just means we have seen the downside behind the scenes.
1. High-Gloss Everywhere
A little shine can be great. Full-wall high-gloss tile in a bathroom or kitchen, however, is a maintenance challenge. It shows every fingerprint, water mark, and smudge.
In high-traffic areas or homes with kids, glossy surfaces become constant work. We have replaced more than a few simply because they were too hard to keep clean.
If you love the look, try it in smaller doses. Accent walls or backsplashes can deliver the effect without the upkeep.
2. Tiny Mosaic Floors
Mosaic tile can be beautiful when used thoughtfully. But when it is spread across a full floor, especially in a busy space, it creates a lot of grout lines. That means more places for dirt to settle and more time spent cleaning.
We have also seen issues with uneven mosaic sheets and poor bonding. If not installed with care, these floors wear out fast and can feel uncomfortable underfoot.
Our advice is to use mosaics where they shine. Think shower floors, niche details, or inlay accents. They work best as a feature, not the foundation.
3. Super Trendy Patterns and Colors
We appreciate bold choices, but some trends burn out quickly. Think of bright turquoise backsplashes, zigzag patterns that dominate a room, or ultra-high contrast tile combinations.
These trends often feel fresh for a short time but start to date a space quickly. We recommend thinking about how long you want the tile to last and how your style might evolve.
You can still include color or pattern. Just aim for balance so your space does not feel locked into one design era.
4. Mixing Too Many Tile Styles
Combining materials can look great when done carefully. But throwing too many patterns, colors, or tile shapes into one space usually creates visual chaos.
We have worked on projects where homeowners changed direction mid-installation because it felt overwhelming once on the wall.
The best tile designs often stick to one main material and one accent, creating contrast through shape or layout instead of color overload.
Trends Are Tools, Not Rules
We are not here to say what you should or should not like. Everyone has different taste and every space calls for something different. What we can say, from years of experience, is that tile choices are easier when you focus on a few key questions:
- Will this still look good in five or ten years?
- Is this going to be a maintenance headache?
- Does it work with the rest of my home?
Trends can be a great way to get inspired. But at the end of the day, it is your space. Go with what feels right to you and works for how you live.
If you are not sure where to start, we are happy to help you sort through your options.
At Dynamic Tile & Stone, we combine practical know-how with an eye for design to help you choose materials that will look good, last long, and feel like home.
Contact us to talk about your tile project. We would love to help you turn your ideas into something solid.
