When it comes to home design, trends come and go, but some styles are truly timeless. When choosing tiles, many people prefer to choose a classic design that won’t look dated within the next few years. If you prefer tile design that looks great now and will still look great after the latest trends have faded, you want a classic design. Let’s explore some classic tile styles that have maintained their appeal through the decades, adding charm and character to homes of all styles and eras.
Subway Tiles: Enduring Elegance
Subway tiles, known for their rectangular shape and crisp lines, have been gracing homes since the early 20th century. Originating in the subway stations of New York City, these tiles have become a staple in kitchens and bathrooms around the world. Their simple yet versatile design makes them a great choice for many different design styles, from modern to vintage-inspired spaces. Subway tiles are most commonly associated with white or neutral colors, which contribute to their timeless appeal, but there are many color options to choose from that still offer a timeless and elegant look. Even with a basic white tile, you can still add a little flair by choosing a darker grout color to enhance your tile design. Whether you choose a traditional staggered layout or a herringbone pattern, subway tiles offer classic design and simplicity that will complement any home for years.
Hexagon Tiles: A Fun Geometric Twist
Hexagon tiles, which are sometimes called honeycomb tiles, create a classic style that’s somehow vintage and modern at the same time. Black and white hexagon tiles were a staple in art-deco design of the 1920s and 1930s.
Today, you can find many of the same
patterns, like the classic, black-and-white floral design, for your home. Or you can choose to use larger hexagon tiles for a more modern, but still thoroughly classic look. Hexagon tiles look great as a kitchen backsplash, a tiled entryway, a bathroom floor, in a laundry room, or shower walls. They come in a variety of colors and sizes to match your style in a way that is modern, but still classic and timeless.
Round Penny Tiles: A Traditional Choice
Penny tiles look very similar to hexagon tiles, but their round shape can sometimes look more traditional than the hexagon’s modern angles. They are still a beautiful and timeless tile option that works equally well in spaces with modern or traditional design styles. Penny tiles come in stone, ceramic, mirrored, and glass options; the stone and ceramic varieties tend to look more classic and timeless, while the glass and mirrored varieties look more modern. Penny tiles come in color options that can be mixed to create interesting designs, such as stripes, mosaics, or geometric shapes. They are commonly used on bathroom floors, laundry rooms, entryways, and on shower walls. They can even be used to create the look of tile “rug,” adding an interesting and beautiful design feature in a bathroom or entryway.
Checkerboard Patterns: The Classic Tile
Checkerboard tile patterns are a classic tile choice loved by homeowners for generations. The juxtaposition of light and dark tiles creates a striking visual effect that works well in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. The traditional, vintage checkerboard pattern uses 8-inch square black and white tiles, but this look can be adapted to suit your style and home decor. Larger tiles, such as 12-inch squares, are also very popular and work well with a checkerboard pattern. You can also choose softer colors for a more understated design. Whether you lean towards a vintage aesthetic or a more modern interpretation, checkerboard tiles are a versatile, but still timeless choice. Checkerboard tiles are often used in entryways, bathrooms, and on kitchen floors.
Let’s Review
Design trends are always new and exciting, but they’re also fleeting. While it’s fun to incorporate the latest trends in wall color, small accessories, and pillow or curtain fabrics, many people prefer to stick with timeless styles with their tile choices. Whether it's the understated elegance of subway tiles, the classic yet modern hexagon tiles, the beauty and versatility of penny tiles, or the timeless sophistication of checkerboard patterns, these tiles have been beautiful and popular for generations. To get started, you can find lots of tile options to explore at Z Collection and MSI. Also, feel free to Contact me to set up a consultation, and I can help you make the best selection for your home or business.
Want to be notified when a new blog is published? Sign up here!
Looking for more guidance on your next project? Schedule here!