Think of dark tile as the chic, sophisticated version of white tile. It brings instant moody drama to a room in a way that is simply unavailable to its lighter counterparts, but it can also read a little cold. We've got some ideas for using dark tile on the walls and floors in ways that are anything but stark but definitely still plenty cool.
Design by Raychel Wade Design | Photo by Tim Williams Photo
Choose Tonal Tile
For a softer look than all-black, choose a tile product that offers dimension in color, then select a grout color in a similar tone. The effect is much less stark than if the tile were solid black with a light grout, and the designer kept the rest of the room warm with marble accents, a warm-white vanity, and brass hardware and plumbing fixtures.
Shop our similar style: Artisan Black Ceramic Tile, 2-inch Carrara Hexagon
Design by Jenn Feldman Designs | Photo by Amy Bartlam
Use Pattern
Tile isn't just for your wet spaces, and it performs especially well in an entry. This modern version of a black-and-white checkerboard foyer by Jenn Feldman caught our eye for its clever take on the classic. Paired with crisp white walls, warm wood stairs, and pops of brass, the space is equally fresh and traditional.
Shop our similar style: Valencia Black Deco
Design by Alyssa Kapito Interiors | Photo by Joshua McHugh
Add Warmth with Wood
Especially when paired with white, dark tile can feel a little cold. Warm shades of natural wood, brass, and honed marble cut down on the sometimes-harsh contrast of dark and light and replace it with texture and warmth.
Shop our similar style: 12x24 Blue Limestone
Design by Sara Crooks | Photo by Stephen Karlisch
Go Geometric
Kids' baths are a place to have a little fun with design, and this maze-inspired tile certainly brings the whimsy! If you're ready to make a bold choice, black's inherent sophistication means you won't regret your selection too soon. Pairing a playful material with classic versions like the subway tile or hexagon flooring bring a note of sophistication to the space.
Shop our similar styles: Valencia Black Chevron,
Design by Sean Anderson Design | Photo by Haris Kenjar
Try a Classic Application
In a house with mostly-dark walls, designer Sean Anderson flipped the palette in this bath and chose a dark floor with light walls. Grout carefully chosen to match the shade of the tile means that it fades into the background, allowing the contrast between the flooring and walls to remain the dominant element. Punctuated with items not frequently found in a bath such as art and oversized sculpture, the room takes on a chic, worldly vibe.
Shop our similar style: RT Penny Charcoal, Country White