The New Rules of Decorating With Tiles: Creative Ways to Use Tile Throughout the Home with Tile of Spain
- Jul 2
- 2 min read
Tiles are no longer confined to kitchen splashbacks and bathroom walls. As homeowners become more confident in their decorating choices, tiles are increasingly being used to introduce colour, texture and personality throughout the home. From statement headboards and decorative bathroom details to tiled furniture and creative laying patterns, today’s interiors are embracing a more imaginative approach to surfaces. Maria D Arráez, Director of Tile of Spain UK, shares the new rules shaping how homeowners and designers are decorating with tiles in 2026.
Rule 1: Look at interesting layouts
“When choosing tiles, it’s easy to focus on the colour or finish, but the way they’re laid can completely change the final look. A simple tile can feel modern when stacked vertically, classic when in a herringbone pattern, or playful when arranged in a checkerboard design. If you’re renovating, it’s worth exploring different layouts as they can make a space feel more bespoke without changing the tile itself.”
Rule 2: Think beyond kitchens & bathrooms
“Tiles don’t have to be limited to kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re looking to add interest to a room, consider using tiles in unexpected places, such as behind a bed to create a headboard effect or on a feature wall in a living space. It’s a great way to introduce colour, texture and personality without relying solely on paint or wallpaper. Tiles can instantly create a focal point and help give a room its own identity.”
Rule 3: Introduce texture
“Texture is one of the easiest ways to make a room feel more interesting. Fluted, handcrafted and relief tiles add depth and catch the light in different ways throughout the day. If you prefer a more neutral colour palette, textured tiles are a great option because they add detail without needing bold colours or patterns.”
Rule 4: Highlight key features
“You don’t always need to tile an entire wall to make an impact. Sometimes the most effective designs use tiles to draw attention to a particular area, such as a shower, vanity unit, feature wall, architectural feature or alcove. Decorative borders, stripes and framed sections also help create a more considered look while allowing you to have fun with colour and pattern.”
Rule 5: Mix finishes & formats
“As you would be adventurous with colours and patterns, don’t be afraid to combine different finishes within the same room using tiles. Pairing matt and gloss tiles, or mixing smooth and textured surfaces, creates a space that feels more individual and less ‘off the shelf’. The key is to keep the colours connected so the room still feels cohesive. To take it one step further, combine different format sizes to add depth and variety to a bathroom - from large format floor options to small kitkat tiles for walls.”