Patterned Tile Ideas: Feature Walls, Statement Floors & Bold Splashbacks

Patterned tiles have become a major design trend, bringing colour, texture, and personality into modern homes. Whether you use patterned floor tiles, patterned wall tiles, or a bold splashback tile, they offer endless possibilities for creative expression. With so many options available, it’s important to know how to use them effectively to achieve a stylish and cohesive look.

Fiona Burford, Business Development and tile expert at Lifestyle Decorations, has seen firsthand how homeowners are embracing patterned tile design ideas in new and unexpected ways. From feature walls to statement flooring and bold splashbacks, this guide explores ideas and advice on how to use patterned tiles in your home while ensuring they enhance, rather than overpower, your space.

How to Use Patterned Tiles Creatively in Your Home

The days of playing it safe with neutral tiles are long gone—homeowners are now embracing bold tile designs in unexpected places. Whether it’s a striking feature wall, patterned flooring, or a creative splashback, feature tiles can instantly elevate a space. “Decorative tiles aren’t just for feature walls anymore,” says Fiona. “We’re seeing homeowners extend these designs to floors, vanity splashbacks, and even fireplace surrounds, making them true statement pieces.”

Statement Feature Walls: A Focal Point for Any Room

A patterned tile feature wall is one of the easiest ways to add personality and visual interest to a space. Whether it’s a striking geometric pattern, an intricate encaustic design, or a bold Moroccan-inspired tile, a well-placed feature wall can completely transform a room. The key is choosing the right tile for the space, balancing it with complementary elements, and ensuring it fits the room’s function.

Bathroom Feature Walls: Instant Luxury

A patterned tile wall in the bathroom creates a spa-like, high-end look. The most popular placements include:

• Behind the vanity – Acts as a statement splashback while protecting the wall from water damage.
• Behind a freestanding bathtub – Creates a focal point and elevates the overall design.
• In the shower – A patterned tile wall can add depth and contrast, but ensure the tiles are non-porous (porcelain is ideal) and grout is properly sealed to prevent moisture damage.

Pro Tip: If tiling a shower or wet area, glossy tiles reflect light, making small bathrooms feel bigger. If you want a more natural look, opt for matte tiles with a slip-resistant finish.

Entryway & Hallway Feature Walls: First Impressions Matter

The entryway is the first thing guests see, so why not make it memorable? A patterned tile wall can:

• Frame a console table – Pair with a mirror for added depth.
• Highlight an architectural feature – Alcoves, arches, and staircases are perfect spots for tile accents.
• Extend from floor to wall – Using the same patterned tile on the floor and wall creates a seamless, designer look.

Pro Tip: Stick to neutral or monochrome patterns for a timeless entryway design. If your hallway is narrow, lighter tiles help open up the space.

Living Room Feature Walls: More Than Just Paint or Wallpaper

Tiles are a durable and stylish alternative to painted or wallpapered feature walls in living spaces. Popular ideas include:

• Fireplace surrounds – Patterned tiles add warmth and texture, perfect for cosy spaces.
• TV wall backdrops – Makes a sleek, modern statement without overpowering the room.
• Full accent wall – If you love a bold Mediterranean, Moroccan, or encaustic look, a floor-to-ceiling tiled wall can be a conversation starter.

Pro Tip: Use earthy tones and textured finishes for a warm, inviting feel in the living room.

Kitchen Feature Walls: Beyond the Splashback

Most people think of patterned tiles in kitchens only as splashbacks, but they can go much further:

• Extend splashbacks to full-height walls – Creates a seamless, high-end look.
• Feature wall behind a dining nook – Defines the space and adds texture.
• Patterned tiles on a kitchen island front – A growing trend for adding depth and personality.

Pro Tip: If your kitchen already has bold cabinetry or benchtops, use a subtle patterned tile to keep things balanced.

Outdoor Feature Walls: Bringing Pattern Outside

Patterned tiles aren’t just for indoor spaces—they work beautifully outdoors, too:

• Tiled alfresco feature wall – Perfect for entertaining areas to create a stylish, durable backdrop.
• Garden walls & courtyards – A pop of patterned tiles adds charm and colour to outdoor spaces.
• Poolside feature walls – Moroccan and mosaic tiles create a resort-like feel.

Pro Tip: For outdoor areas, choose porcelain tiles, as they are weatherproof, fade-resistant, and non-slip.

Final Thoughts

A patterned tile feature wall is a simple but high-impact way to bring character into any space. Whether it’s a bathroom, entryway, living area, kitchen, or even outdoors, the key is to balance bold patterns with complementary elements to create a cohesive look.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a curated selection of patterned feature tiles, making it easy to find the perfect option for your home. Visit our showroom or browse online to get started!

Check out our guide to choosing feature wall tiles for more advice.

Statement Flooring: Patterns Underfoot

Patterned tile designs are an effective way to add personality to a space while maintaining durability and practicality. Whether it’s a bold geometric layout, a classic checkerboard pattern, or an intricate encaustic design, statement flooring can transform the look and feel of a room. The key is choosing the right pattern, balancing it with surrounding elements, and selecting a tile material that suits the space.

Bathrooms: Bold Yet Functional Flooring

Patterned flooring is a great way to make a bathroom stand out while remaining easy to clean and moisture-resistant. Some of the most popular choices include:

• Classic checkerboard flooring – Timeless black-and-white or soft-toned variations add elegance.
• Encaustic-style designs – Intricate floral and geometric patterns bring character to both modern and traditional bathrooms.
• Bordered tile layouts – A mix of plain and patterned tiles creates a framed effect, adding depth without overwhelming the space.

Pro Tip: For wet areas, porcelain tiles are ideal as they are waterproof and durable, while a matte or textured finish helps improve slip resistance.

Kitchens: A Balance of Style and Practicality

Statement flooring in the kitchen can add warmth and texture while being durable enough to withstand daily wear. Popular applications include:

• Full patterned tile flooring – Creates a bold, vintage-inspired aesthetic, perfect for farmhouse or Mediterranean-style kitchens.
• Patterned tile “rugs” – A bordered tile section beneath an island or dining area defines the space without covering the entire floor.
• Herringbone and chevron layouts – Adds movement and texture, working well in both modern and classic kitchens.

Pro Tip: Since kitchens experience frequent spills, glazed porcelain tiles are a smart choice due to their stain resistance and easy maintenance. Explore the latest kitchen floor tile trends and discover our expert advice on the best floor tiles for kitchens, along with additional patterned floor tile ideas.

Hallways & Entryways: First Impressions Count

Hallways and entryways often lack natural focal points, making them an ideal place for statement flooring. Some of the best patterned tile design ideas for these spaces include:

• Vintage-inspired encaustic tiles – Adds a European charm, especially in heritage homes.
• Geometric patterns – A modern choice that creates movement and dimension.
• Floor-to-wall continuation – Extending patterned tiles from the floor onto a feature wall can create a dramatic, cohesive look.

Pro Tip: Lighter tile colours can make a narrow hallway feel more spacious, while darker tones provide a grounded, sophisticated appearance.

Powder Rooms & Small Spaces: High Impact with Minimal Commitment

For those who love bold flooring but want a smaller-scale application, powder rooms and laundry rooms offer the perfect opportunity.

• Full floor coverage – A great way to bring character to a compact space.
• Accent flooring – Using patterned tile designs in just one section, such as beneath a vanity or laundry bench, adds subtle detail.
• Contrasting grout colours – Light grout softens a pattern, while dark grout enhances contrast and makes the design pop.

Pro Tip: Since these areas are separate from the main living spaces, they allow for more creativity with colour and pattern without disrupting the overall home aesthetic.

Outdoor Areas: Extending Style Beyond the Home

Patterned tile flooring isn’t limited to interiors—outdoor patios, verandas, and pool surrounds can also benefit from a bold floor design.

• Mosaic-style tiles – Popular for Mediterranean and resort-style outdoor areas.
• Large-format geometric patterns – Ideal for contemporary alfresco settings.
• Porcelain over ceramic – Ensures tiles remain weatherproof and fade-resistant.

Pro Tip: A textured or matte finish is recommended in outdoor areas for slip safety.

Final Thoughts

Patterned flooring is a practical yet stylish way to introduce personality into any space. The right floor tile can enhance aesthetics and functionality in bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, or outdoor areas. Statement flooring can elevate a home’s overall design by selecting durable materials, balancing patterns with surrounding elements, and choosing the right placement.

Splashbacks Beyond the Basics

Kitchen splashbacks have long been a way to introduce texture and contrast, but homeowners are now taking this concept even further. Instead of stopping at the bottom of the cabinetry, full-height splashbacks that extend to the ceiling are becoming more popular. This enhances the visual impact and creates a more cohesive, polished look.

Another emerging trend is patterned island fronts, where decorative tiles wrap around kitchen islands for an unexpected and eye-catching feature. “We’re seeing more people use patterned tiles in non-traditional places, and kitchen islands are a great example of this,” Fiona shares. “It’s a simple way to add personality to a space without making permanent structural changes.”

Pairing Patterned Splashbacks with Different Benchtops

Choosing the right benchtop to complement a patterned tile splashback is key to achieving a balanced look. Some popular pairings include:

• Stone benchtops (Quartz, Granite, Marble): Natural stone works well with intricate tile patterns, creating a high-end, designer feel. If the benchtop has veining, opt for a simpler patterned tile to avoid visual clutter.
• Laminate benchtops: A budget-friendly option that allows for bolder tile choices. Neutral-toned laminates pair well with Moroccan or encaustic tiles, adding character without overwhelming the space.
• Timber benchtops: Warm wood tones soften the look of geometric and monochrome patterned tiles, offering a natural contrast that works well in modern-rustic kitchens.

Pro Tip: For a cohesive finish, consider tying the benchtop and splashback together with matching grout or hardware accents in black, brass, or brushed nickel.

Kitchen vs. Bathroom Splashbacks – Key Differences

While both kitchen and bathroom splashbacks serve a functional purpose, their design and material requirements differ.

• Heat and moisture resistance: Kitchen splashbacks need to withstand heat from cooktops, so porcelain tiles are ideal due to their durability. Bathrooms, on the other hand, require moisture-resistant tiles, making ceramic or glass tiles a popular choice.
• Cleaning and maintenance: Glossy tiles work well in kitchens as they wipe clean easily, whereas matte or textured tiles are better suited for bathrooms where water spots are less of an issue.
• Size considerations: Full-height splashbacks are trending in kitchens, but in bathrooms, a smaller splashback behind the vanity is often preferred to prevent water damage while maintaining a stylish focal point.

Patterned splashbacks are a simple yet impactful way to elevate a space in the kitchen, bathroom, or even on an island front. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock a range of patterned feature tiles to help bring these ideas to life, making it easy to create a bold yet balanced look in your home.

For additional advice on choosing splashback tiles, check out the latest Tiled Kitchen Splashback Ideas.

Balancing Bold Tile Patterns with Neutral Elements

While bold tile patterns make a stunning statement, achieving the right balance is key to ensuring your space doesn’t feel overwhelming. The designs incorporate contrast and restraint, allowing decorative tiles to shine without overpowering a room. “If you’re using a bold encaustic print on the floor, balance it with neutral wall tiles to keep the space from feeling too busy,” Fiona suggests. “Conversely, a patterned splashback or feature wall pairs beautifully with a sleek, solid-coloured floor.”

Pair Patterned Tiles with Solid Colours

One of the simplest ways to let decorative tiles stand out is by pairing them with neutral walls or flooring. A vibrant Moroccan-inspired floor, for example, works best when complemented by crisp white or soft beige wall tiles. Similarly, a high-impact geometric splashback can feel more refined when paired with a simple, matte-finish benchtop.

Mix Matte and Glossy Finishes for Depth

A great way to add subtle contrast and texture is by combining different tile finishes. If you’re using glossy decorative tiles, pairing them with matte or brushed tiles on adjacent surfaces prevents the space from feeling too reflective. Fiona notes that this is particularly effective in bathrooms and kitchens, where light reflection can play a major role in the overall aesthetic.

Use Bold Tiles as Accents Instead of Full Coverage

For those who love decorative tile designs but worry about commitment, incorporating them as accents is a great idea. Instead of tiling an entire room, consider using patterned tiles in:

• Niches & Recessed Shelves – A small pop of pattern adds personality without overwhelming the space.
• Border Accents – Use a row of encaustic or geometric tiles as a decorative trim around plain tiles.
  Vanity Splashbacks – A patterned splashback behind the vanity adds interest without dominating the room.

By carefully balancing bold tile patterns with neutral elements, you can create a cohesive and visually striking space. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a curated selection of tending patterned and solid-coloured tiles, making it easy to find the perfect mix for your bathroom or kitchen renovation.

Choosing the Right Patterned Tile for Your Home

Selecting the perfect decorative tile design goes beyond just picking a pattern—it’s about ensuring durability, ease of maintenance, and a seamless fit with your home’s aesthetic. Fiona notes that while statement tiles are in high demand, homeowners should consider how their tile choice will function in everyday spaces.

Durability Matters

Porcelain tiles are a top choice for areas exposed to moisture and heavy use due to their dense and non-porous nature, making them highly resistant to stains and wear. Meanwhile, ceramic tiles are an excellent option for feature walls and splashbacks, offering a lightweight and more affordable alternative without sacrificing style.

Think About Maintenance

The finish of a tile affects both its appearance and maintenance. Glossy tiles reflect light beautifully, brightening small bathrooms and making surfaces easier to wipe clean. In contrast, textured tiles—such as fluted or ribbed styles—create depth and character but may require more effort to keep grout lines looking fresh.

Align with Your Home’s Aesthetic

Your tile selection should complement your overall design style. Modern spaces benefit from sleek, high-gloss or matte tiles in neutral tones, while vintage or Mediterranean-inspired interiors look stunning with encaustic, decorative, or handmade-style tiles. Our article on the top patterned tile trends for 2025 is a great source of inspiration for those looking to stay on trend.

As Fiona explains, “Homeowners love statement tiles, but choosing the right finish is just as important as the pattern itself. Glossy tiles reflect light beautifully in smaller bathrooms, while textured designs—like fluted or ribbed tiles—offer depth and a handcrafted feel.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Patterned Tiles

Patterned tile design ideas can bring personality and style into a space but can make a room feel overwhelming or disconnected if not used thoughtfully. From mixing too many patterns to neglecting practical considerations like grout and maintenance, there are a few common mistakes homeowners should avoid.

Mixing Too Many Patterns

Using bold tiles can create a stunning effect, but too many competing patterns make a space feel chaotic rather than cohesive. Fiona emphasises this point: “Mixing too many bold patterns or conflicting styles can result in a visually chaotic space. You may end up with a bathroom or kitchen that feels overwhelming and lacks cohesion.”

To avoid this, stick to a single statement tile and complement it with solid or subtly textured finishes. Choose designs with a shared colour palette to maintain harmony if you want to mix patterns.

Our article, How to Match Tiles in the Bathroom, also offers helpful tips and ideas around mixing patterns.

Ignoring Grout Colour & Maintenance

Grout is often overlooked, but it is crucial in bringing patterned tile design ideas to life. The wrong grout colour can make a design feel too harsh or cause the pattern to lose definition.

• Light grout creates a seamless, blended look but requires more upkeep, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Dark grout adds contrast and makes the pattern pop, but it may emphasise grout lines more than the tiles themselves.

Pro Tip: For best results, test a few grout samples before finalising your choice, and always use sealed or stain-resistant grout in high-traffic areas.

Choosing the Wrong Finish for the Space

The finish of a tile affects both its appearance and functionality. Gloss, matte, and textured tiles each have different benefits depending on where they’re installed.

• Gloss tiles reflect light and brighten a space, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms, but they can be slippery when used on floors.
• Matte tiles offer a softer, more natural look and are better suited for high-traffic areas since they hide smudges and water spots.
• Textured tiles (such as fluted or handcrafted styles) add depth but may require more maintenance to keep grout lines clean.

Pro Tip: Consider where the tiles will be used and how much upkeep you’re comfortable with before deciding. Learn more about tile textures and finishes.

Not Considering the Scale of the Pattern

The size of a pattern can significantly impact how it looks in a room. Large-scale patterns work best in spacious areas, while smaller, intricate designs are ideal for compact spaces like powder rooms or splashbacks.

If you’re using decorative patterned tile designs on both floors and walls, ensure the scale of the patterns complements rather than competes. For example, a large geometric floor tile pairs well with a more delicate patterned splashback rather than another oversized design.

Final Thoughts

Following popular patterned tile ideas can be a striking addition to any home, but getting the balance right is essential. By sticking to one statement tile, choosing the right grout and finish, and considering the scale of the pattern, you can create a design that feels bold yet harmonious.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock a curated range of patterned feature tiles, from encaustic-inspired designs to contemporary geometric styles, making achieving a balanced and stylish look easy. Visit our showroom or browse online to find the perfect tiles for your project.

Conclusion

Patterned tiles are versatile in adding character and style to any space. Whether you’re looking for ideas for using patterned tiles in a bathroom, a bold statement floor, or a standout splashback, the key is finding the right balance between pattern, colour, and surrounding elements. By carefully selecting patterned tile ideas for kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, you can create a stylish and cohesive space.

If you’re ready to transform your home with patterned tile designs, explore our extensive range at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. From modern geometric designs to timeless encaustic styles, we have a wide selection of tiles to suit any space. View our collection of patterned tiles online or visit our showroom today to find the perfect tiles for your next project.