This Common Tile Trend Always Screams “Tacky,” According to Designers

When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, tiles can make or break a space—and with the time and effort it takes to install them, you want to make sure you have a look that will last.

For a timeless shower, bath, or behind-the-sink backsplash, our designers are spilling on the one tacky tile trend you’ll want to avoid (plus, their picks for replacements to try instead).

The One Tile Trend That Screams Tacky

Although there are plenty of bold patterns and funky tile shapes that designers steer away from, the one they all agree on loathing the most is more subtly sabotaging your home’s style: faux marble.

“The tiles that feel tacky to me are the oversized ones that imitate marble, especially the glossy white versions with heavy black veining,” says interior designer Natalia De Arteaga. “They’re often chosen to create a ‘luxurious’ effect when used on floors, but instead, they result in cold, impersonal spaces.”

The unique patterns and colors seen in real marble can create a stunning effect on countertops and in bathrooms, but its high price point often puts the opulent look out of reach.

To get the same feeling with faux marble while avoiding the builder-grade vibe, designer Adriena Daunt recommends opting for the material in a different size.

“I’m all for using porcelain lookalikes when it makes sense, but for marble-look I tend to use large porcelain slabs that will cover the entire wall of a shower for a more realistic finish,” she says.

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Is Colored Grout Still In?

Shades of pastel pink and vibrant green grout are bound to pop up while scrolling on socials for home inspiration and interiors trends, but the pros say to proceed with caution.

“This is a look that I love personally, but it’s also very unforgiving,” designer Amy Pigliacampo says. “I would not specify it unless the installer was extremely skilled.”

Colorful grout, especially in lighter shades, can also be unforgiving in a practical sense. It’s higher maintenance in terms of cleaning, with dirt and grime appearing more visibly. However, Daunt says it’s worth the extra effort in some settings.

“I wouldn’t say colorful grout is either in or out; rather than being a trend, I think it’s a fun design element that can be used forever in the right space,” Daunt says. “Think a lakehouse bathroom design that pairs fresh white tile with french blue grout, or a ski chalet with slate-look flooring and a matching mushroom grout.”

4 Tile Patterns That Will Never Go Out of Style

Subway Tiles

Available in an endless array of colors and glaze finishes—including one in particular designers adore—a rectangular subway tile is your best bet for a shape that will never go out of style.

“With a wide range of colors, textures, finishes, and patterns available, subway tiles can complement almost any aesthetic,” De Arteaga says. “I particularly love using them for kitchen backsplashes, shower walls, or as half-height wall coverings in bathrooms.”

Zellige

Within the subway tile family, there’s one traditional style you’ll constantly see gracing Pinterest boards.

Zellige tiles are individually handcrafted and glazed ceramic tiles from Morocco, which have subtle variations in shape, tone, and finish for visual interest without overwhelm—and to achieve a similar look at a more affordable price point, there’s one tile Daunt consistently reaches for.

“Cloe by Bedrosians in 2.5″ x 8″ is a super popular tile for a reason,” Daunt explains. “It’s a zellige lookalike that provides variation and texture, but isn’t so busy it’ll date the room quickly. It works best on backsplashes, especially in kitchens.”

Checkerboard Tiles

In terms of tile patterns, there’s one tried and true layout De Arteaga says will always be chic in any room: the classic checkerboard.

“This pattern evokes a timeless, elegant feel. It’s perfect for entryways, patios, kitchens, or bathrooms, giving them a classic yet bold look,” she explains.

Saltillo Tiles

As far as tile flooring goes, Pigliacampo has a clear favorite: saltillo.

Originally from Mexico, saltillo tiles have a matte terracotta look. Pigliacampo especially likes to see their warm tones styled in entryways and kitchens for a welcoming feel.