Color Spotlights

10 Timeless Ways to Use Black Tile

Timeless Way to Use Black Tile

When you think of black tile the cozy, darker days of winter might first come to mind, but we’re here to show you that black is a timeless tile choice regardless of season. A shade that can find itself right at home in an array of design styles, we love the versatility and beauty of black tile.

From sleek and modern to luxe and elegant, we're sharing ten spaces that use black tile to stunning effect. Ready to cross over to the dark side?

1. Not-So-Basic Backsplash

Timeless Ways to Use Black Tile Vertical Stack Black Backsplash

Tile: 2x8 Basalt | Design: Brownstone Boys | Image: Nick Glimenakis

While you can go fully to the dark side with black tile and pair it with other dark finishes, this kitchen by the Brownstone Boys illustrates how black tile doesn't have to dominate a space, it can just complement it. Our matte Raven Matte glaze looks modern and sleek on its own but easily pairs with other neutrals, colors, and patterns as well.

2. Sophisticated Shower

Step inside a shower that exudes elegance. Designer Kristen Peña gave this bathroom a dramatic edge with matte black 8" hexagon shower tile outlined in matching black grout.

3. Interlocking Accent

Timeless Ways to Use Black Tile Office Sink Accent Wall

Tile: Chaine Homme Basalt | Design: Hatch Works | Image: Robert Gomez | Installer: Sock Club

Pairing black tile with contrasting brass fixtures gives this communal sink area at Austin-based Sock Club the most luxurious feel, especially with interlocking Raven Matte Chaine Homme Tile. Raven Matte's rich tone and smooth texture make it a beautiful option for wall applications.

4. Floor-to-Ceiling Fireplace

Want a sleek look but with a rustic edge? Our Glazed Thin Brick is perfect for the job, with several showstopping dark colors available. In this midcentury ranch, Destination Eichler chose our classic Black Hills Norman Brick for a floor-to-ceiling fireplace that instantly draws the eye.

5. Monochrome Mosaic

Timeless Ways to Use Black Tile Black Mosaic Bathroom Backsplash

Tile: 2x2 Basalt | Design + Image: Mango Street

Black tile can read as classic just as easily as white tile, especially in an enduring tile size like our 2x2 mosaic. We love this monochromatic midcentury modern bathroom by Mango Street.

6. Handpainted Focal Point

This kitchen goes to show that black tile doesn't have to mean a dark or moody space. Otherwise bright, with light materials, the darker handpainted focal point flanked by black subway tile gives an anchor to the room.

If you like the look of a darker handpainted tile, check out our Black and White Collection.

7. Cozy Hearth Corner

If you’ve been told black and blue shouldn’t be paired together, this woodstove nook begs to differ. Charcoal-colored Wave Tile in Magnetite is interspersed with undulating lines of blue-green Flagstone for a result that’s as timeless as it is functional.

8. Elegant Exterior

Make a statement on your street with handmade Black Brick. This single-family residence’s facade both contrasts and complements San Francisco’s urban landscape. Please note that Brick is not suitable for exterior application in certain climates, so make sure to talk to your design consultant to see if Brick works for you.

9. Family-Friendly Flooring

Timeless Ways to Use Black Tile Laundry Room Tile Floor

Tile: 2x4 Carbon | Design + Image: Amanda Jane Jones

Black on the floor is almost always a good idea, especially in a high-use area like a mudroom or entryway. The beauty of black floor tiles is that they provide a foundation that helps disguise any dirt or mud that gets tracked in your house–and they look good while doing it.

10. Wow Factor Wainscot

Add depth and dimension to your space with a glossy black tile wainscot, as Sarah Sherman Samuel did in Vanessa Carlton’s gorgeously dark bathroom. We love how the matte texture on the wall above plays against the reflective surface of the offset square black tile wainscoting.

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