The Artsy Kitchen Tile Trend That's Here To Stay In 2025 (And How To Get The Look)

2025 design trends are leaning ever more toward the personal and idiosyncratic, the biophilic and the sustainable. It comes as no surprise, then, that the long-loved kitchen design element of hand-painted tiles has seated itself solidly into on-trend homescapes. Often made of renewable materials and made by hand, they can't help but be earth friendly and distinctive — making them practically perfect for crafting your ideal aesthetic. You can play with color, texture, design, and finish to showcase your personality in your space. Use pattern and layout to define the vibe. Or, amp up the decorative magic even further by adding this decorative touch to an unexpected location in your home. 

Made of porcelain, clay, glass, or other natural materials, tiles have been an important part of art and design for thousands of years. Always regarded as an aesthetic element, these little works of art have often served a functional purpose as well. Used on the exterior of buildings, they offered protection against the elements; indoors, they helped to make constructions resistant to fire, easier to clean, and generally more hygienic. Of course, their artistry is the more likely reason homeowners and decorators go back to the material over and over again.

One of the many fascinating realities of decorating with tile is that the allure comes from more than just the colors, shapes, and designs applied to the tile. The finish, the texture of the material itself, and the way the pieces are combined are just as critical to the overall look, which means there are several factors to consider when creating your design.

In terms of color and shape, picking the right size tile is key to pulling your space together. For example, a modern kitchen may be enhanced by a blue backsplash composed of thin, rectangular tiles, while a more rustic environment would perhaps be better complemented by terra cotta squares. Octagonally shaped, green tiles would add some serious glam to a biophilic kitchen, and a black triangular version would be a stunning backdrop for a modern or industrial space. 

The finish and texture will also have a significant impact on the final look of your tile. Established by the polish or glaze applied, it can run the gamut from natural and matte to highly polished and high gloss. Since the latter is almost reflective, it will highlight any inconsistencies on the surface of your tiles — so, when it's applied to heavily textured tile you'll get a dramatically different kind of light movement and dimension — something that hints at the effect of water running over the surface. On the other hand, an evenly planed surface in a matte finish will have a visual softness. 

Considering these factors together will help you create hand painted tiles that are exclusively you. Go for large scale tiles to give you more space on which to create your design, and be aware that intricate patterns will likely be easier to execute on smooth tiles. Choose an unglazed tile to make it easier for the paint to adhere well, and then apply an acrylic primer. Let it dry, and you can begin creating your layout. 

In the context of hand painted tile, the discussion of pattern is significantly nuanced. There's the discussion about the pattern on the tiles — flowers, geometric shapes and the like. Then there's the discussion about the way they'll be laid out — in a brick or star pattern, for example. 

The combination of these two aesthetic considerations will provide you with endless options, so let yourself be inspired by some unique and stylish tile patterns perfect for any room in your home. Differently sized squares, for instance, would give the effect of brick work with a twist. Or, maybe you'd prefer a bold, chevron pattern. Long, super-slender, horizontally laid pieces could give a nod to a midcentury style. Alternatively, brick shaped tiles laid vertically, with aligned grout lines (rather than alternating ones) would create a refined, modern look. Or, get playful with a mosaic style, arranging your tiles in a variety of colors and shapes. Once you've decided on your layout, it's time to begin painting. Use stencils or painters tape to help you create a consistent look. Or, if you're a confident artist, simply freehand your designs. Once the paint is dry, apply a heavy coat of sealant and then let your tiles dry again for at least a few days before you mount them. 

Choose one of the many unexpected places you can add decorative tiles in your living space, and you'll create loads of interest. Perhaps on the risers of your stairs, or in a uniquely shaped built in. Ultimately, the choices are endless and entirely yours. If it speaks to you, that's all that matters.