Beyond the Backsplash: Inspired Kitchen Tile

Done right, industrial-inspired design can be soulful and timeless. Some of my favorite spaces are inspired by the industrial aesthetic, but I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t been tossing my Restoration Hardware catalog in the trash lately. I’m craving a renewed sense of color and vibrancy, especially in the kitchen. I’ve always loved tile—the abundance of pattern, colors, materials and styles. This striking blue and white tile from Danish producer Made A Mano is made of lavastone and terracotta and, despite its Old World design and technique, it still looks fresh and inspired paired with a brass fixture.

So unexpected in this restaurant installation by Australian designer Anna Spiro. I absolutely love it with those barstools.

I’m a fan of incorporating bold tile patterns into commercial and residential spaces alike. These kitchens by Katie Ridder and Tom Scheerer take tile beyond the backsplash and feature bold tile pattern as the main event. Floor to ceiling tile creates a wallpaper-like effect, but the reflective finish of the tile keeps the whole room looking clean and sharp, especially against the white cabinetry.

There’s no reason big impact tile in the kitchen should be limited to the walls. I love this large-scale tile on the floor in another Katie Ridder kitchen. So great with the leather banquette and vibrant blue of the art.

Notice the life that the tile infuses into each of these spaces—the cabinets and other details are neutral and restrained while the pattern and color of the tile does the talking!