Tile has long been a staple in kitchen design, and for good reason. It's durable, easy to clean, and endlessly versatile. But beyond its practical advantages, tile offers a creative playground for those willing to think outside the box. From bold design statements to subtle enhancements, designers are constantly finding fresh ways to use tile that elevate the heart of the home.

Tile Outside the Lines: Fresh Ideas for Your Kitchen The Versatility of Tile

“Lately,” ACo Designer Mia Farrell says, “I’ve been using tile more for texture than color.” It’s this ability to see beyond the conventional that opens up the door to unique uses and applications. To Mia’s point, monochromatic star and cross patterns or lightly textured tiles feel elegant. You can extend this look by tiling to the ceiling, around doorways, or even an entire wall, going beyond the typical backsplash.

Tile Outside the Lines: Fresh Ideas for Your Kitchen

Designer Kim Trees agrees, often utilizing dimensional tile (think waves, carved surfaces, or geometric designs) to create both visual and tactile interest. While color remains an important aspect, texture adds depth and richness to any space.

Tile Outside the Lines: Fresh Ideas for Your Kitchen Unexpected Ways to Use Tile In Your Kitchen Thanks to its durability, resistance to moisture, hygienic qualities, and low-maintenance appeal, tile is a natural fit for kitchens. Long a staple, our designers seek new and creative ways to use it. Such as:
  • Range Hoods. A functional necessity, the range hood can also be a striking design feature. Use a bold mosaic or patterned tile to create a standout architectural element.
  • Install decorative tile inside cabinets with glass doors or behind floating shelves for a modern, layered look.
  • Kitchen Islands. While typically finished with panels or a furniture style base, finish the back of your island with tile to enhance the space with texture and color.
  • Electrical Panel. ACo’s Kayley Vargo suggests cleverly concealing outlets or electrical boxes with tile or stone, creating a seamless, refined appearance for you backsplash.
Tile Outside the Lines: Fresh Ideas for Your KitchenTaking Tile in New Directions  

Feeling inspired? So are we. Tile offers an incredible range of possibilities, and our designers love collaborating with homeowners to explore and innovate to achieve exceptional results.

Let’s talk about your project. Connect with the ACo team.