As August draws to a close, we’ve seen some clear winners in tile design. This month has been all about balance: mixing earthy, grounding tones with bold layouts and polished finishes. Whether you’re working on a bathroom refresh, a kitchen makeover, or a full-scale home renovation, these styles stood out as the most sought-after looks. Here’s our detailed wrap-up - plus a few DIY-friendly tips if you’re planning to bring these trends into your home.
1. Warm Terracotta Tones
Terracotta-inspired tiles have been everywhere this month. Their natural, sun-baked colour palette adds warmth and rustic charm that feels timeless and relaxed. Perfect for patios, mudrooms, or even bathroom floors, they instantly channel a Mediterranean retreat.
DIY Tip: Terracotta is naturally porous, so if you’re laying traditional clay tiles, sealing them is a must. Apply a breathable sealant before grouting to prevent staining and protect the natural surface. If you love the look but want less upkeep, opt for porcelain versions that mimic terracotta - they’re durable, easy to clean, and DIY-friendly.
2. Checkerboard Floors with a Twist
The checkerboard look is back, but August proved it’s no longer limited to stark black-and-white. We’ve seen playful pairings like sage and cream, blush and ivory, and even terracotta and sand. This style works beautifully in kitchens, hallways, and entryways, creating a striking focal point.
DIY Tip: For a flawless checkerboard pattern, start from the centre of the room and dry-lay your tiles before fixing. This ensures the pattern stays symmetrical and balanced, especially in high-traffic spaces where alignment really stands out.
3. Zellige Tiles: Handcrafted Texture
Zellige tiles remain one of the most in-demand looks - and August was no exception. Their glossy glazes, colour variations, and artisanal imperfections make every wall unique. Popular shades this month were soft blues, pale greens, and creamy neutrals.
DIY Tip: Because Zellige tiles are hand-cut, grout lines won’t be perfectly even. Embrace this - it’s part of their charm. Use a contrasting grout if you want to highlight the handmade effect, or a colour-matched grout for a softer, blended finish.
4. Marble-Look Porcelain
For homeowners craving elegance without the upkeep, marble-look porcelain dominated August. Large-format tiles with dramatic veining add instant luxury to bathrooms, kitchens, and even living room floors. Unlike real marble, porcelain is non-porous, making it far easier to maintain.
DIY Tip: Large-format tiles can be tricky to handle, so if you’re DIYing, invest in levelling clips and spacers. They’ll help prevent lippage (uneven edges) and keep your lines perfectly flush. Always use a white adhesive with light marble-effect tiles to prevent shadowing.
5. Patterned Tiles for Statement Spaces
From Moroccan-inspired motifs to encaustic-style geometrics, patterned tiles continue to shine. This August, muted palettes - think dove grey, powder blue, and sandy neutrals - replaced the brighter tones we saw earlier in the year. They’re ideal for feature walls, kitchen splashbacks, or cloakroom floors.
DIY Tip: When working with bold patterns, always dry-lay the tiles first. This lets you map out the repeat and avoid awkward cut-offs in visible spots. A feature wall behind a vanity or a framed “rug effect” on a floor can elevate the look without overwhelming the space.
6. Herringbone & Chevron Layouts
Tile layouts themselves became the focus this month. Herringbone and chevron arrangements - especially with slim subway or wood-effect tiles - were a huge hit. These patterns bring a sense of movement and sophistication to both walls and floors.
DIY Tip: Herringbone requires precision. Use tile spacers religiously and snap chalk lines to keep your angles consistent. For beginners, consider a simple 45-degree herringbone rather than a double herringbone or chevron - it’s easier to set out and still makes a big impact.
Final Thoughts
August’s tile trends show a clear direction: homeowners are blending natural textures, artisan details, and bold layouts to create spaces full of personality. Whether you’re after the warmth of terracotta, the elegance of marble, or the charm of Zellige, there’s a style to suit every project.
If you’re planning your own update, remember that good preparation is the key to a professional finish. Take the time to seal, level, and dry-lay before committing with adhesive - it’ll save you from costly mistakes down the line.
Looking for inspiration? Explore our curated tile collections and order free samples to see how this month’s most popular styles could work in your home.
