When it comes to finishes, are you a “glossy" or a “matte” person? There’s no right or wrong answer. Some people gravitate toward shiny things, while others resonate with matte finishes. When it comes to interior spaces and ceramic tile selection, the space and design style, in addition to personal preference, often guide the design choice for matte or gloss.

Matte tiles look rich and are well-suited for a darker aesthetic. Because they absorb light, they’re great for creating a traditional, rustic, or modern industrial design style. Some light-reflective polished tiles, like high-gloss subway tiles, tend to say “modern" and are often associated with bold, vibrant design schemes. Others, such as glossy marble-look tiles, speak to a more elegant, sophisticated aesthetic.

The Latest Tile Style

Do you have to choose one tile finish over the other? No, you do not! The latest interior design trend has designers mixing gloss and matte tiles  — for good reasons. The two contrasting finishes produce a unique, beautiful aesthetic, creating visual interest that is dynamic and unexpected. Installing matte and polished tiles together creates a look that feels almost textured or patterned because of how the glossy tiles play with light when juxtaposed with the matte tiles. And as any interior designer knows, juxtaposition is a great decorating tool because it gives interior spaces depth and dimension. The contrast also emphasizes each tile's distinctive characteristics — matte tiles will look richer, and glossy tiles will look shinier. Whether a glossy-matte pairing is on a tiled floor, wall, or backsplash, we think the combination is magical!

How to Perfect the Look

Once you’ve decided to forge ahead with mixing matte and glossy tiles in your interior design project, you’ll need to consider the matte-to-gloss ratio, which really comes down to personal preference and design style. The balance of glossy and matte tiles can be equal or can weigh heavier in one direction. You’ll also need to consider the tile pattern. If you prefer a more traditional look, install your gloss-matte combo in an orderly, uniform pattern. For a more contemporary, modern look, install the tiles in an irregular or random pattern.

When it comes to color, a monochromatic color scheme with a mixture of gloss and matte tiles feels sophisticated, but mixing colors can bring an element of playfulness to a space. While particular tile patterns, ratios, and color schemes may complement one design style better than another, there are no hard and fast rules. It’s your space, and you know what you like. As the famed pioneer of interior design Dorothy Draper said, “if it looks right, it is right."

If you’re intrigued by the idea of mixing matte and glossy tiles in your next design project, we can help. Crossville Studios has many beautiful collections that seem to be designed just for that purpose. Please reach out to a showroom near you to speak with a design consultant. Samples are a great way to “see before you buy," — and they’re always free.

Here's a look at some of our ceramic tile collections that align with this perfectly perfect design trend.
 

Bejmat Floor & Wall Tile

As part of the Moroccan Zellige tile  trend, Bejmat is considered and art in itself with significant influence on western decor. Mix colors and finishes in a nearly endless array of patterns with our Bejmat floor and wall tile.

Fez

Our Fez ceramic wall tile collection offers 28 delightful alternatives, including a array of gorgeous colors, glossy translucent finishes, soft mattes, and metallics in steel and copper.
Kitchen with Fez tiled backsplash designed by Jenna Snow, Owner/Interior Designer, Snow Design Co. 

Grace

In both oval and rectangular shapes, Grace wall tile is a visual feast of color, all offered in matte and gloss finishes to give depth and dimension to your monochromatic designs.





The Crossville Studios tile pros at our 27 dedicated locations are here to assist you in exploring the latest tile trends and help you specify for your tile projects with confidence. Connect with us today!