Bye-Bye Backsplash: 7 (On-Trend) Alternative Ways to Use Wall Tile Like You Never Have Before

I’ve been slightly obsessed with tile trends lately – bright colors, ambitious designs, and (most importantly) alternative uses for a material typically reserved for backsplash. Sure, standard subway tile applications are great, but I just can’t help but think there is more to this building supply than functional tiling found in bathrooms and kitchens.

To prove my theory, I rounded up 7 out-of-the-box (and out-of-the-bathroom) uses for tile that you may not have thought could work. With so many unique tile sources popping up all over the internet, I’m hoping it’ll keep trending! Here we go!

1. (above) I can’t decide what I like more about this tiled hallway feature from House and Garden – the bold color combo, or the color-blocked design. Adding a small accent wall to your home with simple square tiles is an affordable way to elevate your space, and if you’re scared of commitment, try making your own custom wall tiles that can be removed when you’re ready for a switch up. (Image by Jake Curtis.)

2. Take the blah backsplash from your kitchen or bathrooms and repurpose it like this renovation project from Hunting & Narud, featured on Sight Unseen. Frame up your wood burning stoves or fireplaces for a budget-friendly feature in any living room or den. (Image by Hunting & Narud.)

3. If you’re really looking to bring life into a boring space, try tiling your bedroom. I’m not big on “Memphis” style, in all honesty, but I have to admit, this Etotore Sottsass inspired design seen on L’Essenziale is very unique. Again with the square tiles and unexpected color combos. (Image by Jake Curtis.)

4. Here’s a more subtle fireplace option – with tiling the inside a faux fireplace. Opting for a bright color creates a nice focal point for the room (and for good reason), and also helps bring cohesion and interest to the space. Have I made you a fan yet? (Source unknown – if you know where it’s from, please let me know)

5. Millienial pink tiles are a no brainer these days, but adding them floor-to ceiling to a study or nook may not have crossed your mind. I particularly love the organic texture of these Douglas and Jones square tiles seen on Vtwonen. (Image by Vtwonen Tegels by Jones and Douglas.)

6. And if walls aren’t your thing, try for a unique tile floor using hexagon tiles that organically transition into hardwoods. Cafe No Se in Austin adds a pop of color with assorted blue tiling. This technique is especially helpful if you are having to work with damaged hardwoods. Keep the intact portions to maintain the history of the space and allow the tile to feel more intentional and less reparative. Think Japanese Kintsugi but for floors. Catch my drift? (Image by Dabito.)

7. If you’re all about temporary, these paper tiles from IXXI featured on Decor 8 might be a smart choice. The designers and owners of Studio Boot created a bright wall divider for their dual-purpose home/office space, and I’ve gotta say, it’s pretty eye-catching. (Image by IXXI.)

So what do you think? Yay or nay on these alternative uses for tile? If you were to tile any space outside of the traditional bathroom and kitchen, what space would you choose? Tell me your ideas in the comments below.

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