Design faux pas: tile colors interior designers are ditching

Forget the dated décor – your tile choices are screaming “out of style.” Interior designers are issuing a stark warning: certain tile colors have officially lost their luster. It’s not about personal preference anymore; it’s about preventing your home from looking like a time capsule. We consulted with three leading design experts to uncover the tile hues that need to go, and the fresher alternatives you should embrace.

The gray area: why millennial gray needs to fade

For years, gray reigned supreme, earning the moniker “Millennial gray.” But Courtney Batten, owner and principal designer at Paige Studio, says it's time to retire this once-ubiquitous shade. The relentless gray-on-gray trend of the 2010s left a lingering mark, and now, gray tiles often feel cold, sterile, and, frankly, overdone. Instead of clinging to this tired aesthetic, Batten suggests opting for warmer neutrals like taupe or light beige—colors that inject a sense of warmth and sophistication.

Navy's overstayed welcome

Navy blue, a classic and versatile shade, has enjoyed widespread popularity. Yet, even this timeless hue has its limits. Batten notes that navy blue tiles have become excessively common, and suggests a shift towards deep teals as a more contemporary and refreshing alternative. “As classic as navy blue is, it has been very overdone,” she explains, emphasizing the need for a touch of freshness in today’s designs.

The marble misstep: why white marble is a no-go

You might be surprised to hear that classic white marble, a long-time favorite, is facing criticism. Batten argues that it’s become “so tired and overdone,” a ubiquitous choice found everywhere from bathrooms to kitchen backsplashes. What was once considered sleek and sophisticated now reads as predictable—a design cliché. Daniela Gottschalk, creative force behind Tinzeltown, echoes this sentiment, noting that black, white, and gray tiles in popular metro shapes are relics of the past. The solution? Embrace natural materials like travertine or limestone to achieve a similar look with a modern twist.

Brown-beige: a relic of the late 90s and early 2000s

Alice Moszczynski, member of the Planner 5D Interior Design Council, points out that brown-beige tiles are a throwback to a less-inspired era. “Brown beiges were a big go-to color for hallways in homes built in the late ’90s and early 2000s,” she says. Lacking the energy and brightness of contemporary designs, they contribute to a dated feel. A far better choice? Light taupes or greiges – subtle tones that offer a similar earthy appeal without the heaviness of brown-beige.

Avocado green: a blast from the 70s past

Finally, Moszczynski advises against the return of avocado green. “Avocado green was once a popular choice for kitchens, especially in the ’70s, but it can feel a bit heavy and nostalgic in a way that doesn’t always work with today’s spaces,” she explains. However, don’t dismiss green entirely. Opt for muted, nature-inspired hues like soft sage greens or olive tones to bring an earthy touch to your space, steering clear of overly saturated or bright shades.

The bottom line? Your tile choices are a lasting investment. By ditching these dated colors and embracing warmer, more natural tones, you can ensure your home exudes a timeless and modern appeal – a testament to thoughtful design, not fleeting trends.