How To Be Daring With Dark Kitchen And Bathroom Tile Colours

December 18, 2023

The trend for white or neutral coloured bathrooms has finally started to fade away over the past few years, with bolder colour choices such as pastels or emerald green replacing them. During the coming year, this look is set to be taken one step further with the emergence of the dark tile trend.

A dark kitchen or bathroom can seem a rather daunting prospect, especially if you are accustomed to a lighter colour scheme. However, when done well the effect can be stylish and dramatic. Here are some top tips for using dark tiles to best effect.

Create contrast

Dark tiles work best when combined with some lighter shades to help make them stand out. In the kitchen, contrast them with lighter cabinets and worktops, or a lighter flooring. In the bathroom, pair them with lighter sanitaryware and metallic fixtures and fittings to create a balanced look.

Use them to define zones

In a larger open-plan kitchen, use darker tiles to define different zones such as the cooking or dining area. This can help to add interest and avoid the effect becoming too overwhelming. 

Try alternatives to black or grey

If black or dark grey in the kitchen or bathroom is just too gothic for you, then consider alternatives such as navy or emerald green. Warm earthy tones such as terracotta and deep chocolate brown are also popular colour schemes this year. 

Mix other materials

Balance out the dark tiles with other textures to provide contrast and create a visually appealing space. For example, use natural wooden cabinets and fittings and fixtures in warm metallic tones such as gold or brass to bring warmth and a range of textures. 

Have a well-planned lighting scheme

Dark tiles do not reflect light as lighter tiles do, so make sure that you have an adequate lighting scheme with layers of ambient light and task lighting. Add strip lighting under the cabinets to illuminate the work surfaces and ensure that you have bright enough LED bulbs to allow you to carry out food preparation safely.

In addition, suspend rows of lights above kitchen islands in the centre of the room or incorporate recessed lighting into the walls and ceilings. Opt for decorative pendant lights in a larger kitchen to add a focal point to the room and create depth and a well-defined space. Wall lights can provide a softer ambient glow for dining or socialising. 

In smaller kitchens, incorporate some glossy surfaces such as glass-fronted cabinets and Italian polished porcelain tiles to help increase the sense of space. Open cabinets can also help to break up darker areas.

Add pops of colour

If you want to add some touches of colour, achieve with less permanent features such as wall art or textiles so that you can change them up to freshen up the look from time to time.