Did you know that when grey appears to you in a dream, it’s said to represent insight and reflection? In that case, grey tiles make a fitting choice to decorate with - after all, our homes are a reflection of ourselves! And while it’s well-known that a neutral scheme is really easy to live with, with fifty shades of grey visible to the naked eye getting the ‘right’ colour can sometimes be a little tricky. Read on, and take a lesson from the style experts on how to pick the perfect tone for your home.
Urban style
Polished concrete might be the go-to material for brutalist architects, but peer inside a city city centre apartment and, chances are, you’ll find the floors decked out in similar shades of grey. Cement effect tiles are the on-trend flooring choice for design-conscious urban dwellers and they’re far easier to live with - and not to mention, a lot less expensive - than actual concrete floors.
For a similar industrial style, try our Concept Grey floor tiles. Their finish ensures plenty of warmth and visual appeal, for a liveable-meets-luxe style.
Dramatically distressed
Take the trend for distressed glamour a notch further by dressing your floors in mismatched tiles. The patchwork effect in the image above brings an unexpected touch to the room, but the neutral grey tones ensure the drama isn’t dialled up too much. Funk up the style with gold and brass accessories for a bewitching take on rough luxe.
Love the look? Our Cotto Mid Grey, Light Grey and Black tiles have a subtle aged finish and there’s complementary decor tiles to help create an atmospheric mood.
Scandi chic
If there’s anyone who knows about cosy homes, it’s our friends in Denmark. Their long winter months demand a certain type of design - warm and welcoming, something which the Danish are incredibly good at. And of course, our Nordic neighbours are also big on timber floors. So why not take a leaf from their style bibles and opt for our Chevron Grey wood tiles? Their contemporary style is the perfect backdrop for a sleek, modern kitchen and the neutral tones provide a look that’ll stay fresh for years to come.
Dramatic design
Want to dial up the drama without going overboard? Then take a look at our Transit Decor hexagon tiles. Their 3D cube effect will really make your walls and floors sing and because they’re made from practical porcelain, you won’t need to worry about scuffs and stains. The best bit? Thanks to the neutral grey tones, these hexagons are almost guaranteed to work with your current decor. So why not create one traffic-stopping wall or floor in your room, for a speedy update that won’t break the bank?
Play with pattern
After years in the wilderness, patterned tiles are back in a big way. But cast away any memories of the ducks and petals that we de-rigueur in the day; today’s on-trend tiles feature eye-catching graphics that reference the geometric appeal of traditional Moroccan design. For example, the subtly muted hues of our Vintage Camden, shown above, perfectly encapsulate the spirit of encaustic tiles. Lay them in your hallway for a warmer, more welcoming arrival home.
Long lines
Two long-established looks - grey tones and metro tiles - have paved the way for one of our favourite new tile designs: slim grey bricks. We’re seeing a move away from old-school bevelled tiles towards long and lean tiles, such as our Terra Pearl. With their streamlined format, they’re an easy way to update those plain white tiles in your family bathroom. Or why not deck out a feature wall, floor to ceiling? The shaded style makes for a stand-out statement that’s easy on the eye.
Raw details
If you think grey floors have to be clean and clinical, think again. Not only are the latest faux timber tiles full of natural charm; they come in contemporary grey colourways that offer the elemental appeal of wood without going all log cabin. Our hyper real Woodcraft Musk planks feature realistic knots and tonal variation, and are completely resistant to water. Use them to craft a rustic-meets-modern bathroom - their texture provides the perfect foil for sleek, white fittings.
Artisan appeal
And on the subject of rustic style, we’ve spotted a new trend for a ‘handmade aesthetic’ that’s perfectly encapsulated by our Atelier Grey wall tiles. This look is all about embracing tactile materials and celebrating imperfections - we’re smitten with the soft, gentle sheen. The pared-back grey is, dare we say it, perfect for pairing with country kitchens with a modern touch. Add a solid oak worktop, sturdy Belfast sinks and vintage crockery for a look that’s one step ahead of the style crowd.
In the words of Tony the Tiger, we think grey tiles are grrreaaat! But why not check them out for yourself? Take a look at our grey wall and floor tile collection next time you're planning to use this most noble and neutral of colours!