Trend Spotlight: Checkerboard Tiles

From traditional victorian hallway floors to bold bathrooms, Checkerboard tiles are back in a big way, bringing a sense of retro design revival style to modern interiors.

Whether you’re leaning towards a classic black-and-white design or a contemporary take with unexpected colour combinations, this versatile pattern is a game-changer for floors and wall tiles alike. It’s bold yet balanced, chic yet playful - a true design staple that works beautifully in both traditional and modern homes, from bathrooms to hallways.

If you’re ready to embrace the checkerboard trend but need a little inspiration to get started, read our guide to checkerboard tiles for design ideas and installation tips to create a checkerboard feature that you’ll love for years to come.

Checkerboard Tile Ideas

The beauty of the checkered tiles resurgence lies in their versatility. With countless options for materials, colours, and finishes, and a fantastic option for both wall and floor tiles, you can create a look that feels classic or ultra on-trend. Here are some standout ideas to inspire your next project:

Terracotta Tile Checkerboard

Warm and earthy, terracotta tiles bring an organic twist to the classic checkerboard floor tiles we know and love. Pair burnt red tones with softer beiges for a cosy, Mediterranean-inspired look, perfect for eclectic kitchens or bold bathrooms. The natural texture of terracotta adds depth and character, making this combination feel down to earth with a trendy edge.

To keep things cohesive, complement these checkerboard bathroom tiles with rich painted cabinetry, warm brassware and textiles, and plenty of natural light.

_{Terracotta Light Porcelain}

Metro Tile Checkerboard

For a checkerboard tile design with a difference, using metro tiles offers the opportunity to apply this trend to unexpected areas like a shower wall, kitchen splashback, or fireplace alcove. A checkerboard pattern brings bold, impactful energy to even the smallest overlooked corners, instantly elevating a neglected area into a standout design feature.

Opt for rectangular metro tiles laid in a staggered pattern to create a fresh spin on the traditional grid. For colour, try muted tones like sage green and soft white for a modern, understated look with a natural touch.

_{Babylon Olive & Babylon Cotton Metro Tiles (image: amodestsemi)}

This approach works brilliantly in compact spaces, as the graphic pattern creates visual depth while the metro tile format adds texture and interest. Whether you're reviving a tired fireplace or adding a dramatic touch to an alcove, checkerboard tiles deliver maximum impact in minimal space.

Black and White Checkerboard

Classic yet undeniably cool, a black and white checkered floor is hailed as a timeless design favourite for a reason. These black and white floor tiles are effortlessly eye-catching and add a high-impact hit of character to period properties and vintage-inspired interiors.

For a modern edge, choose large-format tiles with rectified edges to keep a sleek aesthetic and enhance the sense of space. Alternatively, opt for antique-effect tiles for a more traditional feel that exudes aged charm and character.

_{Firenza Carrara & Firenza Nero} 

Marble Checkerboard Tiles

For those who love a touch of luxury, marble-effect tiles are the epitome of modern elegance. The distinct veining in the stone creates subtle variation, adding depth and a sense of movement to the classic checkerboard pattern, making even the smallest bathroom or kitchen splashback feel dynamic.

Choose a monochrome palette for a timeless look or play around with unexpected colour combinations like pale blush or emerald green for a playful, modern twist on checkerboard flooring ideas. Perfect for grand entrances, opulent bathrooms, or any space that deserves a little drama.

_{Firenza Carrara & Firenza Verde Alpi}

Outdoor Checkerboard Patio Paving

If you’re feeling particularly bold, why not extend the chic checkerboard trend to your garden patio with checkerboard outdoor tiles? Square outdoor tiles in a checkerboard pattern create a striking, graphic feature that is perfect for zoning seating areas, pathways, or even an outdoor cooking area.

Pair natural warm-based tones like terracotta and sand beige for a neutral, earthy aesthetic, or embrace a bolder contrast with anthracite grey and chalk white for a more dramatic effect. Accessorise with contemporary garden furniture and lush greenery to complete the look.

_{A combination of 60x60 paving tiles (image: scarlettsdreamhouse)}

Our porcelain paving range ensures durability and slip resistance, designed specifically for outdoor use, ensuring they can handle the elements while maintaining enduring style.

How to Tile a Checkerboard Floor

Creating an indoor checkerboard floor might seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it’s a straightforward process:

1. Double-check Your Quantities: When tiling a checkerboard design, you need to only have half of your measured area for each tile colour/design. However, be sure to order at least 10% extra for cuts and wastage in each design to ensure you have enough without compromising the pattern.
2. Plan Your Layout: Start by dry laying your tiles to visualise the pattern and ensure you’re happy with the placement. Aim to centre the pattern in the room, so the edges are balanced.
3. Mark Your Grid: Use a chalk line to mark a grid on the floor, ensuring your lines are straight and square. This step is crucial for keeping the pattern aligned.
4. Apply Adhesive: Spread tile adhesive evenly over a small section of the floor using a notched trowel. Work in manageable sections to prevent the adhesive from drying out.
5. Lay the Tiles: Begin laying tiles from the centre of the room, alternating colours to form the checkerboard pattern. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps.
6. Cutting: Use an appropriate tile cutter for any pieces that need trimming to fit the edges of the room.
7. Grout the Gaps: Once the adhesive has set, apply grout between the tiles using a rubber float. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge for a clean finish. If you're wondering what color grout for black and white checkerboard tile, we recommend choosing a shade that matches closer to the darker tile to enhance the pattern while better hiding dust and dirt.
8. Seal (if necessary): Depending on your tile material and usage, you may need to apply a sealer to protect the surface and grout lines.

_{(image: amodestsemi)}

Create your dream home with Stone Superstore

We hope you’re now feeling inspired to unleash your creativity with our checkerboard tiling ideas. By playing with materials, colours, and scale, you can make this iconic layout pattern your own. So why not take the plunge and let checkerboard tiles bring a bold yet balanced design statement to your home?

From trend-led decorative options to durable porcelain tiles and classic natural stone, explore our full range today to find your perfect tile match. And for further technical tile advice and design ideas, be sure to explore our inspiration and advice hub for help along the way with your home tiling project.