Kitchen surfaces in 2025 balance artisanal character with clean, modern lines. Clients are asking for easier maintenance, fewer grout joints, and natural-looking finishes that still feel elevated. Below we break down the top tile trends we’re installing across Tampa Bay homes right now.
1) Large-Format Porcelain Slabs
Oversized porcelain panels for backsplashes and walls deliver a seamless, luxurious look with minimal grout. These stone-look slabs showcase dramatic veining without the upkeep of natural marble.
2) Textured and 3D Surfaces
Fluted, ribbed, and hammered finishes add depth that reads beautifully under cabinet lighting. Texture is showing up on both field tile and accent walls to elevate simple color palettes.
3) Zellige & Artisan Glazes
Handmade, slightly imperfect tiles with glossy pooled glazes bring warmth and movement. Soft whites, bone, and desaturated greens/blues are leading choices for 2025.
Stacked Vertical
Clean vertical lines make ceilings feel taller while staying minimal.
Checkerboard
Two-tone squares in warm neutrals or muted color pairings for floors and feature walls.
Mixed Field + Accent
Combine smooth field tiles with a fluted or textured band behind the range.
Picture-Frame Slab
Use porcelain slab behind the cooktop with tile framing to reduce grout and boost drama.
4) Warm Neutrals + Rich Accents
Beige, cream, mushroom, and greige form the base palette, layered with rich accents like oxblood/burgundy, deep green, and navy. The result feels both calm and characterful.
Designer Insight
We've found that 2" hexagonal tiles offer the perfect balance of visual impact and practicality for most kitchen backsplashes. They're large enough to make a statement but small enough to navigate around outlets and fixtures gracefully.
5) Natural Stone Veining (Porcelain Looks)
Calacatta & Dolomite Looks
Porcelain with realistic veining delivers marble drama with everyday durability and easy cleaning.
Terrazzo Revival
Fine aggregate terrazzo looks in warm neutrals add speckled texture that hides splashes and wear.
Checkerboard Floors
Classic squares return in soft tone-on-tone palettes for a fresh, less-contrasting take on the pattern.
Sustainable Choices
Recycled content bodies, regional manufacturing, and long-lived porcelain are top requests in 2025.
Color Palettes Defining 2023
The color trends accompanying hexagonal tiles reflect broader design movements toward both bold statements and soothing neutrals:
Warm Neutrals
Bold Monochromes
Earthy Greens
Installation Considerations for 2025 Materials
Planning and Layout
Successful hexagonal tile installation requires careful planning:
- Center point establishment: Determine the focal point and work outward
- Edge treatment planning: Decide how to handle cuts at borders and corners
- Pattern alignment: Ensure consistent spacing and alignment throughout
- Electrical considerations: Plan outlet and switch placements to minimize cuts
Grout Selection Impact
Grout and setting materials still define the finished look:
- Matching grout: Creates seamless, continuous surfaces
- Contrasting grout: Emphasizes the geometric pattern
- Grout width: Wider joints emphasize pattern, narrow joints minimize it
- Color coordination: Should complement overall kitchen color scheme
Ready to Embrace the Hexagonal Trend?
Our design team stays current with the latest trends and can help you incorporate hexagonal tiles into your kitchen renovation. From selection to installation, we ensure your project reflects the best of 2023 design.
Explore Hexagonal OptionsComplementary Design Elements
Cabinet Styles That Work
Hexagonal tiles pair beautifully with various cabinet styles:
- Flat-panel (Slab) cabinets: Clean lines complement geometric tiles perfectly
- Shaker-style cabinets: The simple frame provides nice contrast to busy tile patterns
- Two-tone cabinets: Hexagonal tiles can bridge different cabinet colors
- Open shelving: Allows hexagonal backsplashes to become the star
Hardware and Fixture Coordination
The geometric nature of hexagonal tiles influences other design choices:
- Angular hardware: Square and rectangular pulls echo geometric themes
- Round elements: Circular knobs and fixtures provide pleasing contrast
- Mixed metals: Brass, black, and stainless steel all work with hexagonal designs
Beyond the Backsplash: Where These Trends Work
Kitchen Island Treatments
Hexagonal tiles aren't limited to backsplashes. Creative applications include:
- Island sides: Create stunning focal points
- Waterfall edges: Continue patterns from horizontal to vertical surfaces
- Toe kicks: Add unexpected geometric interest at floor level
Flooring Integration
Large-format hexagonal floor tiles create cohesive design themes:
- Transition zones: Bridge kitchen and adjacent spaces
- Accent borders: Define specific areas within open floor plans
- Pattern mixing: Combine with rectangular tiles for dynamic layouts
Maintenance and Longevity
Cleaning Considerations
Hexagonal tiles require specific maintenance approaches:
- Grout line attention: More grout lines mean more cleaning focus
- Texture considerations: Matte finishes hide fingerprints better than glossy
- Stain resistance: Porcelain hexagons offer superior stain resistance
Long-term Value
While trendy, hexagonal tiles offer lasting appeal:
- Timeless geometry: Hexagons have appeared in design for centuries
- Versatile styling: Can be updated with different grout colors and accessories
- Quality materials: High-end hexagonal tiles maintain value over time
Regional Preferences in Tampa Bay
Our Tampa Bay clients have shown distinct preferences within the hexagonal trend:
- Coastal homes: Favor blue and green hexagonal tiles that echo ocean themes
- Modern developments: Embrace bold black and white geometric patterns
- Traditional neighborhoods: Prefer neutral hexagons that complement existing architecture
- Luxury properties: Choose mixed-material hexagons with metallic accents
Local Insight
In Florida's humid climate, we always recommend porcelain hexagonal tiles for kitchen applications. They're non-porous, stain-resistant, and won't harbor bacteria – crucial considerations for our subtropical environment.
Looking Ahead: Evolution of the Trend
As we move through 2025, we’re seeing more balanced kitchens that mix artisanal textures with modern simplicity:
Technology Integration
- Digital printing: More realistic wood and stone looks in hexagonal formats
- Textured surfaces: 3D hexagonal tiles that add tactile interest
- Large format options: Bigger hexagons for dramatic, minimalist applications
Sustainable Options
- Recycled content: Eco-friendly hexagonal tiles made from recycled materials
- Local production: Reduced transportation impact from regional manufacturers
- Longevity focus: Higher quality tiles designed for decades of use
Making the Right Choice for Your Kitchen
While hexagonal tiles are undeniably on-trend, the key to successful implementation lies in choosing the right size, color, and application for your specific space and lifestyle. Consider these factors:
- Kitchen size: Smaller hexagons work better in compact kitchens
- Lighting conditions: Glossy hexagons reflect light, matte versions absorb it
- Maintenance preferences: More grout lines require more cleaning attention
- Design longevity: Choose colors and sizes you'll love for years to come
Professional Installation: Worth the Investment
Hexagonal tile installation requires precision and experience. The geometric nature of the pattern means that small errors compound quickly, potentially ruining the entire visual effect. Professional installation ensures:
- Perfect alignment: Consistent spacing and pattern flow
- Proper planning: Optimal layout to minimize awkward cuts
- Quality execution: Clean grout lines and professional finishing
- Warranty protection: Coverage for both materials and workmanship
Conclusion: Elevated, Easy-Care Kitchens
2025 kitchens prioritize fewer grout lines, tactile interest, and calming palettes—without sacrificing personality. Whether you choose a porcelain slab splash, artisan-glazed field tiles, textured accents, or a subtle checkerboard, we can help you select materials that look stunning and perform beautifully day-to-day.
At Great Britain Tile, we've had the privilege of installing hundreds of hexagonal tile projects throughout Tampa Bay, each one unique and perfectly suited to its homeowner's vision. The versatility of hexagonal tiles means there's a perfect application for every style, from ultra-modern to transitional to contemporary traditional.
Looking ahead, expect continued momentum in large formats, artisan finishes, and sustainable choices. These directions deliver timeless appeal and easy maintenance—ideal for busy Tampa Bay homes.
Ready to refresh your kitchen for 2025? Visit our showroom to see large-format slabs, artisan glazes, terrazzo looks, and more—our design experts will guide you to the perfect combination.