20 Modern Tiled Island Ideas for Your Kitchen Renovation

Last updated on March 29, 2024

Consider tiled island ideas for your kitchen because they offer an uncompromising blend of functionality and beauty, making every meal preparation a delightful experience.

modern kitchen tile backsplash

As the author and designer of these 20 Modern Tiled Island Ideas for Your Kitchen Renovation, I hope you find as much inspiration and enjoyment browsing through them as I did creating them.

Tiling an island can transform your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary, adding both beauty and functionality. This article delves into a variety of tiled island ideas, from classic ceramic to modern mosaic, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your home.

Whether you’re a fan of bold patterns or prefer a more subdued design, you’ll discover an array of options that cater to your aesthetic preference and practical needs.

Not only that, but you’ll also get tips on how to choose the right tile, install it, and maintain it to ensure longevity.

So, let’s dive into the world of tiled islands and explore the potential they hold to elevate your kitchen space.

What's Inside

Moroccan Tile Island With Built-in Wine Rack

moroccan tile island with built in wine rack

For an exotic touch in your kitchen, consider this unique combination. The Moroccan tiles offer an intricate and colorful design, infusing your space with a vibrant yet sophisticated feel.

The built-in wine rack not only serves a functional purpose by providing storage for your wine collection but also adds a more relaxed and convivial atmosphere to the island.

When choosing the tile pattern, consider coordinating it with other elements of your kitchen decoration to create a harmonious look.

The combination of aesthetic appeal and functionality makes this choice stand out.

All-white Diamond Pattern Tile Island

all white diamond pattern tile island

This style immediately instils a bright, clean aesthetic in any kitchen. The diamond pattern, often formed with small square tiles, offers a visual appeal that’s both classic and eye-catchingly unique. Coupling this aesthetic with an all-white color scheme amplifies kitchen brightness, reflecting light and giving the space a sense of increased size.

Advantages of an all-white tile are multi-directional. First, it provides a timeless design that never goes out of style. Second, white is known for its versatility, thereby pairing well with any kitchen theme, be it modern, country, or vintage. Lastly, it makes a substantial visual impact that is both luxurious and sophisticated.

To realize this island design, consider the following points:

  • Choose tiles with a high-gloss finish to enhance light reflection.
  • Opt for grout in a matching white shade for a seamless look or a contrasting color to accentuate the pattern.
  • Ensure consistent tile spacing to best showcase the diamond pattern.
  • Protect the pristine white with a high-quality sealant to resist stains and wear.
  • Pair with metallic accents, such as silver or gold hardware, for an extra touch of elegance.

Remember, the choice of lighting fixtures, stools, and kitchen accessories can further complement and enhance your all-white diamond pattern tile island.

Concrete Tile Island With Bar Seating

concrete tile island with bar seating

When done right, concrete tiles offer a unique contemporary edge and rugged durability to your island. Their natural aesthetic complements a wide range of bar stools for a seamless combination that caters to both form and function.

Like an evening spent at your favorite gastro-pub, a choice of high, upholstered seats or low, swivel ones can create an informal dining area that’s a vibrant social hub.

To keep a cohesive look, ensure the overall color scheme is in harmony with the tiles. For instance, taupe bar stools complement the warm tones in gray concrete, while navy blue seats bring out the cool tones.

Lighting is key to accentuate the nuances of concrete tile; under-counter lights highlight the texture and color variations, providing an unexpected attention to detail. Pendant lights, hung strategically above the bar seating area, add style and warmth, creating a friendly and inviting ambiance.

Remember, concrete tiles are known for their durability and can withstand heavy foot traffic. Hence, it’s an advantage especially when there’s a lot of activity taking place around the island. Regular sealing is required though to prevent staining and to maintain their minimalist beauty. Bear in mind: While concrete tiles offer a perfect blend of sturdiness and style, precise installation is a must to avoid uneven surfaces.

Vintage Subway Tile Wrapped Island

vintage subway tile wrapped island

Enjoying a revival in recent years, this style exudes timeless elegance and simplicity. Predominantly seen in kitchens preserving the charm of yesteryear, the choice of colors is usually monochromatic with beige and grays being prevalent. However, bold colors like naval blue or forest green can make a strong impact too.

  • Adaptable: Complements a range of interior styles from the classic to contemporary.
  • Versatile: Can be laid in different patterns: straight, stacked or herringbone.
  • Resilient: Resistant to heat and stains, ideal for kitchen settings.
  • Affordable: Often less expensive than natural stone or mosaic tiles.
  • Easy to Clean: Wipe clean with a mild detergent and a soft cloth.

For an authentic look, consider using white grout which not only accentuates the subway tile design but also maintains a clean and bright aesthetic. Also, think about wrapping the tile all around the island; this will help to create a cohesive and uniform look. Having a vintage subway tile wrapped island can undoubtedly turn it into a focal point of a kitchen.

Porcelain Tile Island With Integrated Sink

porcelain tile island with integrated sink

An integrated sink is a seamless part of the overall island design, providing a unified and sleek appearance. Porcelain, a robust and glossy material, is an excellent choice for both the tile and sink.

1. Porcelain as a Material: Highly resistant to stains, scratches, and heat, porcelain ensures durability and low maintenance. Its non-porous nature makes it ideal for areas in constant contact with water.

2. Color and Pattern Variety: Porcelain tiles come in a wide range of hues, patterns, and finishes. This allows for matching the décor scheme or creating a stunning focal point.

3. Ease of Cleaning: The smooth, glossy surface promotes easy cleaning and hygiene. There are no gaps or joints where dirt and grime can accumulate, a significant advantage over traditional tile and sink combos.

4. Customization Options: Whether you prefer a deep basin or a shallow sink for easy access, the design can be tailored to your needs. It can be centered or offset, depending on your island’s layout and use.

Remember to enlist a professional for installation, as it requires precise measurements and fitting to ensure seamless integration with the porcelain tiles.

Granite Tile Island With Cooktop

granite tile island with cooktop

Stepping up kitchen functionality, a built-in cooktop on a granite tile island offers several benefits. Firstly, granite, with its resilience to heat and scratches, is an adept choice for heavy-duty cooking. The polished surface of granite tiles imparts a sleek charm, yet is easy to clean and maintain.

Secondly, the cooktop’s central position aids in efficient meal preparation. It allows easy access to all areas of the kitchen. Simultaneously, it retains the openness, fostering engagement with family and guests.

Moreover, carefully chosen granite tiles can enhance the overall kitchen aesthetic. From solid blacks and grays to speckled browns and whites, you can match or contrast with cabinets and flooring. Do consider factors like tile size and layout patterns, grout color, and edging for maximum impact.

Lastly, remember to ensure adequate ventilation above the cooktop. A stylish island range hood, retractable downdraft, or a ceiling-mounted one could be viable options. It keeps the kitchen environment pleasant, reduces grease buildup, and safeguards the lasting beauty of the granite tiles.

Glass Tile Island in Bright Colors

glass tile island in bright colors

Opting for glass tiles in vibrant hues can invigorate any kitchen, transforming it into a lively and dynamic space. These tiles exude a glossy finish that reflects light, making your island appear bigger and brighter. They’re also resilient to stains, scratches, and mildew.

1. Palette Selection: Choose colors that resonate with your personality or echo the rest of your kitchen decor. You can experiment with a single hue, or create an eclectic mix of several bright colors.

2. Grout Color: Coordinate the grout with the tile color since it can significantly impact the final look. For a seamless effect, go for a matching color. A contrasting grout can highlight each tile, forming a striking pattern.

3. Tile Layout: Straight, stacked, or herringbone – the layout can influence the texture and depth of your island. Blend different layouts for a unique design.

4. Lighting: Enhance the shining quality of glass with strategic lighting. Under-cabinet lights or drop-down pendants can both draw attention to your spectacularly vibrant island.

5. Maintenance: Regularly clean your island with a non-abrasive cleaner to keep the tiles’ gleaming finish intact.

Remember, though it’s all about the colors, don’t forget to consider the practical aspects as well.

Island With Cobblestone-effect Ceramic Tile

island with cobblestone effect ceramic tile

Designed to emulate the old-world charm of cobblestone streets, this ceramic tile brings a touch of rustic elegance to your kitchen island. The irregular pattern and rough texture of the tile surface add interest and depth, differentiating your counter from the more commonly seen polished granite or marble islands.

Here is why you may find it appealing:

  • Resilience: Ceramic tile is renowned for its durability, withstanding the scratches and stains of everyday kitchen use.
  • Maintenance: Cleaning is effortless due to its stain resistance and easy-to-wipe surface.
  • Versatility: It can blend seamlessly with a plethora of kitchen styles, be it modern, country, or traditional.
  • Affordability: Generally, ceramic tiles are less expensive compared to natural stone, making it an economical choice.

Remember, laying the tile in a random, cobblestone-like pattern enhances the charm and authenticity of this look. Consider this unique idea to infuse a dash of vintage allure into your kitchen island, while also offering robust functionality.

Herringbone Patterned Tile Island

herringbone patterned tile island

The unique layout of the herringbone pattern adds dimension and interest to your kitchen island. This pattern, often achieved using rectangular tiles, creates a distinctive zigzag effect that looks chic and sophisticated.

While visually striking, this design also provides practical advantages. The alignment of tiles in this pattern can enhance the perceived size of your island, making it appear larger. Moreover, due to the diagonal layout, spillage is less likely to seep through the lines, making it easier to clean and maintain.

To further elevate the look, consider using a contrasting grout color. This highlights the intricate, woven-like design and creates a more dramatic visual impact. Opt for darker grout with lighter tiles, or vice versa, to bring out the pattern more prominently.

Finally, ranging from ceramic and porcelain to stone and glass, the tile material choice can vastly diversify the stylistic outcome. For instance, ceramic offers a warm touch while glass renders a sleek, modern look. Your choice can harmonize with the rest of your kitchen design or, alternatively, create an attention-grabbing centerpiece.

In short, a herringbone patterned tile island can easily become the focal point of your kitchen, combining functionality and aesthetic into a stylish and versatile feature.

Travertine Tile Island With Open Shelving

travertine tile island with open shelving

Open shelving allows quick and convenient access to frequently used cookware and ingredients, while making the island look less bulky and more open. When combined with the natural charm of travertine tile, this setup adds a warm, rustic touch to your kitchen.

Travertine, known for its distinctive, pitted appearance, comes in a wide range of earth tones, offering you great versatility when matching the island with the rest of your kitchen decor.

This particular combination juxtaposes classical design elements with contemporary, open-concept living. To achieve a cohesive look, consider adding under-shelf lighting to highlight your displayed items, or fill the shelves with matching wicker baskets for extra storage, creating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Additionally, regularly sealing the travertine is recommended to prevent stains from spills, maintaining its pristine appearance in a busy kitchen environment. A truly versatile design route, this travertine tiled island with open shelving can adapt to a variety of kitchen styles, from Mediterranean to modern farmhouse.

Remember, a kitchen island isn’t just a functional addition, it’s a visual centerpiece in your kitchen. The right tile choice, like suggestive travertine, paired with an open shelf design, can create an inviting space that’s not just practical but also exudes character and charm.

Slate Tile Island With Contrasting Grout

slate tile island with contrasting grout

In choosing a darker tile, like slate, the island becomes a central focus of the kitchen, drawing the eye with its rich and robust hue. To highlight the intricate details and natural deviations of slate tiling, oppose it with a contrasting grout. A lighter hue, perhaps a cream or sand color, will accentuate each tile’s unique texture and grain.

This method serves two functions. First, it accentuates the beauty of the natural slate by contrasting its darker tones. Second, it functions to break up the monotonous darkness of the tile, adding a dynamic visual component.

The versatility of slate allows for various design styles, from rustic to contemporary, making it an excellent choice for many kitchens. However, the essential maintenance should be remembered as slate is slightly porous, requiring sealing to resist staining. Equipped with this care, the slate tile and contrasting grout on the island can become the showpiece in any kitchen setting.

Terracotta Tile Island With Rustic Finish

terracotta tile island with rustic finish

Renowned for their rich, earthy hues and unique texture, terracotta tiles offer a distinct appeal. A rustic finish not only enhances these elements but also adds a touch of antiquity to your island, making it a focal point in your kitchen.

1. Texture and Tone: The natural variations in terracotta’s tone lend an authentic charm, each tile possessing its unique pattern.

2. Durability: Despite its seemingly delicate aesthetic, terracotta is robust. It remains cool in warm conditions, perfect for the heat of the kitchen.

3. Easy Maintenance: Regular sealing ensures longevity and resistance to staining. Without the glare of a gloss finish, slight imperfections or spills are less noticeable.

4. Versatility: Terracotta’s earthy tones complement a variety of color schemes, from warm whites to vibrant hues. Matching tiles on a backsplash can enhance this harmonious visual effect.

5. Warm Aesthetic: Coupled with wooden accents or wrought iron hardware, terracotta tiles can create a warm, Mediterranean vibe.

Incorporating a terracotta tile island in your kitchen brings character, warmth, and practicality, transforming your space into a welcoming, rustic haven.

Glazed Tile Island in Bold Geometric Pattern

glazed tile island in bold geometric pattern

Asserting visual dominance, a bold geometric pattern becomes the main point of attraction. The glazed tiles with their inherent sheen reflect and bounce light around the kitchen, offering an invigorated atmosphere.

Choosing tiles in the color palette that matches your kitchen style is key. A monochromatic scheme exudes a contemporary charm. On the other hand, a multi-color setup adds a pop of vibrancy that livens up traditional or transitional kitchens.

The durability of glazed tiles assures the longevity of your kitchen island. They resist stains, scratches, and high temperature, ideal for heavy-duty kitchen tasks. Plus, cleaning is effortless, just a wipe down is sufficient.

Incorporating your island with this style demands a significant consideration of the rest of the kitchen decor. Too many patterns may lead to a busy look; therefore, keep the surrounding elements plain and simple to avoid an overwhelming aesthetic.

Accessorize this island with minimalist bar stools or accents to maintain the balance. Potentially, choosing hardware in metallic finishes such as gold, copper, or bronze can further enhance the glamorous personality of your glazed, patterned island.

Carrara Marble Tile Island With Waterfall Edge

carrara marble tile island with waterfall edge

Known for its high-end appearance, this tile variant offers a subtle blend of white and gray streaks, introducing a touch of elegance to any kitchen. The marble lends a timeless allure that effortlessly blends with various décor themes.

Incorporating a waterfall edge brings an attractive continuity to the design. This edge style extends the surface material from the top of the island to the floor, wrapping around the ends. It not only creates a sleek and modern aesthetic, but also provides an added protective layer for your cabinetry.

Here are few key points to consider:

  • The natural veining of Carrara marble introduces an organic element, ensuring that each island has a unique look.
  • Waterfall edges are an ideal option for open kitchen layouts, where the island becomes a highlighted focal point.
  • Despite its luxe appeal, marble is porous by nature. As such, proper sealing and regular maintenance will prevent staining and discoloration.
  • Over time, the marble will develop a patina—a glow that comes with use and age, further enhancing its aesthetic value.

Keep these considerations in mind to successfully incorporate a Carrara marble tile island with a waterfall edge into your kitchen design.

Wood-look Tile Island With Industrial Accents

wood look tile island with industrial accents

Showcasing the charm of natural elements combined with edgy details, this design technique is sure to stand out. The tiles, mimicking authentic grained wood, not only provide a warm and welcoming feel but are also a practical choice due to their durability and easy maintenance. Unlike real wood, they are resistant to moisture, so spills and stains aren’t a concern.

Adding industrial accents enhances the appeal by introducing a contrast to the organic texture of the wood-look tiles. These could include metal stools, pendant lighting fixtures with Edison bulbs, or hardware in brushed nickel or distressed iron. This fusion of rustic and industrial components results in an island that is stylish, versatile, and multi-functional, ideal for contemporary kitchens.

Intertwining complementary materials or palettes can also add depth. A stainless steel countertop or a base wrapped in steel sheets can amplify the industrial vibe. Meanwhile, a butcher’s block or a concrete countertop can maintain the balance between warm and cool tones. Experimenting with the grout color is another way to amplify the look. Using a contrasting grout can accentuate the tile pattern and add another layer of visual interest.

Last but not least, don’t overlook storage options. Open shelving crafted from reclaimed wood or plumbing pipes can be a brilliant addition, enhancing functionality and ensuring that the industrial theme flows seamlessly throughout the kitchen island.

Penny Round Tile Island in a Spiral Pattern

penny round tile island in a spiral pattern

Opt for this design to give a playful twist to your kitchen. Penny round tiles, defined by small circular pieces, can be arranged in a spiral pattern for a dynamic and unique look. This design can be achieved by skillfully arranging tiles in contrasting colors, creating a dramatic effect. Imagine dark blue tiles spiraling out from the island’s center amidst a sea of white, or vivacious red swirling around a core of matte black.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this style proves to be practical as well. Given the small size of penny round tiles, they can easily accommodate the curves of the spiral pattern. Plus, their rounded edges make them a safer choice for households with small kids.

Remember the grout color can also contribute to the overall design: it can either blend with the tiles for a seamless look or contrast them for added pop. Finally, while penny round tiles spell nostalgia, pair them with modern appliances and fixtures to strike an unforgettable balance between classic and contemporary.

Metallic Tile Island With Under-counter Lighting

metallic tile island with under counter lighting

Sporting an urban chic vibe, a metallic tile finish catches light in the most mesmerizing way and offers unrivaled durability. When paired with under-counter lighting, this style introduces a futuristic ambiance into your kitchen.

Here are some points to explain how this look is achieved and why it’s a stellar choice:

  • Types: Choose from a collection of gold, brass, silver, or stainless steel tiles to add reflections of light and sophistication.
  • Patterns: Herringbone, chevron, or mosaic designs can add dynamism and eye-catching visuals.
  • Lighting: It should be selected based on its harmony with the metallic hue. Warm LEDs complement gold tones, while cooler lights emphasize silvers and greys.
  • Reflection: The illumination from under-counter lights hits the metallic surface to create a mesmerizing, ambient glow.
  • Maintenance: Metallic tiles are stain-resistant and easy to clean, making them a practical choice.
  • Versatility: Metallics can suit any color palette, whether it’s warm, cool, or neutral.

Remember, the key is coherence. The fixtures, appliances, and overall kitchen theme should balance with the island’s metallic design. The play of light will add depth to your kitchen and make your island a visual anchor.

Limestone Tile Island With Built-in Butcher Block

limestone tile island with built in butcher block

To start crafting your limestone island, first select a thread of color from the natural stone for your butcher block. Stick to warm earthy tones to accentuate the rustic charm of limestone. The butcher block can be comfortably nestled at one end of the island, offering a convenient chopping space while adding to aesthetic appeal.

Remember, due to the porous nature of limestone, a good sealant is a must to avoid stains and ensure durability. Align the grouting color with that of your kitchen cabinets to tie the whole look together. Using a rough finish for the limestone can convey a more rustic effect, but if a sleek look appeals more to your taste, a honed or polished finish will be ideal.

Pair your limestone island with stools featuring natural fabrics, such as rattan or jute, for a complete organic vibe. Hang a trio of pendant lights above for a tasteful flourish.

Just a word of caution—limestone can be susceptible to etching, so be mindful of spills, especially acidic substances. Wipe away immediately to maintain the island’s pristine condition.

Mosaic Tile Island With a Tropical Theme

mosaic tile island with a tropical theme

Picture an island bathed in hues of radiant blues, lush greens, and sunny yellows. A mosaic tile is perfect for this vision, offering customizability and vibrant detailing.

1. Customizable Design: Experience the freedom to curate a design that suits your personality. From seashells to palm trees, the design options are only limited to your creativity.

2. Vibrant Detailing: Mosaic tiles help capture the minutest nuances of the tropical theme, creating an intricate narrative that radiates with every tile.

3. Diverse Material Options: Glass, ceramic, or even porcelain – choose a tile material that enhances your kitchen’s overall look and durability.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: Besides being practical, such an island becomes a standout piece that adds drama and allure to your kitchen décor.

5. Easy Maintenance: Mosaic tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens.

Incorporate these points when planning for your mosaic tile island and bring a slice of tropical paradise right into your kitchen!

Matte Black Tile Island With Gold Hardware

matte black tile island with gold hardware

Pairing matte black tiles with gold hardware creates an ultra-modern and sophisticated design. This high-contrast theme echoes a contemporary style, adding a dramatic yet elegant touch to the kitchen island.

1. Matte tiles: Non-reflective and smooth to touch, matte black tiles absorb rather than reflect light, creating a soft aesthetic and minimizing the appearance of messes.

2. Gold hardware: Infusing opulence, gold hardware against the black tiles elevates the overall design to a lavish standard.

3. Mixing materials: Incorporate different textures like a gold sink or faucet, which adds dimension and prevents a monochromatic scheme from becoming dull.

4. Maintenance: Ensure to regularly clean the tiles and hardware to keep them looking their best, particularly the gold fixtures which may tarnish over time.

5. Lighting: Opt for warm-toned lighting to contrast the black tiles and further emphasize the gold hardware.

Consider this setup to transform the kitchen island into an impressive focal point and the star of your kitchen.