BELK Tile Podcast
We are going to discuss different tiles, designs and questions that we get asked on a regular basis. Offering our point of view about certain ideas of everything related to tile. For more information please visit: https://www.belktile.com
BELK Tile Podcast
From Niche to Necessary: The Black Tile Revolution in Modern Homes
Dramatic, sophisticated, transformative—black tiles are having more than just a moment in modern home design. Once avoided, especially in smaller spaces, these bold statement pieces now feature in 50% of modern powder rooms across the country. But why this sudden shift in perception?
Through our exploration of this design revolution, we discover how black tiles have evolved from merely trendy to genuinely transformative. The regional differences are striking: Los Angeles embraces glossy finishes for ultra-modern aesthetics, San Francisco leans toward industrial elements, while Chicago pairs black tiles with brushed brass for dramatic luxury. It's not just about color—it's about creating experiences through thoughtful design choices.
We dive deep into what makes black tiles work in any space: hexagon patterns that add structure while feeling organic, herringbone arrangements that bring classic-yet-fresh energy to kitchens, and chevron designs that visually expand rooms. The finish you choose dramatically impacts the final look—glossy for drama and light reflection, matte for understated elegance and practicality, or slate for natural texture that bridges earthy and chic. Paired with the right elements—metallics like brass or gold, strategic pops of color, or classic white for high contrast—black tiles can transform any room from ordinary to extraordinary.
For those considering this bold design choice, we break down material options at every price point: affordable ceramic starting at just a few dollars per square foot, versatile porcelain at $5-15, luxurious marble at $20-30, and practical yet stunning slate at $10-20. Each material brings its own character and practical benefits, ensuring there's a perfect black tile solution for every budget and lifestyle need. Whether you're renovating a powder room, upgrading your kitchen backsplash, or reimagining your outdoor patio, black tiles offer timeless sophistication with remarkable versatility. Ready to transform your space? Visit belktile.com or give us a call—we'd love to help bring your black tile vision to life.
What kind of tile can you put on the wall or shower? Do you have to seal tile? How much extra tile should I buy for my project? What thinset is the best for my tile application? How hard is it to maintain natural stone? You have questions. We have answers. Welcome to the Belk Tile Podcast. How to style the bathroom, the backyard, the kitchen, how to improve your home style with tiles to make your home absolutely beautiful? Welcome to the Belk Tile Podcast.
Mike Belk:Here's your host, Mike Belk so black tiles have been evolving from a niche design element to the centerpiece of modern spaces. You know they're particularly big in powder rooms these days. I mean 50% of modern homes now feature black tiles in those spaces. Can you imagine that?
Abby:50%. Wow, I mean, even five years ago most people shied away from dark tiles, especially in smaller rooms like powder rooms.
Mike Belk:Exactly. It's interesting how the perception has shifted. Now people see black tiles as sophisticated, even transformative. In cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco they're especially popular. Homeowners there are leaning into bold, high-contrast looks.
Abby:Why do you think that is? Is it just trendy, or is there more to it?
Mike Belk:I think it's a combination of factors, for one, urban living tends to favor modern and minimalist aesthetics, and black tiles. Well, they just scream modern elegance. Plus, they're incredibly versatile. In Chicago, for instance, I worked on a luxury condo not too long ago. The client wanted their powder room to really stand out, so we used black hexagon tiles as the centerpiece of the design.
Abby:Oh, stop right there. Hexagon black tiles Tell me that looked amazing.
Mike Belk:Oh it did. We paired the black tiles with brushed brass fixtures. Talk about striking. The lighting played a big role too. Soft, warm lights brought out the depth in the tiles' matte finish. It honestly felt like stepping into a little jewel box.
Abby:That's the thing, right. Light is so crucial with black tiles, Without the right lighting they can go from luxurious to well kind of oppressive.
Mike Belk:That's true In smaller spaces like powder rooms. Lighting needs to be carefully planned, but when done right, a black tiled space can feel cozy, even glamorous. And it's not just Chicago. Los Angeles homes lean heavily on glossy finishes for a sleeker, more modern vibe, while San Francisco incorporates black tiles with a more rustic or industrial edge.
Abby:Oh, I love that. So it's like each city has its own personality when it comes to black tiles.
Mike Belk:Exactly, and what's fascinating is that black tiles aren't limited to powder rooms. They're making their way into kitchens, living rooms, even outdoor spaces. It's really about mixing them with complementary elements like metallics, greenery or wood to create a balanced look that suits the space.
Abby:I mean, the versatility alone is mind-blowing, Like whether you're aiming for bold, ultra-modern or something a little cozier, black tiles can do it all. Speaking of versatility, patterns are where black tiles really shine. They can completely transform a space. So what are some of the most popular patterns you're seeing lately?
Mike Belk:Patterns yeah, they're huge. Right now, hexagon, herringbone and chevron are dominating. Hexagon tiles in particular seem to have this timeless yet modern vibe. They can add structure to a space but still feel organic, you know.
Abby:For sure. And herringbone it just gives this classic but fresh energy. Every time I see a black herringbone backsplash I want to like immediately redesign my kitchen.
Mike Belk:Herringbone's been really popular in kitchens lately, but it's versatile enough for floors or accent walls too. And then there's chevron, which, similar to herringbone, feels bold and directional but brings just a little more flair to the table.
Abby:Yeah, I love that Chevron kind of pulls your eye through the room making it feel bigger. But okay, patterns aside, finishes are what really seal the deal with black tiles. Right, like there's such a difference between glossy and matte.
Mike Belk:Absolutely Glossy finishes are all about luxury and drama. They reflect light beautifully, making spaces feel larger and more open, perfect for smaller rooms. But matte Matte brings this soft, grounded elegance. It's more muted, easier to maintain and, honestly, better for high traffic areas.
Abby:And then you've got slate finishes right. They give such a natural textured look. I worked on a project last year where we paired matte black subway tiles with brass fixtures. It was like instant drama.
Mike Belk:Oh, that sounds stunning. Brass and black tiles are a match made in design heaven. Mixing metallics with black tiles, whether it's brass, gold or even chrome, elevates the entire space. It's bold but balanced.
Abby:Totally. And then when you throw in a pop of color like deep emerald green or a dusty pink, oh my gosh, it just completely transforms the vibe.
Mike Belk:Yeah, that color pop is a great way to soften black tiles while maintaining their dramatic impact. And let's not forget pairing black tiles with white for that classic high-contrast look. It's simple, timeless and works in pretty much any setting.
Abby:Oh, 100%. Plus, you've got the option of mixing multiple textures in one space, like combining matte floors with glossy walls or slate accents. It just keeps the design interesting, you know.
Mike Belk:Exactly. Texture and contrast are key when working with black tiles. They give depth and personality to a room without overwhelming it. The options are practically endless.
Abby:So with how finishes and pairings can completely transform a space, it's also key to think about the materials themselves Ceramic, porcelain, marble, slate they all bring their own vibe and, of course, their own price point. Let's break it down.
Mike Belk:Right Ceramic tiles, for example, are probably the most affordable option. They all bring their own vibe and, of course, their own price point. Let's break it down Right Ceramic tiles, for example, are probably the most affordable option. They're super versatile, come in tones of finishes and styles and they tend to fall on the lower end of the pricing spectrum. We're talking a few dollars per square foot for some really solid choices.
Abby:Which makes them perfect for someone doing like a budget-conscious bathroom refresh. Right, but then you've got to step up with porcelain tiles, which feel a bit more luxe and definitely more durable.
Mike Belk:Exactly, porcelain is a great middle ground option. It's denser, less porous and can handle higher foot traffic, so it's a smart choice for kitchens or even outdoor patios. You're looking at anywhere between $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the texture and finish.
Abby:And then there's black marble tiles oh my gosh, they're just. That's peak luxury right there. But let's be real, they don't exactly come cheap.
Mike Belk:No, marble's definitely a higher-end option. With its veining and polished sheen it's truly stunning. But you're looking at $20 to $30 per square foot, and that's before installation costs. It's more of an investment, but for spaces like a master bathroom or an entryway it's tough to beat in terms of impact.
Abby:Totally agree. But what about slate? I love that. It bridges the gap between earthy and chic and it just feels so tactile, you know.
Mike Belk:Absolutely. Slate tiles are incredibly durable and they perform well in areas exposed to elements like outdoor spaces or mud rooms. Price-wise, they're somewhere between porcelain and marble, so typically around $10 to $20 per square foot. Plus. They're naturally stain-resistant, which makes them really practical.
Abby:Oh yeah, I had a project where we used black slate tiles on an outdoor patio. The clients were worried about spills and stains because you know it's a space they entertain in all the time. Slate was like the perfect solution.
Mike Belk:They loved the natural texture and it holds up beautifully against weather and wear. That's a great example, and what's nice about Slate is that, like you said, it brings that natural element while still feeling upscale. It's the kind of material that works in everything from rustic to modern designs.
Abby:Exactly, and that's what's so great about these different materials You've got options that fit every style, every budget, and they don't feel like compromises. It's all about choosing what works best for the space and the way it's used.
Mike Belk:Couldn't have said it better myself. I think that's a wrap for today and hey, if this episode helps just one person feel more confident about picking out their black tiles, then we've done our job.
Abby:Totally. This has been so much fun. Thanks for joining us everyone, and we'll catch you next time.
Speaker 1:You've been listening to the Belt Tile Podcast. When it comes to creating a beautiful home using tile, this is the podcast for products, design ideas and tips. We hope you got some useful, practical information from this show and we'll be back soon, but in the meantime, reach out. The website is www. belktilecom. Our store phone number is 614-543-8334. Find us on Facebook and Twitter at Belk Tile, and on Instagram at Belk Tiles. Make sure to leave a rating and review and if you have questions or comments, reach out and we'll talk about it on the next show. Till next time.
