Patterned Wall Tiles: Top Styles, Design Tips & Our Best Picks

 

Patterned wall tiles have become a go-to choice for UK homeowners and designers looking to add character and charm to interiors. Whether you're upgrading a bathroom, revamping a kitchen splashback, or creating a statement hallway, patterned tiles can instantly transform a plain wall into a work of art.

At Hyperion Tiles, we offer an extensive range of patterned wall tiles – from classic Victorian designs to modern geometric mosaics – to suit every style of home. In this guide, we'll explore the various types of patterned wall tiles available, answer popular questions (like "Can you mix patterned tiles?"), and share expert tips on choosing, styling, and installing these stunning tiles in your space.

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Why Choose Patterned Wall Tiles?

Patterned tiles are more than just a practical wall covering – they're a design feature in their own right. Here's why they're transforming UK homes:

"Patterned tiles add instant personality to any space, turning ordinary walls into works of art that reflect your unique style."

📌 Four Reasons to Love Patterned Tiles

Benefit	Why It Matters
Visual Impact	Patterned wall tiles add instant interest. A bold Victorian mosaic or a sleek geometric pattern can serve as a focal point, enlivening any room without the need for additional artwork.
Versatility in Style	With patterns ranging from floral and traditional to abstract and contemporary, there's a patterned tile for every aesthetic. You can embrace heritage charm with encaustic-style prints or keep it modern with monochrome chevrons and hexagons.
Durability	Unlike wallpaper or paint, tiles are water-resistant and hard-wearing. This makes them ideal for high-traffic or moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where patterned tiles deliver style without compromising on practicality.
Endless Customisation	Patterned tiles can be integrated in small doses (a feature strip or splashback) or across entire walls for a dramatic statement. You can even coordinate with patterned floor tiles for a cohesive look, as many of our patterned floor tiles are also suitable for wall use (perfect for creating wrap-around designs or feature niches).

In short, patterned wall tiles allow you to express your personality and elevate your décor while enjoying all the benefits of quality tiling.

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Types of Patterned Wall Tiles at Hyperion

When it comes to patterns, one size doesn't fit all. Different materials and tile styles offer unique looks and benefits. Here's our expert guide to the patterned wall tiles you'll find in our collection:

1. Porcelain Patterned Tiles: Strength Meets Style

Porcelain tiles are celebrated for their strength and low maintenance, making them an excellent choice for walls (and floors) in busy homes. Our porcelain patterned tiles come in a myriad of designs – from heritage prints to ultra-modern motifs.

Perfect for: Bathrooms, kitchens, and even outdoor spaces

Why we love them: Because porcelain absorbs very little water, these tiles are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens where humidity and temperature fluctuate.

✨ Standout Options:

• Jungle Hexagon Porcelain by Clarissa Hulse – A hexagonal tile with a lush jungle print that creates an eye-catching feature wall in a shower or behind a bathtub.

• Capri Porcelain – Featuring a Mediterranean-inspired pattern of lemon and olive leaves on a hexagon shape, perfect for adding a sunny Italian vibe to your kitchen walls.

• Designer Tip: Porcelain patterned tiles are often frost-proof, so some can even be used for exterior walls or garden features, extending your design to outdoor spaces. Do note that cutting porcelain is tough, so professional installation is recommended for complex layouts.

2. Ceramic Patterned Tiles: Vibrant & Versatile

Ceramic wall tiles offer a versatile, cost-effective option with vibrant pattern possibilities. They're slightly more porous than porcelain but still perfectly suited for interior walls, and they're easier to cut – great news if you're DIY-inclined.

Perfect for: Interior walls in any room, especially if you're on a budget

Why we love them: Our range includes beautifully glazed ceramics with printed patterns that can bring a retro or contemporary look to your home.

✨ Standout Options:

• Eden Glade from the Living Eden collection – Showcases delicate green fronds and leaves for a tranquil, tropical feel, ideal for a calming bathroom feature wall or a nature-inspired kitchen splashback.
• Designer Tip: Many patterned ceramic tiles come with matching plain companions, giving you flexibility to mix patterned and plain tiles in your design. Choose either a glossy finish (reflects light and enhances colours) or a matte finish (for a softer, more rustic effect).

3. Mosaic & Small Pattern Tiles: Detailed Delights

For intricate detail, it's hard to beat mosaic tiles. Mosaics are composed of many small pieces (stone, glass, ceramic, or porcelain) that form a pattern or image when placed together. They often come in sheets for easier installation.

Perfect for: Feature walls, shower niches, splashbacks, and artistic focal points

Why we love them: Patterned mosaic wall tiles can range from classic penny rounds to elaborate geometric arrangements, creating texture and visual interest.

✨ Standout Options:

• Copenhagen Penny Round Mosaic – Available in charming colours like soft pink, bold blue, and even green, these penny-sized circles create a playful polka-dot pattern that's perfect for bathroom walls or kitchen splashbacks.

• Mono Hex Porcelain Mosaic – Contrasting black and white hexagons for a bold geometric statement.

• Long Island Marble Herringbone Mosaic – Combines natural marble with a stylish weave design.

• Designer Tip: Mosaics add texture and luxury to walls; for example, a marble or mother-of-pearl mosaic can give a small cloakroom or a shower niche a jewel-box elegance. Those grout lines contribute to the visual pattern, so you can even play with grout colour to either contrast or blend with the tiles.

4. Geometric and Contemporary Patterns: Modern Statements

For a truly modern statement, explore our geometric patterned tiles. These range from hexagon-shaped tiles (which can be laid in honeycomb patterns) to tiles printed with chevrons, stripes, and other edgy designs.

Perfect for: Contemporary homes, statement walls, and modern design schemes

Why we love them: Large-format geometric wall tiles in a repeating pattern can create a bold wallpaper-like effect, with the benefit of a wipeable, durable surface.

✨ Standout Options:

• Hexagon Mix – Using a mix of black, white, and grey hexagon tiles, you can design your own unique layout – scatter pattern, ombré fade, or a solid wall of hexagons.
• Designer Tip: If you have a specific design theme in mind – say, mid-century modern or Moroccan riad – try browsing our collections by style or pattern. You might be surprised how a tile's pattern can tie together your vision (for instance, a monochrome chequerboard mosaic for a retro look, or a blue and white star pattern tile for Mediterranean vibes).

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Best Places to Use Patterned Wall Tiles

One of the beauties of patterned wall tiles is their adaptability. They can enhance virtually any room. Here are the best areas to showcase patterned tiles, complete with styling suggestions:

🛁 Bathrooms

Perhaps the most popular canvas for patterned tiles. In a bathroom, you could tile a feature wall behind a bathtub or inside a walk-in shower enclosure. Victorian and Moroccan patterns work wonderfully here to create a spa-like sanctuary full of character.

Expert Advice:

• For shower areas, consider a decorative Victorian mosaic or a bold porcelain pattern with an anti-slip texture
• Best patterned tiles for bathrooms tend to be porcelain or ceramic (for water resistance)
• Consider something like a tranquil botanical print (e.g. the Eden Pergola leafy design) or a classic monochrome geometric if you want an "boutique hotel" feel
• Don't forget, you can also use patterned floor tiles in bathrooms and continue them up the wall for a cohesive wrap-around pattern – a trick often used in wet room designs

🍳 Kitchens: Practical Pizzazz

The kitchen is a perfect place to play with pattern. A patterned tile splashback behind your hob or sink can brighten the whole room.

Expert Advice:

• Try mixing patterned tiles with metro brick tiles or plain large-format tiles to balance practicality with flair
• Tile the area behind the cooker in a vibrant encaustic-style pattern (easy to wipe down and heat-proof) while keeping surrounding walls simple
• Geometric porcelain tiles, like a hexagon or chevron, bring a modern edge to kitchens, whereas a patchwork of encaustic cement tiles can give a rustic farmhouse kitchen authentic charm
• Patterned wall tiles are also great for kitchen dado heights or half-walls – think of a charming café-style half tiled wall with decorative border trim

🏠 Hallways & Entrances: First Impressions

First impressions count! Using patterned tiles in your entryway or hallway can set the tone for your entire home.

Expert Advice:

• Consider tiling a lower half of your hallway wall with a Victorian pattern and adding a neat border tile rail – this not only looks elegant but also protects your walls from scuffs (practical for busy households)
• Hallways often have limited natural light, so a tile with a light background or a glossy finish can help reflect light and prevent the space from feeling enclosed
• A Victorian tiled dado or a geometric feature wall at the end of a corridor creates a visual destination that draws you in
• Many of our Victorian wall tiles and encaustic tiles are frost-resistant or have matching floor tiles, allowing you to extend the pattern continuously from the front path up to the interior entryway for a grand entrance

🛋️ Living Rooms & Feature Walls: Artistic Statements

You don't need to restrict patterned tiles to utility areas. Used thoughtfully, they can become artwork in living spaces.

Expert Advice:

• Tiling a fireplace surround or chimney breast with patterned tiles (like a sleek black-and-white geometric or a colourful Moroccan design) can turn a plain fireplace into the room's centrepiece
• A tiled feature wall in a dining room – perhaps behind a sideboard or as a backdrop for a bar area – brings texture and luxury that wallpaper often aspires to but with far more durability
• If you have open-plan living, a tiled wall can help define a zone (for example, a tiled backsplash can demarcate a kitchen within a lounge, or a tiled half-wall could frame a reading nook)
• The key in living areas is usually balance: a large expanse of busy pattern needs complementary solid colours in furniture or soft furnishings to avoid visual overload

🚪 Small Spaces & Accents: Pocket-Sized Punch

Don't overlook cloakrooms, ensuite showers, niches, and alcoves. Patterned wall tiles can pack a punch in small doses.

Expert Advice:

• In a tiny WC under the stairs, a mosaic tile with a reflective finish or bright pattern can make the space memorable (guests will surely compliment it!)
• Tiling the back of recessed shelves or the inside of an archway with a decorative tile is another clever way to introduce pattern without dominating the whole room
• Because tiles are easy to clean, you could even use a patterned tile as a splashback behind a console table or in a laundry room behind the sink – adding style to every corner of your home

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Styling Tips for Patterned Tiles

While patterned tiles are stunning, successful design is all about balance and thoughtful coordination. Here are some expert styling tips to help you make the most of your patterned wall tiles:

⭐ Five Pro Styling Secrets

1. Balance Bold Patterns with Neutrals
   If you choose a very bold patterned tile, allow it to shine by surrounding it with neutral elements. For example, pair busy multi-coloured tiles with white or grey painted walls, plain cabinetry, or simple fixtures. This contrast will make your pattern pop and prevent the space from feeling too chaotic.

2. Use Pattern as a Focal Point
   In design, sometimes less is more. Rather than tiling every wall with pattern, consider concentrating the patterned tiles on one feature wall or a specific zone (like the shower area or behind the cooker) and keeping the other walls plain. This creates a focal point that draws attention. Alternatively, use patterned tiles as a border or stripe amid plain tiles – a row of decorative pattern running around the middle of the bathroom wall can be incredibly effective.

3. Coordinate Colours
   When mixing patterned tiles with other surfaces (paint, wallpaper, floor tiles, etc.), pick out a colour from the tile pattern to echo elsewhere in the room. If your pattern has lovely blue and gold details, maybe choose towels or kitchen accessories in those hues. This creates a cohesive look. Our patterned tile collections often come in curated colour palettes (for instance, soft sage greens or vibrant monochromes) which can guide the room's scheme.

4. Mix Pattern Sizes
   If you plan to use multiple patterned elements, vary the scale. You could combine a large-patterned wall tile with a smaller pattern on the floor, or a bold feature tile with a subtler patterned border. Varying scale helps each pattern stand out and keeps the overall design balanced. For example, large geometric wall tiles could be paired with a tiny penny round mosaic floor – they won't clash because one is dominantly large-scale and the other is textural and small-scale.

5. Mind the Grout
   Grout isn't just a practical necessity; it affects the look of your patterned wall too. A contrasting grout (e.g. dark grout with white tiles) will emphasize each tile and the pattern outline, giving a more fragmented, graphic look. A matching grout colour will make the pattern look more continuous and seamless. For intricate patterns or multicoloured tiles, a neutral grout often works best to let the tile design take centre stage. Always use a high-quality grout (and sealer if required) to ensure your design stays crisp and clean over time.

Can You Mix Different Patterned Tiles?

A common question is whether it's okay to mix different patterned tiles together in the same space. The answer is yes – if done carefully! Interior designers often mix patterns to create eclectic, personalized spaces, but it requires a bit of finesse.

The Hyperion Guide to Pattern Mixing

1. Stick to a Common Colour Theme
   Ensure the different patterns share at least one common colour tone. For instance, you might mix a navy blue geometric tile with a navy and white floral tile – the shared colour ties them together even though the patterns differ.

2. Vary the Scale or Style
   Avoid having two intricate, busy patterns competing right next to each other. Instead, pair a bold pattern with a simpler one. You could use a loud encaustic pattern on the floor and a more subtle textured pattern on the wall, or a mosaic alongside a large plain tile with a small decorative motif. This way, one pattern becomes the star and the other plays a supporting role.

3. Use Transitions
   If mixing patterns on the same plane (same wall), separate them with a solid-colour tile or trim piece. A plain border tile or a strip of neutral mosaic can act as a "buffer" between two different patterned sections, easing the visual transition.

4. Test Your Layout
   Before fixing anything with adhesive, lay out samples of the tiles together on the floor or a table. Live with the combination for a few days and see if it feels harmonious. You can also experiment with layout: sometimes rotating a patterned tile or alternating it with a plain tile can create a pleasing mixed pattern effect.

5. Less is More When Mixing
   It's usually safest to mix at most two patterns in one area (for example, two different wall tile patterns, or one pattern on the wall, one on the floor). More than two and the scheme can start to feel unfocused. An exception is a deliberate patchwork feature (like a backsplash composed of many different patchwork tiles from the same collection) – but in those cases, the tiles are usually designed to complement each other.

Need help with pattern mixing? Consult with our design team for advice – we're happy to help you plan a stunning layout!

By following these tips, you can definitely mix patterned tiles and achieve a designer-worthy look. Many clients successfully combine, say, a Victorian mosaic floor with striped wall tiles, or two different mosaics in complementary colours for a fun twist. Just remember to plan, coordinate, and edit where necessary.

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Installation and Care Tips

Once you've chosen the perfect patterned wall tiles, proper installation will ensure they look their best for years to come. Here are some installation and maintenance pointers from our experts:

🔧 Installation Essentials

Planning the Layout

Patterned tiles often have a repeating design or need alignment (for example, a motif that spans four tiles). Dry lay your tiles on the floor beforehand to map out the pattern and determine the best starting point on the wall. This is especially important with geometric patterns and murals – you want to avoid awkward half-cut designs at eye level or in corners. Mark a guideline on your wall (using a level) to keep the pattern straight and true as you tile upwards.

Using the Right Tools

For heavy porcelain or stone tiles, use a strong tile adhesive suitable for the tile weight (check the product specs – our porcelain tiles will note if any special adhesive is recommended). Apply adhesive evenly with the correct notched trowel to avoid lippage (uneven tile heights). Tile spacers are essential to maintain consistent grout lines, especially if the pattern relies on perfect spacing.

Professional vs DIY

If your pattern is complex or the tiles are expensive, hiring a professional tiler can be a wise investment. Patterns like herringbone or diagonal layouts require careful cutting at the edges; a professional will have the tools to do this cleanly. Also, large format patterned tiles and very hard materials (like some porcelains) often need specialist cutting equipment.

That said, many of our customers successfully DIY small areas like a kitchen splashback or cloakroom wall using mosaic sheets or standard grid patterns – just take your time and follow our guidelines.

🧹 Maintenance Made Simple

Grouting with Care

Once tiles are set, grout fills the gaps and really brings the design together. Use a squeegee or grout float to work grout into the joints, then wipe the excess with a damp sponge before it fully dries on the tile surface (to avoid haze).

For porous tiles like encaustic cement or natural stone, remember to seal them before grouting, or use a specialist grout that won't stain. We advise using a light-coloured grout for light tiles and medium tones, as very dark grout can stain lighter patterned tiles. Conversely, a darker grout can be used with dark tiles for a seamless look or with white tiles for a striking outline.

Sealing and Cleaning

Most ceramic and porcelain patterned wall tiles do not require sealing – they're glazed or non-porous. Simply give them a regular wipe-down with a mild cleaner to keep them gleaming.

For cement-based encaustic tiles or natural stone inlays, you will need to apply a sealant after installation (and reseal periodically per the manufacturer's instructions) to protect against moisture and stains. We can recommend suitable sealers for any tiles you purchase from us.

After sealing, these tiles are robust and can be cleaned with pH-neutral cleaners. Avoid harsh abrasives on patterned tiles, especially those with hand-painted designs or gloss finishes; a soft cloth or sponge is best to preserve the detail and sheen. With basic care, your patterned wall tiles will maintain their vivid colours and intricate designs for the long haul.

Future-Proofing Your Design

In the unlikely event a tile gets chipped or damaged, keep a few spares from your original order. Patterned tiles can be tricky to replace with a close match years later (batch colours might differ), so having spares on hand is a smart move. A professional can pop out the damaged tile and fit the replacement with minimal fuss, keeping your pattern intact.

By adhering to these installation and care tips, you'll ensure the beauty of your patterned wall tiles is matched by a quality finish.

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Transform Your Walls with Hyperion Tiles

Patterned wall tiles offer a world of design possibilities – and there's no better place to find your perfect tiles than Hyperion Tiles. As a family-run, independent UK tile specialist, we curate only the finest porcelain, ceramic, mosaic, and encaustic-style tiles for our collection.

Ready to turn your inspiration into reality?

Browse Our Collections

Dive into our selection of Wall Tiles and discover sub-collections like the vibrant Mosaic Wall Tiles, elegant Victorian Tiles, and versatile Patterned Floor Tiles (many of which double as gorgeous wall tiles).

Each product page is filled with details, images, and specifications to help you make an informed choice. You'll find tiles from renowned designers and brands, all available to buy online for UK-wide delivery.

Expert Advice

Not sure which pattern will suit your style, or need guidance on calculating quantities? Our Hyperion Tiles experts are here to help. Visit our Ascot showroom for in-person assistance or contact us via phone or live chat for tailored advice.

We love talking tiles and can provide design input, technical information on installation, and tips for achieving the look you want.

Get Inspired

Check out our Hyperion Tiles blog and inspiration galleries (Instagram is a great place to see our tiles in real homes!). You'll find real-life examples of patterned wall tiles used in creative ways – from a cosy cottage kitchen with patchwork tiles to a sleek London townhouse bathroom featuring bold monochrome patterns.

Seeing these ideas can spark your imagination for your own project.

Your Dream Space is Just a Few Tiles Away

Bring your walls to life with patterned tiles. If you crave a home that stands out and reflects your personality, don't settle for plain paint or boring wallpaper. Embrace the colour, texture, and artistry of patterned wall tiles.

With Hyperion Tiles' exceptional range and support, you can achieve a design that not only looks stunning but also lasts a lifetime.

Ready to start your makeover? Explore our patterned wall tile collections today and let your creativity run wild – your dream space is just a few tiles away! 🏡✨