5 top colour palettes for your tiles

Decorating with tiles is an ancient art, especially in cultures like the Portuguese where ceramic tiles have become ubiquitous for decorating palaces and small homes alike. Tiles have a rich cultural history and are actually works of art in many parts of the world. For example, the classic blue and white colour scheme, adopted in the late 17th century, was inspired by oriental porcelain, symbols of purity and serenity, and of our maritime heritage, replacing the polychromatic tiles of Moorish influences. This example illustrates the importance of colour and knowing how to mix colours. It is much more than aesthetics, and it is the topic we are discussing here by proposing 5 colour schemes and decorations that are the groundwork of space you will not forget.

5 inspiring ideas: Colour schemes and decoration

1. Monochromatic scheme: Elegance and simplicity

The monochromatic colour scheme consists of variations of a single colour for sophistication and harmony. This style is perfect if you prefer clean and more modern decoration.

For kitchens: Kitchen ceramics in white or light grey is a classic example that visually enhances space and provides a neutral background that matches any colour of furniture and accessories. Combine different polished, relief or matt finishes to lend greater depth and add a special touch.

For bathrooms: Shades of blue or aqua green are excellent choices. These colours convey tranquillity and freshness, perfect for a more relaxed atmosphere. Use ceramic tiles in different sizes to create interesting patterns and within the same monochromatic colour palette.

2. Complementary scheme: Colours that attract

Complementary schemes use colours that sit opposite on the colour-wheel, creating vibrant and dynamic contrast. This scheme is perfect if you are looking for bold and energetic decoration.

For kitchens: Match blue and orange or green and red. For example, kitchen tiles with a dark blue background and a touch of orange can transform a plain wall into an impressive eye catcher.

For bathrooms: Choose purple, yellow, green or pink. These colour combinations add life and personality to space. Use the most vibrant colour for detail on a lighter background to balance the room.

3. Analogue scheme: Harmony and cohesion

As the name suggests, analogue schemes complement each other by using adjacent colours on the colour-wheel, offering a smooth and harmonious transition between them. This scheme results in less austere and well-balanced environments.

For kitchens: Shades of yellow and orange create a warm and cosy atmosphere. Tiles in different shades of these two colours can be laid in geometric patterns for a modern, energetic atmosphere.

For bathrooms: Blue, green and turquoise are perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Shades of blue and green in a mosaic pattern can transform a conventional bathroom into an oasis of tranquillity.

4. Triadic scheme: Energy in perfect balance

Triadic schemes use three colours that are equidistant on the colour-wheel, creating a balanced and vibrant palette. This scheme is perfect if you are looking to add a touch of colour without burdening the space.

For kitchens: Use blue, red and yellow. Kitchen tiles with a blue background, red details and hints of yellow can create a cheerful kitchen with character. Make sure the colours are well balanced to avoid a cacophony of colour.

For bathrooms: Match green, orange and purple. Tiles with a geometric pattern in these colours can create an elegant environment, perfect for modern bathrooms.

5. Natural colour scheme: Inspired by nature

Natural colour schemes are inspired by the shades of nature, e.g. greens, browns and beiges. This scheme is ideal for creating a peaceful and cosy atmosphere.

For kitchens: Use tiles in shades of terracotta, olive green and cream. These natural colours are perfect for a rustic or country-style kitchen, adding a touch of nature to the home.

For bathrooms: Shades of sand, brown and light green can turn the bathroom into a real spa inside your home. Tiles in natural colours blend in perfectly with plants and wooden accessories for a Zen atmosphere.

Portuguese tiles: Timeless charm

Speaking of tile, traditional Portuguese tiles are famous for their intricate patterns; an excellent choice for adding a touch of history and culture to your home.

For kitchens: Use Portuguese tiles as a backsplash or to help a wall stick out. Traditional colours such as blue and white are perfect for creating a striking eye catcher.

For bathrooms: Create a Portuguese tile mural on one of the bathroom walls. This technique will add an artistic touch to your bathroom and transform it into a real work of art.

Choosing the right colour scheme for your tiles can be an extremely rewarding process. Bear in mind lighting, the size of the space and the room décor when making your choice. Be bold with complementary colours, create harmony with analogous schemes or opt for the elegance of monochrome colours. Whatever your choice, tiles are an extension of our personality in space and there's room for everyone.

For more inspiration and tips, visit our webpage dedicated to Environments and Decoration.