The top 3 tile trends shaping NZ interiors in 2025

There’s a quiet transformation happening in New Zealand interiors—and it’s unfolding beneath our feet and across our walls. Tiles have become one of the most expressive materials in contemporary design, offering a way to merge timeless texture with modern form. From sculptural surfaces to bold terrazzo, this year’s tile trends are redefining the way we live with and within our spaces.

To understand what’s driving the latest movement in tiles, we spoke with The Tile Depot’s Nicky Renwick, who says we’re entering a creative new phase. 

“There is so much variation in tiles these days—it’s a very exciting time to be involved in the industry!”

Here, we explore the three standout tile trends Renwick sees leading the way in 2025, and how they’re being used to create sophisticated, functional spaces across New Zealand.

1. Large format décor wall tiles are delivering seamless impact

From bathrooms to commercial foyers, large format wall tiles are turning everyday spaces into architectural moments. Typically sized at 600x1200mm or larger, these tiles are making their mark for both their clean look and practical appeal.

“Large format décor tiles are a popular option as they create a clean, seamless look with fewer grout lines. It allows the textures and patterns on the large format tiles to flow more continuously than those on smaller tiles, really allowing those textures to be displayed to their full potential,” says Renwick.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, oversized tiles help to visually expand rooms by minimising grout lines and offering a streamlined finish. In bathrooms and wet areas, they create a luxurious, spa-like feel with easier upkeep.

“We’re finding that large format tiles are increasingly popular across all settings, with the 600x1200mm size in particular becoming a common choice,” she adds. “Large rectangular tiles laid vertically can add a sense of height to a space, and laid horizontally can increase the illusion of width.”

Their use in commercial settings is growing too, offering low-maintenance durability with a premium finish. 

2. Lineal, ribbed & fluted textures bring subtle architectural depth

While maximalist patterns have their place, the design world is now embracing a quieter, more sculptural kind of drama. 3D lineal tiles—those with fluted, ribbed or grooved surfaces—are emerging as the go-to texture for interiors that want understated elegance.

“3D lineal textured tiles are a striking style of wall tile that feature raised linear patterns—think grooves, ridges, or waves,” explains Renwick. “These aren’t just printed effects; the texture is physically sculpted into the tile, giving it real depth and tactile quality.”

Their strength lies in subtlety. Rather than shout for attention, they work with light and shadow to bring a surface to life—especially when paired with strategic lighting like LED mirrors or wall sconces.

Most often used in neutral palettes, they suit the calming tone-on-tone schemes that dominate NZ interiors. As Renwick puts it, “Unlike bold patterns and colours they add striking texture but often stay within a neutral tone – adding interest and style without being too bold or busy.”

While particularly popular in bathrooms, lineal textures are also being used on feature walls, around fireplaces, and even on kitchen islands. 

The Tile Depot has five collections featuring the 3D lineal effects: Cement Vibes, Saint Remy, Pietra, Vatican Vein Cut and Evolutia. 

3. Industrial terrazzo adds warmth to raw minimalism

With its roots in centuries-old craftsmanship, terrazzo is having a modern revival. And one of its most exciting new expressions is the Bubble design within the Yourself porcelain collection, available at The Tile Depot. It’s an evolution of terrazzo that fuses softness with an urban edge.

“The new terrazzo porcelain design looks like a beautiful Nordic cement with an aggregate made of irregular shaped pebbles in multiple shades and sizes,” shares Renwick. “They tend to be a more organic, less refined terrazzo design that reveals the ‘raw materials’ that fit so well with industrial design but can also be applied to a wide variety of design genres.”

The Yourself Pure Bubble tile, for example, features a soft grey base with copper and charcoal tones—creating a neutral yet warm effect that feels equally at home in luxe or rustic settings. Its organic appearance lends itself to industrial aesthetics, yet it remains flexible enough to work across a range of interior styles.

“The Yourself Bubble terrazzo design is an incredible looking tile,” Renwick says. “With so many interesting colours in the aggregate details, it is hugely versatile.”

Pair it with copper tapware for a contemporary look, or layer it with handmade-effect wall tiles for a raw, textural pairing. Either way, this new take on terrazzo adds dimension, personality and warmth to even the most minimal spaces.

A shift to timeless appeal

Each of these trends reflects a shift towards tactility, longevity and natural tones—elements that resonate strongly with the New Zealand design aesthetic.

But in a world awash with trends, Renwick has one key piece of advice for anyone selecting tiles:

“If you love it, go for it! Don’t get too caught up in worrying whether a tile trend might date. If you’re designing a space that truly makes you happy, that’s what matters most.”

Explore the latest tile collections from The Tile Depot