Your guide to choosing stone kitchen tiles | Benefits & styles
When designing a kitchen, few decisions are as impactful as the choice of tiles. Stone kitchen tiles are a timeless option, blending natural beauty with durable materials to create a functional yet stylish space. With so many options available, including marble, slate, and limestone, it’s important to consider the functionality of your kitchen and any special requirements you may have.
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore the benefits of stone floor and wall tiles, the best colours and styles, and when to consider them for your next kitchen renovation.
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Different types of stone kitchen tiles: Which should you choose?
Discover which stone type is appropriate for your kitchen, including marble and limestone.
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Finding the right colours for stone kitchen tiles
Browse the most popular colours for stone tiles, and the best for kitchen floors and walls.
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Which tile shape should you choose for your kitchen?
Browse the different tile shapes for stone kitchen tiles, including square and metro styles.
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Where should you use stone tiles in your kitchen?
Find out where you should incorporate stone tiles in your kitchen.
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Frequently asked questions
Read the most common queries on stone kitchen tiles.
Different types of stone kitchen tiles: Which should you choose?
Stone tiles bring an element of sophistication and natural beauty to your kitchen.
Each type of stone has unique characteristics that influence its suitability for specific uses and style preferences.
Marble
Marble kitchen tiles are synonymous with luxury. Known for its veined patterns and polished finish, this natural stone creates an opulent look that suits both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Marble is particularly beneficial for splashbacks or accent walls, where its visual impact can be maximised without exposure to heavy wear.
Our top pick for marble kitchen tiles:
Shop our Seaspray green marble tile range here.
However, marble is porous and prone to staining, making it less ideal for countertops or high-traffic floors unless sealed properly.
For more information, read our full guide on marble kitchen tiles here.
Travertine
Travertine kitchen tiles, with their soft, earthy tones, offer a warm and inviting feel. They are often favoured for rustic or Mediterranean-style kitchens. Their natural texture adds depth, making them a good choice for floors or feature walls.
Our travertine tile range pick:
Browse our entire Bosphorus travertine tiles here.
On the downside, travertine is less durable than other stones and can be prone to scratching and chipping. Like marble, it requires sealing to protect against stains and gentle cleaners to maintain its appearance.
Limestone
Limestone kitchen tiles are versatile, offering a range of colours from pale beige to darker greys. Their subtle, uniform texture suits both traditional and modern kitchens. Limestone is often chosen for flooring due to its soft, matt finish that feels warm underfoot.
Our top pick for limestone kitchen tiles:
Shop our entire range of Palio limestone tiles here.
However, limestone is softer than other stones, making it more susceptible to wear and tear. In areas like countertops, where sharp knives or heavy pots might be used, it might not be the best choice unless well-sealed and maintained.
Slate
Slate is a highly durable stone, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchen floors. Its dark, textured appearance adds a dramatic touch to modern, industrial-style kitchens. Slate kitchen tiles are also naturally moisture-resistant and require minimal maintenance, making them suitable for splashbacks and areas near sinks. We would always recommend sealing the tiles to further enhance their resistance to water and stains.
Our top pick for slate kitchen tiles:
One drawback of slate is its limited colour range, typically varying from black to shades of grey. It’s also heavier than other stones, which may require reinforced surfaces for installation.
Comparing and combining stone tile types
Mixing stone tiles in your kitchen can create a dynamic and visually appealing design. For instance, pairing sleek marble splashbacks with slate floors balances luxury with practicality. Similarly, a travertine floor can complement a limestone countertop for a cohesive, earthy look. Ensure the tones and finishes harmonise to avoid a disjointed appearance.
| Stone type | Benefits | Drawbacks | Best uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marble |
|
|
Splashbacks, accent walls. |
| Travertine |
|
|
Floors, feature walls. |
| Limestone |
|
|
Flooring, accent walls. |
| Slate |
|
|
Floors, splashback, areas near sinks. |
Natural stone tiles bring undeniable beauty and elegance to kitchens but have downsides. They can be porous, prone to staining, and require regular sealing to maintain their appearance. Additionally, some stones are susceptible to scratching or chipping and may be less durable in high-traffic areas.
For homeowners seeking the timeless appeal of stone without maintenance, stone effect porcelain tiles offer an excellent alternative. These tiles replicate the classic stone look while providing superior durability, stain resistance, and easier upkeep, making them a practical choice for busy households.
Browse our entire collection of marble effect kitchen tiles here.
Finding the right colours for stone kitchen tiles
Choosing the right colour for your stone kitchen tiles is vital in setting the mood and style of your space. Stone tiles are available in a wide range of natural tones, and combining colours can create an even more striking effect. Consider the following colours for your stone kitchen tiles:
Grey
Grey stone tiles are a versatile choice, offering a neutral base that complements almost any colour scheme. Darker greys work well in contemporary kitchens, providing a sleek, modern feel, while lighter greys create an airy, spacious atmosphere. They pair beautifully with stainless steel appliances and wood accents, adding depth to the design.
Check out our Hampton Bays collection, featuring grey kitchen tiles:
Black and white
Black stone tiles, such as slate, add a dramatic and sophisticated touch. They are excellent for making a bold statement, particularly in minimalistic or industrial kitchen designs. Conversely, white marble tiles evoke elegance and brightness, making them perfect for smaller kitchens needing space.
Why not consider combining black and white tiles. A monochrome kitchen combining black and white tiles can create a striking contrast, balancing light and dark to achieve visual interest – particularly for a kitchen floor.
Find out more about using chequerboard tiles for your kitchen here.
Bright colours
While stone tiles are typically more subdued in tone, natural variations can include subtle hints of greens, blues, or even rusty reds, particularly in slate or travertine. These hues can add a splash of personality to an otherwise neutral kitchen. Combining brighter tiles with muted tones ensures they don’t overpower the space.
For beautiful and unique coloured stone tiles, check out our Monet Marble collection.
Which tile shape should you choose for your kitchen?
The shape of your stone tiles can significantly influence your kitchen’s aesthetic. From traditional square tiles to contemporary patterns, the choice of shape can help define your design style.
Squares
Square stone tiles are a classic choice and work well for both floors and walls. Their symmetrical shape offers a clean and balanced look. Larger square tiles can make smaller kitchens appear more spacious, while smaller tiles create a more intricate, detailed design.
Metro or subway tiles
Metro tiles, or rectangular subway tiles, have become a staple of modern kitchens. When made from stone, such as marble or slate, they elevate this popular shape with a natural, textured finish. They are often used for splashbacks, where their linear pattern adds visual interest.
Other shapes
Unconventional shapes, such as hexagons or herringbone patterns, can add a variety of styles and a creative twist to your kitchen design. Hexagonal stone tiles are particularly striking, creating a honeycomb effect that suits contemporary spaces. Herringbone patterns, made with rectangular tiles, add movement and texture to floors or walls.
If you’re still unsure which style, colour and shape of stone kitchen tile to use, consider Fired Earth’s design services for inspiration. Our tile and colour experts will assess your space and recommend tile ranges and colours that will best benefit your kitchen – both floor and wall tiles.
Book your design appointment today!
Where should you use stone tiles in your kitchen?
Stone tiles are incredibly versatile and can be used in various parts of your kitchen, depending on the desired style and functional requirements.
Floors
Stone tiles are a popular choice for kitchen floors due to their durability and natural beauty. Slate and limestone are ideal for flooring as they can withstand heavy foot traffic. Stone floors should be sealed to prevent stains and make cleaning easier. Underfloor heating can also be installed to counteract the natural coolness of stone.
Walls
Stone tiles on walls can create a stunning feature. Marble or travertine tiles, for example, add texture and sophistication to accent walls. While stone walls are less prone to wear than floors, they still require sealing to maintain their appearance over time.
Splashbacks
Stone splashbacks are both practical and stylish. Materials like marble and slate resist heat and protect your walls from splashes and stains, making them perfect for areas behind the hob or sink. Polished stone tiles are easier to wipe clean, keeping maintenance manageable.
Countertops
While less common than traditional tiled floors or walls, stone tiles can be used on countertops for a rustic, textured look. Larger tiles reduce the number of grout lines, making the surface easier to clean. Travertine and marble are popular choices, though they require regular sealing to prevent stains.
Always check the suitability of a tile for a countertop or worktop to ensure they can withstand this type of use.
With over 40 years of experience, the Fired Earth team are here to help with your next kitchen renovation! Experts in design and colour, we stock a variety of floor and wall tiles perfect for the kitchen and bathroom, including popular materials like porcelain, marble and other natural stone tiles.
Visit your nearest Fired Earth showroom or contact our team today!
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine stone tiles with other materials?
Yes, stone tiles pair well with various materials, such as wood, metal, and glass. For example, slate tiles work beautifully with stainless steel appliances, while marble complements wooden cabinetry.
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