Residential Tile Trends of 2023: Interview with Architessa

Francisca Alonso, CEO and Co-Founder of AV Architects + Builders, and David Benson, President of Architessa, recently sat down to dive into the world of tile and discuss the emerging trends they’ve noticed in 2023. 

Architessa has been a distinguished provider in the tile and architectural surfaces industry for over 38 years, offering a wide range of products for various design needs. As a certified Women-Owned and family-operated business, they bring generations of passion and expertise to the tile and stone industry. Serving a wide range of clients, including homeowners, designers, and architects, Architessa is dedicated to finding the perfect tile for every project. 

Their renowned Concierge Service guides clients through the tile and design selection process, offering expert advice and personalized attention to detail. They facilitate both in-store and virtual appointments, allowing clients to explore their extensive collection from anywhere. Architessa has an incomparable selection of high-quality tiles, including ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone, and more, sourced globally and available through their showrooms in the D.C., Virginia, and Maryland areas.

With over 23 years of experience designing and building homes for clients in the Northern Virginia area, we at AV Architects + Builders strive to stay at the forefront of ever evolving trends. This article can help guide you on your home building or remodel project as you begin to make decisions on material selections and finishes throughout your home. 

Whether you're a homeowner planning a renovation, an architect seeking the latest in tile design, or simply a design enthusiast, this video is packed with valuable insights and tips.

Top Three Residential Tile Trends of 2023

1. Large Format Tile

2023 saw a significant shift towards large format tiles, with dimensions like 24x48 inches becoming increasingly popular. This trend underscores a move towards more expansive and visually impactful design elements in modern homes.

2. Rectangular Subway Wall Tile

Subway tiles made a notable comeback in 2023. These rectangular wall tiles, known for their versatility and timeless appeal, have re-emerged as a preferred choice, blending classic aesthetics with contemporary design.

AV Architects + Builders, Virginia, Main Level Modern House, Photo By Charels Dubisette

The third trend highlighted was the rise of frontier paver porcelain tiles. These outdoor tiles have gained popularity, reflecting a growing interest in extending stylish and durable tile designs to outdoor spaces.

AV Architects + Builders, Virginia, The Architect House, Photo by Maxwell Mackenzie

Material Innovations in 2023

1. Expanded Affordability

A key innovation in 2023 was the enhanced affordability of porcelain tiles that mimic natural stone or concrete finishes. This development has made luxury aesthetics more accessible, allowing for broader adoption in various design projects.

2. Large Format Porcelain Slabs

Another significant innovation was the introduction of large format porcelain slabs, measuring up to five feet by ten feet. These slabs have become a popular choice for feature walls and countertops, offering a unique blend of functionality and artistic expression.

AV Architects + Builders, Virginia, The Architect House, Photo by Maxwell Mackenzie

Sustainability in Tile Production

Sustainability has been a focal point for Architessa, with over 60 manufacturers working towards eco-friendly practices. Efforts include using solar energy, buying trees for reforestation, and adopting alternative fuels for kiln operations. 

1. Replanting trees: buying trees in other countries to offset the environmental impact

2. Leveraging solar energy: using solar panels on the roofs of their warehouses

3. Decreasing emissions: using alternative fuel types to burn in the kilns

Porcelain and ceramic tiles, with their long lifespan of 70-90 years, offer a sustainable alternative to other natural materials with shorter lifespans. Read more on Architessa's Sustainability Page.

Best Selling Tiles of 2023

1. White subway tile

White subway tiles emerged as the top seller in 2023, marking their strong comeback in the market.

2. Porcelain Tiles in Light Gray Concrete

Porcelain tiles in light gray concrete finishes were another bestseller, reflecting a preference for neutral, versatile designs that can complement various interior styles.

AV Architects + Builders, Virginia, The Architect House, Photo by Maxwell Mackenzie

Tile You’d Like to See More of in 2024

1. Textured Dimensional Stone for Indoor-Outdoor

For 2024, there's a potential for textured dimensional stone tiles that can transition seamlessly from indoor to outdoor spaces to rise in popularity, enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience.

David’s Personal Favorite Tile of 2023

1. Large Format Square Tile

David Benson expressed a personal preference for large square tiles, 24x24in or 32x32in, particularly in concrete looks with textured patterns. He appreciates how these square-shaped  tiles can open up a space, offering a fresh perspective on traditional tile designs.

Residential Tile Trends of 2023 with AV Architects + Builders and Architessa

The insightful conversation between Francisca Alonso of AV Architects + Builders and David Benson of Architessa illuminates the dynamic and evolving landscape of tile trends in 2023. This year has seen a fascinating shift towards larger formats, classic subway tiles, and innovative outdoor solutions, reflecting a broader movement in home design towards bold, versatile, and sustainable choices.

For homeowners, architects, and design enthusiasts, understanding these trends is crucial in making informed decisions for both residential and commercial projects. The move towards large format tiles and the resurgence of subway tiles offer new opportunities to create visually striking and timeless spaces. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of frontier outdoor paver porcelain tiles highlights an increased interest in cohesive indoor-outdoor living experiences.

The discussion also sheds light on significant material innovations, such as the affordability of luxury-look porcelain tiles and the introduction of large format porcelain slabs. These developments are not just aesthetically pleasing but also practical, offering durable and cost-effective solutions for modern design needs. Additionally, the focus on sustainability in tile production, with eco-friendly practices and long-lasting materials, aligns with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility in construction and design.

As we look towards 2024, the anticipation for textured dimensional stone tiles indicates a continued evolution in tile design, promising even more versatility and creativity in both indoor and outdoor applications. For those planning a new build or renovation, embracing these tile trends can lead to spaces that are not only stylish and contemporary but also sustainable and adaptable to future design shifts. Let these trends inspire your next project, allowing you to create spaces that are both reflective of current styles and enduring in their appeal.

For more information or to consult with a design expert, you can reach out to Architessa at sales@architessa.com or visit their website at architessa.com