At Marlborough Tiles, we’ve always championed timeless, classic design instead of running after fads. As Jamie Robb, our owner, often says: “Timeless design has an intangible quality but one which you recognise as soon as you see it. We’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on what that means, and for us, it comes down to being rooted in tried and tested methods, scrupulous attention to detail, and the use of high-quality materials.”  

Which is all well and good, however, we, (especially those of us in the marketing team) also recognise that within our industry, the challenge is to create products that are timeless but which are not stuck in the past. Design, after all, evolves for a reason. We believe the best elements endure, rising above fleeting trends to bring style and quality to our homes.

With all this in mind, we have been paying attention to the trend reports which have been circulating and running them through the “Marlborough Lens”, which is our considered take on the direction in which home decor style seems to be moving. 

Below are some of our key highlights – dare we say timeless trends, if such a thing even exists?  

1. Personal space: making your home yours

We are glad to see the back of the neutral, grey interiors that clouded the noughties. After all, your home should be just that -- a reflection of your personality and style.

Whether using bold colour choices, original artworks or heirloom pieces of furniture that tell a story, each piece that reflects you and your family will transcend trends for years to come.

With this in mind, we would suggest our hand painted tiles add a touch of artistry where plain tiles might not capture the full story. We have many customers who have immortalised their gardens, pets, sailing boats and more in a hand painted style. The beauty of this is that we’re able to work with you to create a panel or individual tiles, say to decorate a fireplace, that you’ll love for years to come. Please do get in touch if this sounds like something you’d like to explore further. 

2. Earth Tones: inspired by nature

Earthy colours, from gentle greens to soft neutrals, reflect the warmth and grounded appeal of nature. These colours bring a soothing and timeless quality to rooms where calm and relaxation are priorities, such as bathrooms and sitting rooms.

Ceramic tiles in earthen tones can introduce a subtle richness, blending with both neutral palettes and bolder accent colours for a cozy and inviting home environment no matter your personal style.

In fact, rarely do these earthy tones tire, meaning you can confidently embrace natural colours in textiles, paint or tiles knowing that you’ll appreciate them for years to come.  

3. Bold and rich: embracing dark colour palettes

Dark, rich colours such as deep blues and emerald greens are set to dominate in 2025, and (at the risk of showing our age) to that we say, ‘Welcome back darlings!’ 

So often customers are drawn to our Victorian greens and blues - colours which we have been making for decades - only to opt for the safety of white tiles instead. Dark tones can be particularly striking in bathrooms where they provide a decadent, spa-like feeling, or in kitchens where they can be used to offset lighter cabinetry, worktops or wall paint. And don’t be afraid to embrace dark colours in small cloakrooms. 

With the right lighting, darker shades bring depth and a jewel-like reflective quality that feels truly luxurious and intimate.  

4. Timeless timber: organic luxury

You simply can’t go wrong with wood—it’s a classic that never loses its allure. Whether it’s a maple worktop, cedar beams, or a beautifully seasoned oak fireplace, adding wood brings a touch of organic warmth that instantly grounds a space.

However, real wood floors can be tricky in bustling kitchens or steamy bathrooms where spills and moisture are a concern. That’s where timber-effect tiles come into their own. They capture the elegance of oak or walnut but with the resilience of porcelain—ideal for busy homes. 

These tiles work wonderfully with rich, jewel-toned hues or soft neutrals, creating a timeless backdrop that will look just as beautiful in years to come. 

5. Terracotta tones: Mediterranean warmth

Terracotta is having its moment again in 2025, and we couldn’t be happier. There’s just something so warm and inviting about its earthy tones—they feel both timeless and modern. But let’s be honest, real terracotta floors can be a bit of a headache in busy kitchens and bat

hrooms, where spills can leave marks. That’s why we love terracotta-effect porcelain tiles. They capture all that rustic charm but are much easier to keep looking great. 

And if you’re after a cosy touch, try shades like burnt sienna or clay on walls or cabinets. They pair beautifully with natural materials like wood and ceramics, bringing a snug, lived-in feel to any room. 

6. Tiling to the ceiling: statement walls

No, we’re not talking the dreaded statement walls of the late nineties. What we mean is that there’s a shift in seeing tiles more like pieces of art as opposed to something purely practical.  

One of the ways to embrace the artistry of tiles is to take them from floor to ceiling, as was done in Georgian times for instance with Delft tiles. This instantly elevates a space, giving bathrooms and kitchens a luxurious, seamless look. 

Deep, rich patterns can create a dramatic backdrop, while lighter, reflective tiles brighten up a room and enhance natural light. Plus, full-height tiling not only adds grandeur but also makes walls easier to maintain—a wonderful choice for those of us who appreciate both beauty and practicality. 

We truly believe that a beautifully designed home should reflect your personal taste while standing the test of time. 

If you’re inspired to refresh your space with tiles that combine enduring elegance with practical charm, we would be delighted to assist. Simply get in touch, and together, we can bring your vision to life.