Even though encaustic cement tiles have been available since the 1850s, they can easily be used to give a modern effect. We will tell you how to select the appropriate pattern and color palette to make these tiles look at home in any contemporary setting. Who says that an old horse cannot be taught new tricks?

An Old Tile Displaying a Modern Design

The adaptability of cement tiles makes them an ideal choice for modern homes and contemporary interiors. Here are a few of our favorite examples demonstrating how effectively encaustic cement tiles with geometric designs contribute to a modern aesthetic.

The clubhouse of a resort features a geometric cement tile design that is a metaphor for golf balls and the green. Using pattern tile to produce cement tile rugs provides a little dress-up yet still a casual appearance. The rugs do not have frilly ornamental borders, but they distinguish the seating places from the basic, large-format tile. Avoiding typical borders prevents a design from becoming overcrowded. The color and style are whimsical, amusing, and informal. If you decide to add a border, use a basic pattern such as the one on the master bathroom floor. Notice how the color palette is restrained and the pattern is limited to a single surface, such as the floor or an accent wall.

Use geometric designs to give a contemporary appearance with cement tile. Use no more than two or three colors. It is ideal to combine a neutral color with two tones of another color, such as white with light green and dark green.

Have Fun With Geometric Patterns To Maintain A Calm Mood

The classic two-color palette of the Serengeti design gives it an exotic, modern air that transcends time. A resort restaurant's dining room floor is an attractive and contemporary focal point for this type.

Tiles can be "mismatched" so that cream-colored tiles are contrasted with black tiles. Compared to the pattern of the Serengeti, in addition, the pattern extends throughout the entire room without a border. All of these design decisions give this resort restaurant a fresh, contemporary vibe while retaining an exquisite atmosphere.

To obtain a modern appearance, be sure to utilize a straightforward color palette. You should choose no more than two or three colors. One color should often be neutral, white, or off-white. Add a third bold color sparingly as an accent, or choose one that is either darker or lighter. 

Tips for Creating a Modern Appearance with Cement Tile

If you adore cement tiles and want to utilize them in your mid-century contemporary or want to keep a casual appearance in an open space, here are a few helpful recommendations.

• Limit your color options to a few.
• Choose geometric patterns with basic, clear lines.
• Install patterns so that they extend to the room's perimeter.
• Consider "mismatching" the dark and light hues on adjacent tiles. This works nicely with high-contrast tiles and complementing hues that are more vibrant.
• Add patterned tiles to either the floor or a feature wall, but not both. Otherwise, the design becomes very crowded.
• Create tile rugs without border tiles or with very simple border patterns for huge rooms.