Organic and tactile: Why Japanese tiles are worth the obsession

Shape and format are also developing alongside these finishes. While elongated “finger” tiles have enjoyed widespread popularity, the trend is beginning to change. “The long finger tiles were very popular, and still are, but we’re seeing a shift toward square formats now,” explains Cailtin. “Squares feel a bit more mid-century modern, and people are getting more playful with how they use them.”

This playfulness extends to how tiles are being combined. “There’s a trend toward mixing formats, like pairing square tiles with fingers in the same colour palette. This layered method creates something more custom and less predictable.”

It seems the concept of feature tiles has also matured. For example, rather than a single statement wall, designers are taking a more integrated approach. Caitlin explains, “Think half walls, tiled niches, or combining finishes within the same room.” The result is a more considered, cohesive design language. One allowing texture and detail to unfold gradually.

An additional factor contributing to the rise of Japanese tiles is the increased access to extensive collections. Tile Space offers an extended range available via pre-order, giving customers options beyond what’s immediately visible in showrooms or online. This extended Japanese collection is stocked and available with a six-week lead time in New Zealand.

Far from being complicated, the process is intended to be approachable. Caitlin explains, “Customers can work with one of our design consultants, choose from the extended range, and have those tiles ordered in. It opens up a much wider selection than what designers might initially see.”

To support this, Tile Space also provides an in-store design service to help specifiers visualise their choices. “We offer a free service where specifiers can bring in plans or photos, and the client, and we’ll create scaled renderings of their space using their chosen tiles,” says Caitlin. The service helps answer questions about where a feature should appear or how much variation will appear across a surface.

Caitlin notes designers and homeowners are starting to move away from overly safe design choices and toward something with more personality, but still timeless.

“Japanese tiles strike this balance perfectly. They’re subtle, but they have soul.”

Head to one of Tiles Spaces’ showrooms or view the collection on ArchiPro today.