Black and white tile never goes out of style, but choosing the right paint color to pair with this striking tile can be challenging. This article explores the enduring appeal of black and white tile and dives into the most complementary paint colors to consider, from bright whites to bold yellows and dramatic charcoals.
You’ll learn handy tips for choosing a paint color based on your space, taste, and desired aesthetic. To help you flawlessly execute the painting process, useful how-to guidance is provided on prepping, taping off edges, and applying paint properly.
To pull your whole design together, the article includes styling ideas tailored to each paint color suggestion.
With diverse color moods, practical painting advice, and style tips, this article will inspire you to confidently choose and implement the perfect paint color for your classic black and white tile.
Tips help You choose a paint color for black and white tile
Contents
- Consider the size of the space. In a small bathroom, light blues can make the space feel more open, while bright reds may feel overwhelming. In a large room, you have more flexibility to use darker or more saturated colors.
- Take the lighting into account. North-facing rooms with little natural light can handle deeper colors like charcoal gray. South-facing rooms will reflect brighter colors well. Adjust artificial lighting as needed.
- Decide on the mood you want to create. Whites feel clean and airy while grays are sophisticated. Blues are calming and greens are harmonious. Yellows energize and reds excite.
- Look at color combinations in real bathrooms online or in design magazines for inspiration on what works well with black and white tile patterns.
- Purchase small paint samples to test colors on a wall before committing to a full gallon. See how they look at different times of day.
- Consider ease of maintenance. Lighter glossy paints resist moisture and hide scuffs better than dark matte paints. Easy-clean walls are key for busy spaces like bathrooms.
The Allure of Black and White Tile
Before diving into paint colors, let’s first understand the appeal of black and white tiles. This striking tile has been used for centuries and continues to be a popular choice today. Here are some of its best attributes:
Timeless and Classic: Black and white tile has an ageless, elegant look that fits well in traditional, modern, or eclectic spaces. This versatility ensures it will never go out of style.
High Contrast: The bold contrast between black and white tile makes a dramatic statement. It adds visual interest to any room.
Pattern Potential: Black and white tile allows for fun patterns like checkerboard, herringbone, or mosaics. This geometric play appeals to many homeowners.
Easy to Clean: Compared to light or patterned tiles, black and white tile does an excellent job of hiding dirt and is easy to keep looking clean. A major plus for kitchens and bathrooms!
With its striking high-contrast look, black and white tile makes a bold and enduring design statement. Now let’s explore how to choose the perfect coordinating wall color.
Choosing Paint Colors for Black and White Tile
When selecting a wall color for your black-and-white tiled space, consider the size of the space, the amount of natural light, your personal preferences, and the overall look you want to achieve. Here are some of the most popular paint color options:
White
A bright white is one of the best choices for black and white tiles. White has a clean, fresh look that allows the tile to take center stage. It works well in both small dark spaces and larger, well-lit rooms. White also makes an ideal backdrop for adding bold pops of color through décor and accents down the road.
Light Greige
For a slightly warmer but still neutral option, consider a light greige (a mix of gray and beige). This sophisticated hue will soften and complement your black and white tiles. The beige undertones also prevent the space from feeling too sterile and add a touch of warmth.
Sky Blue
Looking to add a little vibrancy? A pale sky blue is a great option. It has a calming yet uplifting feel. Sky blue adds a welcome pop of color while still allowing the gorgeous black and white tilework to stand out. This cool tone also makes small rooms feel more open and airy.
Sage Green
Another soothing, nature-inspired hue like sage green can provide a nice complement to black and white tiles. Sage green has an earthy feel that’s relaxing and harmonious. For a more vibrant look, try pairing your tiles with a mossy or olive green.
Sunflower Yellow
Make a bold statement by pairing your tile with a rich, sunny yellow. This vibrant hue brings major energy and makes even a small bathroom feel bright and cheerful. For a more mellow vibe, a buttery yellow is a lovely choice.
Charcoal Gray
Go for high-contrast drama by using a deep charcoal gray or black for your walls. This enveloping, moody shade will make your tiles pop even more. Use lots of lighting and strategic décor accents to prevent the space from feeling too dark and heavy.
No matter which color you choose, look for colors in a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish. Glossier paints are easier to keep clean and hold up better to moisture in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Matte finishes, while popular, show more dirt, scuffs, and watermarks.
Tips for Painting Your Black and White Tiled Space
Once you’ve selected the perfect color, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty of prepping and painting your space. Follow these tips and tricks for the best results:
- Clean the walls thoroughly and let dry completely before painting. Any dirt or grease on the walls will prevent proper paint adhesion.
- Use painter’s tape on trim, baseboards, and edges for super sharp paint lines. Remove the tape as soon as you finish painting that section.
- “Cut in” edges and corners first with a brush, then use a roller for large flat areas. Work top to bottom for less drips and splatters.
- Prime walls before painting for enhanced paint coverage, especially if you’re switching from a darker color to a lighter one.
- Allow each coat to fully dry before adding another coat. Darker colors may require an extra coat for best opacity.
- Open windows and use fans to circulate air and allow walls to dry faster.
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on hot days when paint can dry too quickly.
With primer, prep, and patience, you’ll end up with sleek, professional-looking painted walls that perfectly complement your gorgeous black and white tiled floors or backsplash.
Accessorizing Your Black, White, and Painted Space
Once your walls are painted, it’s time for the fun part—selecting décor, accents, and accessories! Here are some ideas:
- In a white space, add pops of vibrant color with art, vases, towels, and decorative objects.
- In a neutral greige or blue space, pull in analogous tones with textiles, pillows, and flowers.
- In a yellow, green, or red room, find décor and accents in corresponding or complementary hues.
- In a dark charcoal gray space, inject light and brightness with mirrors, metallics, and glass objects.
- Echo the black and white tile by adding patterns through window treatments, bedding, rugs, and upholstered pieces.
The hues and textures you add will make your black-and-white tiled space feel curated, polished, and uniquely you. Have fun and don’t be afraid to mix materials, styles, and color palettes until you find your perfect blend.
The Bottom Line
Black and white tile provides that ideal backdrop that allows you to add virtually any color into your space. Whether you want an airy white, moody charcoal, or sunny yellow painted walls, trust that your classic tile will beautifully support your color choice.
As you plan your paint project, focus on your personal taste, the mood you want to evoke, and how the space will be used. With so many options, you’re sure to find your perfect color match.
