Fluted Tile Is the Eye-Catching Backsplash Upgrade for 2025

Want to dress up your backsplash but not quite sure how to do it? Enter: Fluted tile. This trend can be as subtle or as statement-making as you want it to be, but one of the most appealing aspects of fluted tile is how it bridges an array of styles. “Whether your home leans modern, transitional, or even a little classic, fluted tile can work,” says Vyanca Soto, owner and principal designer at Market Studio Interiors.

Here, designers share their favorite installation techniques, materials, and styling ideas for making the most of the fluted tile trend.

What Is Fluted Tile?

Fluted tiles feature horizontal or vertical grooves that add texture and dimension to your space. Sometimes referred to as reeded tiles, the linear ridges lend a striped appearance that can deliver a 3D effect, skewing more or less dramatic based on application and installation.

“Fluted tile has this magical way of adding texture and dimension that immediately catches the eye,” says Soto. “Current design trends are all about blending style with substance, and fluted tile fits that vibe perfectly.”

The designer says the ridges create a wonderful play of shadow and light that can instantly transform even the most pared-down kitchen or bath to provide a fresh and modern layer of interest.

The Best Materials for Fluted Tile

To help you determine which material is best suited for fluted tile applications or to pair along with your fluted tile, try these top picks, which draw out the unique beauty of its reeded design.

Veined Marble and Limestone

“Veined marble does an amazing job of highlighting the fluted detail in tile, making it stand out as a truly special feature,” says Thea Bloch-Neal, founder and lead designer of Curated by Thea. According to the designer, it can bring a fun and unexpected layer of color, texture, and variation. Soto says limestone, in addition to marble, can also be a stunning choice. “The natural veining in the stone adds even more character and makes the texture feel organic,” she says. “These materials feel timeless and their quality elevates the fluted detailing effortlessly.”

Wood

Wood is another natural material primed for fluting. Bloch-Neal says reeding can highlight the natural grain of wood with its rounded edges and draw out a feeling of warmth and depth.

Porcelain and Ceramic

When it comes to materials that afford the most customization, Soto says two come to mind as winners. “Certain materials can take fluted tiles to the next level—like ceramic and porcelain—because they are durable and come in so many finishes, from glossy to matte,” says Soto. “Glossy finishes, in particular, play beautifully with the texture, reflecting light and making the grooves stand out.”

Installation and Design Ideas

While fluted tile brings its own unique style and interest, there are even more ways to let this trend shine with these installation techniques and design ideas.

Add a Shelf

For a clean, intentional effect, Soto recommends halting the tile at mid-height with a ledge or floating shelf. Bloch-Neal says this type of application can be a wonderful way to accent the tile’s detail. The designer also recommends using a line of contrasting tiles to draw out the reeded patterns and lines.

Go Vertical

Bloch-Neal says vertically stacked fluted tiles can be a true statement-maker when carried all the way up to the cabinets. For existing architectural details like windows or cabinets, use a ledge to create a more seamless transition, she advises.

Determine the orientation of your fluted tile based on your objectives. Soto recommends vertical fluted tiles when you want to draw the eye upward or make the space feel taller. Horizontal fluting will work to create more width within the space.

Pair with a Neutral Palette

Don’t underestimate the power of fluted tile. While it can provide a striking look in vibrant, saturated colorways, its effect can be just as impactful when paired with neutral shades. “Even if you’re working with a neutral color palette, the texture alone makes a statement,” says Soto. “You can use it to create a focal point or let it quietly enhance the space—it’s versatile like that.”

Create Contrast

It’s all about the mix when it comes to pairing fluted tile with other materials. Soto recommends pairing flat tiles with reeded styles for a modern, eye-catching contrast. Even grout can play a role in creating a unique look. Match the grout to the tile for a more seamless effect or choose a contrasting grout to emphasize the tile’s texture in a graphic way.

Extend the Backsplash

There’s a lot of flexibility when it comes to fluted tiles and that includes backsplash applications. To make a big impact, Soto recommends extending the backsplash all the way to the ceiling. “It’s perfect for a kitchen with open shelving or no upper cabinets,” she says.

Create a Feature Wall

Fluted tiles are true chameleons, working just as effectively as a prominent feature in a space as they do in a more subtle, complementary role. To really make a statement, Soto recommends letting them take center stage as a feature wall. “They’re so textural that even a small section can transform a space,” she says.

Source: Patricia Shannon, BHG.com