8 Rhode Island Coastal Tile Picks That Never Date
Rhode Island’s coastal charm can be brought into your home with the right tile selections. These classic options have stood the test of time, offering both beauty and practicality for beach-inspired spaces.
Whether you’re renovating a bathroom, kitchen, or entryway, these enduring tile choices capture Rhode Island’s maritime spirit without ever going out of style.
1. Navy Blue Hexagon Tiles
Reminiscent of deep Atlantic waters, navy hexagon tiles bring nautical elegance to any space. Their geometric pattern adds visual interest while the classic maritime color creates instant coastal character.
Local designers often pair these with white grout for a crisp contrast that evokes sailing traditions. These tiles work beautifully in bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes.
2. White Shell Mosaic Accents
Found in historic Newport mansions and modern coastal cottages alike, shell mosaics celebrate Rhode Island’s beach treasures. The pearly finish catches light beautifully, creating subtle dimension in shower niches or backsplash borders.
Artisans in Bristol have perfected these designs over generations. The natural variations ensure no two installations look exactly alike.
3. Weathered Wood-Look Planks
Capturing the essence of Narragansett’s weathered boardwalks, these porcelain planks offer the character of driftwood without maintenance headaches. Their worn appearance tells stories of salt air and summer days.
Perfect for mudrooms and sunporches where sandy feet tread frequently. The slip-resistant texture provides practical safety while the varied tones hide everyday wear beautifully.
4. Seafoam Green Glass Subway Tiles
Nothing captures Block Island’s crystal waters quite like seafoam green glass tiles. The translucent quality creates depth as light plays across their surface, evoking the shifting colors of Rhode Island’s coastline.
These tiles originated in the state’s glass-blowing tradition. Modern installations maintain this heritage while bringing fresh energy to shower surrounds and kitchen backsplashes.
5. Tumbled Marble With Sea Glass Accents
Watch Hill’s luxury homes popularized this elegant combination that marries classic stone with treasured sea glass fragments. The tumbled finish mimics stones polished by ocean waves, soft underfoot and pleasantly tactile.
Local artisans often incorporate authentic Rhode Island sea glass collected from shores. These floors create a talking point while connecting indoor spaces with the coastal landscape beyond.
6. Cobalt Blue Penny Rounds
Borrowed from Newport’s maritime history, these vibrant rounds echo the deep blues of summer sailing waters. Their small scale creates wonderful texture while maintaining a classic presence that refuses to fall out of fashion.
Rhode Island designers favor these for shower floors where the abundant grout lines provide excellent slip resistance. The color hides water spots while bringing joyful coastal energy to everyday spaces.
7. Sand Dune Textured Tiles
Inspired by the natural dunes of Rhode Island’s coast, these sand dune textured tiles bring the beach right into your home. Their warm beige tones and subtle wave patterns mimic the gentle ripples found in the sand. Whether used in bathrooms or kitchens, these tiles create a serene, beachy atmosphere.
The texture adds depth, making it a standout choice for accent walls or flooring. It not only provides aesthetic appeal but also offers a non-slip surface, ideal for areas prone to moisture. Sand dune tiles are a perfect blend of functionality and style, ensuring longevity in both physical wear and design appeal.
These tiles are versatile, seamlessly fitting into various design styles from rustic to modern coastal. Whether you’re renovating a beach house or simply love coastal decor, they offer a timeless charm that never goes out of style.
8. Iridescent Pearl Finish Tiles
Inspired by the inside of quahog shells found along Jamestown shores, these luminous tiles shift colors as lighting changes throughout the day. Their subtle shimmer mimics sunlight dancing on gentle bay waters.
Often installed in powder rooms or as feature walls, they create an elegant coastal vibe without being overly themed. The versatile neutral base works with both traditional and contemporary design approaches.
