Design In Transition: Is It Time to Rethink Tile?

Step into nearly any modern bathroom remodel today, and you might notice something surprising: not every wall or floor is tiled. Once considered a non-negotiable in bathroom and kitchen design, ceramic and porcelain tile now share the spotlight with luxury vinyl planks, composite panels, and high-performance synthetics. These new materials are quieter underfoot, faster to install, and often cheaper. But will they ever truly replace tile?

A Brief (and Colorful) Detour into the Past

This isn’t the first time tile has had competition. During the 1940s and ’50s, a wave of plastic tiles—often made from Bakelite or early vinyl—became popular in American bathrooms. Lightweight and available in pastel colors, they promised a “modern” upgrade from cold ceramic. But the look didn’t last. Many of those tiles cracked, warped, or faded over time, and by the 1960s, ceramic tile returned to dominance, bolstered by advances in durability and design.

Today’s Rivals: Sophisticated and Stylish

Unlike their mid-century predecessors, today’s alternatives are built to last. Composite wall panels, engineered stone, and luxury vinyl tiles can mimic the look of marble, wood, or hand-glazed ceramic.

And with growing demand for low-maintenance, water-resistant options—especially in secondary bathrooms or rentals—it’s no wonder designers are branching out.

Still, tile holds its ground.

“Tile has always been about more than function,” says Bob, owner of Tile Tech, a specialty installer who serves clients from New Jersey to Ohio and Virginia. “It’s about permanence. When you see a well-tiled space, it feels crafted, like it’ll last a hundred years.”

The Case for Staying Timeless

Indeed, tile has been used in homes and public spaces for thousands of years, from Roman baths to Moroccan palaces. Part of its staying power lies in its versatility—glossy or matte, bold or neutral, minimalist or ornate. And as sustainability becomes more important to homeowners, tile’s longevity and low-VOC composition make it an eco-conscious choice.

Vinyl and composites may be trending, but for many, they’ll complement rather than replace tile. Designers today often use both—tile in the primary bath, vinyl in the powder room; tile backsplash, composite countertops. It's less a battle than a broadening of the design toolbox.

As Bob puts it: “There’s room for innovation—but some things, like a beautiful tile job, never go out of style.”

Planning a Remodel and Looking for some Help? Call Bob at Tile Tech (973) 980-4413