Checkerboard tiles, a design element with a rich history, have a timeless appeal that extends beyond passing trends. Their versatility allows them to introduce classic elegance or playful energy, depending on the design approach. The bold, graphic pattern also enhances visual interest, making it a strong foundation for a variety of design styles.

However, effectively incorporating checkerboard tiles requires thoughtful balance to create a cohesive look. This guide explores furniture styles, color palettes, materials, and accessories that pair beautifully with checkerboard tiles, helping you design a space that reflects your unique style.

 

 

Furniture Styles

Checkerboard tiles make a bold visual statement, requiring furniture that complements their striking pattern without being overshadowed. Various styles can achieve this balance, enhancing the space with cohesion and character. 

Mid-Century Modern

The structured geometry of checkerboard tiles pairs effortlessly with the clean lines and functional elegance of Mid-Century Modern design. Sleek furniture, warm wood tones, and subtle contrasts define this aesthetic, creating a space that feels both refined and inviting. As shown in the photo above, the Leona 24x24 Checkerboard Matte Porcelain Tile in Calacatta and Amani Grey establishes a bold foundation with its marble look texture adding sophistication while reinforcing the style’s signature balance of form and function.

The black fluted dining table reflects the tile’s structured aesthetic, creating a cohesive visual rhythm, while the brown upholstered chairs with sleek metal legs introduce warmth and soften the bold contrast. Complementing these elements, the wood sideboard adds rich tones and functional elegance, enhancing the mid-century appeal and tying the space together. Framed by arched windows, natural light illuminates the checkerboard pattern, allowing it to stand out as a focal point while blending effortlessly with the surrounding design for a timeless, modern aesthetic.

Scandinavian

For a light and airy contrast to the boldness of checkerboard floors, Scandinavian furniture is an ideal choice. Crafted from light woods like beech or birch, these pieces emphasize clean lines and functionality. For example, a light wood console table with tapered legs maintains an open, uncluttered feel, while a simple dining table paired with wishbone chairs fosters warmth and comfort. Incorporating woven textures, such as a seagrass rug or a rattan pendant lamp, also enhances the natural warmth that defines the Scandinavian aesthetic.

Industrial

For a bold, modern contrast to checkerboard tiles, industrial furniture incorporates raw materials like exposed metal and reclaimed wood. A metal and wood bar cart with industrial casters brings urban sophistication to a kitchen or living space, while distressed leather sofas and weathered wood dining tables with cast iron legs reinforce the style’s rugged appeal. Exposed brick walls further enhance this aesthetic. To balance the space and prevent it from feeling too stark, introduce warmth with accent pillows or artwork in rich tones like copper or rust.

Bohemian

Bohemian style, known for its relaxed and eclectic charm, pairs unexpectedly well with checkerboard tiles. The key is layering textures and patterns to create visual interest. A plush Moroccan pouf with intricate designs adds character, while woven baskets and jute rugs introduce natural elements that ground the space. Patterned throw pillows and tapestries also enhance the aesthetic, provided their colors complement the checkerboard flooring. Furniture with organic shapes and natural materials like rattan or wicker reinforces the bohemian appeal as well. A low-slung reclaimed wood coffee table with a natural finish adds warmth while allowing the bold tile pattern to remain a focal point.

 

 

Color Palettes

Your color palette for a space with checkerboard tiles significantly influences the overall ambiance. This bold pattern serves as a foundation for various schemes, ranging from classic sophistication to vibrant contrast. If you're unsure which colors best complement your tiles and décor, our personalized design services provide expert guidance in selecting the ideal color combinations and tile sizes to achieve your vision. Below is an overview of effective color pairings:

Monochromatic

A monochromatic palette offers timeless sophistication, creating a sense of unity and visual cohesion. The key is to layer different shades of the same color to enhance depth and dimension. For a striking contrast, pair black and white checkerboard tiles with crisp white walls and black furniture, making a bold statement in entryways, bathrooms, or modern kitchens. For a softer approach, gray checkerboard tiles paired with light gray walls and furnishings, accented with charcoal or white, create a refined and calming ambiance ideal for living rooms or bedrooms.

Analogous

For a cohesive and inviting space, an analogous color palette utilizes colors positioned next to each other on the color wheel, creating natural harmony and tranquility. Beige and cream checkerboard tiles combined with light green walls and brown furniture establish an earthy, calming ambiance—ideal for kitchens, sunrooms, or bathrooms. Alternatively, a blue and green scheme featuring teal and navy checkerboard tiles, light blue walls, and sage green furniture fosters a serene and refreshing atmosphere, making it well-suited for coastal-inspired living rooms or peaceful home offices.

Complementary

For a bold and dynamic statement, a complementary color palette pairs colors positioned opposite each other on the color wheel, creating a striking contrast. Black and white checkerboard tiles exemplify this approach, serving as a neutral base for vibrant accents. Introducing red through furniture, artwork, or throw pillows adds energy and playfulness, making this scheme ideal for entryways, game rooms, or modern kitchens. However, balance is key—excessive use of high-contrast colors can become overwhelming, so incorporate them thoughtfully to maintain visual harmony.

Neutrals with Accents

A neutral base with strategic pops of color offers versatility and personalization, allowing your style to evolve. Beige, gray, or white walls and furniture provide a clean backdrop that highlights the checkerboard pattern without overwhelming the space. Accent colors can then be introduced through statement pieces such as artwork, throw pillows, or rugs. For example, pairing gray checkerboard tiles with white walls and beige furniture creates a sophisticated foundation, while blue accents in pillows and geometric artwork add visual interest. This adaptable approach works in any room, enabling effortless updates by simply changing the accent color for a refreshed look.

 

 

Material Considerations

The materials you choose for furniture, flooring, and accessories play a significant role in creating a cohesive and visually appealing space with checkerboard tiles. Each material brings its own unique character and texture, influencing the overall mood and atmosphere.

Wood

Wood tones introduce natural warmth, providing a perfect counterbalance to the bold geometry of checkerboard tiles. As displayed in the photo above, the Leona 12x12 Checkerboard Matte Porcelain Tile in Calacatta and Amani Bronze exemplifies this harmony, blending soft marble veining with warm, earthy hues.

The wood vanity, with its smooth, natural grain and warm finish, complements the checkered tiles, enhancing the organic feel of the room. The warm wood tones also mirror the earthy richness of the checkerboard pattern, while the clean, minimalist lines of the vanity maintain visual balance and prevent the space from feeling too busy. The soft, muted wall tiles and gold accents further tie the room together, allowing the checkerboard floor to stand out as a focal point while seamlessly integrating with the wood elements for a cohesive, inviting atmosphere.

Metal

Metal adds a sleek, modern touch to spaces with checkerboard tiles, enhancing sophistication and contrast. Furniture with metal legs, accents, or lighting fixtures reinforces this aesthetic. Chrome or nickel finishes pair well with black and white checkerboard tiles, creating a refined, minimalist look ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or contemporary living areas. For an industrial feel, opt for pieces with exposed rivets, distressed metal surfaces, or a combination of metal and reclaimed wood. This raw, textured approach suits lofts, game rooms, or eclectic interiors, adding depth and character to the space.

Stone

Stone exudes timeless elegance, enhancing the sophistication of checkerboard tiles. For example, marble countertops, soapstone sinks, and terrazzo flooring can introduce a luxurious touch. White marble countertops, in particular, paired with black and white checkerboard tiles create a classic, refined kitchen, ideal for those who appreciate enduring style. For a more contemporary approach, consider colored stone, such as green granite countertops or terrazzo flooring with flecks of color, adding vibrancy while maintaining a polished look. Since stone has a naturally cool feel, balance it with warm elements like wood furniture or woven rugs to create a more inviting atmosphere.

Textiles

Textiles introduce texture and warmth, enhancing the visual appeal of checkerboard tiles while softening their bold pattern. Rugs with contrasting designs create dynamic interplay—such as a geometric-patterned rug in bold colors adding vibrancy to a black and white checkerboard floor in a living room. Plush throws and woven baskets may also contribute warmth and comfort, while a chunky knit blanket lends coziness to a bedroom. In bathrooms, woven baskets in natural fibers bring a rustic touch. Experimenting with textures like velvet, linen, or wool allows for a layered, visually engaging space that balances softness with structure.

 

 

Complementary Accessories

A well-designed space is defined not only by its foundation but also by its finishing touches. Accessories enhance a room with checkerboard tiles by adding personality, functionality, and visual depth. Consider the following elements to create a cohesive and polished look:

Plants

Plants bring vibrancy and balance to spaces with checkerboard tiles, softening bold patterns while adding natural warmth. When selecting greenery, consider the room's light conditions—low-light varieties like snake plants or ZZ plants thrive in bathrooms or hallways with minimal sunlight, while brighter spaces allow for more varied plant choices.

A woven basket of white blooms and greenery introduces soft, organic shapes that contrast beautifully with the sharp lines of black and white checkerboard tiles. The delicate hues of the flowers add warmth, while the basket’s earthy tones complement wooden elements, creating a cohesive, inviting space. Varying the height and texture of plants enhances visual depth, making the checkerboard pattern feel dynamic yet harmonious.

Rugs

Rugs introduce color, pattern, and texture, enhancing the visual appeal of checkerboard tiles. When selecting a rug, consider the room’s size and layout. In larger spaces, a sizable area rug defines seating areas and adds warmth underfoot, while in smaller rooms, a strategically placed rug can anchor furniture or highlight specific zones. Rug design also plays a key role in setting the ambiance—a geometric-patterned rug in jewel tones creates a bold, playful contrast with black and white checkerboard floors in a living room, while a solid neutral rug in beige such as the Everson Wool Blend Rug in Bone or gray helps balance a busy floor pattern. This approach is particularly effective in entryways, hallways, or kitchens, where maintaining a sense of structure is essential.

Artwork

Artwork serves as a focal point, infusing personality and style into a space with checkerboard tiles. But first, consider scale and placement— a large statement piece can introduce drama in a living room, while a collection of smaller framed prints creates a cohesive gallery wall in an entryway or hallway. Color and subject matter are equally important in maintaining visual harmony. Select artwork that complements the checkerboard pattern; for instance, abstract pieces in bold colors add a playful touch to a black-and-white checkered floor. Alternatively, geometric artwork reinforces the structured, graphic nature of the tile design, enhancing overall cohesion.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for both ambiance and functionality in a space with checkerboard tiles. A well-balanced lighting plan incorporates multiple sources to create depth and warmth. Statement pendant lights serve as striking focal points over kitchen islands or dining areas, adding either industrial character or mid-century modern elegance, depending on the style. Wall-mounted sconces, on one hand, provide ambient lighting in hallways, bathrooms, or bedrooms, while strategically placed floor lamps enhance reading nooks or relaxation areas. Maximizing natural light is equally important—keep windows unobstructed and consider skylights in spaces with limited daylight to maintain a bright, open atmosphere.

Decorative Objects

Decorative objects serve as the finishing touches that personalize a space with checkerboard tiles while enhancing its overall design. When selecting pieces, consider how they complement the existing color palette and materials. Sculptures with clean lines and geometric shapes add a modern edge, while vintage vases or rustic bowls introduce warmth and character. Personal collections or travel mementos can make the space feel more curated and meaningful as well—a collection of vintage globes, for instance, adds a whimsical touch to a mid-century modern setting with black and white checkerboard floors. Thoughtfully chosen décor should not only harmonize with the space but also reflect individual style and personality.

 

 

Planning and Design Tips

While checkerboard tiles offer a bold design element, incorporating them successfully requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some key tips to ensure your checkered dream space becomes a reality:

Consider the Size of the Space

The size of your checkerboard tiles significantly impacts the overall balance and visual appeal of a space. In smaller rooms, smaller tiles (4-6 inches) help maintain proportion and prevent the pattern from feeling overwhelming. In larger spaces, larger tiles (8-12 inches) create a bold statement, allowing the checkerboard design to stand out without appearing too busy. To determine the best fit for your space, use our cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) tool, which allows you to visualize different tile sizes instantly—no app required.

Consider the Overall Style

Checkerboard tiles are highly adaptable, seamlessly complementing both modern and traditional aesthetics. Edward Martin’s Leona 12x12 Checkerboard Matte Porcelain Tile in Calacatta and Amani Bronze, as displayed in the photo above, exemplifies this versatility, blending soft white Calacatta veining with warm brown tones for a refined yet inviting look. In this bathroom, the checkerboard pattern enhances the traditional elegance of the freestanding tub while complementing the modern simplicity of the wood vanity.

The bronze hues in the tiles also echo the brushed gold fixtures and warm beige wall tiles, creating a cohesive, welcoming space. Natural light from the window highlights this interplay, allowing the checkerboard floor to stand out while harmonizing with both classic and contemporary elements. This balance highlights the timeless appeal of checkerboard tiles and their effortless integration into a variety of design styles.

Balance the Boldness

Checkerboard tiles, especially in high-contrast combinations like black and white, make a bold visual statement. To prevent the design from feeling overwhelming, balance the pattern with neutral tones in furniture and walls. Beige, gray, or white furnishings create visual harmony, allowing the checkerboard pattern to stand out without overpowering the space. For a more subtle effect, consider checkerboard tiles with lower contrast, such as cream and light brown, or a single-color checkerboard pattern with textural variations. This approach maintains the tile’s graphic appeal while fostering a more refined and elegant aesthetic.

Play with Texture

Incorporating texture into a space with checkerboard tiles enhances depth and visual appeal. The smooth surface of the tiles serves as a striking backdrop for a variety of textured elements in furniture, rugs, and accessories. For instance, plush area rugs in wool or shag can introduce warmth, while woven baskets and throws in natural materials like jute or sisal add rustic charm. Experimenting with velvet upholstery or textured wallpaper on an accent wall can also enrich this design. The key is maintaining a balanced contrast between smooth and textured elements, ensuring the checkerboard pattern remains a focal point without overwhelming the space.

Creating Your Perfect Space with Checkerboard Tiles

Checkerboard tiles, with their timeless appeal and bold graphic presence, provide a versatile foundation for a well-designed space. By thoughtfully selecting furniture styles, color palettes, materials, and accessories, you can transform a checkered floor into a reflection of your personal aesthetic. Whether you envision a modern retreat with sleek lines and striking contrasts, a cozy sanctuary with warm textures and eclectic charm, or a timeless classic featuring elegant materials and refined color schemes, checkerboard tiles serve as a dynamic backdrop for your ideal space.