Using unexpected color combinations of cement tiles elevates this long-used material from trendy status to classic standard.

Despite its current popularity, I am devoted to cement tile. The patterned versions are currently en vogue, however; the solid varieties interest me more. They are classic. I have been daydreaming about using them in unexpected color combinations throughout an imaginary house.

Cement tile isn’t commonly specified in Orlando. Like everywhere else in America, it is commonly selected for kitchen backsplashes.  A few recent remodels have used the material on exterior stairs.

The easy-to-clean surface and cool texture make cement tile a perfect flooring material. Consequently, many designers use it lavishly. Below are some excellent examples.

Frank de Biasi and his partner Gene Meyer are color gurus. I love to see glimpses of anything they are working on, particularly one of their personal homes. There they let the colors run wild. They have just completed a new home for themselves in Tangier. It appears to be spectacularly full of unexpected color combinations.

The classic checkerboard is made fresh when using two colors not typically used in tandem.

This Moroccan laundry room combines a terracotta and brown checkerboard floor with mint and pea green painted surfaces. It is fabulous and unexpected. Who would dream of this color scheme?

The answer is a person who has a dining room in New York saturated with turquoise, green, and fuchsia.

Heather Taylor dines on a floor of terracotta and salmon in her California home.

Unusual colors make common patterns fresh.

Popham Design makes classic tile modern.

Popham’s color palette is large. Oh the possibilities…

Casa V Interiors  dreams of unexpected color combinations.