Zia Tile offers checkerboard tile across a range of materials, including handmade zellige, encaustic cement, European marble, and more. Our collection includes classic and unexpected color combinations, from timeless black and white to richly tonal pairings that bring a little more personality to the pattern. Whether opting for Roman mosaic sets or mesh-backed zellige 2x2s, or designing your own terra cotta pairings, all of our square tiles are perfectly suitable for checkerboards.

Absolutely. While we do offer mesh-backed mosaics and coordinated marble sets, the opportunities are endless when designing around innovative checkerboard tiles. A checkerboard pattern can consist of any square Zia tiles, in any color pairing. We recommend starting with two tiles of the same size and tile type for a classic alternating pattern, or experiment with unexpected combinations of 3+ colors or alternating finishes for something entirely your own. Please be sure to check the tiles’ thickness if attempting to mix various collections; it will be easiest to stick with the exact same tile type and size in a checkerboard tile layout.

Square tiles in a variety of sizes can be arranged in a checkerboard pattern. The scale of the tile changes the character of the finished design: smaller squares create a more detailed, graphic effect, while larger squares make the pattern feel bolder and more architectural. From our tiniest Roman marble tesserae to our largest format 24x24-inch terrazzo, select a scale that best suits your project.

Yes. Depending on the material and its intended application, checkerboard tile can make an impact on floors and walls alike, including backsplashes, showers, bathroom walls, kitchen backsplashes, and more. Ceramics or zellige checkerboards are fantastic for pool surrounds or outdoor showers, while larger format marble and terrazzo 24x24s flawlessly finish entryways and larger floor spaces. The checkerboard pattern is remarkably versatile, which ensures its timelessness.

The only rule is that there are no rules. Black and white alternating tiles is the most classic pairing, but checkerboard tile can be much more than a two-tone neutral. Pair warm and cool shades, jewel tones, a soft neutral with a saturated color, or two analogous tones for a more subtle pattern presentation.

Yes, Zia’s collection includes some pre-set black and white checkerboards including Reality Check patterned cement, Carbon Black and Casablanca zellige checkerboards, Nero Marquina and Carrara marble in Piazza and the smaller-scale Piazzetta sets, along with Roman Mosaics. Additionally, our Zia Tile collection features many more black and white tile options that can be arranged in a classic checkerboard pattern. Cosmic Black and Alpha White satin-finish ceramics are a popular pairing, or matte Black cement paired with White or a softer Bone, in 4x4 or 8x8-inch sizes. For a more unexpected interpretation, explore other square tiles in contrasting shades and unexpected materials

Yes. Checkerboard tile can be used throughout kitchens and bathrooms, including floors, backsplashes, walls, and other applications where the pattern can make a statement. Choose the tile material and finish based on the specific installation and intended use. Backsplashes are easiest to clean when glazed, though proper sealing helps maintain stone or matte materials. Wet spaces like showers will require more frequent sealing and caution with some glazed finishes. See each tile’s product page and installation guide for more specific guidance.

Our curated checkerboard combinations take the guesswork out of pairing tiles, with colors and materials selected to work beautifully together. Additionally, the smaller mosaic tiles are set on mesh, for easier installation. Creating your own checkerboard opens up the entire Zia Tile collection, allowing you to choose your own square tiles and build a custom pattern around your specific palette, material, and scale.

Start with the feeling you want the room to have. High-contrast colors and larger squares create a bold, graphic checkerboard, while tonal colors and smaller tiles offer something quieter and more nuanced. Then consider the character of the material; handmade zellige brings more variation in its hand-applied glazes, marble adds natural veining, and terra cotta offers its distinctive texture. There is no single right checkerboard, but we’d be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions you may have. Please contact our team at info@ziatile.com or 310-844-1170 with any questions.