We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

For the past few years, we’ve seen checkerboard prints across seemingly every surface: fabric, floors, furniture, you name it. Usually, when you picture the pattern, you imagine two different colored squares, but Clé Tile’s new Cinema Collection: Mythology (available now) makes a case for throwing a third shade into the mix to switch up the traditional look. In images promoting the fresh color palette, which spans 70 hues (34 of which are brand-new), the tile fabricator encourages renovators to think outside the two boxes when planning their layouts. To kick-start your inspiration, we’re highlighting three unique combinations that transport the cement squares beyond the chessboard—starting with a botanical take. 

Flower Power

claw foot bathtub in front of tri-color tiled wall.
Courtesy of Clé Tile

Using a third color as the center of each nine-tile block creates an almost floral appearance. Opt for moody browns and terracottas as Clé did, or keep the “petals” white for a daisy-like refresh.

brown, red, and yellow flower tile pattern.
Courtesy of Clé Tile

Staggered Start

living room with brown and white tiled floor
Courtesy of Clé Tile Clé Tile

Instead of swapping shades every other square, alternate the starting hue on each horizontal row for a tricolor check. 

tri-color staggered tile stripes.
Courtesy of Clé Tile

Stick With Stripes

kid's bedroom with green and blue striped tile floors.
Courtesy of Clé Tile

Checks not your thing? Go with solid lines of color for a striped floor or backsplash. Avoid any neutral tones in order to pack a real punch. 

white, green, and gray striped tile.
Courtesy of Clé Tile