Checkerboard Tiles never go out of style – but there was an unexpected surge in popularity thanks to just one social media post from celebrity influencer Martine McCutcheon.

The actress and singer – famous for her roles in the film Love, Actually, TV soap Eastenders and stage musical My Fair Lady – took to Instagram to show off her new checkerboard tiled hallway to her 594,000 followers.

It instantly catapulted the classic black and white monochrome trend into the limelight. But suppliers and retailers have long been aware of the enduring popularity of the checkerboard look.

Monochromatic tiles, laid in a checkerboard design, have been on trend since the Victorian era, when they gained a reputation as an eye-catching but more affordable and practical alternative to the highly decorated and colourful designs seen in upper-class and architectural settings. 

Director of Ceramique Internationale, Peter Vann, says: “Their ability to transform narrow spaces and accentuate space has made the checkerboard laying pattern a fashionable choice for floors and walls, paths and patios, ever since.”

Ceramique Internationale’s Clarice collection of petite 150mm x 150mm glazed porcelain tiles, in crisp white and jet black, are a classic example of the style.

“They are capable of complementing any design theme, from Victorian tradition, to 1950s diner, to modern minimalist,” says Peter.

“If Martine McCutcheon wanted to create a hallway that would impress her fans she certainly made the right choice in choosing the monochrome checkerboard look.”

Adding an extra dimension to the classic look, the Clarice collection also offers two striking150mm x 150mm geometric pattern tiles, in complementary black Navette and white Cliffe, perfect for borders or a feature area.