Avignon Black on Dover White

Avignon Black on Dover White Ceramic Tiles - 151 x 151mm

Inspired by the medieval splendour of Avignon—the city of Popes and Gothic palaces—this striking monochrome design embodies centuries of French decorative artistry. The timeless combination of black on Dover white creates a pattern that transcends trends, offering the perfect balance of classical elegance and contemporary sophistication. Part of our exclusive Odyssey collection, these 151 x 151mm tiles bring the geometric precision found in papal palace floors and Gothic cathedral cloisters into modern interiors. Each design begins in our Devon studio, where skilled craftsmen hand-fashion the original patterns before they're eternally captured on premium ceramic or porcelain, ensuring every tile carries authentic artisanal character and the soul of handmade craftsmanship.

Why Choose Avignon Black on Dover White Tiles?

The Avignon pattern draws inspiration from the intricate floor designs of the Palais des Papes, where 14th-century craftsmen created geometric masterpieces that have endured for seven centuries. Our interpretation captures the mathematical precision and artistic sophistication that characterised medieval French tilework—patterns that balanced religious symbolism with pure aesthetic beauty. The specific use of black on Dover white (a warm, soft white with subtle depth) creates a softer alternative to stark black and white, offering timeless elegance without harsh contrast.

What sets our Avignon tiles apart is their versatility. Black and white is never out of fashion—it's the design equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit or little black dress. This colourway works seamlessly across every interior style, from minimalist modern to maximalist traditional. The pattern itself strikes the perfect balance: complex enough to create visual interest, simple enough to avoid overwhelming. At 151 x 151mm, these tiles provide excellent coverage while maintaining manageable proportions for installation.

The handcrafted process in our Devon studio ensures each batch possesses unique character. Master craftsmen create the original designs by hand, resulting in subtle variations that distinguish our tiles from mass-produced alternatives. This artisanal approach, combined with modern ceramic and porcelain technology, delivers tiles that honour medieval craftsmanship while exceeding contemporary performance standards.

Perfect Spaces for Avignon Black on Dover White Tiles

Classic & Contemporary Kitchens

Transform your kitchen with the enduring elegance of Avignon patterns. Black and white tiles create splashbacks that complement any cabinetry colour—from pure white to navy, sage green to charcoal. The monochrome palette acts as a neutral backdrop that allows other design elements to shine while adding sophisticated pattern interest. Create full splashbacks for dramatic impact, or use as accent strips above worktops. The pattern works brilliantly with marble worktops, creating a cohesive monochrome scheme. For inspiration, explore our kitchen splashback tile ideas.

Bathroom Floors & Walls

Create striking bathroom schemes with Avignon tiles on floors or walls. The geometric pattern adds visual texture while the monochrome palette maintains calm sophistication. Use on bathroom floors (porcelain recommended) to create the illusion of a decorative rug, or apply to shower walls for dramatic effect. The black and white combination naturally coordinates with any fixture finish—chrome, brass, matt black, or copper. Browse our mosaic tiles collection for complementary options.

Entrance Halls & Corridors

Make a memorable statement with Avignon tiles in entrance areas. The classic black and white combination creates immediate impact while remaining eternally stylish. Use on floors to create hardwearing entrance designs that hide everyday wear, or as wall features in narrow hallways where the pattern adds architectural interest. The geometric design naturally guides movement through transitional spaces. Consider combining with our Victorian floor tile patterns for authentic period appeal.

Dining Rooms & Reception Areas

Create sophisticated focal points in formal spaces. The Avignon pattern brings French elegance to dining rooms, whether used as a statement floor or decorative wall panels. The monochrome palette ensures the pattern enhances rather than dominates, allowing artwork and furnishings to take centre stage. In open-plan spaces, use patterned tiles to define dining zones within larger areas. View our large floor tiles for coordinating options.

Powder Rooms & Cloakrooms

Transform small spaces into jewel boxes with floor-to-ceiling Avignon tiles. The contained nature of powder rooms allows for bold pattern use without overwhelming. The black and white palette maintains sophistication while creating Instagram-worthy moments. These spaces offer perfect opportunities to showcase the tile's pattern without the commitment of larger areas. Explore our 20 x 20cm tiles collection for alternatives.

Commercial Spaces

Ideal for boutiques, restaurants, and hotels seeking timeless elegance. The Avignon design adds Parisian café charm to bistros, creates sophisticated retail environments, or brings European elegance to boutique hotels. The classic colourway ensures longevity in commercial settings where design trends matter. The pattern's scalability works from intimate cafés to grand hotel lobbies.

Design & Styling Ideas

Colour Schemes That Complement Monochrome Patterns:

• Pure Monochrome: Black, white, and every shade of grey for sophisticated minimalism
• Monochrome Plus One: Add a single accent colour—emerald, navy, or burgundy for controlled drama
• Warm Neutrals: Cream, beige, taupe, and natural wood to soften the contrast
• Metallics: Gold, brass, or copper accents for glamorous warmth
• Botanical: Fresh greens through plants and artwork for organic contrast

Interior Style Pairings:

• Parisian Apartment: Ornate mirrors, vintage furniture, herringbone floors, classic mouldings
• Modern Minimalist: Clean lines, hidden storage, monochrome palette throughout
• Industrial Chic: Exposed brick, metal fixtures, concrete elements, geometric patterns
• Traditional English: Panelled walls, heritage colours, quality furniture, pattern mixing
• Scandi Monochrome: Natural wood, soft textures, functional design, controlled palette

Material Combinations:

• Carrara or Calacatta marble for luxurious continuity - see our marble tiles collection
• Natural oak or walnut for warming contrast
• Black or white metro tiles for pattern breaks - explore metro tiles options
• Brass or matt black fixtures for hardware coordination - browse our metal mosaic tiles
• White or black grout for different visual effects

Pattern Placement Strategies:

• Chequerboard Integration: Combine with plain black and white tiles for varied intensity
• Central Medallions: Create focal points within plain tiled floors
• Border Definition: Use Avignon tiles as decorative borders around plain centres
• Vertical Features: Run patterns up walls for height emphasis
• Zoning: Define specific areas within open-plan spaces

Installation & Care

Installation Requirements

• Interior Walls: Suitable for all interior wall applications
• Interior Floors: Ceramic for light-traffic areas; porcelain for high-traffic
• Wet Areas: Both versions suitable with appropriate waterproofing
• Professional installation recommended for pattern precision
• White adhesive mandatory to prevent show-through
• 2-3mm grout joints for clean pattern lines
• Order 10-15% extra for cuts and pattern matching
• Dry-lay essential for pattern planning
• Consider symmetry at room edges

Pattern Layout Considerations

The geometric nature of Avignon patterns demands careful planning. Begin from the room's focal point—usually the centre or main entrance. Ensure pattern alignment at all visible edges. The monochrome palette is unforgiving of misalignment, making precision crucial. Consider using border tiles or plain tiles to frame patterned areas cleanly. Our team provides detailed layout plans for complex installations.

Easy Maintenance

The glazed surface ensures easy maintenance. Daily dust-mopping or vacuuming (soft brush attachment) keeps floors pristine. Damp-mop with pH-neutral cleaners weekly. The monochrome colour shows dust more readily than multicoloured patterns but cleans easily. The sealed surface resists staining and requires no additional sealing. In wet areas, squeegee after use to prevent water marks on black elements.

Grout Selection

• White: Emphasises pattern, creates lighter overall appearance, traditional choice
• Black: Dramatic contrast, modern aesthetic, emphasises geometric structure
• Mid-Grey: Balanced appearance, softens contrast, contemporary compromise
• Matching: Use white for white areas, black for black for seamless pattern flow

Cutting & Handling

The 151 x 151mm format provides good coverage while remaining manageable. Use quality tile cutters for straight cuts; wet saw recommended for curved cuts around fixtures. The monochrome design means cuts at edges remain visually coherent. Handle carefully to protect the glazed surface, particularly the detailed black pattern work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dover White a pure white or off-white?

Dover White is a warm, soft white rather than stark pure white. This subtle warmth prevents harsh contrast with the black pattern, creating a more sophisticated, less clinical appearance. It coordinates beautifully with most white paints and sanitaryware, which typically have warm undertones.

How do I prevent the pattern looking too busy?

Balance is key. Use Avignon tiles as feature elements rather than covering entire rooms. Combine with plain black or white tiles to create breathing space. In large areas, consider using as a central 'rug' surrounded by plain tiles. Frame patterned areas with borders for contained elegance. Our design team can advise on optimal coverage for your space.

Do these tiles work with coloured décor?

Absolutely! Black and white acts as the perfect neutral backdrop for any colour scheme. The monochrome palette allows you to change décor colours without replacing tiles. Whether you prefer bold jewel tones, soft pastels, or warm earth tones, these tiles provide a sophisticated foundation. Browse our coloured tile collections for accent options.

Can I mix Avignon with other patterns?

Pattern mixing requires confidence but can create stunning results. Stick to patterns with similar scale and complexity. Other black and white patterns from our Odyssey collection work well. Alternatively, combine with simple geometrics like chequerboard or stripes. The key is maintaining the monochrome palette for cohesion.

How do I clean black and white tiles without streaking?

Use microfibre cloths or mops with pH-neutral cleaners. Avoid excessive water which can leave marks as it dries. For floors, vacuum or sweep first to remove grit that could scratch when mopping. Buff dry with a clean microfibre cloth for streak-free finish. The glazed surface makes cleaning easier than natural stone alternatives.

Are these suitable for underfloor heating?

Yes, both ceramic and porcelain versions work excellently with underfloor heating. The tiles conduct heat efficiently, and the stable firing process means they won't crack from temperature changes. Always follow underfloor heating manufacturer's guidelines for installation and first use.

Complete the Look

Odyssey Collection:

• Explore the full Odyssey range for coordinating patterns
• Victorian Floor Tiles for period combinations
• Vogue tiles for contemporary patterns
• Harlequin patterns for classic chequerboards

Monochrome Essentials:

• Black Tiles for solid coordinates
• White Tiles for plain companions
• Grey Tiles for tonal variety
• Marble Tiles for luxury additions

Perfect Pairings:

• White Metro Tiles for classic combinations
• Black Metro Tiles for dramatic contrast
• Hexagon Mosaic Tiles for geometric mixing
• Terrazzo Tiles for textural interest

Installation Essentials:

• White tile adhesive (essential for true colours)
• Flexible adhesive for floors
• White, black, or grey grout options
• 2-3mm tile spacers
• Pattern layout planning service
• Professional installation for complex patterns

Why Buy From Hyperion Tiles? 

✓ Free cut samples available - request yours today ✓ Price match guarantee
✓ Free UK delivery on orders over £300 ✓ Expert pattern layout advice ✓ 470+ five-star customer reviews ✓ Handcrafted in Devon with authentic character ✓ Both ceramic and porcelain options available ✓ Pattern planning support for complex layouts ✓ Part of exclusive Odyssey collection ✓ Visit our Ascot showroom to see tiles in person

Ready to create your own palace-inspired space? 

Order your sample today to experience the intricate patterns, beautiful glaze, and authentic character in person, or contact our expert team for pattern layout advice and design inspiration. Visit our showroom in Ascot (67 High Street, Ascot, SL5 7HP) to explore our full 15,000+ tile collection.

Range: Odyssey
Colour: Black and White
Material: Ceramic
Finish: Matt
Shape: Square
Dimensions: 151 x 151 x 9mm
Tiles Per Box: 15
m² Per Box: 0.34
Tiles Per m²: 43
Suitability:- Interior walls
Availability: Usually in stock

Sold per tile

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