Available in four solid earth tones (blue, black, white and orange), Bestile’s new Akari collection introduces visual variety through eight lively tile patterns, which can be endlessly mixed and matched for a bespoke surface. While the 12-by-24-centimetre slabs are each accented by geometric, low-relief designs, the monochrome finish provides a distinct sense of cohesion across any installation and gives the Spanish brand’s wall tiles an energetic yet elegant presence. In Japanese, Akari means light or brightness. Even in black (shown), the inspiration resounds.

Subtlety can go a long way when done correctly. Case in point: Equipe Ceramica’s Matelier series. The collection of simple wall tiles — 7.5 by 15 centimetres and 7.5 by 30 centimetres, with optional curved accent pieces — are enriched by a nuanced interplay of tones. Favouring more muted hues, the 10 matte, nature-inspired colourways range from alpine white and volcanic black to sahara sand (shown). In each iteration, small variations in tone between individual tiles create depth and dimension within a strikingly pared-down palette.

Spanish tile has always been renowned for its sense of artisanal craft, and Valencia-based Harmony’s new Sahn collection continues this tradition. Inspired by the hand-painted tiles that adorn historic Moorish courtyards, the finish of each element replicates the strokes of a paintbrush. Offered in square (10 by 10 centimetres) and rectangular (six-and-a-half by 20 centimetres) formats, the modules come in nine colourways with tonal variety from slab to slab in each hue. Pastel pink and aquatic blue (shown), rich red to a forest green (shown above), Sahn offers a contemporary yet faithful take on tradition.