September 05, 2025 | 3:15 Min

How the Penny Round Inspired a Softer, Smarter Approach to Tile

Tile 101

There’s something about a curve that feels intentional. Calm. Even a little nostalgic.

 

The penny round, small, symmetrical, and endlessly charming, has long held a special place in design. First popularized over a century ago, these classic circles brought subtle rhythm to bathroom floors, shower walls, and vintage kitchen backsplashes.

 

But great design doesn’t stand still. And neither has the penny round.

 

Today, that iconic shape has evolved into a full spectrum of curves, some familiar, others refreshingly unexpected. From elongated capsules to organic pebbles, curved tiles are redefining what softness looks like in a space.

Designing with Curves

Rounded shapes create natural flow. Whether you’re tiling a full wall or a simple shower niche, curves help guide the eye and soften the overall aesthetic. They break up the hard angles found in so many interiors, especially when paired with natural wood, plaster, or pastel finishes.

One of the most effortless ways to add curve to your space? A mosaic. Whether stacked in neat rows or arranged in freeform patterns, small-scale mosaics offer texture and movement with just the right amount of personality.
Kitchen with wood cabinets and accents, two islands, white marble look waterfall countertops, white mosaic on backsplash, and black island chairs.
Think beyond the standard circle:
  • Capsule mosaics add direction and length, creating a modern linear look while still feeling gentle.
DAL_PT41_Capsule_Msc_Namaste_Thassos_Silo_01
  • Organic shapes mimic the irregular beauty of stones, seashells, or hand-cut forms, perfect for biophilic, spa-inspired designs.
DAL_D161_Organic_Hex_Msc_UrbanPutty_Silo_01
DAL_MR47_Fan_Msc_Aqua_Silo_01_web
DAL_RK13_CanvasDot_Msc_MediumGrey
No matter the shape, these curved forms invite creativity. Use them to accent a vanity wall, define a niche, wrap a shower column, or bring character to a powder room backsplash.

A Nod to the Past, A Step Toward What’s Next

At Daltile, we’ve embraced this evolution, starting with our take on the timeless penny round and expanding into new forms that honor its legacy
Desk with white capsule tile on back wall, black shelves, green chair, and orange lamp.
Tea shop with white marble look circle mosaic behind shelves, light walls, and light wood shelves.
Outdoor shower with white penny round mosaic on walls and floor, small wood bench with plant, and trees in background.
DAL_K775_PennyRound_Msc_MatteBiscuit
  • For an organic, nature-driven look, Pebble Oasis captures the feel of hand-selected river stones, perfect for barefoot moments.
DAL_PB22_Pebble_Color_Msc_Silo_01
DAL_AR37_1-5x6_Capsule_Forest_MT_Silo_02
DAL_IN45_4_Circle_Msc_Brick_Silo_01
DAL_M347_6_Circle_Msc_ArabescatoArgento_PL_Silo_01_web

Small Shape. Big Impact.

Design is in the details. A well-placed curve can calm a busy space. A subtle pattern can create rhythm where there was none. And a familiar form, like the penny round, can become the launch point for something entirely new.
Dining room with gray pebble look mosaic on back wall, black round dining table, leather chairs, and art against the wall.

So, whether you’re going classic or completely custom, there’s a curved tile ready to bring softness, style, and just the right amount of surprise.

 

Explore curved tile collections and see how even the smallest shapes can make a space feel extraordinary.