British homeowners are increasingly looking for interiors with history, texture and depth – and authentic Japanese tiles tick every box.

Created by master craftsmen, each tile has a unique finish formed in the kiln rather than added afterwards, giving the surface a depth and character that mass-produced alternatives cannot replicate.

Mittsu Japanese Tiles introduces homeowners and designers to the artistry and heritage of Japanese tile-making, with collections crafted by established makers using traditional techniques.

Its Koyo Ibushi collection is a striking example. Handcrafted in Himeji, Japan, by historic tile maker Koyo Seiga, the tiles are made using the traditional Ibushi Kawara process – a centuries-old method where pure clay is fired and smoked to create a natural carbon layer and distinctive silvery finish.

The result is a surface that feels both ancient and contemporary, bringing Japanese craft, calm texture and quiet luxury into British homes.

Made from just clay and carbon, Koyo Ibushi tiles offer a beautifully natural alternative to heavily processed wall and floor finishes.

Free from glazes, chemicals and synthetic treatments, each tile is shaped by traditional Japanese craftsmanship, with its distinctive colour and character created through fire, smoke and natural carbon rather than surface decoration.

As well as their visual appeal, the tiles are designed to work hard in the home. Their microporous structure helps them respond naturally to moisture and odours, while their frost, fire and UV resistance make them a practical choice for a wide range of interior and architectural settings.

Visually, the collection captures the quiet beauty of wabi sabi – the Japanese appreciation of natural imperfection, subtle variation and materials that become more beautiful with age.

Ian Reynolds, Founder of Mittsu, said: “British homeowners are becoming much more confident about using tiles as a design feature, rather than simply seeing them as a practical surface for kitchens and bathrooms.

“What makes Koyo Ibushi so special is that they don’t shout for attention. The soft silver, charcoal and slate tones shift gently as the light changes, bringing depth, texture and atmosphere without overwhelming the room. Each tile carries the hallmark of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, helping homeowners create interiors that feel grounded, refined and full of individual character.”

The Koyo Ibushi Collection is available now from Mittsu Japanese Tiles, with prices starting at £533.33 per m2.