Contemporary Design Meets Timeless European Craftsmanship

When people think of clay roof tiles, they often picture old-world cottages, Mediterranean villas, or century-old estates. But today’s leading European manufacturers have taken clay tile design far beyond tradition — and modern architects are turning to sleek, streamlined clay profiles to achieve minimalist, contemporary aesthetics that still offer exceptional longevity and performance.

At Northern Roof Tiles, we’ve spent over 30 years sourcing the finest clay roof tiles from Europe, helping designers blend cutting-edge modern style with materials that stand the test of time. Here are our Top 5 Clay Roof Tiles for a Modern Look in 2025.

1. Diamant – Striking, Architectural, Ultra-Contemporary

Few tiles embody modern design as boldly as the Diamant. This iconic French profile combines sharp geometry with deep shadows to create a visually dramatic, high-end architectural effect.

Why It’s Modern

• Sculpted profile adds depth without feeling traditional
• Super-clean sightlines and crisp edges
• Statement-making design for luxury homes

Where It Shines

• Contemporary custom homes
• High-contrast roofing schemes
• Projects seeking a bold, architectural signature

2. Plana – Smooth, Minimalist, Pure Modern Elegance

The Plana tile is the definition of modern simplicity. Ultra-flat, sleek, and refined, Plana delivers a crisp, linear look that pairs beautifully with mid-century modern, minimalist, and Scandinavian-inspired architecture.

Why It’s Modern

• Perfectly flat shape provides a seamless visual plane
• Works beautifully with metal, glass, and wood exteriors
• Offers a high-end European appearance with clean geometry

Where It Shines

• Mid-century modern renovations
• Minimalist new builds
• Homes emphasizing straight lines and smooth surfaces

3. Edilians Interlocking Tiles – Modern Performance Meets European Design

Edilians (formerly Imerys) offers several modern interlocking profiles designed for performance-driven, contemporary architecture. These tiles deliver sleek lines, reduced roof weight, and excellent weather resistance while maintaining a modern visual edge.

Why They’re Modern

• Simple, linear design avoids heavy shadowing
• Interlocking system creates a tight, uniform look
• Ideal for low-slope modern roofs

Where They Shine

• Urban infill modern homes
• Projects prioritizing low maintenance
• Homes needing improved wind and weather performance

4. Large-Format Flat Tiles – Clean Lines With Big Visual Impact

Large-format flat tiles continue to grow in popularity for architects seeking a wide, expansive roofing surface with minimal joints. These tiles create long, uninterrupted planes that emphasize structure and proportion.

Why They’re Modern

• Fewer joints = sleeker architecture
• Ideal for large roof surfaces
• Contemporary European styling without ornamentation

Where They Shine

• Modern farmhouses
• Contemporary coastal homes
• Large custom homes with expansive rooflines

5. Modern Clay Shingles – Traditional Material, Contemporary Twist

Clay shingles (yes — the original American and British roofing staple) have re-emerged as a modern favorite. With perfectly aligned horizontal courses and a flat, brick-like texture, they offer a refined, understated aesthetic that feels both classic and contemporary.

Why They’re Modern

• Flat, rectangular form complements clean architecture
• Works with a wide range of color palettes
• Creates a uniform, textural plane

Where They Shine

• Transitional modern homes
• Cottage-modern designs
• Contemporary remodels wanting subtle texture

Why Modern Designers Choose Clay Roof Tiles

Clay tiles offer unmatched benefits that blend beautifully with modern building standards:

• Long lifespan — 75 to 100+ years
• Sustainable material — natural clay, minimal processing
• Fireproof & weather-resistant
• Fade-resistant natural colors
• Architecturally timeless

A modern roof should look stunning, perform flawlessly, and last generations — clay delivers all three.

Bring Modern European Style to Your Project

At Northern Roof Tiles, we specialize in premium European clay roofing sourced directly from top manufacturers like Edilians, Dreadnought, Verea, and more. Whether you’re designing a minimalist modern home or a contemporary architectural showcase, our team can help you select the perfect profile.

Looking for samples? Need architectural guidance? Want a quote?

Visit NorthernRoofTiles.com or contact us anytime — your one-stop roof tile shop.