Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs explains, ‘There is no hard and fast rule as to whether small or large tiles are more popular in bathroom design. Instead, homeowners are choosing tiles they love and are being very creative in the use of them, including using different sizes and styles within the same space.’
Here, the homeowner has opted for simple, pale terracotta tiles, and has covered not just the walls with them, but the ceiling too, a brilliant example of modern bathroom tiles. Adding in some detailed tiles to act as a break between the two spaces creates a show stopping feature.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/bUriTV2ZNXlen8HMOOgK3Q–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/62d7014cd18e116531b051a4cea0a5a4 class=caas-img data-headline=”Take tiles up and above”> A great way to add interest with tiles in even the smallest of bathrooms is to mix and match with scale. Take whatever shape of tile you’re using on the floor and then find the identical shape in a smaller scale to act as a splashback behind the sinks.
Make sure that you choose two tiles with quite distinct size differences for the biggest impact. You can switch up colours, too, but keep it cohesive by keeping the two areas in the same general sector of the colour wheel.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/iLglwldl4pZhTNEMSm0DtA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/2fb52dbccb254a0a16c4bee16c00a87c class=caas-img data-headline=”Play with scale”> Colour drenching is the go-to term right now for painting rooms. Take inspiration from this style by using colourful tiles to cover almost every (or go for it and do every!) surface in the bathroom. Don’t go too small with your individual tiles, as a multitude of tiny tiles in addition to a bright colour can feel overwhelming.
If you don’t want to cover absolutely everywhere, keep a section of the wall bare to paint in a complementary shade.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wzmvdm4jQUFrzXsxGYsPIw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b6167ad87f7df93eac5b6765c8a3c915 class=caas-img data-headline=”Create colourful impact”> Let’s face it, there are a lot of areas in a bathroom which just aren’t that exciting, but you need to have them out of necessity. Use tiles to direct the eye to one particular area of the room. This will be the main place guests will look at if you’re showing them around and, on a day to day basis, it’s where your eye will most naturally be drawn.
The area behind a vanity unit is the most natural space for this, mirrored surfaces tend to be a focal point anyway. Choose a patterned tile to make sure the gaze knows directly where to go.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/enWqpi8ygZVwvf.0yJi6RA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/22a76004151838c8246e4afdd05b3ee3 class=caas-img data-headline=”Attract the eye”> Even the most simple tiles can offer up a world of possibilities if you’re willing to think outside the box when laying them in patterns. If you love cool, geometrics, rather than buying tiles pre-made in those shapes, why not play around with other tiles and see what you can create.
This is a wonderful way to get a unique and striking look. For inspiration, many tile companies can show you innovative ways of mixing and matching tiles together to create beautiful patterns.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nPu9zu7qKJwFDCRBa.mwcQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/d21110023e3d524e444d962275fdd1d4 class=caas-img data-headline=”Experiment with laying patterns”> In a larger bathroom, you can actually use floor tiles to visually zone the space. Perhaps you have one style around the bathing area and another running from the shower to the sink. This is a great way to break up otherwise bland floor space when working out how to plan a bathroom.
There’s a multitude of ways to use tiles in this way. You could use one colour in two different shapes for a subtle approach, or two distinct tiling patterns for a more dramatic look. Contrasting grout will help draw the visual boundary even further.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/U04vYFTdFPC9l7q2sKfrRw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/1891b45866eed4f3b5c6fcb1c1bf1f18 class=caas-img data-headline=”Zone the space with floor tiles”> There’s a time and a place for subtlety, and it’s up to you when that is. Since you don’t spend all day in a bathroom, why not use this opportunity to have a little fun and experiment in a way you might not in a space like a living room or a kitchen. Mix and match your favourite colours, shapes and patterns to give the room personality.
There are no rules if you’re taking this route – just whatever will bring you joy when you step in through that door each morning.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/rbfK9Iown04seCtz6ICWqg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/193114bff68e98f3bb37bb82dacb2c47 class=caas-img data-headline=”Mix and match styles”> Beautifully simple floor tiles often get, for lack of a better phrase, swept under the rug. Make more of an impression with these classic additions by taking the same tiles right up onto the walls and built-in storage units.
Avoid taking the tiles all the wall up the wall, especially if they’re in a neutral tone, as it will make the room feel cold and uninviting. Paint the upper two thirds of the wall, or choose a bathroom wallpaper.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/luzfoIWpS0IO7Uyxku.WLg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/43cb3866e10971f75f071e7a2bba14fa class=caas-img data-headline=”Extend floor tiles up the wall”> Pattern isn’t just what we find printed on tiles, you can take it straight from nature. Marbles and other stones have wonderful veining or other natural marking which create stylishly organic free flowing shapes.
While marble bathrooms already a form of pattern, up the ante a little more by choosing two contrasting colours of marble, like black and white, so that the veining mirrors each other.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/d1cztSMHCyPQQLSQHL1KNA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/2491bd180e8a63a078337eed52bc6fec class=caas-img data-headline=”Create pattern with veining”> If you want to add a little extra subtle interest to your bathroom tiling, or just want a quick update to your space, decorate wall insets. Just as painting the cavities of shelving units is becoming a popular trick, by tiling the back of a nook in a different pattern, you create an unexpected interest.
Since these unsets are usually fairly small, to stop this from feeling jarring, stick to tiles in the same colour palette as the rest of your walls, then go wild with the shapes and laying patterns.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1S.8VyWoyflr8JlmMLhBuw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/aa1f5e94ce47a908f1c69effe88d4652 class=caas-img data-headline=”Decorate insets”> Try this imaginative bathroom tile idea to create a sunset-effect. Mixing soft apricots and sunny yellows, blush pinks and berry tone tiles is a creative way to add colour and warmth to the space in style.
Founder of Otto Tiles & Design Damla Turgut shares her insight behind the design, ‘I love sunsets, who doesn’t, and the sunsets in my home country of Turkey are my favourite. I wanted to recreate the mix of vibrant colours and show how they blend together using tiles. Creating a stunning ombre effect, the idea is simple yet striking.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PR2DaCfpP31jZ96O_g2zeQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/e8e1b3057d284529172c09812f58892d class=caas-img data-headline=”Create an ombre effect”> As you would do in the kitchen, use your bathroom tiles as a sink splashback. A small square of tiles behind the sink area is enough to add a decorative element to enhance a bathroom scheme.
The look can be as subtle or as bold as you desire. More than just looking good the tiles also help to protect walls, from the splashes of everyday sink use.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5333_3huKs8BEn2MMZvnOg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/5ce23a2b8ac81db9367cc0f43037bd28 class=caas-img data-headline=”Style a sink splashback”> There’s nothing worse than creating the perfect bathroom scheme only for exposed ugly pipes to let the look down. Where possible box pipework in to hide it out of sight (just ensure you can still access pipework for any maintenance).
A stylish way to disguise this clever concealment even further is by tiling the boxing in with the same tiles as used throughout the rest of the bathroom. This makes it feel like just any other wall – nothing to see here but a stylish tile!
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/SNf2hfe9UfMR9Ihd_4xNtw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/8a2a077d03b445679bed0d5baf9c86ad class=caas-img data-headline=”Tile over imperfections”> An effective bath panel idea to conceal the surround is to incorporate it into your tiling scheme. ‘Bath panel tiling is exactly what it says on the tin; it is adding tiles to the side of your bath,’ explains Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs.
‘Whether in the same or contrasting style as the rest of your bathroom. The process involves using specialist tile backing board which won’t warp and requires a bit more effort than using standard bath panels, but it is often worth the extra effort.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FLDbgDL.PyBDVKmgQs8oaA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/a1ec56c49ece5af7b9675b88d57258cf class=caas-img data-headline=”Tile the bath”> Bathroom trends are a great place to start when considering your tiling, as they can help kickstart your inspiration for the space.
These wonderfully inventive tiles can be rotated to make up to three entirely different designs. We particularly like this blush rose tile when paired with matt black furniture, white sanitary ware and grey accessories.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/epoGdosgI2bvymQ0wTVEww–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/df187aaf43be898d87677baa338bf07d class=caas-img data-headline=”Take on the trends”> Let your tiles determine the different zones within a bathroom layout. Use a tiled wall signify the sink area, like here where the stylish black herringbone tiles create a feature wall from floor to ceiling to house the sink and all the elements to accompany it – taps and mirrors.
This works well as a small bathroom because it helps to create a sense of space, giving each zone more presence.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7YmFStMOacVVKV5PB6Hbrw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/2a6b9cf8530718a403c358609faea227 class=caas-img data-headline=”Define zones with wall tiles”> If you decide to go with statement floor tiles you may wish to keep the rest of your tiling scheme plain, so as not to overpower the space. But to balance the look you can create a feature wall of matching patterned tiles to unify the designs, without using them all over.
In this bold bathroom the assorted colourful floor tiles are featured as a decorative panel within the shower enclosure, where the three-wide stripe is framed by plain white tiles.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CrSB0YJJDNA9BnEXQjbXvQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTEwOTE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/5472c892dc6300965b770581617a89f5 class=caas-img data-headline=”Match floors and walls with patchwork”> Bathrooms are a multifunctional space, where we tend to our everyday beauty regimes. The room is naturally zoned – the sink for washing hands and brushing teeth; the shower for our daily cleansing and the bath for an indulgent soak.
Using a decorative feature such as tiles to decorate these areas independently helps to unite them. This smart bathroom uses statement black square tiles to create a splashback for the sink, an enclosure for the shower and a decorative surround for the bath – giving equal purpose to each.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/fxY9pd4eKJw77xo5FF2nKQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/3142642f559613323795f73176291d2c class=caas-img data-headline=”Unite the elements”> Use tiles in the same way as a statement wallpaper in a living room or bedroom, by creating a feature wall. Choose a more colourful or decorative tile to decorate just one wall to help to create a focal point. To keep the look balanced, tile your feature wall on the same wall as the sanitaryware. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Zf3iXjAfURvTaAizkIznkg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/173da7025908755d3f1dc65274db34e6 class=caas-img data-headline=”Fashion a feature wall”>
Monochrome is a popular colour combination for bathrooms, largely because it’s so versatile and easy to live with. The best tile idea for monochrome bathrooms is to use bright white for walls and statement black tiles for flooring.
This look is especially good for small bathrooms, where the scheme injects plenty of personality without overwhelming the space. Try mixing different tiles shapes and sizes to add further design kudos.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hIkvz3V5EXjvRyLQPIG9RQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/f34b656970541d35bb9d5986f18c8a7e class=caas-img data-headline=”Make it monochrome”> Be brave with pattern when tiling the floor first and foremost, because you can keep the rest of the room pared back to accommodate the presence of pattern. If you’re feeling really brave why not continue the same pattern into the shower cubicle to really add the wow factor. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Dv0NX2kednVIZW4__g7kdw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/96cdccbcd100fcfb0b030b28783d1e18 class=caas-img data-headline=”Be bold with pattern”>
Can’t decide on one tile? Mix things up to add interest and texture to different surfaces. Use a different but coordinating tile for different purposes throughout the space.
Fun, hexagon tiles add a fresh and modern feel to any bathroom. Allow a larger hexagon tile to take centre stage by using this on a focal wall. When mixing tiles try sticking to a neutral colour palette such as white, pale grey and soft neutrals to prevent them from jarring.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eWxSvjDY5LWZTNpzjh1kyw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/bd3208402ec219edea45eb07fbc9218d class=caas-img data-headline=”Create interest with contrasting tiles”> If you want to immerse the room in colour but don’t want to make it feel overwhelming, simply take the tiling up to a mid-level height. In this traditional country-style bathroom, sage green tiles inject enough colour without saturating the space.
The mid height trick works especially well when the floor features a busy floor tile. When using colour tiles on the bottom half we suggest sticking to a neutral paint shade for the top half of the wall, as not to draw too much attention away from the tiles below.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zhEjDp1oclo9NBvBi9.zCw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/9325814ebecf1b444828e7bf8f81b8ad class=caas-img data-headline=”Tile up to window height”> Using the same tile in two different colours allows you the freedom to create your own pattern by mixing and matching. Create borders, alternate different sized stripes or work vertically, the choice is yours. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/y3B4rZRrh_Sm4PbRPpAqmw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/66d7c7673b784e6ed00bea37f4345a47 class=caas-img data-headline=”Form a pattern by mixing colours”>
If you’re looking for a timeless look, tile all the walls in white to keep it clean and simple. Industrial style bathrooms are on trend and a key part of the industrial look is stark white tiles and metal fittings. Contrast simple metro tiles with a bold black fixtures and fittings and a concrete look sink to add depth to the scheme. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_8LSB38cNOLYI4g5tiHlaQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/596afe69cf3cca41c7216a0b78144c95 class=caas-img data-headline=”Keep it simple with white tiles throughout”>
Use tiles to welcome a vibrant splash of colour to an otherwise all-white bathroom. Take the tone of the tile as inspiration to paint the woodwork in a matching shade – as seen here in this blue bathroom. A sea of aqua accessories help to tie in the splashes of blue. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/H_iWPFnqBXt4VKPUNg7a9A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/b3ed612c3a1296abd34a5f6fabca5dbc class=caas-img data-headline=”Embrace a bold accent colour”>
Geometric floor tiles add a contemporary and colourful element to this predominantly white bathroom scheme. They give the room a dynamic edge and the bold design makes the room look wider. The wall tiles are kept simple in white to allow the floor tile to be the hero. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eFL2aajOm3Lct.1GMze7AQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/6f5a7bd51be6d038ad321c77564c7794 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose a characterful geometric tiled floor”>
For a truly contemporary look, explore alternative methods of tiling in unusual contrasting colours. Drop linear rows of tiles in favour of a chevron style to give your bathroom a unique and quirky appearance. If you don’t want to do a whole room, try a panel of blush pink, teal green and black tiles – the perfect chic backdrop for a large steel bath and ladder towel rail. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/jogspiGCUqgmyDXf6PyD4g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExNTI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/e40942955fba0d5b827ac3c60e0fd119 class=caas-img data-headline=”Say it with chevrons”>
Why stop at dado height? Floor-to-ceiling tiling can turn a functional bathroom space into something far more appealing. Choose a colour all the family can live with and that will stand the test of time.
The pale green metro tiles in this bathroom are calming and a natural complement to wooden cabinetry. When tiling whole walls stick to a pale grout to prevent the space closing in.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xoHuvMzsE5DwEPOpDWUWlw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/0d29cf1a7fd93f14e8e21212fcf7e070 class=caas-img data-headline=”Tile to the top”> Tiles don’t have to be the main feature of a bathroom. Use them to introduce a touch of interest or a splash of colour. A bright white modern bathroom can run the risk of appearing too clinical, so fit a splashback of green mosaic tiles to introduce a shot of welcome colour that softens the overall look. Pick out the green in accessories too to create a cohesive feel. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/advgQmvuL2aPjGZfK45RuQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/d10b96aa0cbad7183fe4983cfa2a2a61 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add invigorating accents”>
As well as adding colour and pattern to a bathroom, tiles can also provide texture. Look for rough-finish designs in natural shades. These are perfect for creating a chic, spa-like feel in a neutral bathroom that might otherwise be too bland or clinical.
Enhance the impact of textured tiles by limiting their use to specific areas, such as around a bath or shower.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hGh9TxjJIfLsiBA89jrrog–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/17dff29213bed7b27f0d32abd3b79b3b class=caas-img data-headline=”What is the most popular tile for bathrooms?”>