bathroom tile Archives - The Tile Shop Blog Wed, 09 Jul 2025 17:37:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 147117943 12 Cool & Calming Coastal Chic Bathroom Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/cool-and-calming-coastal-chic-bathroom-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/cool-and-calming-coastal-chic-bathroom-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=13009 Dreaming of a seaside cabin? Whether you’re East Coast, West Coast or no-coast, you can transform your bathroom into a...

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Dreaming of a seaside cabin? Whether you’re East Coast, West Coast or no-coast, you can transform your bathroom into a beach retreat with one of the year’s hottest design trends: coastal chic. From shimmering blues to sandy hues, these 12 tile ideas strike the perfect balance between sleek sophistication and sun-drenched relaxation.

1. Charm With a Sand Dollar Pattern

Embodying his effortless beach aesthetic, the latest tile in our exclusive Jeffrey Alan Marks designer collaboration brings a burst of energy to this soothing coastal chic space. The Sand Dollar Ocean tile (also available in grey Ash) features a blue sand dollar motif on a crisp white background. We love how the mostly white space lets the circular blue pattern shine, but you could easily dial up the coastal vibe with bright blue accents.

2. Evoke the Surface of the Sea

Subtle shifts in tone give the Hackney Dark Blue tile its stunning, undulating quality—hallmarks of handmade-look tile. Rich blues and a glossy finish create a shimmering effect as light dances across the surface, capturing the essence of water in motion. Explore our wide selection of handmade-look tile for more perfectly imperfect styles.

This bright blue bathroom backsplash features blue handmade-look subway tile.
Featuring: Hackney Dark Blue.
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3. Make Sandy Waves

Blue isn’t the only color that elicits the oceanside—sandy hues capture the warmth of a day at the beach, even in the middle of a Midwest winter. The Wave Old Cream tile featured in this coastal bathroom soothes the senses with its soft, flowing movement. While this gorgeous beige pairs beautifully with the crisp white walls and vanity, you can elevate the coastal vibe with complementary light-blue accents.

Bathroom wall with cream-colored, curved tile.
Featuring: Wave Old Cream.

4. Choose Cool Neutrals

Not every day at the beach is sun-soaked. Cool neutrals can be just as effective as warm tones in creating a breezy oceanscape. Here, the Jeffrey Alan Marks Summerland Miramar tile is paired with the Tribeca Gypsum White tile. The cool grey undertones of the handmade-look subway tile bring a soothing moodiness to this coastal chic bathroom, while the crisp white and sun-faded blue linen-inspired pattern adds a summery touch. Shop our exclusive Jeffrey Alan Marks designer collection for more effortlessly cool coastal designs.

5. Pair Blue and Beige

Like sea and sand, blue and beige are a natural pairing that instantly evokes a coastal chic aesthetic. This stylish bathroom features the blue-green Look Avio subway wall tile alongside the sandy Ragno Taupe hex floor tile. The vibrant, cool tones of the handmade-look subway tile beautifully complement the warm beige-taupe floor tile. Notice how the prominent white grout lines in the grid-stack subway tile create a visual throughline to the geometric white pattern on the hex tile, as well as the white wall and shower floor tiles. Shop our wide selections of blue tile and beige tile to find your perfect combination.

6. Change the Game With a Black-and-White Palette

Here’s another take on the Jeffrey Alan Marks Summerland tile, this time in the dark-grey Toro. The black-and-white color scheme flips the script on the traditional blue-and-beige coastal palette. The faded linen-inspired patterned tile delivers coastal vibes, while the Tribeca subway wall tiles—in Gypsum White and black Basalt—add bold, color-blocked contrast. To keep the space coastal yet maintain the color scheme, add artsy black-and-white beach photos and white shells.

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7. Add a Glossy Blue Pattern

Set against a matte white background, the glossy light-blue crosses of the Astron Azul tile reflect the light, adding depth and interest to this subtly beautiful design. We love how this coastal bathroom pairs the patterned tile with the marble-look Motion Soft Grey tile, though it would look just as stunning with a warm beige option.

This chic bathroom features a white and blue patterned wall tile.
Featuring: Astron Azul and Motion Soft Grey.

8. Pick Pebbles

Create the full sensory experience of a day at the beach with the Grey Pebble Small tile. The raised pebble mosaic offers a gentle foot massage as you go about your morning or evening routine—or install it on the wall and enjoy the smooth curves under your hand. Just add an ocean-breeze candle, and your senses will be convinced you’re seaside.

Overhead shot of pebble shower floor tile with small wooden stool.
Featuring: Grey Pebble Small.

9. Try an Abstract Tableau

If your aesthetic leans artistic, the beautiful, abstract design of the Jeffrey Alan Marks Big Sur Off the Hook tile (also available in the green-toned Sea Spray) will express your refined, eclectic taste. Featuring a glossy blue patina finish reminiscent of glazed pottery and six distinct, multi-directional tile faces, this tile invites endless creativity in layout and expression.

10. Elevate Your Design With Marble

Coastal chic design is incredibly versatile—it can be as cultured or as kitschy as you like. Marble tile not only embodies elegance, but its veining can range from dramatic to subtle, creating a sense of movement that echoes the ever-changing nature of sea and sand. This sophisticated bathroom, designed by Bria Hammel Interiors, features the Hampton Carrara Chevron tile; its zigzag pattern and soft grey and beige veining enhance the refined coastal aesthetic.

This elegant bathroom features a marble chevron-shaped mosaic tile.
Featuring: Hampton Carrara Chevron. Design and photography by Bria Hammel Interiors.

11. Create a Shimmering Scape With Glass Tile

Who can resist the beauty of sunlight sparkling on the open sea? Bring this shimmering effect to your space with naturally reflective glass tile. Here, the Blue Twilight Brick tile adds shine to the bathtub surround with a stunning array of dark and light blue tones. If you love this dazzling effect, explore our wide assortment of glass tile.

12. Show Your Stripes

A quintessential nautical design element, stripes instantly make any space feel sea-worthy. This sleek shower, designed by Timber Trails, elevates the classic pattern by combining marble and travertine to create elegant lines. The alternating Legno travertine and San Dona marble tiles form a serene space that recalls the natural beauty of a sandy shore.

This shower features travertine and marble striped tile walls and marble hex floor.
Featuring: Legno and San Dona. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

Ready to transform your house into a beach house? Explore our comprehensive guide to coastal chic design for ideas you can use throughout your home. Or, if you’re looking for bathroom inspiration, check out 32 of our favorite ideas for 2025—and shop our wide selection of bathroom tile to find styles that fit your personal aesthetic.

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Top 10 Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/top-10-stunning-white-bathroom-tile-designs/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/top-10-stunning-white-bathroom-tile-designs/#respond Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:11:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=6285 Clean, fresh and bright–some of our favorite bathroom designs feature white tile. If you envision your perfect room in hues...

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Clean, fresh and bright–some of our favorite bathroom designs feature white tile. If you envision your perfect room in hues of ivory and cream, these ideas are sure to dazzle!

1. Design Outside the Box With Hexagon

Hexagon tile is a classic that’s always on trend and a great way to add interest to an all-white bathroom. The Bianco Puro marble tile shown here helps give this bathroom a designed look to this clean, white floor.

Bathroom white marble-look tile wall and hexagon marble tile floor.
Featuring: Lombardia White and Bianco Puro Hex. Design and Photography by Matt Dahlman.

2. Always-In-Style Subway Tile

Subway tile is a staple when it comes to walls and backsplashes, but that doesn’t mean it’s basic. Try installing your subway tile vertically for a modern look that will add height to your walls.

White subway tile wall with gold trim and blue sink vanity with gold faucet.
Featuring: Annie Selke Artisanal White
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3. Create High Contrast With Black and White

There are few color pairings as classy and bold as black and white. This shower makes a striking statement with its layered use of black and white tiles, evoking a flawless blend of modern contrast and timeless elegance.

A walk-in shower featuring white subway tile walls, black trim pieces throughout, and a black-and-white hexagon tile floor
Featuring: Signature Bianco Gloss Subway, Black Gloss London, Black Gloss Pencil, Black Gloss Skirting and Hex Matte White and Black Flower.

4. Embrace Artisanal Details With Handmade-Look Tile

Add character and artisanal allure with handmade-look tile like the Riad White. With a similar appearance to handmade Moroccan Zellige tiles, these feature slight color and texture variations from piece to piece that will give your bathroom unique character.

Featuring: Riad White. Design by Alison Victoria.

5. Add Charm With a Mosaic

Whether intricate or orderly, mosaic tile will add beauty and movement to bathroom walls. This chic bathroom features the KitKat White porcelain mosaic tile, arranged in a playful vertical pattern that adds texture and clean charm to the space. The crisp white finish and dynamic layout elevate the room with a fresh, modern simplicity that feels both inviting and polished.

Tiled bathroom wall featuring white thin, elongated mosaic tile that imitates a kit kat shape.
Featuring: KitKat White

6. Create a Spa Experience With Marble

Bathe your bathroom in ultimate luxury with marble tile. Marble comes in a variety of colors, but we love how classic white like the Firenze Calacatta collection creates a bright and brilliant spa-like room.

7. Make a Point With Picket

Take your white bathroom design up a notch with picket tile. The elongated hexagon shape of is a fun twist on a classic subway that will add a dynamic element to your white walls.

Bathroom with white picket tile wall and gold mirror.
Featuring: Picket Florencia Super Bianco. Design and Photography by Brooke Pavel.

8. A Subtle Take on Texture and Shine

This bathroom wall features Coco White Matte and Glossy subway tiles arranged in a clean horizontal stack, alternating between finishes to create a subtle striped effect. Though uniform in color, the contrasting sheens catch and reflect light differently, adding quiet depth and texture to the space without overwhelming it.

Contemporary bathroom  featuring bands of matte and glossy white subway tiles installed in a stacked pattern on the wall.
Featuring: Coco White Glossy and Coco White Matte.
It's better in real life. Order $3 samples.

9. Express Your Niche Personality

Shower niches are a great place to showcase an artistic tile that would be overwhelming in a whole room. Create a surprising detail in a white shower with a patterned or mosaic tile.

White subway tile shower with black and white tree patterned tile niche.
Featuring: Bianco Puro and Saltus. Design & Photography by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven.

10. Add Dimension With Sculptural Tile

Make your walls a masterpiece with textured sculptural tile. In this sophisticated shower, Kelli Fontana’s Tommas Classico tile brings depth and movement to the walls with its fluted design and marble-look finish. Light catches the raised texture in subtle ways, adding dimension without overwhelming the space. For more bold and expressive looks, browse the full Kelli Fontana designer tile collection.

Ready to begin your bathroom project? Schedule a free design consultation to get started on your next project – whether it’s a weekend DIY refresh or a major renovation, our tile experts are happy to answer any questions you may have!

We love to see all of your creative spaces! Don’t forget to share your projects with us by tagging us @thetileshop on Instagram or uploading it directly to our Customer Room Gallery.

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Tile for Every Style: Midcentury Modern https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tile-for-every-style-midcentury-modern/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tile-for-every-style-midcentury-modern/#respond Fri, 13 Jun 2025 14:15:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12814 Characterized by clean lines, natural materials and stylized minimalism, midcentury modern design took the United States by storm in the...

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Characterized by clean lines, natural materials and stylized minimalism, midcentury modern design took the United States by storm in the post-war ’50s and ’60s, never completely leaving our collective hearts. Effortlessly chic, the retro style maintains enduring appeal partly because it embraces timeless design principles. Read on to discover eight ideas for incorporating elements of the mid-1900s into your 21st-century home with this guide to midcentury tile design.

1. Add Visual Texture with Terrazzo

Terrazzo didn’t originate in the 1900s, but it was a popular midcentury flooring choice. Loved for its durability, sustainability and organic look, authentic terrazzo is made by pressing pieces of marble, glass or granite in a cement base to create a strong, decorative material that traditionally graced Rennaisance plazas. Here, Yellow Brick Home uses the Terrazzo Nero Macro tile to add visual texture to this dreamy midcentury-inspired bathroom. With a mix of warm and cool neutrals, this tile (also available in Nero Micro) adds timeless appeal in a retro format.

This beautiful bathroom features pale pink brick-look subway wall tile and a black terrazzo-look porcelain floor tile.
Featuring: Terrazzo Nero Macro and Alison Victoria Brick x Brick Petal. Design and photography by Yellow Brick Home.

2. Mix Materials

Another hallmark of midcentury design is the intentional pairing of materials, particularly wood, stone and metal. Layering natural and man-made materials adds depth and dimension. Metal accents represent the progress of modernism, while the inclusion of organic materials keeps the space from appearing too sterile. This midcentury kitchen features the Palermo Noir Stone Hex tile backsplash. The black marble hexagons are accented with bronze, creating dynamic movement across the backsplash that feels both modern and timeless.

This midcentury modern-inspired kitchen features a black marble with bronze details hex tile backsplash.
Featuring: Palermo Noir Stone Hex.

3. Choose a Retro Red

Retro interiors embraced warm earth tones, and a burnt orange or deep sienna still evokes nostalgia for our grandma’s midcentury ranch house. This bathroom, designed by @johnmartinestudio, features the Imperial Sienna square and hex mosaics. We love how the rich tone is tempered with the neutral Imperial Sand hex tile and off-white walls, but don’t be afraid to really lean into an earthy palette with red, orange or yellow tile.

This retro bathroom features sienna-colored wall and floor tile.
Featuring: Imperial Sand Gloss Hex, Imperial Sienna Gloss Hex and Imperial Sienna Gloss Mosaic. Design and photography by @johnmartinestudio.

4. Feature a Retro Pattern

Nothing exemplifies the midcentury quite like a bold pattern. Whether floral or abstract, the pattern should feature clean lines and geometric shapes to be considered midcentury modern. This funky ’60s-inspired kitchen, designed by Total 360 Interiors, features the Star Olive/Grey Encaustic tile. With its retro coloring and starburst pattern, it gives this retro design flower power.

This retro kitchen features an olive green starburst floral patterned tile backsplash.
Featuring: Star Olive/Grey Encaustic. Design and photography by Total 360 Interiors.

5. Use Wood-Look Tile

Teak furniture and wood paneling are necessities in midcentury homes, but you can include this warm, organic look in spaces you wouldn’t normally find the natural material with durable porcelain or ceramic wood-look tile. Bathrooms, kitchen backsplashes and even showers can feature the beauty of wood. Here, the Tavola Decor tile, with its raised fluted cross pattern, adds both the look of hardwood and the geometric shapes you find in midcentury modern design.

A serene bathroom featuring a wood-look shower tile with a raised fluted pattern.
Featuring: Tavola Decor, Trevi, Firenze Calacatta, Firenze Calacatta Bullnose, Hampton Carrara Shower Curb, Firenze Calacatta Somerset and Moonstone Beige Picket.

6. Use Retro-Inspired Ceramics

Artistically speckled midcentury ceramics come to life in the form of sleek subway tiles with the Stoneware collection by Fired Earth. The soft earthy coloring and clean lines of these tiles—available in Rainwashed, Blue Mist, Indigo Spruce, Linen Brick and Powder White (shown)—transform any space with elevated retro charm. This chic living room demonstrates how you can blend midcentury decor with contemporary design elements. The Stoneware Powder White fireplace surround blends seamlessly with the white woodwork, for an elegantly timeless space.

A modern white living room featuring a white subway tile fireplace surround.
Featuring: Fired Earth Stoneware Powder White.

7. Create Pattern

Midcentury modern design offers a lot of flexibility in color and form. If you can’t decide on a single earthy hue to showcase, use several to create an original pattern. Featuring all five colorways of the midcentury-inspired Fired Earth Stoneware collection, this shower strikes the right balance between sleek style and expressive design.

This chic shower features midcentury modern-inspired subway tile in a custom pattern.
Featuring: Fired Earth Stoneware in Powder White, Blue Mist, Indigo Spruce, Linen Brick and Rainwashed.

8. Choose Squares

A vintage tile that’s making a comeback in interior design, the 4-in. square was favored in midcentury interiors up to the 1980s. Here, Fox Homes reimagines the retro design using Zellige White Gloss tile. The handmade tile features purposeful variations in the edges—going against the grain of the famously straight, clean lines of midcentury, but they compensate for this design detail with wide grout joints. The result is a slightly uneven grid, reminiscent of midcentury modern design, but with a timeless twist suited to contemporary styles.

A retro kitchen with square white Zellige wall tile.
Featuring: Zellige White Gloss. Design and photography by Fox Homes.

Whatever your style, The Tile Shop has the tile, tools and expert advice to help you take your project from design to completion. Start by exploring stunning tile ideas for every room, or schedule a free design consultation to get your project started.

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11 Timeless Subway Tile Bathroom Design Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/11-timeless-subway-tile-bathroom-design-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/11-timeless-subway-tile-bathroom-design-ideas/#respond Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:03:55 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=9557 Sleek, chic and effortlessly unique, subway tiles transcend trends. Read on for 11 stunning subway tile ideas to create a...

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Sleek, chic and effortlessly unique, subway tiles transcend trends. Read on for 11 stunning subway tile ideas to create a stylish bathroom you’ll love for years and years.

1. Keep it straight (stack)

The orderly rows of a vertical straight stack make for a design that’s neat in every sense of the word. The handmade-look Hackney Dark Blue tile shown here features rich teal and blue shades with a patina, giving this backsplash a sense of movement and expressive visual interest.

This bright blue bathroom backsplash features blue handmade-look subway tile.
Featuring: Hackney Dark Blue.

2. Make it Cool & Modern with a Vertical Offset

A vertical layout gives your space the illusion of height–perfect for a low-ceilinged shower. This chic space designed by Alison Victoria features her Tile Shop-exclusive Brick x Brick tile in Petal in a brick-lay layout turned 90-degrees. The beautifully textured subway tile is softened by the pretty pastel color, for look that’s slightly edgy, yet still feminine.

This pretty and chic modern bathroom features pink brick-look subway shower tile installed in a vertical offset.
Featuring: Brick x Brick by Alison Victoria Petal.

3. Mix Glossy & Matte for a Design that Shines

The band of glossy tile on this matte bathroom wall captures the light for an elegant design that adds brightness to the space. We love how the Coco Canvas Glossy tile are arranged in a vertical stripe, but you can achieve a similar look with alternating bands of glossy and matte without changing the tiles’ direction.

A modern bathroom with cream-colored handmade-look subway tile wall.
Featuring: Coco Canvas Matte and Coco Canvas Glossy
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4. Black & White: a Classically Chic Combo

Black and white is a chic and timeless neutral pairing. This shower features the Tribeca Basalt and the Tribeca Gypsum White tiles color blocked walls paired with the black-and-white patterned Summerland by Jeffery Alan Marks in Toro tile. The basic color pairing is easily updated with colored accessories as trends (or your mood) change.

A shower with black and white subway tile walls and a black and white patterned hexagon tile floor.
Featuring: Tribeca Basalt, Tribeca Gypsum White, Firenze Carrara Somerset, Firenze Carrara, Bianco Carrara Curb, Firenze Carrara Bullnose and Summerland by Jeffrey Alan Marks in Toro Hex

5. Go Both Ways With a Grid Stack

Add interest to your design by mixing horizontal and vertical tiles in a grid stack. This elegant modern, bathroom features the Look Avio tile in alternating stacks of four. The orderly rows create movement that draws the eye across the wall, and we love how the contrasting white grout joints are used to further accentuate this design.

This chic modern bathroom features blue subway tile in a grid-shaped pattern and geometric-patterned hex floor.
Featuring: Firenze Carrara, Hall Bianco, Look Avio, Firenze Carrara Somerset, Glass Shelf Pro, Firenze Carrara Corner Shower Seat, Imperial Bianco Matte Rhombus (no longer available; shop similar look) and Ragno Taupe Matte Hex.

6. White Subway Tile Bathroom Ideas

Just like the original pieces designed for the New York subway system, these rectangular white tiles give off the appearance of modern cleanliness. Whether you install them in a traditional brick lay or a chic herringbone–like the one used in this “modern farmhouse” bathroom designed by I SPY DIY–you can’t go wrong with this timeless and versatile tile.

This chic bathroom features white subway tile in a herringbone pattern.
Featuring: Metro Bianco Gloss. Design and photography by I SPY DIY.
Order $3 samples.

7. Retro Subway Tile Ideas

The addition of trim pieces takes this subway tile backsplash from ordinary to extraordinary. The Bianco Gloss REL tile provides a finishing piece with a rounded corner along one side, while the Black High Pencil Liner is a sophisticated detail that adds to this space’s retro glam appeal.

A retro-chic bathroom with white subway tiled walls and black pencil liner.
Featuring: Signature Bianco Gloss, Signature Bianco Gloss REL and Black High Pencil Liner. Design and photography by Jessica Brigham.

8. Large Subway Tile Ideas

A large subway tile, like the white beveled tile shown here, will help create the illusion of a larger space. (Note: This 6″ x 16″ white beveled style is no longer available. For a similar look, try the 4″ x 12″ Signature Bianco Gloss Bevel.) The recessed edges of beveled tiles add dimension through the play of shadows and light, emphasizing the scale of these extra-large rectangular tiles.

A whimsical blue bathroom with white beveled subway tile walls and a blue and grey floral patterned floor.
Featuring: Laura Ashley White Beveled (no longer available; shop similar look), Laura Ashley Leaf Cloud Blue, Laura Ashley Sunflower Charcoal with Cloud Blue and Signature Bianco Gloss Square Pencil.

9. Embrace “Quiet Luxury” with Handmade-Look Tile

The soft, uneven surface of the Argile Matte White subway tile, used in this serene bathroom designed by Nikki Chu, exemplifies the hand-crafted opulence of the “quiet luxury” trend. Discover more ways to integrate quiet luxury into your tile design in this comprehensive guide.

White wall and sink with a candle and small plant.
Featuring: Argile Matte White and Livingstone Melange.

10. Pair Subway with Large-Format Tile

You don’t need to commit your entire bathroom space to a single wall tile. The versatility of subway tile makes it an excellent complement to a large-format tile, like the Invisible Grey marble-look tile used for the shower wall in this modern bathroom. The Splendor Blanco handmade-look tile matches the white in the larger tile, allowing for the bold veining to be the standout.

A modern bathroom with marble-look and subway tile walls and hex tile floor.
Featuring: Splendor Blanco, Invisible Grey, DURAL Black Matte, Glass Shelf for Pro and Nord Ris Hex.

11. Small Bathroom Subway Tile Ideas

Make a big impact in a small space with a subway tile floor design. This powder room designed by Coco & Jack features the Claros Silver tumbled travertine subway tile for a rustic, brick look. Though this tile looks rough, it is actually quite smooth underfoot, adding character to this modern farmhouse space without skipping on the comfort. Read our guide to modern farmhouse style for more comfy-chic tile design ideas.

This bathroom features a tumbled travertine tile floor for a rustic look.
Featuring: Claros Silver. Design & Photography by Coco & Jack.

Inspired to transform your bathroom with this classic tile shape? Shop our full selection of subway tiles and discover more layout ideas in this helpful guide. Found a tile you love? Order a sample to see it in your space, or use our Tile Visualizer to help envision your project.

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15 Modern Bathroom Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/modern-bathroom-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/modern-bathroom-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 30 May 2025 15:56:14 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12612 Does your bathroom still feature questionable 1900s details that have lost their vintage charm? Ditch the shag carpet and embrace...

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Does your bathroom still feature questionable 1900s details that have lost their vintage charm? Ditch the shag carpet and embrace the 21st century with a fresh tile design that’ll stand the test of time. From cool industrial vibes to eclectic patterns and serene neutrals, these ultra-modern bathrooms showcase the best of contemporary design. Discover 15 on-trend tile ideas to create a space you’ll love for years to come.

1. Create Organic Appeal with Wood-Look Tile

From biophilic design to Japandi, the celebration of nature is a modern trend shaping today’s most sought-after styles. This serene, ultra-modern space features the Tavola Decor wood-look wall tile. Mimicking the look of real wood—enhanced with raised design details—this waterproof porcelain tile brings a sense of tranquility and natural beauty to the space. Complementary neutral tones in the Trevi stone-look floor tile and Firenze Calacatta marble wall tile complete the at-home spa retreat.

2. Choose a Sleek and Chic Brick-Look Tile

Beautifully textured and effortlessly urban, brick-look subway tile adds stylish character with a rustic edge. Here, Alison Victoria showcases her Brick x Brick Petal tile on the shower wall. Installed in a vertical offset pattern, the undulating pale pink tones give this traditional look a fresh, modern update. Explore our exclusive Alison Victoria collection for more of the renowned HGTV interior designer’s signature “city chic” styles.

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3. Create a Scalloped Edge

Add softness to your contemporary tile design with a rounded or scalloped edge. This elegant bathroom features the Wave White tile–its curved edges soothe both the eye and the mind. Also available in Old Cream (beige), Grey Owl and Blue Reef, this tile can be installed in a variety of layouts to create gentle, wave-like patterns. Explore our wide selection of uniquely shaped tile for more modern forms.

A contemporary bathroom featuring white wave-shaped tile.
Featuring: Wave White.

4. Add a Stylish Shower Niche

Say goodbye to clunky shower caddies and store your shampoo in style with a shower niche. This timeless trend lets you showcase a beautiful mosaic or patterned tile that might be overwhelming in a larger application. In this shower, designed by @modernly_you, a double niche features the Sampson marble mosaic tile–its beige and white basketweave design adds a touch of sophistication to the sleek, modern space.

This contemporary shower features white handmade-look subway tile and a white and a double shower niche with a beige marble mosaic tile.
Featuring: Villa White Matte and Sampson Mosaic. Design by @modernly_you. Photography by @awoea_photography.

5. Stimulate the Senses

Invigorating and visually dynamic, raised-texture tile is a modern design trend with lasting appeal. This elegant bathroom features the Kelli Fontana Tommas Carrara wall tile; the fluted pattern on the marble-look porcelain creates subtle shadows that shift with the light and adds a tactile dimension to the shower space. If you love this bold, whimsical look, explore our exclusive Kelli Fontana designer tile collection.

Learn How To Do It Yourself

6. Maintain Neutral Territory

Miles from millennial grey and basic beige, modern neutrals offer complex tones and rich visual texture. This serene bathroom features Coco Canvas matte, one of our most popular tiles, and shows how to bring depth to a neutral color scheme. Installed in a herringbone pattern, the handmade-look subway tile adds visual interest through movement and subtle shade variation while maintaining a clean, understated palette. Discover more design possibilities in this guide to subway tile layouts.

This serene bathroom features a cream handmade-look subway tile in a herringbone pattern.
Featuring: Coco Canvas Matte.

7. Celebrate Vintage Patterns

Everything old is new again–historic patterns and designs are making a big comeback in modern interiors. From Victorian tiles that mimic traditional pressed-tin styles, to ornate patterns like the Vintage White floor tile shown here, classic aesthetics add a touch of contemporary cool to any space.

8. Embrace Eclecticism

Create a space as bold as your personality with an eclectic patterned tile. This stylish, modern bathroom puts an abstract twist on coastal chic design with the Jeffrey Alan Marks Big Sur Off the Hook tile. Featuring a playful graphic pattern reminiscent of glazed pottery, this tile feels both artistic and approachable. Explore our exclusive Jeffrey Alan Marks designer collection for more modern coastal designs.

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9. Make Fine Lines

Everything is neatly stacked on this bathroom wall featuring the KitKat White tile. The slim, rectangular shapes create vertical lines that draw the eye upward, adding a sense of height, while the horizontal grout lines subtly expand the space. Also available in Grey, this evenly spaced mosaic tile makes a big impact with small pieces.

Bathroom wall tiled in long thin white tiles with a brown wood shelf holding toiletries.
Featuring: KitKat White.

10. Add Industrial Vibes With a Cement-Look Tile

Exuding sophisticated industrial style, the Softcement Graphite large-format tile transforms this West Bay Homes-designed bathroom into an urban loft. The half-wall is finished with Noir Honed Hixton limestone trim tile, adding an elevated touch to the cool, worn concrete-look tile. The result is a space that feels both rugged and refined.

A modern bathroom with large-format grey floor and wall tile and a shower featuring black with white veined marble-look tile.
Featuring: Noir Honed Hixton and Softcement Graphite. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting.

11. Choose a Fashion-Forward Pattern

Graphic and expressive, the Nikki Chu Zulu Graphite tile brings high-end fashion energy to this bathroom. The hand-drawn-look pattern–inspired by the celebrity designer’s international travels–is multi-directional, offering endless options for personalization. Love this global, eclectic aesthetic? Shop our exclusive Nikki Chu designer collection for more unique, modern designs.

12. Mix Finishes

Add subtle visual interest to your modern bathroom by mixing glossy and matte finishes. This bathroom design features Coco Canvas Matte with a double band of Coco Canvas Glossy for contrast. The horizontally stacked matte tile offers the smooth, understated look favored in contemporary spaces, while the vertically stacked glossy tile introduces a hint of shine and dimension.

Order $3 samples.

13. Put a Modern Twist on Traditional Styles

This chic shower offers a fresh take on traditional forms. The Lanse Matte Black and White Picket tiles feature an elongated hexagon shape, stacked horizontally in a layout reminiscent of classic subway tile. The black-and-white color-blocked walls create a sleek interpretation of a timeless palette. Modern elements–like the streamlined hardware and built-in shelf–keep this space feeling current, while subtle nods to the classics ensure lasting style.

14. Add Artisanal Appeal

A trending design element rooted in ancient tradition, Zellige tile is crafted, painted and glazed by hand using centuries-old techniques. The result is authentically unique pieces that bring charm and character to modern spaces. In this bathroom, Carmeon Hamilton pairs the classic Moroccan Star and Cross pattern with graphic black-and-white wallpaper, vibrant woven fans and a hip mirror.

15. Create a Dramatic Sense of Movement

The Macchia Vecchia tile’s striking gold, grey, brown and ochre veining energizes this luxurious bathroom with dynamic movement and sleek sophistication. While this design pairs porcelain wall tile with marble floor tile to embrace a contemporary palette of warm and cool neutrals, stylish, durable marble-look tile is available in a range of vivid colors–including some you won’t find in nature.

Your bathroom is ready for a modern update! Explore our wide selection of bathroom tile, and find even more inspo with 36 Bold and Beautiful Bathroom Tile Ideas for 2025. Not sure where to start? Schedule a free design consultation and let our experts help you find the perfect design for your space.

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Introducing the Signature collection https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/introducing-the-signature-collection/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/introducing-the-signature-collection/#respond Fri, 16 May 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12585 Like a well-made white tee or a pair of durable jeans, our new collection of beautifully made, well-priced ceramic tile...

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Like a well-made white tee or a pair of durable jeans, our new collection of beautifully made, well-priced ceramic tile is a versatile essential—perfect for mixing, matching and layering to create stunning spaces throughout your home. Available only at The Tile Shop, the Signature collection features sleek subway tiles and trim pieces that go way beyond basic. With over 250 pieces in a wide range of sizes, colors and shapes, the design possibilities are endless!

A gif of a kitchen backsplash featuring grey, beige and white subway, bevel and frame tile.

16 Versatile Colors

Choose from a wide selection of contemporary colorways in both matte and glossy finishes. Coordinate pieces within a single colorway, or mix colors and finishes–these tiles are designed to complement one another.

A picture of 16 color swatches ranging from white to grey, green, blue and black.

Playing With Color

With a wide range of soothing neutrals and natural hues, Signature tiles are sure to inspire many beautiful new spaces. Discover ideas for incorporating these popular shades throughout your home with these four color guides.

Order $3 tile samples.

Three Subway Tile Shapes

Frame and bevel subway tiles add texture and elegance to your walls. Combine two or more shapes within a single design to create visual interest and a sense of movement. Available in 3 x 6 in., 4 x 8 in., 4 x 12 in. and 4 x 16 in.

Three white subway tile shapes: subway, bevel and frame.

One Style, Endless Designs

Sleek and chic, subway tile is a timeless staple that offers countless layouts options and design possibilities. Find inspiration for your next project with these three guides to suwbay tile design.

Schedule a free design consultation.

Coordinating Trim

Choose from five classic trim pieces—available in all colors and finishes—to add a polished touch to your space. Crafted to coordinate with Signature subway tile, these versatile pieces will elevate virtually any tile design. Read How to Elevate Your Space With Trim for expert design tips.

RES - short side bullnose.
RES – Short Side Bullnose
Cornice
Cornice
REL - long side bullnose.
REL – Long Side Bullnose
Pencil
Pencil
London
London

I approach design with trim the same way I do when accessorizing a bedroom or living room, by adding layers.

-Kirsty Froelich, Director of Design

Bring Design Visions to Life

Modern farmhouse, boho chic or transitional–these elevated basics are designed to complement a range of traditional and contemporary styles. Scroll through the slideshow to see how different combinations can transform the look and feel of a space.

Slide One: Signature Bianco Gloss Subway, Bianco Bevel Gloss Subway, Denim Gloss Square Pencil, Denim Gloss Skirting, Denim Gloss London and Athena.

Slide Two: Signature Oatmeal Matte Subway, Bianco Matte Pencil, Bianco Matte Skirting, Oatmeal Matte London and Kelli Fontana Chain Reaction Pearl Beige.

Slide Three: Signature Bianco Gloss Subway, Black Gloss London, Black Gloss Pencil, Black Gloss Skirting and Hex Matte White and Black Flower.

Tile, Your Style

A range of classic shapes and colors provide endless possibilities. Explore our guides to some of the most popular design styles to discover how to achieve your ideal aesthetic.

Mass Appeal, Niche Customization

Elevate your design even further by incorporating mosaic, marble or patterned tile—Signature’s versatile colors and shapes offer endless possibilities for customization. Shop our wide selection of patterned and mosaic tile to find coordinating styles.

We’re so excited to see the unique and beautiful spaces our new tiles inspire! Explore the entire Signature collection to start bringing your designs to life, and share your next project by tagging us @thetileshop on Instagram or uploading it directly to our Customer Room Gallery (you can find even more design inspo there, too).

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8 Playful Kids’ Bathroom Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/8-playful-kids-bathroom-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/8-playful-kids-bathroom-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 15:47:42 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12489 Make bathtime the best part of the day! If your kids are lucky enough to have their own bathroom, why...

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Make bathtime the best part of the day! If your kids are lucky enough to have their own bathroom, why not create a space that celebrates their sparkling personalities? Cute patterns, bright colors and timeless subway layouts bring joy to their routines—plus, with a few easy updates, these looks can grow with them.

1. Keep it Cute

This adorable bathroom, designed by @semihandmade, embraces color and playful patterns to bring fun to everyday routines—while still maintaining a clean, orderly appearance. The Track Stack Navy Blue mosaic tile adds depth to the tub surround, a striking contrast to the pale pink walls. On the floor, the White Hex tile offers a neutral base in a classic shape. The confetti wallpaper accent wall–with its charming pattern–ties the space together. The tile is sophisticated enough that a new coat of paint or a more mature wallpaper could easily update the room for a teen.

Featuring: Track Stack Navy Blue and White Hex. Design and photography by @semihandmade.

2. Add Interest With a Custom Layout

This shower—designed by Craven Haven for her two young sons—is deceptively simple. The top half features Verano White tile in a vertical straight stack, while the bottom half showcases Verano Anthracite tile arranged in a horizontal stack. The handmade-look glossy tile has a subtly undulating surface that playfully catches and reflects the light, adding depth to the fun color-block design. The result is a space perfectly suited for children yet grown-up enough to remain appropriate when the showerhead is raised to accommodate teenage boys.

A sleek shower featuring white vertical stack and black horizontal handmade-look subway tile.
Featuring: Verano White, Verano Anthracite and Black High Pencil Liner. Design and photography by Craven Haven.
Order $3 samples.

3. Add Cheer with Sunny Yellow

Think beyond blue and pink—this cheerful, gender-neutral bathroom is a delight for all ages! The Color Market Lima Da Persia subway tile creates an invigorating tub surround, while the use of a more muted patterned wallpaper keeps the space from feeling oversaturated. A cute shower curtain adds a personal touch–and offers an easy update as your child’s personality evolves. Shop yellow tile for more sunny hues.

This cheery bathroom features bright yellow subway tile with white grout lines.
Featuring: Color Market Lima Da Persia. Design & Photography by Effortless Style Interiors.

4. Pick a Pretty Pattern

A delicate floral pattern can create a fanciful space to inspire imagination—as is evident in this beautiful bathroom featuring Laura Ashley Sunflower Charcoal with Cloud Blue floor tile. Its geometric flower pattern is both whimsical and refined—just as suitable for a teen as it is for a younger child. Note how the Laura Ashley Leaf Cloud Blue tile in the shower niche further elevates the design with fun shapes. Shop our wide selection of patterned tile to find a design that matches your child’s style.

5. Choose Black-and-White Tile

As stately as it is simple, a black-and-white tile lends itself to a wide range of designs, from elementary to elegant. This charming bathroom features the Cloth Black and White floor tile. Its gingham-inspired pattern grounds the space, while the uneven, hand-drawn-style lines set a tone of self-expression that continues in the bright yellow sink vanity and vibrant butterfly wallpaper.

This bright and fun bathroom features a black-and-white patterned floor tile.
Featuring: Cloth Black and White. Design & Photography by Zig & Co.

6. Use Trim to Elevate the Space

If you want your kids’ bathroom to grow with them—or transition into a guest bathroom once they leave the nest—investing in details now will help the space evolve with ease. This playful bathroom, designed by Jessica Brigham, features classic white subway tile, elevated with a black pencil trim and bullnose. These finishing pieces create a smooth transition between the tile and the exuberant jungle wallpaper.

Learn more about our free design services.

7. Stick to a Simple Color Palette

This bright and enchanting bathroom, designed by Zig and Co., sparks joy in both the young and young at heart. With an expressive blue and green floral wallpaper and the whimsical Laura Ashley Mr Jones Midnight floor tile, the space pops with pattern! The key to maintaining order in such an energetic design is a limited color palette; despite the many elements, only three colors—green, blue and white—are in play.

8. Use Marble Subway Tile for Simple Sophistication

This chic, feminine bathroom was designed by Julie Howard for Timber Trails with her teenage daughter in mind. The Hampton Carrara marble subway tile, installed in a brick-lay pattern, elevates the space, while the Black Marquina marble Barnes and Somerset trim pieces add a timeless elegance. The soft blush-painted walls are sophisticated yet still girlish–perfect for a young lady.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of bathroom tiles to find a style that will suit your kiddos now and adapt as your family’s needs evolve. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started on your project.

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10 Chic & Unique Tub Surround Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/10-chic-unique-tub-surround-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/10-chic-unique-tub-surround-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:09:56 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12446 Whether you want it to blend in with your space or make a statement all its own, your tub surround...

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Whether you want it to blend in with your space or make a statement all its own, your tub surround can set the tone for the entire bathroom. Durable, easy-to-clean and waterproof bathroom tile protects your walls in style. Read on for 10 chic and unique tub surround ideas to suit your aesthetic.

1. Create a Sparkling Space With Glass Tile

The blue, grey and white tones in the Blue Twilight Brick tile create a waterfall effect on the inside wall of this stunning tub surround. Shiny and reflective, the glass tile shimmers as the light hits it, brightening the space and stimulating the senses. The glossy white tile on the outside walls provides another reflective surface, adding depth to the space. Shop glass tile to find styles as sparkling as your personality.

Tub surround in bathroom with tile glass brick mosaic feature wall, white ceramic tile side walls, niches on back wall with accent hex mosaic and a corner shelf for storage.
Featuring: Blue Twilight Brick, Nero Marquina Hex, Hampton Carrara Flat Corner Shelf and Hampton Carrara Somerset. *The glossy white wall tile is no longer available; achieve a similar look with Verona Bianco.

2. Match Your Modern Farmhouse Decor

Fashionably homey, modern farmhouse design celebrates elevated simplicity and a connection to rural roots. This bathroom, designed by I SPY DIY, embodies those ideals with a sleek surround featuring the Metro Bianco Gloss subway tile. The right-angled herringbone pattern adds dynamic movement to the space, enhanced by contrasting black grout. Blush-painted walls and a gossamer shower curtain infuse the space with a romantic sensibility, but the versatile tile design makes it easy to update by swapping out accessories. If this cozy-chic style is your (homemade) jam, check out 11 Charming Modern Farmhouse Bathroom Tile Ideas.

This elegant modern farmhouse bathroom features a white subway tile tub surround in a herringbone layout.
Featuring: Metro Bianco Gloss. Design and photography by I SPY DIY.
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3. Surround Yourself With Luxury

Ultra-luxe slab design is often created using a single block of stone, which can be both expensive and difficult to install. Achieve this high-end aesthetic on a more modest budget with our new selection of porcelain panel tub kits. Each kit includes two 30″ x 64″ panels and two 32″ x 64″ panels that mimic the size and appearance of large pieces of real marble at a more accessible price point. The Calacatta White tub kit, shown here, replicates luxurious white marble with bold, realistic veining—delivering refined Mediterranean style for under $1,000 per kit.

4. Don’t Forget the Details

A bathtub surround offers a wide canvas–make the most of it with beautiful and intentional details, like the marble corner shelves and tiled picture frame featured in this elegant bathroom designed by LoPiccolo Contracting. The focal point is created by “framing” the Hampton Niles marble mosaic tile with a single layer of Hampton Carrara Somerset. This exquisite design detail highlights a favorite patterned or mosaic tile that might be overwhelming if used throughout the entire space. The Hampton Carrara corner shelves provide stylish storage, eliminating the need for a bulky shower caddy.

5. Soak in Sophistication with Warm Neutral Tile

Here is another example of our new porcelain tile tub kits, available in four distinct marble looks: Calacatta White, Mastersone White, Statuario Nuovo and Max Rapolano (shown here). The creamy ivory tones infuse the space with warmth and contemporary style. The coordinating 12″ x 24″ Max Rapolano Ivory floor tile completes the look, creating a sense of quiet luxury and filling the space with rich serenity.

Exuding quiet luxury style, this lavish bathroom features a soft creamy white marble-look porcelain panel tub surround and large-format floor tile.
Featuring: Max Rapolano Ivory Matte Tub Kit and Max Rapolano Ivory Matte Wall and Floor.

6. Get it Straight (Stack)

Everything is stacked in this sleek bathroom’s favor. The Villa White Gloss tile is installed in a vertical straight stack, adding height to the walls and offering a chic, contemporary look. Slightly contrasting grey grout highlights the clean lines of this simple layout and provides a visual throughline to the Bronx Acero tile in the checkerboard-patterned floor. If subway tile is your style of choice, discover the myriad of installation options in our guide to subway tile layouts.

A chic bathroom featuring a white subway tile tub surround installed in a vertical straight stack and a checkerboard tile floor.
Featuring: Villa White Gloss, Bronx Acero and Bronx Gris. Design and photography by @KarySantayana.

7. Tile the Tub Apron

Extending your tub surround to the tub apron creates a unified space that displays your style–even when the shower curtain is drawn. This lovely space, designed by Steph Cotherman Creative, features the Argile White Matte wall tile. The perfectly imperfect details of the handmade-look tile lend visual texture through purposeful variations in color and edge from piece to piece. The result is an understated grandeur that both soothes and invigorates the senses. Shop our wide selection of handmade-look tile to achieve this artisanal aesthetic.

This elegant bathroom features white square handmade-look tile on the tub surround and tub apron.
Featuring: Argile Matte White. Design and photography by Steph Cotherman Creative.
Order $3 tile samples.

8. Showcase Your Style With Patterned Tile

An expressive patterned tile infuses your space with personality in the form of durable and waterproof porcelain or ceramic. Here, the Nikki Chu Zulu Pumice tile (inspired by the celebrity designer’s popular wallpaper) brings bold, graphic design to this fashion-forward bathroom. Paired with the Nikki Chu Luxor Pumice subway tile on the far wall, the soft beige background and bold hand-drawn-look pattern add decoration while maintaining a neutral space. If you love this eclectic, global style, shop our exclusive Nikki Chu designer collection.

9. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere with Dark Tile

Cool and modern, dark grey or black tile exudes sleek sophistication–as evident in this sharply styled bathroom designed by Timber Trails. The Imperial Pewter Frame Gloss subway tile features a slightly reflective, glossy finish that catches the light and highlights its chic raised “frame” edge. The black tub surround contrasts beautifully with the white walls and white-with-black-polka-dot hex tile floor. This simple color scheme allows for styling versatility–a few well-placed colorful accessories would really stand out in this space.

10. Extend the Tile to the Ceiling

If your shower space is on the short side, you can create the illusion of height by extending your tub surround tile to the ceiling. This elegant shower, designed by Yellow Brick Home, takes the Firenze Carrara tile up the angled ceiling to draw the eye upward and create a continuous space within the tub and shower area. We love how the marble tile is also used as wainscoting in the main bathroom area.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of bathroom tile to find your perfect style, and explore our extended list of bathroom tile ideas for more inspiration. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

Schedule a free design consultation.

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9 Simple Bathroom Tile Formulas for Sophisticated Design https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/9-simple-bathroom-tile-formulas-for-sophisticated-design/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/9-simple-bathroom-tile-formulas-for-sophisticated-design/#respond Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12038 With thousands of styles to choose from, how do you select the right tile for your space? Begin your bathroom...

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With thousands of styles to choose from, how do you select the right tile for your space? Begin your bathroom reno with confidence using these nine design formulas that make mixing tile as easy as 1-2-3!

1. Marble Look + Marble + Mosaic = Affordable Luxury

Stretch your budget without sacrificing style by pairing real marble with marble-look tile. Available in a range of styles, including colors and designs you won’t find in nature, porcelain and ceramic marble-look tiles are durable and easy to maintain, making upkeep simple. This opulant bathroom, designed by Nikki Chu, features the Macchia Vecchia marble-look tile on the walls and the Calacata Evora marble floor tile. The expressive gold, grey and ochre veining in the marble-look tile adds drama, tempered by the subtle splendor of the marble floor. The tonally similar Shapes Elongated Hex Off White Two Tone mosaic tile is used on the shower floor to provide traction.

Love this luxe spa look? Discover how to infuse your home with understated elegance in our guide to quiet luxury design.

Recreate this look with coordinating marble-look tile, marble tile and mosaic tile.

A picture of celebrity designer, Nikki Chu.

Pro Tip!

“When mixing tile, it’s best to pick a main tile to pull your colors from. I usually stick to three tiles–a main tile, a backsplash tile and a mosaic floor tile.”

-Nikki Chu, celebrity designer

2. Picket + Subway + Large Format= On-Point Design

Mixing shapes and layouts is an easy way to add interest to your design, especially if you want to maintain a monochromatic or tonally cohesive color scheme. This elegant bathroom features the 12″ x 24″ Livingston Melange tile installed in a 1/3 offset layout, subtly contrasted by the 1/2 offset layout used for the Splendor Blanco subway tile. The Splendor Blanco Picket tile takes a completely different direction with a vertical layout. Tonally, all of these tiles are completely cohesive–the grey and white of the marble-look tile is echoed in the white handmade-look wall tiles. However, the mix of shapes and layouts creates a highly intentional and elevated design.

Replicate this design by pairing a picket tile with a similarly colored subway tile and large-format tile.

Schedule a free design consultation.

3. Trim + Subway + Penny Round = Fashionably Great

Trim tile is commonly used to ease the transition from one surface to another, but it can also serve as ornamentation within your tile design. This elegant bathroom, designed by Julie Howard for Timber Trails, features Black Marquina Sommerset trim framing the shower doorway and adding detail to the top and bottom of the wall tile. The effect is similar to piping trim you’d find on a well-designed cushion or item of clothing, elevating the white subway tile in the same way embroidery would a white button-up shirt. The penny round floor tile is installed in a custom black-with-white-border design, which is the inverse of the white-with-black trim walls. This is an excellent example of combining simple elements to create an exceptional design.

Discover expert tips and tricks in our guide to elevating your space with trim.

Combine trim, subway and penny round tile to achieve this look.

A picture of Kirsty Froelich, Director of Design.

Pro Tip!

“If you want your trim to stand out, select a different material or color from your main tile. If you’re looking for a seamless transition, choose a trim piece that matches your main tile.”

– Kirsty Froelich, The Tile Shop Director of Design

4. Star & Cross + Marble Look + Handmade Look = Artisanal Excellence

Traditional shapes and styles combined with charming marble-look tile create artisanal appeal in this contemporary twist on historic design. This is exemplified in the elegant bathroom below, which features the Kasbah Bone Star and Terracotta Cross floor tile, Pisa Oro marble-look tile and the popular Coco White and Canvas handmade-look wall tile. The space maintains cohesion through tonal continuity, but a black, white or black-and-white star-and-cross floor would allow for vibrant wall tiles.

Choose from handmade look, marble look and any combination of Kasbah Star and Cross tiles (available in terracotta and bone) to create this look. Or, for ultimate luxury, pair handmade Zellige tile with real marble.

5. Marble + Mosaic + Handmade Look = Refined Elegance

This combination mixes visual textures to create a rich space that will suit virtually any color palette. The veining on the marble tile, the slight variations in thickness, edge and color in the handmade-look tile, and the shapely pattern of the mosaic tile come together to create a visually rich tableau. This simply splendid bathroom, designed by Renovation Husbands, utilizes all these elements to their best advantage. The Firenze Carrara marble tile featured on the bathroom floor offers understated elegance. The Tribeca Gypsum White handmade-look subway tile adds texture to the shower while blending tonally with the creamy white painted bathroom walls. The Shanxi Black granite square mosaic provides contrast and–thanks to the small pieces and many grout lines–traction to the shower floor.

This beautiful bathroom features a white marble floor with grey veining.
Featuring: Tribeca Gypsum White, Firenze Carrara, Firenze Carrara Skirting, Shanxi Black and Noir Stanton. Design and photography by Renovation Husbands.

Shop marble, mosaic and subway tiles to get this look.

Order Samples

6. Rectangle + Hex + Subway = Gorgeous Geometry

Pairing tiles of different sizes and shapes creates a visually striking space. The key to this design combo is to maintain a visual throughline. This eye-catching bathroom features the Look Avio subway tile, textured Hall Bianco wall tile and Rango Taupe Matte hex floor tile. The varied shapes and styles are tied together through the thick white grout lines used in the subway tile design. The vertical and horizontal grid lines echo the diagonal white pattern on the hex floor tile without exactly matching, while the white rectangular tile provides a neutral space.

Subway tile, rectangular tile and hexagon tile come together to create this look.

Pro Tip!

“Similar materials, when used with different grout colors, can create drastically different looks.”

– Julie Howard, lead designer at Timber Trails

7. Pattern + Subway + Mosaic = Sleek & Expressive

A patterned tile showcases your style, whether bold and graphic, delicate and floral or somewhere in between–like the whimsical geometric floral on the Laura Ashley Sunflower Charcoal with Cloud Blue tile shown here. When styling with a patterned tile, pulling colors from the pattern (especially when it features three or more shades) helps maintain cohesion in your design. In this charming bathroom, the walls are tiled with beveled white subway tile, and the blue from the floral pattern is repeated in the Laura Ashley Leaf Cloud Blue mosaic featured in the shower niche. The matching colors create a sense of harmony among the varied patterns and shapes.

This bright and charming bathroom features a blue geometric floral patterned floor tile, white beveled subway wall tile and a blue mosaic shower niche.
Featuring: Laura Ashley Leaf Cloud Blue, Laura Ashley Sunflower Charcoal with Cloud Blue and Bright White High Pencil Liner. *The featured bevel subway wall tile is no longer available, but you can achieve a similar look with the Signature Bianco Bevel Gloss.

Choose a patterned tile to fit your style and pair it with a matching mosaic and subway tile to complete the look.

8. Stone + Mosaic + Hex = Lovely & Lavish

Natural stone will always be synonymous with luxury. Organic and unique, marble, limestone and travertine tiles feature innate variations, ensuring no two pieces will ever be the same. You can find a wealth of stone tile collections at The Tile Shop, each including coordinating mosaics, trim and field tiles. The variety of tile types allows you to create a varied yet cohesive space. This lavish bathroom features Volkas tile throughout. The hex floor tile and leaf-shaped mosaic add interest and beauty to the space, while the expressive veining creates a sense of depth and movement.

A natural stone collection from The Tile Shop has all the tiles you need to achieve this custom and cohesive look.

9. Checkerboard + Squares + Mosaic = Chic Checkmate!

This winning combination repeats shapes, using color and pattern to differentiate the square and checkerboard layouts. The mosaic tile introduces another pattern and texture into the mix; choosing a uniquely shaped mosaic disrupts the design in interesting ways. This bathroom features a marble checkerboard (created by halving 12″ x 24″ tiles). The Arctic White and Bundung Gris Acid tiles complement the Riad White wall tile both tonally and in shape. The White Pebble (Small) mosaic tile, featured on the shower floor, adds organic shapes to contrast with the gridded layouts.

Most similarly sized square (or halved rectangular) tiles made of the same material can be used to create a checkerboard– pair with a solid square tile and mosaic tile to complete the look.

(Ask your local Tile Shop Store Associate or contact customer service to ensure your tiles are suitable for a checkerboard design)

Think outside the box!

A checkerboard-patterned wall is an unexpected move that creates a champion design.

Design & photography by I SPY DIY.

Ready to tackle your reno? Shop our wide assortment of bathroom tiles to find your perfect design combination.

At The Tile Shop, advice is always on the house. Schedule a free design consultation or visit your local Tile Shop showroom and let us help create a space you’ll love!

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