handmade-look 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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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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7 Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/7-tips-to-nail-your-grout-color-and-design/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/7-tips-to-nail-your-grout-color-and-design/#respond Fri, 23 May 2025 14:41:48 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12524 Complementary or contrasting, dark or light, wide joints or narrow–grout can completely transform your tile design. Don’t let this essential...

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Complementary or contrasting, dark or light, wide joints or narrow–grout can completely transform your tile design. Don’t let this essential style element be an afterthought; read on for seven tips to help you choose your grout with confidence.

1. How to Decide Between Complementary Vs. Contrasting

Whether you choose a complementary or contrasting grout depends on your desired design outcome. Complementary grout creates a sense of cohesion, while a contrasting color adds drama and emphasis. Consider these two spaces, both featuring Lanse Matte Black Picket tile. In the left bathroom, complementary grout softens the diagonal lines of the tile installation, resulting in a chic, contemporary look. On the right, a traditional horizontal stack paired with contrasting grout highlights the unique picket shape, with the distinct lines enhancing the space’s eclectic aesthetic.

Featuring: Lanse Matte Black Picket.

2. Consider Your Trim

When selecting grout for her children’s bathrooms, designer Julie Howard chose colors to complement the trim pieces rather than the main tile. The bathroom on the left matches Superior Charcoal grout with the Black Marquina Somerset trim. On the right, Superior Whisper Grey coordinates with the Hampton Carrara trim. Both rooms feature the same white subway tile, illustrating how grout can drastically transform the look of a space. Explore our Tour of Julie Howard’s “Storybook” Estate for more inspired spaces and design tips from Timber Trails’ lead designer.

Featuring: (Left) Black Maruqina SomersetPenny Round Matte WhitePenny Round Matte BlackBlack Marquina CurbBlack Marquina Skirting and Imperial Bianco Gloss. (Right) Hampton Carrara CapitalHampton Carrara CroniceHampton Carrara HexHampton Carrara SkirtingImperial Bianco Gloss and Hampton Carrara Subway. Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography Jonn and Maura Stoffer.

Learn from a Pro! Watch Everything You Need to Know About Grout

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3. Determine if you want Wide or Narrow joints

Grout joints usually range in size from 1/16 in. to 1/8 in. While the size of your grout joint may depend on your tile–rectified edges allow for smaller joints–it’s also an aesthetic choice. Smaller grout joints used with large-format tile will result in a seamless look, making your space appear more expansive and cohesive. This installation method can even mimic the look of a single stone slab, as is demonstrated in the kitchen on the left.

If you’re installing handmade or handmade-look tile, wider grout joints will help accommodate and minimize the variation in the tile edges. In contrast, smaller joints tend to highlight these irregularities. The kitchen backsplash on the right features wide grout joints to soften the hand-cut edges of the handmade Zellige White Gloss tile.

Pro Tip: For smaller grout joints, honed natural stone and glass tile, use unsanded grout. Use sanded grout for larger grout joints and heavy tile.

Featuring (left): Calacata Evora. Design by Angelia Guthrie. Featuring (right): Zellige White. Design by Fox Homes.

4. Use Grout to Create Unity in Your Design

When choosing grout, it’s important to consider all the elements in the space–not just the accompanying tile. Here, the thick white grout joints accentuate the grid layout of the Look Avio tile featured on the shower wall. The alternating horizontal and vertical lines create a visual throughline that connects the shower wall to the white geometric pattern on the Ragno Taupe floor tile.

5. Consider Varying Your Joint Widths

Varying your grout joint sizes adds an extra layer of interest to your tile design. The Cool Blue tile featured in this shower is actually a 12 x 24 in. large-format tile designed to mimic the appearance of smaller, handmade-look square tiles. The vertical grout line aligns with the pre-scored grout joints within the larger tile, while the thicker horizontal grout lines enhance the visual appeal and contribute to the contemporary aesthetic.

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6. Match Your Grout to Your Cabinets

When developing your tile design, it’s important to consider all of the elements in your space. Kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities can influence your grout choice just as much as the tile. In this high-contrast kitchen designed by Timber Trails, the grout is matched to the white cabinetry. The white-on-black grout and tile combination adds dimension and drama while drawing attention to the cabinets.

7. Consider Cleaning and Maintenance

No matter where it’s installed, your grout is likely to accumulate dirt, dust or soap residue over time. As you might expect, dark-colored grout does a better job of hiding dirt than lighter shades. For floors–especially in high-traffic entryways or mudrooms–a dark grout can reduce the frequency of cleanings. Sealing your grout will also help keep it clean and looking fresh longer. Learn the best methods for maintenance in our How to Clean Grout guide.

This elegant mudroom features a black limestone subway tile floor.
Featuring: Noir Honed Subway. Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

When you consider your desired aesthetic and preferred level of maintenance, you can choose a grout that both enhances your space and suits your lifestyle. Discover the many hues of grout available, and if you’re planning to DIY, check out our guide on How to Grout Like a Pro. Have more questions? We’re here to help! Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, or schedule a free design consultation 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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12 Stylish & Durable Mudroom Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/12-stylish-durable-mudroom-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/12-stylish-durable-mudroom-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 18 Apr 2025 14:53:27 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12240 The mudroom is more than just a place to store your shoes; it’s often the first room you enter when...

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The mudroom is more than just a place to store your shoes; it’s often the first room you enter when coming home after a long day. Make it as welcoming as it is practical with these stylish, durable and easy-to-clean tile ideas.

1. Up Your Game with a Stone Checkerboard

The checkerboard pattern is creating champion spaces throughout contemporary homes. We love how Timber Trails elevates this fashionable design with alternating squares of Noir and Silver Mist limestone tile. The natural veining in the stone tiles adds lovely movement–notice how the tiles are thoughtfully installed to alternate the direction of the veins. Love this design? Explore more winning checkerboard spaces.

A luxurious mudroom featuring black and silver limestone tile installed in a checkerboard pattern.
Featuring: Noir Honed and Silver Mist Honed. Design by Timber Trails. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

2. Make It Charming & Chic With Modern Farmhouse

Bring an air of exalted utility to your mudroom with a delightful cottage-inspired pattern, like the Laura Ashley Mr Jones Charcoal tile featured in this @plmdesignsllc-designed space. The barn door and blonde wooden bench complete the homey aesthetic. Check out our guide to modern farmhouse design for ideas on how to achieve this look throughout your home.

A chic modern farmhouse mudroom featuring a whimsical geometric floral patterned floor tile.
Featuring: Laura Ashley Mr Jones Charcoal. Design and photography by @plmdesignsllc.

3. Add Visual Texture with a Cement Look

Cement is a staple of industrial design, but this transitional mudroom–designed by West Bay Homes–proves that this urban look can also feel warm and inviting. The Sofia Charcoal cement-look porcelain tile features rich shade variation that adds visual texture to the space. Paired with the taupe-painted cupboards, this simple tile brings an unexpected touch of sophistication. If this blend of contemporary and traditional is your style sweet spot, check our guide to transitional design.

An elegant transitional mudroom featuring a cement-look porcelain tile floor.
Featuring: Sofia Charcoal. Design by West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting.
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4. Add a Neutral Pattern

Maintain a neutral palette without sacrificing style with a patterned tile in grey, brown or beige. Here, the Britannia Soho tile incorporates all three colors in an ornate design. The floor tile perfectly complements the dark grey walls, creating a contemporary mix of warm and cool neutrals.

This luxurious mudroom features an ornate brown, beige and grey patterned floor tile.
Featuring: Britannia Soho. Design and photography by @capriceflipsnash.

5. Go Geometric

The diagonal lines of the Rango Taupe matte hexagon tile bring a playful sense of movement to any space. This tile can be installed in a variety of ways, depending on your desired design, but we love how @eosinteriordesign created a starburst pattern on this mudroom floor. The warm color adds depth to the white room, but you can achieve a similar look in black and white with the Rango Blanco tile.

This beachy mudroom features a taupe-with-white geometric pattern hex tile floor.
Featuring: Ragno Taupe Matte. Design and photography by @eosinteriordesign.

6. Choose Stone for a Sophisticated Space

Dark and earthy, Noir limestone tile offers the unique variations inherent to stone, while its black and brown tones will hide the appearance of dirt. We love how Julie Howard of Timber Trails installed this subway tile in a brick-lay pattern to evoke a cobblestone pathway. Shop limestone tile to bring this natural look into your home, and get inspired by more of Julie’s brilliant designs in this tour of her “Storybook” Estate.

Featuring: Noir Honed Subway. Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

7. Embrace a Black and White Pattern

A simple black-and-white tile is the perfect complement to a range of design styles. Keep it neutral or pair it with color and pattern, like in this bright and bold space designed by @magnolialakbuild. The Cloth Black and White floor tile features a textile-inspired check pattern that holds its own against striking dark green details and floral wallpaper.

This stately mudroom features a black-and-white patterned tile floor with dark green wainscotting and a vibrant floral wallpaper.
Featuring: Cloth Black and White. Design and photography by @magnolialakbuild.

8. Add Movement with Herringbone

Classic and chic, a herringbone pattern infuses any space with an elegant sense of movement. You can create this pattern using virtually any rectangular tile: a large-format tile will make your space feel more expansive, while a subway tile or herringbone mosaic–like the Legno Large Herringbone tile shown here–adds visual interest.

A transitional mudroom featuring a herringbone-patterned travertine tile floor.
Featuring: Legno Large Herringbone. Design and photography by KCBR.
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9. Fill Your Space with Color and Pattern

If your home is bright and colorful, your mudroom should match the mood. This vibrant space, designed by Zig & Co., embraces the more-is-more ethos of dopamine decor. The Laura Ashley Mr Jones Midnight tile is paired with bold wallpaper, a green door and blue cupboards. The key to this design is a simplified color palette; all the elements are unified in shades of blue and green. Discover more ideas to fill your home with unending cheer in our guide to dopamine decor.

This vibrant mudroom features a blue and white geometric floral pattern floor tile paired with bright green and blue decor.
Featuring: Laura Ashley Mr Jones Midnight. Design & Photography by Zig & Co.

10. Create a Contemporary Classic with Hexagon Tile

This classic six-sided shape is enjoying a contemporary design resurgence. Surprisingly versatile, hexagon tile comes in a wide variety of sizes, colors and styles. Mix and match two or more same-sized hexagons to create a custom pattern or use a single tile to create a monochromatic look–like this chic Spicy Salty Sweet Home-designed mudroom featuring the Silver Hex tile.

A cozy mudroom featuring silver hex floor tile.
Featuring: Silver Hex. Design and photography by Spicy Salty Sweet Home.

11. Tile The Walls

Don’t forget to protect your walls! This inviting mudroom, designed by Janelle Mattson, features the Riad Sand tile for a stylish, durable and easy-to-clean wall treatment. The color variation in the creamy beige, handmade-look tile adds beautiful visual interest while perfectly complementing the tone of the off-white cabinets.

A beautiful mudroom featuring beige handmade-look square wall tile and cream-colored cabinets.
Featuring: Riad Sand. Design and photography by Janelle Mattson.

12. Embrace English Country Cottage Patterns

Embracing whimsical patterns and cheery colors, English country cottage style has made its way across the pond to enliven American homes. Here, @toledogeller shows how to incorporate the look without overwhelming the space. Featuring the Laura Ashley Wicker Charcoal floor tile, the simple black-and-white geometric pattern is beautifully paired with cornflower blue cupboards and walls. Check out our guide to English country cottage design for more styles to sweeten your home.

An English country cottage mudroom featuring a whimsical black-and-white floral patterned floor tile.
Featuring: Laura Ashley Wicker Charcoal. Design and photography by @toledogeller.

With thousands of tiles available at The Tile Shop, you’re sure to find the perfect look for your mudroom makeover. Visit our Instagram and Customer Room Gallery to see our tile in action in real customer spaces. For even more inspiration and information, set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.

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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.

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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.

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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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20 Counter-to-Ceiling Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/20-counter-to-ceiling-kitchen-backsplash-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/20-counter-to-ceiling-kitchen-backsplash-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 04 Apr 2025 18:24:07 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=11957 The latest trend in kitchens extends the backsplash from the counter (or floor) to the ceiling to create beautiful and...

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The latest trend in kitchens extends the backsplash from the counter (or floor) to the ceiling to create beautiful and expressive spaces that protect the whole wall. Read on for 20 spectacular tile ideas to achieve the ultimate kitchen glow-up!

1. Keep it Simple…and Chic!

A backsplash staple, white subway tile is a timeless classic with endless versatility. This modern farmhouse kitchen, designed by Esslinger Design Co., features an Imperial Bianco Gloss tile backsplash behind open wood shelves. The simple brick-lay tile provides a neutral background, allowing the dark green range hood and brass swing-arm sconce light fixtures to stand out. If you love this cozy-chic style, check out our guide to modern farmhouse design.

A modern farmhouse kitchen featuring a white subway tile backsplash.
Featuring: Imperial Bianco Gloss. Design and photography by Esslinger Design Co.

2. Create a Stylish Slab Look

A backsplash crafted from a large block of stone is a popular feature of high-end design, but you can achieve this look on a more modest budget with large-format tile. These supersized tiles (up to 48″ x 48″) mimic the appearance of a single piece of stone while offering the durability and easy maintenance of ceramic or porcelain. As demonstrated in this contemporary kitchen, a counter-to-ceiling backsplash featuring extra-large marble-look tile makes your space feel expansive as well as elevated.

3. Show Off Your Style with a Graphic Pattern

Patterned tile offers the ornamentation of wallpaper with the superior protection of ceramic or porcelain. Perfect for adding design to a mess-prone backsplash, patterned tile can easily be stretched to the height of your wall to further celebrate your style. This fashionable kitchen features the graphic-patterned Nikki Chu Tangier Graphite tile. The eclectic hand-drawn print is bold in its simplicity, adding definition to the space while allowing flexibility to swap out accessories and change paint colors for easy updates. Discover more unique, fashion-forward designs in our exclusive Nikki Chu collection.

Schedule a free design consultation.

4. Display Your Taste with Diamond-Shaped Tile

When your tile covers a large area, choosing a design that creates a sense of movement and rich visual texture not only makes your space feel more expansive but also adds interest. This can be achieved through pattern, shape or material. This beautiful kitchen features the Africa Tempesta Polished Wheaton tile, a diamond- and chevron-shaped mosaic made from vividly veined marble. The zigzag pattern, combined with the grey and beige veining, draws the eye up the wall, creating the illusion of height and adding a touch of luxury. Shop diamond-shaped tile for more brilliant designs.

This elegant kitchen features a grey-veined white marble in a diamond-shaped mosaic.
Featuring: Africa Tempesta Polished Wheaton. Design and photography by @lizbrannick_.

5. Tile the Range Hood

When you have a tile as elegant and expressive as the Firenze Calacatta marble subway tile, you’ll want to display it without interruption. That’s exactly what Christie Juncaj did in her magnificent contemporary kitchen. By using the tile to disguise the range hood, the kitchen maintains a cohesive appearance from the counter to the ceiling and across the wall.

This large and luxurious kitchen features a marble subway tile backsplash.
Featuring: Firenze Calacatta. Design and Photography by Christie Juncaj.

6. Showcase Mid-Century Modern Design

Even if you don’t have an A-frame house, you can embrace the simple sophistication of mid-century modern style with The Tile Shop’s new Stoneware collection from Fired Earth. Featuring a sleek elongated subway format in five retro-inspired colorways, these tiles celebrate the best of 20th-century design. Here, the Stoneware Rainwashed tile runs along the expanse from the counter to the tip of the angled ceiling, creating a vibrant statement wall that feels contemporary while evoking a vintage appeal.

7. Marvel with a Mosaic Tile

Perhaps counterintuitively, a small-format mosaic tile can have the same space-widening effect as a large-format tile. The petite pieces provide visual texture that draws the eye across a space, adding depth and a sense of movement. This charming kitchen, designed by @dwellwithmichelle, features the Hex Matte White with Black Flowers mosaic. The repeated retro floral pattern guides the eye up the wall, while the open shelving makes the space feel light and airy.

This charming kitchen features a black-and-white hex mosaic in a floral pattern.
Featuring: Hex Matte White With Black Flower. Design and photography by @dwellwithmichelle

8. Create a Work of Art

A tall backsplash allows for creative use of the space behind your stove or kitchen sink. Take advantage of the expanse by showcasing a beautiful patterned or mosaic tile within a tiled picture frame. Using trim to “frame” the decorative tile, this design technique elevates your space while providing a pleasing focal point you can admire while cooking and cleaning. This elegant transitional kitchen features the Morris & Co. Pure Net Cloud Grey tile, framed by a double layer of Firenze Carrara Somerset trim.

9. Achieve Artisanal Excellence

Zellige tile is handcrafted using ancient techniques, ensuring that each tile is authentically unique. Showcasing this singular tile from counter to ceiling creates a one-of-a-kind backsplash that celebrates artistry. This chic kitchen, designed by Fox Homes, features the Zellige White Gloss tile. The square format aligns with contemporary design, while the traditional craftsmanship connects it to the past.

This bright and charming kitchen features white Zellige tile backsplash and open white shelves.
Featuring: Zellige White Gloss. Design by Fox Homes.

10. Embrace English Cottage Style

Put the kettle on and take in this charming kitchen backsplash featuring the Laura Ashley Wexbord Fresh Green tile. With a whimsical floral motif inspired by historic prints from the iconic British brand’s archive, this patterned tile is made to be displayed. We love how it pairs with white cabinets, but a bold blue or sunny yellow would look equally delightful. As enamored with this style as Mr. Darcy is with Elizabeth? Click here to discover how to bring English cottage design into your home.

Order $3 samples.

11. Showcase Your Stove

If your kitchen cabinets cover most of your counter-to-ceiling space, the area behind the stove might be the only place to showcase this design trend. However, even this limited space can deliver big results, as is evident in this stylish kitchen designed by Georgia Pepperberry Interior Design. The Liria Negro tile adds a pattern that helps to highlight the stove and the dark copper range hood. The use of white subway tile below the white cabinets prevents the room from feeling too busy and ensures the stove remains the star of the show.

12. Make “Hex-Cellent” Choices

The six-sided hexagon is a classic tile shape that’s surprisingly versatile. Available in a variety of sizes, colors and materials, hex tile offers a wealth of possibilities and timeless design. This contemporary kitchen features the Royal White polished marble hex tile. The stone’s natural tonal variation, combined with the tile’s shape, gives the backsplash a sense of movement that draws the eye up the wall.

13. Tile Above the Cabinets

Your wall cabinets don’t have to define your backsplash. This elegant kitchen takes the Cheverny Blanc patterned encaustic tile to the ceiling by tiling the space above the cabinets. The result is a stunning statement wall that maintains a sense of continuity.

14. Go Retro

An expanded backsplash offers a unique opportunity to showcase your style. This groovy kitchen, designed by Total 360 Interiors, embraces flower-power ideals with the Star Olive/Grey Encaustic tile. The bold, bright geometric floral pattern exudes 70s vibes, while the modern stainless steel appliances and sleek white cabinets ground this space firmly in this century.

This groovy retro kitchen features a bright green geometric floral patterned tile.
Featuring: Star Olive/Grey Encaustic. Design and photography by Total 360 Interiors.

15. Create Contrast

Contrasting colors–whether they be classic black-and-white or contemporary neutral-and-bright–add depth to your space. This chic kitchen, designed by Timber Trails, features Noir Amalfi limestone tile installed with contrasting white grout. In addition to complementing the white cabinetry and window frame, the white grout lines highlight the tile’s classic brick-lay pattern. By extending the tile to the ceiling, the designer enhances the dramatic effect of the stark contrast.

Find your local Tile Shop showroom.

16. Find Historic Inspiration

Popular in the Victorian era, tin tiles were embossed with decorative patterns, adding both texture and visual interest. The 19th-century-inspired Victoria Gris Fonce tile (also available in Blanco) features the characteristic raised pattern in a durable ceramic format. Here, You Neek Designs updates Victorian aesthetics for a contemporary kitchen. The tin-look tiles behind the stove are flanked by white subway tile, another popular style of the era. However, the Annie Selke Artisanal White tile’s handmade look and the horizontal straight-stack layout add a modern twist. Extending the subway tile behind the open wooden shelving makes this design feel fresh.

This contemporary kitchen features Victorian-inspired tile with a raised pattern and white handmade-look subway tile.
Featuring: Victoria Gris Fonce and Annie Selke Artisanal White. Design and photography by You Neek Designs.

17. Add Movement With a Herringbone Pattern

If you love the sleek, chic silhouette of subway tile but want a more dynamic design, consider installing your favorite tile in a herringbone layout. The zigzag pattern of this classic format evokes a sense of movement by drawing the eye both up and across the space. We love how this backsplash, designed by Twigg + Lu Design Company, uses the Look Oliva subway tile as both a backsplash and window frames.

A chic contemporary kitchen featuring a green handmade-look subway tile backsplash.
Featuring: Look Oliva. Design and photography by Twigg + Lu Design Company.

18. Choose Classically Chic Chevron Tile

Another classic tile pattern that adds dynamic interest, chevron tile offers the same zigzag as herringbone, but with tiles specially cut to form the characteristic V-shape. This elegant kitchen, designed by Accent on Cabinets, features the Bianco Puro Honed Chevron tile. The luxurious white marble enhances the sophistication of this gold-accented white kitchen.

A luxurious contemporary kitchen featuring a white marble chevron-patterned mosaic backsplash.
Featuring: Bianco Puro Honed Chevron. Design and photography by Accent on Cabinets.

19. Add Rustic Details

You probably wouldn’t put real wood behind your stovetop, but wood-look porcelain or ceramic tile offers the contemporary rustic aesthetic of a cabin in an easy-to-clean, flame-retardant material. Available in a range of realistic designs–like the distressed Colonial Wood White Brillo tile shown here–wood-look tile makes your kitchen feel rugged without sacrificing modern conveniences.

A contemporary rustic kitchen featuring a distressed wood-look tile stove backsplash.
Featuring: Colonial Wood White Brillo. Design and photography by @joe_zah_bell.

20. Reflect Your Style

Glass tile’s naturally reflective surface adds brightness and depth to your space. This contemporary kitchen, designed by Riemer Kitchens and Fine Cabinetry, features the Winter Morning glass tile. The light playing across the surface makes the small backsplash feel more expansive. While it looks amazing in this bright and open kitchen, glass tile would also help illuminate a space that doesn’t receive much natural light.

A contemporary kitchen featuring a light blue glass subway tile backsplash and white cabinets.
Featuring: Winter Morning. Design and photography by Riemer Kitchens and Fine Cabinetry.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style. If you’re up to tackling a DIY project, check out our guide on how to tile your backsplash yourself. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

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Tried-and-True Wall and Floor Tile Combinations https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tried-and-true-wall-and-floor-tile-combinations/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tried-and-true-wall-and-floor-tile-combinations/#respond Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:58:30 +0000 https://blog.tileshop.com/?p=1749 If you’re starting a new reno project, you know there are countless decisions to make when designing your space. With...

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If you’re starting a new reno project, you know there are countless decisions to make when designing your space. With literally thousands of tiles to choose from, it can be challenging to pick one, let alone the multiple tiles that might be required for a whole-room redo. Should your wall and floor coordinate or contrast? Should you feature all the same materials or mix things up? While your design will ultimately be determined by your personal taste, we have six tried-and-true tile combos that always deliver beautiful results.

1. Contrasting Colors

Dark and light or neutral and bright, contrasting colors add drama and dimension to a space. Drastic color contrasts allow each tile to stand out in relation to the other, resulting in a space that both stimulates and soothes the senses. Here are a few of our favorite spaces that use contrasting colors to stunning effect.

Black and White With Charm All Over

This modern colonial bathroom, designed by Chris Loves Julia, demonstrates just how elevated a simple black-and-white color scheme can be. The floor features a custom design using Hex Matte Black and Hampton Carrara Tumbled Hex tiles. The uniform shapes of similarly sized hexagon and penny round tiles allow for creative designs and borders, which are even more striking when using contrasting colors. The dark floor is juxtaposed with the subtly grey-veined white marble wall tile, and the addition of the slim black pencil trim provides a visual throughline that ties the design together.

Bold and Neutral

A bright, bold color will make your wall or floor pop, and that color becomes even more vibrant when contrasted with a neutral element. This kitchen features the Zellige Turquoise Gloss subway tile paired with the Arbour Lowlands Summer Oak luxury vinyl plank. The beige wood-look tones of the floor complement the brilliant jewel tones of the wall tile, and the mix of warm and cool colors gives the space a contemporary feel. For more durable, easy-to-install flooring options, shop our newly expanded wood and vinyl offerings.

Color Blocking

Add interest to your tile design by color-blocking two contrasting colors. This chic shower features one black wall and one white wall, creating the illusion of depth, which helps the small space appear larger. The black-and-white patterned Jeffery Alan Marks Summerland Toro floor tile keeps the space feeling cohesive.

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2. Monochromatic Mix

Contrast naturally adds depth to your design, but if you prefer the clean look of a monochromatic space, you can create interest by incorporating different finishes, sizes, shapes and materials. Here are three tile designs that prove a limited color palette can still be lively.

White on White

Crisp and clean, white is an invigorating shade that works in virtually any space. This beautiful bathroom, designed by @lifewithmadisonm, showcases white tile in two distinct styles. The shower walls feature the Regent Bianco handmade-look subway tile, while the floor is adorned with Calacata Brilliante marble-look tile. The slight variations inherent to handmade and handmade-look tiles add subtle visual texture, while the striking grey veining on the marble-look tile lends depth to the space. If you love the look of an all-white room, shop our wide selection of white tile.

This contemporary bathroom features a handmade-look white subway wall tile and a white with grey veining marble-look floor tile.
Featuring: Calacata Brilliante and Regent Bianco. Design and photography by @lifewithmadisonm.

Color Drenched

Embrace a bold hue to create a vivid tableau. A gorgeous green, beautiful blue or radiant red adds personality to your space. This lush shower pairs the Alison Victoria Gem marble mosaic tile with the Marradi Calacata Emerald marble-look tile. Though both tiles feature expressive veining, they are distinct in shape and tone, creating visual interest while maintaining color harmony.

Neutral Territory

A neutral color palette is the perfect recipe for tranquility. If you like an all-over creamy look, like this serene beige-on-beige shower, use texture and shape to keep your calming neutrals stimulating. The subtle mix of travertine and marble stone tiles adds just enough variation in tone and texture to create interest, while the framed Arctic White Large Herringbone tile wall detail and the Claros Silver square mosaic floor tile provide a sense of movement.

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3. Coordinated Collections

One of the easiest ways to guarantee your design flows together is by using tile from the same collection or series on both walls and floors. A main benefit of a Tile Shop stone collection is its variety of shapes, sizes and trim offerings. All the tiles within a Tile Shop stone collection are sourced from a single quarry, so while natural variation ensures no two pieces are ever the same, your overall design will remain cohesive.

Marvelous Marble

Nothing symbolizes luxury quite like marble. This exquisite stone comes in a wide range of colors, from black and white to beige, grey and even red. Here, Calacata Evora marble tile is used to create a sumptuous bathroom featuring eight different field, mosaic and trim tiles–all crafted from the same stone. The use of varying sizes and shapes elevates the design by creating a sense of movement and refinement. The mix of grey and beige veining in the classic white marble makes it a popular choice for both contemporary and traditional styles.

Lush Limestone

Limestone is a naturally occurring stone formed from calcified coral and shells. Our limestone collections feature several stunning colors, including brown, tan, black, and the shimmering grey tones of the Silver Mist collection showcased here. With the use of subway and hex mosaic tiles in the shower, along with large-format tile for the main floor, this elegant bathroom, designed by Chris Loves Julia, demonstrates how to utilize different sizes and shapes within a single collection to create distinct yet cohesive spaces.

Timeless Travertine

Travertine, a type of limestone formed in mineral springs, is a rich stone distinguished by its naturally earthy tones. Shades of brown, grey, beige and silver (both alone and in combination) can be found in our travertine tile collections. Here, Legno travertine, with its soft beige tones and smooth veining, creates a relaxing atmosphere. Notice how the Wheaton mosaic, used as a focal point on the wall, maintains symmetry with the Double Chevron mosaic floor tile.

4. Patterns That Pop

One of our most popular wall and floor tile combinations is patterned and non-patterned tile. For the bold at heart, there’s nothing better than an accent wall or floor brimming with striking shapes. Delicate, floral, abstract or geometric–shop our wide assortment of patterned tile to find a style to suit your taste.

Botanical Beauty

A nature-inspired pattern will fill your space with serotonin-boosting outdoor vibes (bonus points if it includes colors found outside, like the Annie Selke Flora Vapor Blue tile shown here). This charming bathroom demonstrates how to feature a patterned tile without overwhelming the space. The colors in the floor tile are reflected in the blue sink vanity and the Annie Selke Artisanal White subway wall tile. By maintaining a simple color palette, the space feels elegant yet full of personality.

For more ideas on infusing your home with nature-loving vibes, check out our guide to biophilic design.

Pattern and Color

Pulling a color or two from your patterned tile will ensure your design coordinates. However, if you choose a black-and-white patterned tile, like the Cloth Black and White tile shown here, you can pair it with virtually any hue. We love how the Glass Royal Blue Amalfi tile pops against the black-and-white design, and how the black hardware and white grout lines create a visual throughline between the shower walls and the bathroom floor.

This contemporary bathroom features a black-and-white patterned floor tile and royal blue glass subway wall tile.
Featuring: Glass Royal Blue Amalfi and Cloth Black and White. Design and photography by Brightwood.

Wallpaper Effect

A patterned wall tile provides the look of wallpaper with all the durability and easy-to-clean properties of ceramic or porcelain–perfect for mess-prone spaces like kitchen backsplashes, bathrooms or entryways. This fashionable kitchen features the Nikki Chu Tangier Graphite tile. Bold enough on its own, this patterned tile is paired with the black Iconic Steel floor tile and the Nikki Chu Luxor Winter White subway tile (on the kitchen island). If you love this global, eclectic style, shop our exclusive Nikki Chu Collection.

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5. Tone on Tone

One way to ensure a cohesive look between your floors and walls is to coordinate the tones of your tiles. This involves choosing a color from one tile and carrying it through to another. The result is floors and walls that complement each other without exactly matching. Here are a few spaces that exemplify this concept.

Beige on Beige

Tiles that offer shade variation are perfect for the tone-on-tone concept. This elegant bathroom, designed by @jessicasmithhomedesign, pairs the Coco Canvas Glossy wall tile with a marble checkerboard floor featuring Royal Satin White and Avorio Fiorito tiles. The undulating surface of the handmade-look subway tile spans creamy whites to light tan tones, which are reflected in the white and beige floor.

Rust on Rust

Here, the crisp white background and expressive rust-colored veins of the Pisa Oro Matte tile are echoed in the Kasbah Cross Terracotta and Star Bone floor tiles. While a single white, beige or grey tile would capture the tones of the unique marble-look wall tile, selecting the most vibrant shade creates an invigorating space. While nothing beats the singular luxury of real marble, some ceramic and porcelain marble-look tiles offer colors and designs you won’t find in nature, such as blue, green and gold.

A opulent shower featuring a white marble-look tile with bold rust-colored veining and white star and orange cross patterned floor tile.
Featuring: Kasbah Cross Terracotta, Kasbah Star Bone and Pisa Oro Matte.

Warm and Cool

Sometimes, multiple tones can be carried through from one tile to another. This welcoming entryway pairs the Organic Clay Taupe wall tile with the Jerica Ceniza floor tile. While one is dark and the other light, both of these handmade-look subway tiles feature a mix of warm brown and cool grey tones. The combination of the two creates a subtle visual texture that makes the space feel fresh and contemporary.

6. Eclectic

Even tile rules are meant to be broken! While tried-and-true combos make for beautiful and unique spaces, good design can be found in the least expected pairings. Here are a few of our favorite eclectic tile arrangements.

Singular Looks

The Alison Victoria Brick x Brick Petal tile and the Terrazzo Nero Macro tile are an unconventional couple that forms natural harmony in this sweetly chic bathroom, designed by Yellow Brick Home. The brick-like texture of the wall tile and the terrazzo-inspired floor tile, with its pattern of glass- and marble-look fragments, each contribute their own visual appeal. While the colors and textures are neither matching nor dramatically contrasting, their warm tones and singular styles make an interesting complement.

A Reflection on Texture and Pattern

This opulent space, showcasing tile from our exclusive Kelli Fontana Collection, is a wealth of texture and pattern. The Patina Siren Mirror wall tile provides a smooth, reflective surface with striking aged details, while the Tommas Carrara fluted marble-look wall tile lends texture to the space. Paired with the Inlay Proper Naples Beach floor tile, with its elegant leaf pattern, these tiles come together to create a rich, romantic tableau. Though each piece in her collection is distinct, celebrated designer Kelli Fontana conceived of all her tiles to work together for a classic, bold and whimsical aesthetic. Explore all of our exclusive designer collections for complementing tiles that form eclectic designs.

Shape and Movement

There are many ways to add a sense of movement to your tile design, as evidenced in this exceptional space. Though the three prominent tiles are aesthetically distinct, each brings its own visual flow. The center tile stripe features the Trois Bandes tile, with its black-and-white diamond pattern forming a horizontal zigzag. This movement is directionally mirrored by the organic woodgrain detail in the Amazon Amendoa tile, while the half-hexagon shape of the Tory Black mosaic floor tile reflects the diagonals in the patterned tile. The result is a space that could feel random but has enough visual throughlines to maintain cohesion.

This stylish shower features a wood-look tile with a stripe of black-and-white tile and a black mosaic floor tile.
Featuring: Amazona Amendoa, Trois Bandes, Noir Hixton and Tory Black.

Whether you seek a dramatic contrast, a soothing monochromatic space or a distinct ecelctic pairing, there are as many wall and floor combinations as there are tiles at The Tile Shop (literally thousands!). We hope these classic designs have inspired your next project, and if you need a little more guidance, be sure to schedule a free design consultation or visit your local showroom–our tile experts are excited to help you create a space you’ll love.

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