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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The post Top 10 Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

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.

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.

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.

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

How to Regrout Bathroom Tile

How to Plan Your Shower Tile Layout

How to Tile a Shower Like a Pro

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The post 15 Modern Bathroom Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

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 Somerset, Penny Round Matte White, Penny Round Matte Black, Black Marquina Curb, Black Marquina Skirting and Imperial Bianco Gloss. (Right) Hampton Carrara Capital, Hampton Carrara Cronice, Hampton Carrara Hex, Hampton Carrara Skirting, Imperial 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

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.

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.

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.

The post 7 Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

The post 9 Simple Bathroom Tile Formulas for Sophisticated Design appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Change Your Tile’s Direction to Create Distinction

This space, designed by Principle Design & Remodeling, features the Bulevard Snow subway tile installed in a herringbone pattern behind the stove and a brick-lay pattern under the cabinets. Placing the herringbone design in the center creates a sense of movement and helps provide visual separation between meal prep and cooking, making it feel like you have more room for both. Shop subway tile for a wealth of styles to achieve this design.

2. Infuse Your Space With Bright-Hued Blue

Make your small space stand out with a vibrant color, like the bold blue of the Zellige Azul gloss tile. The rich hue will complement a range of cabinet colors, from white to wood to a buttery yellow. If you love this stunning shade, explore our full collection of blue tile.

3. Design a Serene Nature-Inspired Space

Bring the expansive, mood-boosting feel of the outdoors to your space with nature-inspired colors, shapes and materials. We love how this bright and cheery kitchen pairs the Glass Tea Green tile with a blonde wood range hood for natural appeal. Learn how to create serene spaces in every room of your home with this guide to biophilic design.

4. Create a Marble Focal Point Above Your Stove

A small stove backsplash is the perfect place to invest in a beautiful marble mosaic. This backsplash, designed by C2 Interiors, features the Victoria Grey Lattice tile. The diagonal lines and pointed shapes of the mosaic add a lovely sense of movement, making it pleasing to look at as you tend to your burners.

5. Show Off Your Artistic Side With a Tiled Picture Frame

A tiled picture frame is created by “framing” a patterned or mosaic tile with trim. This technique can be elaborate, with multiple layered trim profiles, or feature a simple single pencil or Somerset trim. Here, the stove backsplash features the floral-patterned Genius tile framed by the Black High Pencil Liner. A single layer of black trim makes this picturesque patterned tile the focal point.

6. Make it Mid-Century Modern

Sleek and chic, mid-century modern remains a timeless design touchstone. While often associated with expansive spaces, this style works just as well in smaller areas. Here, the Fired Earth Stoneware Blue Mist tile—with its speckled design reminiscent of 1950s pottery—adds subtle yet stunning visual texture to a slender sink backsplash. For more ideas on incorporating the most iconic design trends of the past century into your contemporary home, explore our guide to mid-century modern design.

7. Add Texture With 3D Tile

A textured or 3D tile adds a tactile element to walls, giving your small space more dimension. This style is perfect for a sink or stove backsplash, where the exposed space allows light to cast shifting shadows on the raised pattern, creating a dynamic appeal.

8. Dazzle with Jewel Tones

Give your small backsplash the star treatment with a dazzling jeweled tone, like splendid sapphire or rich ruby. This lustrous kitchen features the Costa Emerald Mix mosaic tile. We love how its brilliant green tones pop against the sky-blue cabinets. If you’re envious of this vivid hue, shop our wide assortment of green tile.

9. Keep it Simple–And Chic!–With White Subway Tile

White subway tile is a design staple with a long tradition in kitchens, where it was first adopted by the Victorians as a symbol of cleanliness. Over a century later, this style still feels contemporary thanks to its versatile design. This sleek space, designed by Restor Homes and featuring the Bianco Puro tile in an offset vertical layout, offers a modern take on a classic look. Discover more design possibilities in this guide to subway tile layouts.

10. Achieve a Stylish Slab Look

Love the look of a marble slab backsplash? Achieve a similarly elegant effect with affordable, easy-to-maintain marble-look porcelain or ceramic tile. Available in a range of on-trend styles, the large-format version of these tiles (categorized as any tile with a side longer than 15″ and available in sizes up to 48″ x 48″) requires fewer grout lines, making small spaces feel more expansive and cohesive.

11. Add Charm With English Cottage Patterns

Backsplash designs for small kitchens don’t have to be unassuming. The Laura Ashley Wexbord Fresh Green tile brings the quaint, romantic sensibility of English cottage style to this cozy backsplash. If this whimsical design style is your cup of tea, shop our exclusive Laura Ashley collection.

12. Outline Your Design With Trim

This charming kitchen is proof that tile doesn’t need to extend far to make an impact. By cutting the Annie Selke Artisanal White Lace tile off before it reaches the shelves, Maya Drozdz makes this small space feel less crowded. The design is accentuated with the Black High Pencil Liner, which creates a neat border around the tiled backsplash.

13. Stretch Your Budget: Tile Your Backsplash For Under $200

Even if your budget is as small as your space, you can afford a stylish refresh with our expansive selection of tiles under $7. This backsplash, designed by Timber Trails, features Regent Bianco ceramic subway tile. At just $5.39/sq. ft., you can tile a 20- to 30-sq.-ft. backsplash for under $200.

DIY Like a Pro!

Learn How to Install a Kithcen Tile Backsplash with this step-by-step guide.

14. Create a Modern Farmhouse Moment

Modern farmhouse design favors open shelving, which can make your kitchen feel more spacious. This backsplash, designed by I SPY DIY, features the Riad White tile beneath an open wooden shelf. The purposeful variations in color and surface texture in this handmade-look tile add an artisanal touch, complementing the refined rustic decor.

15. Embrace Simplicity with Japandi Style

The exquisite minimalism of Japandi design creates a feeling of intentionality in a small space. In this backsplash, designed by Yellow Brick Home, the long, skinny tiles comprising the Home Kit-Kat Milk mosaic provide a sense of harmonious symmetry. Learn more about this organic and calming design style in our Japandi tile guide.

16. Mix Materials for a Sophisticated Design

Incorporating a variety of materials is a simple yet sophisticated way to add interest to your backsplash, as seen in this contemporary kitchen featuring the Palermo Noir Stone Hex tile. The combination of slate and brass in the hexagon-shaped tile gives the space a dynamic sense of movement and rich visual texture.

17. Add Interest by Mixing Subway Designs

One sure way to make a small space outstanding is by incorporating unique, eye-catching details. Here, the Signature Gris Matte tile is featured in subway, bevel and frame styles. The raised and recessed edges of the bevel and frame tiles add both visual and tactile texture, creating a customizable look that enlivens the compact space. Explore our newly expanded Signature collection for more endlessly versatile subway and trim tiles in a variety of contemporary hues, as well as matte and glossy finishes.

18. Make Your Backsplash Feel Boutique With Zellige Tile

The authentic, craftsman appeal of handmade Zellige tile makes any space unique. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors–like this stunning Alabaster Pearl gloss mosaic tile–every one of these traditional Moroccan tiles is crafted using ancient techniques that create natural variations from piece to piece.

19. Evoke a Historical Sensibility with Victorian-inspired Tile

Even if your kitchen doesn’t hail from the last century, you can still embrace your love for antiques with historic-inspired tiles. These ceramic Victoria tiles–available in Blanc (shown) and Gris Fonce, a dark oxide copper shade–feature raised patterns reminiscent of 19th-century-era tin tiles, while the weathered appearance mimics the look of worn paint.

20. Create a Unique Layout

Make your small space a standout with a custom layout. This boho chic kitchen, designed by I SPY DIY, features the Aurea Bronze tile in alternating horizontal and vertical stacks. Though simple, this backsplash commands attention, in part due to the contrasting grout color, which helps highlight the distinct design. Discover more worldly and eclectic tile ideas in our guide to boho chic style.

21. Marvel with a Versatile Basketweave Mosaic

The Sampson Mosaic tile features an elegant, intricate basketweave pattern that suits a variety of styles, from transitional to mid-century modern to modern farmhouse. This marble tile is stunning paired with white cabinets and gold fixtures, but it would look just as intriguing beneath wood cabinetry.

22. Add Beauty With an Ornate Pattern

An ornately patterned tile brings a lot of charm to a small space. This kitchen, designed by Simony Silva, features the elegant Cheverny Blanc tile. We love how the taupe and blue design complements the warm, neutral cabinetry.

23. Make Waves

Because it’s a small space, the backsplash is the perfect place to accentuate your decor with an unexpected design element, like a uniquely shaped tile. In this kitchen, the Wave Blue Reef tile introduces soft, pillowy lines for wave-like movement.

24. Add Drama With a Contrasting Grout

When you don’t have a lot of space to work with, every element becomes especially significant. A dark tile with light grout (or vice versa) highlights the layout and shape of your design. White grout paired with the Noir Honed Amalfi tiles creates a sense of drama in this Timber Trails-designed kitchen. Learn how to make the most of this essential style element with 7 Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design.

25. Invest in Marble Tile

If your budget allows, a small space is the perfect opportunity to splurge on real stone. The limited square footage means you can choose a higher-end tile without breaking the bank—and it can make even a compact kitchen feel luxurious. This chic kitchen, designed by Angelia Guthrie, features Calacata Evora honed marble tile. The lush grey and beige veining adds a fashionable, contemporary feel, while the open shelving lets the tile take center stage. Shop our wide assortment of marble tile to find a look that’s both unique and sophisticated.

26. Make a Point With Picket Tile

Reminiscent of a classic picket fence, this elongated hexagon-shaped tile is on point! With its mix of straight and diagonal lines, picket tile creates a sense of movement and natural flow in your space. Here, Picket Florencia Super Bianco is installed using white grout for a subtle design, but you could enhance the shape’s appearance by using contrasting grout.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style, and check out our 30 Inspiring Kitchen Tile Ideas for even 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size backsplash tile is best for a small kitchen?

Virtually any size tile will work well for a small kitchen backsplash. If you want a cohesive look that makes your space appear more expansive, use a large-format tile, while a small mosaic tile adds movement and interest.

What is the best color backsplash for a timeless kitchen?

A crisp white backsplash will adapt as your style evolves. White subway tile is a classic look that can be easily updated with colored accents or by painting your cabinets and shelves.

Should the backsplash be lighter or darker than the countertop?

Your backsplash color depends on your personal style. If you tend toward the bold, contrasting your tile and cabinet colors adds a sense of drama. A backsplash that picks up some of the tones of your cabinets–-like a gold-flecked backsplash with gold fixtures on your cabinets -–will look cohesive while adding interest. Contrasting trim or grout will add definition to matching backsplash, countertops and cabinets.

The post 26 Small Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas for 2025 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Create the Illusion of Space With Large Format Tile

Large format tiles require fewer grout lines, which will make your space feel more expansive. This shower, designed by Nikki Chu, uses the Savannah Antique 24″ x 48″ marble-look tile to create the appearance of solid marble walls. The effect is an elegant and tranquil space–the epitome of quiet luxury.

2. Create a Luxurious Spa Experience with Pebble Tile

A refreshing at-home spa experience is just the thing to elevate your morning routine. The Grey Pebble Small Mosaic tile will make your shower feel lavish, even if you don’t have the luxury of space. The pebble shapes will give your feet a soothing massage and surround you with a calming atmosphere.

3. Utilize Your Space With a Corner Shelf

Make the most of your small space by installing a corner shelf. Hanging racks can make your shower feel cluttered, but a built-in shelf provides a convenient and stylish place to hold your soap and shampoo. Shop corner shelves in a variety of materials and styles to match your shower tile.

4. Brighten Your Space with Brilliant Jewel Tones

One of our favorite bathroom tile ideas for small showers is dazzling jewel-toned tile. Brilliant blues and glimmering greens are a 2025 trend that we predict will be around for years to come. We love how Wade Home Remodeling used the Look Blu tile in this shower. The shine of the tiles reflects the light, making this small space feel fresh and bright, even though the tile is a darker color.

5. White Tile Shower Ideas for Small Bathrooms

Always on-trend white subway tile will give your shower walls a chic and sleek look. The traditional brick-lay look of this shower, designed by Timber and Sued,e is both modern and classic. If you want to punch up your white subway tile design, try using dark-colored grout for contrast (it will also hide dirt, making your shower look cleaner even if you miss a week of scrubbing).

6. Create a Shower Niche

A great tile shower idea for small bathrooms is a decorative and practical shower niche. We love this niche designed using tile from the Alison Victoria collection. The Elia Polished marble mosaic and Precious Metals 24 Karat Pencil trim create a chic, highly designed look. Because the shower niche is a relatively small space, you have a chance to really showcase your style with a patterned or mosaic tile that would be too busy for the entire shower.

7. Create a Vertical Accent

An intricate patterned or mosaic tile can easily overwhelm a small shower, but if you love a bold design, you can still incorporate it in small doses. Here, a vertical stripe of Trois Bandes tile creates a striking accent, contrasting the organic texture of the wood-look tile with its vibrant black-and-white pattern. Explore our wide selection of patterned tile to find a design that enlivens your space.

8. Add Height with a Vertical Stack

There are many ways to use subway tile in your shower design. If you’re working with a short space, you can make it feel taller by installing vertical stack subway tile, like this shower designed by Coco & Jack. The tiled ceiling enhances the illusion of height, making this shower feel as spacious as it is charming.

9. Add Artisanal Charm With Zellige Tile

A major trend we’re excited about this year is the authentically artisanal aesthetic of handmade tiles. Subtle variations in surface texture, size and color make handmade options—like the Zellige Alabaster Gloss tile shown here—a charming choice for a small shower. Crafted, painted and glazed by hand using ancient techniques, every Zellige tile is unique. Prefer a more consistent look? Explore our wide selection of handmade-look tile.

10. Go All Out With All-Over Marble

Just because you don’t have the luxury of space, doesn’t mean you can’t have a luxurious aesthetic. Since the smaller footprint means you can afford to do more, a small shower might be just the place to invest in real marble tile. Many of our marble tile collections, like the Ashford Carrara shown here, include several sizes, trim pieces and mosaics, so you can achieve a highly designed look like this bathroom designed by Nikki Chu.

11. Add Movement With a Herringbone Pattern

One of the best ways to add movement to your shower walls is with a herringbone pattern. Elongated subway tiles like the Splendor Blanco tile shown here will make your space feel wider. This pattern, created by Quinn Design, adds interest to the small space without making it feel busy.

12. Awaken Your Senses With Fluted Wood-Look Tile

With its raised, fluted design, the Nidus Decor Mix tile brings a tactile dimension to this chic shower, while the warm wood look creates a visual connection to the natural world. The result is a space that soothes the senses and uplifts your mood through intentional biophilic design—a style defined by its use of natural materials, textures and colors to bring the outdoors in. Shop our wide selection of wood-look tile for more waterproof, nature-inspired designs.

Ready to update your small shower? It’s easier than ever to make your design dreams a reality with our free design services. Or, explore even more small showers spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram!

Small Bathroom & Shower Tile FAQs

What is the best tile to use for a small shower?

As for any space, the best tile to use is the one that makes you feel refreshed and invigorated. If you want to add the illusion of height or width, use a subway tile installed vertically (for height) or horizontally (for width).

What is the best color tile for a small bathroom?

A light-colored tile will make your space feel more open and airy, but if you have a lot of natural light in your bathroom, you can opt for a darker tile. A highly reflective tile, like a glossy jewel-toned tile will add light even if the tile itself is darker.

What tile makes a small shower look bigger?

Large-format tiles require fewer grout lines, which will make your space feel more expansive. Shop our full assortment of large-format tile to find your unique style.

The post 12 Small Bathroom Shower Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Maintain a Minimalist Palette

Minimalism is a key tenet of Japandi design, and the right tile can help you maintain a tranquil, uncluttered space. A soft neutral tile is a great base to your design, allowing you to layer in other colors and materials. This bathroom features the Lanse Matte White Picket tile, pairing the crisp white tile with metallic gold accents and a soft grey sink. Though this space has few adornments, the mix of vertical and diagonal lines in the picket tile adds interest and a sense of movement.

2. Incorporate Greenery

Japandi emphasizes a connection with the natural world, and incorporating plants and other natural elements into your design will help create a sense of serenity. Soft, earthy greens function as a neutral color, and nature-inspired decor–when used sparingly–is encouraged. The Morris & Co. Hawkdale Willow Olive tile features elegant leaf designs that are both decorative and minimalist. Pair this tile with the corresponding Hawkdale Pure Chalk tile to add neutral space between the designs.

3. Choose Warm Neutrals

The Scandinavian concept of hygge refers to the feeling of coziness and contentment, which is incorporated into Japandi through warm colors and materials. This cozy nook, designed by Christy Bloom Design & Build, features the Laura Ashley Wicker Dove Grey tile. The soft greige coloring complements the wooden cabinets for a soothing and inviting space. Shop brown and beige tiles to achieve this warm neutral aesthetic.

4. Embrace Imperfections

The Japanese concept of wabi-sabi celebrates the imperfect–the very quality that makes our authentic Zellige tile so compelling. Each tile is crafted, glazed and painted by hand, resulting in a unique look from piece to piece. With Japandi’s emphasis on handmade and authentic materials, Zellige tile perfectly encapsulates its ethos, however, if you’re interested in a tile that’s a little more uniform (and affordable), check out our wide selection of handmade-look tile.

5. Use Wood-Look Tile for a Natural Appearance

While authentic materials are essential to Japandi design, they might not be practical for every space in your home. Hardwood is commonly associated with Japandi, but to get this aesthetic in high-traffic or damp areas, wood-look tile is a great alternative. This serene shower features the Nidus Decor Mix tile. The blonde wood look and textured surface (which would be difficult to replicate in real wood) create the soothing atmosphere expected in Japandi but in a material suited to the space.

6. Combine Rustic and Refined Elements

Achieve a look that seamlessly combines the rustic Scandinavian aesthetic with the grace and elegance of Japanese style, with natural stone. The veining inherent to marble, slate and travertine creates a one-of-a-kind character that embodies the spirit of Japandi design. This living room, designed by Esslinger Design Co., features the Legno Geometric tile on the fireplace surround. The architectural style stone mosaic provides texture, while the naturally occurring color variation gives this space authentic visual interest.

7. Use Texture

Since Japandi mostly adheres to a warm neutral color palette, texture is key to creating interest to your space. A fluted, or 3D tile, adds a tactile element to your walls that will stimulate the senses while providing a unique visual element. This tranquil entryway features the Khali Flash Off White tile, the subtle pattern of soft, flowing raised lines adds depth to the space, with a design that changes effect as light moves through the room.

8. Embrace Elegant Symmetry

Japandi favors clean lines and symmetry for a sense of harmony. Subway tile arranged in straight vertical or horizontal stacks, or neatly aligned mosaics like the Home Kit-Kat Milk tile used in this kitchen, designed by Yellow Brick Home, will achieve this aesthetic. The long, skinny tiles of this handmade-look mosaic form smooth horizontal and vertical lines, giving this space an orderly feel, while the slight variations in color and texture between the pieces provide an organic appeal.

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

The post Tile for Every Style: Japandi appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

10. Handcrafted Excellence

Authentic handcrafted Zellige tile adds artisanal appeal to this boho chic bathroom, designed by Carmeon Hamilton. We love how the traditional star and cross design complements the abstract art, graphic wallpaper and decorative fans, creating a unique, worldly aesthetic. For ideas on incorporating this global, eclectic style into your space, check out our guide to boho chic design.

Featuring: Zellige Charcoal Chabone Cross Gloss, Zellige Charcoal Chabone Star Matte and Riad White. Design and photography by Carmeon Hamilton.

9. Transitional Kitchen

Jennifer Janeway Designs paired the Volakas Honed Large Herringbone tile with white cabinets and countertops to create a bright and inviting kitchen. The designer crafted a beautiful transitional space by mixing marble–often found in traditional design–with contemporary cabinet pulls and a black faucet. Discover how to achieve the perfect balance between old and new styles in our guide to transitional design.

Featuring: Volakas Honed Large Herringbone. Design and photography by Jennifer Janeway Designs.

8. Relaxing Shower

This stunning shower, also designed by Jennifer Janeway Designs, uses a mix of neutrals to create a stylish, contemporary space. The grey and beige Aspire Hex Ash mosaic tile focal point extends to the shower floor, creating a pleasing waterfall effect. Shop our wide selection of mosaic tiles to replicate this design in your style.

Featuring: Aspire Hex Ash and Colorgloss White. Design and photography by Jennifer Janeway Designs.

7. Magnificent Fireplace

Warm grey paint and a blue-and-grey mosaic fireplace surround transform this cozy living room from “okay” to OH YAY! We love how the color variation in the Penny Round Cloudy tile adds visual texture to the space (and how the blue and grey tones complement the rug). For more ideas on upgrading your home hearth, shop our wide selection of fireplace tile.

Featuring: Penny Round Cloudy. Design and photography by Jennifer Janeway Designs.

6. Sleek & Chic Backsplash

This stylish kitchen update is on point! The Picket Florencia Super Bianco tile offers a modern twist on the traditional subway. The horizontal and diagonal lines create movement in the backsplash, giving it a chic, contemporary feel. If you love this sleek shape, shop our full selection of picket tile.

Featuring: Picket Florencia Super Bianco. Design and photography by RLH Residential.

5. Oasis Bathroom

Large-format stone-look tiles give this space a cohesive, expansive appearance. The Carrara Gris wall tile features subtle grey veining for an authentic marble look, while the Linear Stone Black tile, with its expressive grey coloring, mimics the appearance of limestone. Both tiles offer the durability and easy maintenance of porcelain. The result is a luxurious space that will retain its beauty for years to come.

Featuring: Carrara Gris and Linear Stone Black. Design and photography by Jennifer Janeway Designs.

4. Marble Shower

Luxurious Ashford Carrara marble completes this elegant bathroom. The subway tile shower walls and Niles mosaic tile floor are classic shapes that complement the curved silver hardware and Victorian-inspired door handle, creating a timeless, traditional design.

Featuring: Ashford Carrara Polished Nilse with Black Dot and Ashford Carrara Subway. Design and photography by @thebirdsdothus.

3. Boho Bathroom

With unique style and worldly sensibility, I SPY DIY completely transforms this small bathroom. The custom subway tile walls and Moroccan-inspired cross-and-star-shaped floor tiles add a personal, stylized touch, taking the space from simple to stellar. If you love this perfectly imperfect style, shop our vast selection of handmade-look tile.

Featuring: Villa White Gloss, Villa Warm Grey Gloss, Kasbah Star Terracotta and Kasbah Cross Terracotta. Design and photography by I SPY DIY.

2. Serene Shower

The gently flowing 3D waves of the Nora White tile create a soothing, tactile experience in this shower, designed by @juliachristinehomes. The brilliant white, textured surface awakens the senses, making it the perfect space to start the day.

Featuring: Nora White. Design and photography by @juliachristinehome.

1. Contemporary Bathroom

We can see why this contemporary bathroom update, designed by All About Bathrooms, was your favorite project of 2024! The vivid Look Avio tile, installed vertically with a horizontal offset, is so chic! While the large-format, marble-look floor tile makes this spacious bathroom feel even more expansive. The effect is a luxurious and revitalizing space.

Featuring: Look Avio and Everest White Natural. Design by All About Bathrooms. Photography by @raemirue.

Have a reno on your New Year’s to-do list? The Tile Shop is here to help every step of the way. Stop by one of our many showrooms or schedule a free in-person or virtual design consultation to get started creating your own amazing before-and-after moment!

Discover more of our 2024 Year In Review Series: Top 10 Bathrooms and Top 10 Kitchens.

The post Year In Review: Top 10 Before and Afters of 2024 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Add a Backsplash

If you only have a weekend to get your bathroom guest ready, a backsplash is a simple update that packs a big punch. The Livingston Melange marble-look tile backsplash designed by Nikki Chu shown here exudes a sophisticated luxury. Because it takes up little space, a backsplash is a great place to express your personality. A bold color, intricate pattern or mosaic will add character to your space without becoming overwhelming.

2. Retile the Shower

Chances are your shower is a relatively small space, and the perfect candidate for a weekend tile makeover. Choose a tile that your overnight guests can’t help but compliment–a luxurious marble look or unique handmade look is sure to meet with approval from the in-laws.

3. Create Comfort with a Shower Corner Seat

Make your shower a place where you can truly rejuvenate and revitalize. If you’ve decided to tackle the shower for your weekend refresh, a corner seat will add a little extra comfort and will be especially appreciated by your guests with limited mobility.

4. Create a Statement Wall

If you don’t have time to retile your whole bathroom but still want to make an impression, a statement wall is a quick tile project that’s sure to yield big results! Centering the focus on one wall can also depth to a small bathroom or powder room.

5. Update Your Shower Niche

A shower niche is a small space that can make a big impact. If you already have a shower niche, this is an easy update that can really up your bathroom’s Wow Factor. Try incorporating a detailed patterned tile or an intricate mosaic for maximum impact.

6. Retile Your Floor

If you have a small space, refreshing your floor tile can take your bathroom from blah to brilliant in no time at all. The reflectiveness of the Black Marquina Polished marble tile creates depth in this small powder room.

Ready to tackle your next project? Roll up your sleeves and review this helpful tile installation guide.

We love seeing your spaces! 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)!

The post 6 Easy Tile Ideas For a Quick Bathroom Refresh appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.