Best Shower Tile Design Ideas for 2024

If there’s one place in your home that will forever be a sanctuary for respite, relaxation, and rejuvenation, it’s the shower. Whether you have a small one, a large one, or something in between, we know that you understand the importance and cherish the moments you have within it.

That’s why, today, we’re providing you with the best shower tile design ideas for 2024. After all, how can you make this area even more desirable? Through some design TLC! Whether you crave a geometric statement or love a covetable marble moment, below are a dozen bathroom shower ideas for you.

How to choose the perfect shower tile?

Before we wander into the realm of 2024 shower tile designs, let’s first discuss the significance of shower tiles in bathroom design.

We can break this down into two core facets - first, they offer functionality over other materials, and second, they provide uncapped aesthetic appeal.

When it comes to functionality, tiles have a leg up on materials like paint, wallpaper, or vinyl. Why? Simply put, they aren’t harbingers of bacteria when in a moisture-rich environment. Additionally, they are able to withstand high temperatures, giving them unmatched longevity. The tiles’ durability allows them to shine and stand out as a must-use for environments like your shower.

Now, aside from the functional reasons, there are, of course, aesthetics at play, too. Tiles come in a plethora of options - from the colors and finishes to the textures and materials. This allows your personality to jump out and define the space in a way that some paint just wouldn’t. You can make an instantaneous impact within your bathroom by using a focal point feature wall tile design inside your shower. Just think of the splash a bold, blue herringbone tile could make!

12 Trendy Shower Tile Design Ideas for 2024

Now that you’re sold - or so we hope - on the use of tiles in your shower, it’s time to put on your dreamer’s hat and check out some of the gorgeous trends for this year. Are you with us?

Mixing and Matching

Who said there’s a cap on how many shapes or colors you can use in a design? Not us! We are the type that would approve literally anything your heart dreams up and that doesn’t stop at combinations of tiles. Luckily, the entire design community agrees as this is a 2024 shower tile trend not to be missed! Whether you pair a trendy picket tile with a marble subway tile or love a good cross-and-star tile set up, the world of shapeshifting is your oyster.

Spa-Inspired Sanctuaries

We hinted at this before when we mentioned how your bathroom is a sanctuary, but in 2024, this comes real in the most tangible way. Modern shower wall tile ideas crave a way to relax you, allow you to unwind, and find solace in a demanding, always-on world. Creating a spa shower design is the key to this. You can achieve that through the use of calming, neutral tiles. For instance, beige tile has come back recently, and can be quite fitting here. A beige shower tile with a textural appeal is both endearing and enduring.

Quiet Luxury Looms Large

While not held solely for the design industry, quiet luxury encompasses a thought movement that touches fashion and even food enthusiasts alike. The concept is one that peels back the layers on what luxury is and asks: Can luxury be impactful without being loud, flashy or in-your-face? The answer is a resounding yes. It can be. It’s like the perfect white tee shirt that cost $300 - seems run of the mill, but is exquisitely made with longevity in mind. That’s what lives with quiet luxury in your home - a gorgeous, naturally sourced marble tile in a traditional calcutta with a honed finish or a handcrafted, handmade ceramic subway tile in an elongated style that fits just right in your contemporary lifestyle.

The Classical Charm of Black

Not one for bold? What if you dabbled in black in a polished, elegant, and statement-making way without taking away from your bathroom design? That’s what 2024’s black tile look is all about. Think of an accent wall in the shower: Glossy white herringbone mosaic shower wall tiles with a black penny round niche popping out in contrast. For the not-so-faint-of-heart, this can take shape into a more dazzling moment; using black tile as your base wall tile color and a pop of color as the accent.

Wood, But Not the Real Kind

If there’s one thing top-of-mind this year, it’s Mama Earth. We can all do our part to make her a little happier. This tile trend will be a hit if doing better and being more green is on your 2024 New Year resolutions checklist. Wood-look tiles, or faux wood tiles, can create a warming, rustic, and captivating vibe without using the real thing. These tiles are made from printed porcelain or ceramic materials and come in many shapes, finishes, and styles. The common denominator? Trees’ lives are saved.

Underrated Natural Stones

We always hear about marble. Bold, breathtaking, beyond…marble. What about the other stones of the world, though? Well, listen up, limestone and travertine - it’s your turn! This year there’s a movement towards more natural materials than ever before (could it be that we all need a little oasis of the outdoors inside?). Limestone and travertine are both known for their neutral palettes, soothing cool-to-the-touch surfaces, and durability. If you want a stone that quite literally built ancient kingdoms and will be a statement-maker without being overstated… look no further!

Bigger and Bolder Patterns

Why do a little when you can do a lot in one swoop? For our maximalists out there, this design idea for shower wall tiles is for you! Ramp up the patterns en masse. You can, for instance, install a bold pattern wall tile and style it with an equally stunning patterned mosaic floor tile in your bathroom. The more, the merrier!

Colorful Marbles that Wow

There’s beauty in nature, no doubt about it. When it comes to marble, that holds more true than ever. With its bold veining, naturally dictated base coloring and immense visual intrigue - it sure hits all the design magazine stops. That’s why this twist will pique even marble purists’ interests: colorful marbles. These are not your simple onyx or Carrara types; no - they are rich palettes of green, pink, and blue. They come in and make for eye candy in the most luxurious ways. Tempted to visit the Earth’s candy store? We don’t blame you. This trend will leave your next shower upscale and divinely decadent.

Handmade Look Tiles

Also known as zellige tiles, handmade look tiles are hot this year. There’s little wondering on why this is - look at them! They go well along the cultural zeitgeist of current times; perfectly imperfect. A subtle nod that life can be beautiful even with its trying moments. The standouts that make this tile trend-worthy are its natural grooves, uneven edges, and sunshine-loving, glossy finish. If your home’s bathroom catches lots of natural lighting, you are in for a treat with this trend!

Visually Appealing Floors

Thought the style writing was on the walls? Oh no, it doesn’t stop there! It’s also in the nooks and crannies of the floor beneath your feet! Be sure to make it a majestic moment because 2024 allows for it! Whether that’s using a floral waterjet floor tile or a classic mosaic penny tile with a fun pattern or lettering, it’s your time to make your floors shine.

A Touch of Nature Inside

Whether working from home or in an office setting, there’s one common denominator – you’re indoors most of the time. So, how can you breathe a little bit of nature into your daily routine through your home? With your shower tile design! Over recent years, the design industry has fully embraced biophilic interiors, which also applies to tile. You can find gorgeous floral prints or plant life designs on the surface of porcelain or ceramic tiles. This translates into a natural aesthetic that the planet, and your daily wind-down, will love.

How to Choose the Perfect Shower Tile?

If you’re wondering how you’re able to choose the perfect tile for your shower, given the amount of amazing trends and shower tile ideas for this year, fear not.

The good news is that the perfect tile can be found with a few core items in mind.

Consider durability and placement. If you’re aiming to create a shower wall tile design, you can focus more on aesthetics and less on traction underfoot. Alternatively, when it comes to the shower floor tile design, be aware that glossy tiles aren’t the best match as they’re prone to slipping.

Know your options. Don’t forget that you get to decide the right fit for your home, so be sure to explore the market and order samples before settling on one. This means navigating through the vast world of materials available - glass, recycled glass, marble, porcelain, ceramic, and terracotta, to name a few.

Figure out if you want texture. We always love a textural moment, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for everyone. Each tile has a unique look about it, so consider if you want something more smooth or artistic.

Keep maintenance in mind. If you’re someone who rolls their eyes at weekend chores, you’ll likely not want to get something that’s high upkeep like marble tile. This tile type needs to be sealed and resealed on occasion to keep its beauty in tact. However, a porcelain tile is quite easy to manage, and can be a lovely choice.

Tips for a Successful Shower Tile Project

There are several tips to keep in mind when handling a shower tile project. Let’s go through them now:

Plan Your Layout Before You Begin: Don't wing it! Sketch your tile layout on paper, including any patterns or accent tiles. This helps you visualize the finished product and avoid wasted materials or awkward cuts around the drain or corners.

Prep is Key: Check for Plumb and Level: Take the time to ensure your shower walls are perfectly plumb (vertical) and level (horizontal) using a level. Uneven walls lead to uneven tiles, making your beautiful oasis look wonky.

Master the Mortar Mix: Thin-set mortar is the glue that holds your tiles in place. Opt for a pre-mixed, high-quality mortar for a smoother application, especially for beginners. Improperly mixed mortar can lead to weak adhesion and potential tile failure down the line.

Work Methodically & Take Your Time: Rushing a tile job is a recipe for frustration and mistakes. Set aside ample time and work in sections, meticulously checking your level and alignment as you go. Remember, you can always add more mortar, but removing a poorly placed tile is a messy process.

Embrace the Power of Spacers and Sponges: Consistent grout lines are essential for a professional look. Use tile spacers to maintain even spacing between tiles, and keep a damp sponge handy to wipe away excess mortar that oozes out during installation.

Beyond Installation: Maintaining Your Shower Oasis

As we highlighted earlier, maintenance is the best way to maintain your tile’s beauty over the years. This not only helps you get the best ROI from your design investment but ensures a gorgeous home and sanctuary for daily respite.

In order to do just that, you’ll want to make sure that you clean your tile on a weekly basis. This means scrubbing the floors and walls of your shower to remove any buildup from shampoo or shower gel.

On a monthly basis, you’ll want to delve a bit deeper into your cleaning routine:

• Deep Clean Grout: Grout, the material between your tiles, is prone to mold and mildew growth. To tackle this, create a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the grout lines with a grout brush (or a soft toothbrush) and scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly. For stubborn stains, consider a hydrogen peroxide solution (avoid using with vinegar in the same cleaning session).
• Inspect for Damage: Take a close look at your tiles and grout for any cracks, chips, or loose tiles. Address minor issues promptly to prevent water damage behind the tiles. You can typically repair small cracks with a grout sealer, while chipped or loose tiles might need to be replaced.

By incorporating these simple practices into your routine, you can ensure your shower stays beautiful and functional for years, providing a luxurious escape in your home.

Final Thoughts

2024 is shaping up to be a great year for shower tile design ideas. With the right guidance, some preparation, and research, you will be on your way to crafting a design that’s a total hit!

Need a hand to secure the best tile? Let Apollo Pro’s help you!

FAQs:

What are the hottest shower tile design trends for 2024?

The hottest shower tile design trends for 2024 are: quiet luxury, mixing and matching, biophilic, and handmade zellige tiles.

What are some good tile ideas for a small shower?

Some good tile ideas for a small shower are using black tiles to create the illusion of more depth, embracing marble tiles for a touch of luxury, or mixing large format tiles with mosaic tiles for a contrasting design without busyness.

Is it a good idea to use the same tile subway tile for the floor and walls of my shower?

When using a subway tile, you should check the tile manufacturer’s notes on application. Typically, a subway tile is a wall tile; however, there are cases where this tile can be used on the floor.

Should I consider hiring a professional to install my shower tiles?

Yes, for the best results, especially if you’ve never tiled a shower wall or floor before, you should consult a professional tiler to help you.

Can I mix different types of tiles in my shower design?

Of course you can mix different types of tiles in your shower design. The world is your oyster and you can make the pairings that you love work. Just be sure to note the maintenance of these tiles and their applications. You may love one tile and find it’s not waterproof, for instance.

How do I ensure my shower tiles are slip-resistant?

The manufacturer or retailer will always state if shower tiles are slip-resistant or not. Be sure to consult their product details; otherwise, chat with their customer service to confirm before ordering anything.

Are there eco-friendly options for shower tiles?

Yes, there are eco-friendly shower tile options available. Two of the most popular tile materials are faux wood look tiles and recycled glass tiles.