How to choose Bathroom tile?
Mar 13, 2023When it comes to transforming a bathroom, one of the biggest decisions is which tile to choose. With so many options out there – from simple subway tiles to bold statement-making surfacing – selecting the perfect tile for you can be both daunting and exciting.
To help make the process easier, consider factors such as size, color, finish, cost, and maintenance before beginning your search for the perfect tile. These ideas should help create an efficient tiling plan that will make choosing the right tile much easier!
Size matters for the bathroom tile
When it comes to bathroom tile, size is the real deal. It's what makes or breaks the look. You could have an all-star design concept, but if you don't pick the right size tile it could be all for naught. Make sure to really think through each size and how it impacts your overall design before committing - after all, nothing ruins a great project more than having too-tiny of a mosaic tile or too-large of a tile installed!
1. Large Format Tiles
Let’s talk about large format tiles first. These larger scale tiles have become a modern design favorite, and it’s easy to understand why; they offer less grout lines, more square footage coverage and a seamless appearance.
That said, while large format tiles sound pretty amazing in theory, before you jump in head-first, take a moment to size up your bathroom, literally.
If your bathroom is on the tinier side and doesn’t have a ton of natural lighting, you’d likely be better off not choosing this type. The space could look monotonous.
Plus, the design concept plays a role, too.
For example, if you want a more midcentury modern design, you’d be better off mixing together different tile types (maybe a ceramic square tile with a marble floor tile) to give the space the quirk it needs. On the other hand, large format tiles can do wonders for contemporary bathrooms. These tiled giants can make any master bath look out of this world!
One more point to consider: Unlike some of the other tile options available, large tiles primarily are made in porcelain and stone right now, due to durability. So, for those that want glass or ceramic materials, this is not the ideal type to design with.
2. Classic Mosaic Tile
Whether you're looking for something timeless or a bit of timeless style, you can't go wrong with classic mosaic tiles. Gorgeous penny rounds, basket weaves, and Carrara hexagons provide a plethora of design possibilities that fit just about any look. With an array of materials available to craft your masterpiece, you have an almost endless number of options to choose from. Just make sure the size of the space is taken into consideration and you make sure you will adore it.
Naturally, marble hexagon tiles do a great job of creating a luxurious appeal in small bathrooms. Why? They are inherently tied to sophistication and chicness. So, if you’re trying to go for a timeless look, aim to use some type of marble look or marble as your bathroom tile.
On the other hand, be careful not to overuse mosaic tiles in your bathroom. Balance is key. While a mosaic tile on the backsplash paired with a mosaic tile on the bathroom floor seems nice in theory; in execution, it could become a bit much to the eye.
Lastly, be sure to consider grout lines. Classic mosaic tiles require more grout lines than other tile styles. So, knowing whether you want a more seamless, sleek design or like the look of grout (maybe you want to use a color pop against white penny tiles!) is important to keep in mind.
3. Timeless Subway Tile
Subway tiles are our third size of tile to keep in mind. These traditional, beloved tiles are noteworthy in their ability to work in nearly any space that they are placed.
Subway tiles are incredibly versatile, which makes them the perfect addition to a bathroom. Whether you go for a classic white subway backsplash bathroom tile, or something more colorful and eye catching in just your shower, they can fit into whatever type of design you have. With tons of size options like 3x6, 4x12 and 3x10, you can get creative with how it’s layed out.
If you want the ultimate classic look, opt for the 3x6 vertically or horizontally stacked. Mix things up a bit by going for a slimmer tile like 3x10 to create a fun chevron pattern in any room. In order to pick the perfect tile for your space, think about what style you are trying to achieve – sharp and classic? Boho chic? Bold and modern?
Material/Texture of the Tile
When beginning your search for the perfect bathroom tile, it's important to consider the material and texture of the tile. These days, you've got a wide variety of materials to choose from – ceramic tiles are always popular and cost-effective, while glass and stone mosaics can add that extra touch of luxury. No matter which material you decide to use for your project, be sure to ensure that its characteristics work with the overall design. Not every material is suited for every application, so it pays to do your research before you commit!
1. Glass Tiles
Glass tile is an incredibly versatile material that adds a bold yet no-fuss update to any interior design project. Whether you want to make a statement, like adding colorful glass feature wall tiles to a powder bathroom, or simply create movement in the space with a subtle herringbone gray glass backsplash tile, you can rest assured that glass tiles are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Making them the ideal material for any design style.
2. Wood Look Tiles
Wood look tiles offer a great alternative to traditional wood for a bathroom, not only in terms of durability, but also in terms of looks. With the latest printing advancements, these tiles are almost indistinguishable from real wood once they're lay down. The colour palette is impressive too, with choices ranging from classic cherry and oak to rich mahogany hues. Furthermore, you can count on tiles crafted with realistic knotting and graining patterns that make them truly eye-catching!
3. Marble or Stone Tiles
When it comes to making an impression through tiles, nothing quite beats the timeless elegance of natural stone. From marble to travertine and even granite, these materials offer home interiors a sophisticated air while providing endless amounts of design possibilities. Marble has been used in structures for centuries, but with the natural characteristics of its distinguished veining, there’s no limit to how you can use this type of tile today.
Natural stone backsplashes offer an evocative look and let you customize your home according to your individual taste. Or for a truly eye-catching statement, try a specially patterned mosaic tile on a bathroom shower wall - it’s guaranteed to stun!
4. Metallic Foil Tiles
If you're looking for a luxurious, eye-catching style with a point of difference, metal-look tiles are the perfect choice. From shimmering glass mosaic tiles, to stylish ceramic and steel options, there's something for everyone! Using these tiles to create a dramatic effect in any room will have everybody talking – they exude modernity and offer unparalleled beauty, by reflecting light off their unique surface areas.
5. Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tile is one of the most versatile materials around, making it a great option for any project. Its durability and low maintenance properties mean that you can have a beautiful, high-end look without much effort or expense. Backsplashes created out of stone-look porcelain tile can easily mimic the look of expensive marble, while terrazzo-inspired floors give off a trendsetting vibe with ease.
Go for something rustic and natural with wood look mosaic floor tiles; they capture the look of wood without the extra maintenance or pricey price tag! Fortunately, porcelain tile is hugely flexible - you can use it on bathroom floors, backsplashes and even in showers!
6. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles provide incredible design options for many types of surfaces, like backsplashes, walls and more. From zellige to patterned and a wide variety of other styles, ceramic tiles can bring beauty to any area. However, if the plan is to use ceramic tiles in a shower area, think again! Ceramic can be quite porous and over time the water seeping into the pores could lead to discoloration or chipping. Instead try porcelain or glass tile as they are designed to prevent water damage even in a wet environment like a shower stall.
Know the overall design and color scheme
It’s always incredibly exciting when you decide to do a bathroom redesign with tile. It can be easy to get sidetracked down the tile aisle and end up with the wrong shade or style of tile—and this can totally derail your overall look. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that you know exactly what design direction you want to take before heading into the store. After all, everyone loves making conscious choices while shopping! Knowing exactly what colors and textures you need helps guarantee that your choices will bring joy to your home. Taking the time to define a design scheme before hitting the stores is a key final step for those looking for tiles.
Keep in mind if you want to go with a farmhouse design or an art deco design. These two will require vastly different tiles and colors. While the latter will want elegance, glamor and chic appeal; the former craves a sense of spaciousness and rustic charm.
Define and conquer.
Wrapping up bathroom tile selection
Choosing bathroom tile is a decision that should not be taken lightly as it plays a key role in the overall look and design of your room. With today’s incredible selection of options for bathroom tile, remember to think about your budget and goals, take time to research what works best for you, and invest in quality products. Whether you’re looking for sleek and modern designs or more classic looks, there is something available for you with the perfect combination of cate, texture, size and color.
