If you’re planning a bathroom renovation, choosing the right tiles is a game-changer. The tiles you pick will set the tone for the whole room so it’s not just about functionality but it’s also about creating a space you’ll feel comfortable and love. Whether you’re going for a clean, modern vibe or something a little more daring, there are endless options out there. In this post, we’ll break down how different tile shapes, sizes, and colours can bring your bathroom to life.
Tile Size: Bigger vs Smaller Tiles
When it comes to tile size, it’s all about the vibe you’re going for. Bigger tiles can make a bathroom feel sleek and modern while smaller ones bring texture and detail into play.
Large tiles are perfect if you’re after that seamless, minimalist feel. They create fewer grout lines so your bathroom looks less busy and more spacious. This is ideal for smaller bathrooms where you want to make the most out of your space. Also, with fewer grout lines to clean, they’re practical too! Whether you’re using them on the floor or the walls, large tiles give your bathroom that fresh, contemporary edge. Beaumont Tiles offers a wide variety of large-format tiles, allowing you to explore options for a truly modern bathroom design.
On the other hand, small tiles such as mosaics are your go-to if you want to add a bit of personality and texture. They’re perfect for creating eye-catching patterns or filling out quirky spaces like shower niches. Yes, they have more grout lines but that’s part of their charm. If you’re looking for a retro or vintage vibe, smaller tiles are your best friend.
A fun idea is to combine both large and small tiles. Mixing the two creates visual contrast and balance which gives your bathroom that extra touch of style.
Shape: Beyond the Standard Squares
When it comes to tile shapes, there’s a whole world beyond the classic square. Changing up the shape can add that extra something to your bathroom, giving it personality and style. Here are some fun options you can consider:
Subway Tiles
Subway tiles have been a bathroom favourite for years because of their timelessness and versatility. What’s more, you can lay them in different ways other than the usual! Try herringbone patterns, vertical stacking, or offset patterns for a fresher take. Subway tiles work in pretty much any bathroom style from traditional to modern, so they’re a great all-rounder choice.
Hexagonal Tiles
If you’re into clean lines and geometric shapes, hexagonal tiles are a great choice. Their honeycomb pattern adds visual interest without overwhelming the entire space and they’re also perfect for floors and walls. Whether you’re creating a bold statement or adding a subtle flair, these tiles bring a modern edge to any bathroom.
Penny Tiles
Penny tiles are tiny, circular tiles that bring a bit of fun and nostalgia to your bathroom. They work wonders as floor tiles, vanity backsplashes, or accents. They’re playful, retro, and can instantly elevate the vibe of any space. If you love a vintage charm with a modern twist, check out penny tiles. For those who love the unique charm of penny tiles, National Tiles has an impressive selection of penny round mosaics that can help bring this trend to life in your own bathroom.
Unique Shapes
If you’re looking to go all out, why not choose tiles with shapes like scales, chevrons, or arabesques? These unique shapes are perfect for making a bold statement whether you use them on a feature wall or a striking shower focal point. These eye-catching shapes are great for turning your bathroom into a true work of art.
Colour Choices and Their Impact
Neutral Tones
If you’re after a classic, soothing feel, neutral colours are your best bet. Think whites, beiges, and soft greys. These colours create a calm and open atmosphere which is perfect if you want to make your bathroom feel larger and lighter. Neutral tones are also very versatile and can easily be paired with other colours and textures, giving you the freedom to experiment with accents without feeling overwhelmed.
Bold and Bright Colours
If you want your bathroom to pop, go for vibrant colours like teal, mustard, or emerald green. Bold colours can bring energy and personality to your space. Try putting them on feature walls or as accent tiles to create focal points without overdoing it. Just make sure to balance these bold colours with some neutrals to keep the space harmonious.
Monochrome Palettes
Black and white is always a winning combination. It’s chic, sophisticated, and never goes out of style. You can play around with different patterns and finishes from glossy white to matte black ones to create a dramatic and refined look. Monochrome palettes are good to go if you’re going for a timeless and elegant feel.
Patterns and Textures: Adding Personality
Tiles aren’t just about colour. You can also play around with patterns and textures to give your bathroom the wow factor. Patterned tiles are perfect for making your bathroom stand out. From intricate florals to bold geometric designs, they’re an easy way to add character and charm. Use them on the floor to create a striking feature or turn a plain wall into a stylish focal point. With patterned tiles, your bathroom can go from ordinary to unforgettable.
But if you want a modern or luxurious feel, textured tiles are a great choice. Wave-like designs, raised patterns, or even 3D effects can add depth and tactile elements to your space. These tiles look amazing under soft lighting which gives your bathroom a spa-like vibe.
Designing With Bathroom Tiles: From Zoning to Mixing and Matching
Tiles offer endless possibilities for turning your bathroom into a beautiful and functional space. More than aesthetics, the right tile choice can help define zones, enhance your design style, and ensure that your bathroom feels cohesive and balanced.
Zoning With Style
Tiles are a powerful tool for creating distinct areas within your bathroom. Use contrasting styles to highlight specific zones like the shower or vanity to give each area its own personality. Smaller, textured tiles in the shower provide better grip and offer a chance to play with intricate designs. A backsplash of bold or patterned tiles behind the vanity can make this functional space a focal point. How you zone your tiles often depends on your bathroom’s overall layout so exploring different types of layouts can help you decide which style best suits your space and flow.
Feature walls are another great way to zone your bathroom. Whether you choose a bold colour, striking pattern, or luxurious texture, a feature wall draws the eye and adds depth to your space. By strategically zoning with tiles, your bathroom will feel thoughtfully designed and visually engaging.
Choosing Materials
While tiles come in a variety of materials, how they perform is just as important as their appearance. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular for their durability and versatility. Glossy finishes reflect light, adding a sleek, modern vibe while matte finishes create a more contemporary look. For a natural, earthy feel, natural stone tiles bring texture and warmth but will require extra care. Given Brisbane’s humid climate, it’s also important to choose materials that help prevent issues like mould. For tips on keeping your bathroom in top condition, check out our post on how to prevent mould and mildew.
You can combine different materials but you have to think about how they complement your overall design. For example, you can mix matte floor tiles with glossy wall tiles to create contrast and dimension or pair stone tiles with modern fixtures for a balanced aesthetic.
Mixing and Matching Tiles
Combining different tile sizes, shapes, and colours is an art. Keep things cohesive by following “the rule of three” or limiting tile choices to three designs. This maintains harmony without sacrificing creativity. Another often overlooked element that can transform your tile design is the grout colour. A matching grout colour creates a seamless, polished look while a contrasting colour highlights the shapes and patterns of your tiles.
Before you finalise your choices, it’s best to take time and visualise how different tiles will look together. Lay out samples side by side to make sure they work well together and reflect your vision for the space.
Bringing It All Together: Creating Your Dream Bathroom
With so many tile options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed but this is your chance to let your creativity shine. By combining thoughtful design choices with practical considerations, you can transform your bathroom into a space that reflects your style and meets your needs. Start by envisioning the mood you want to create. Do you picture a calm, spa-like retreat or something bold and artistic? Don’t be afraid to experiment. Mix and match tiles but always take a step back to make sure they work harmoniously together.
The right tiles can completely redefine your bathroom but knowing where to start can be a bit tricky. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in north Brisbane, you’ll need experienced contractors to help you bring your dream bathroom to life. Give us a call today at (07) 3184 4592 or leave us a message so we can start discussing and working on your project!
