How To Choose Right Bathroom Tiles? (4 Styles Fail!)

Have you ever walked into a bathroom and felt an instant sense of discomfort, not because of the cleanliness, but due to the choice of tiles?

Your taste plays a crucial role in how a space feels, and the right bathroom tiles can elevate the ambiance.

I’ve seen it happen countless times. A homeowner, excited about a bathroom renovation, rushes into tile selection without a clear plan.

The result? A bathroom that feels…off.

It’s either visually jarring, impractical, or simply doesn’t reflect their personal style.

And believe me, getting it wrong can be a costly mistake.

That’s why I’m here to guide you through the process of selecting the right bathroom tiles.

I’ll highlight four common styles that often fail to deliver the desired effect, and give you the insider tips and tricks to avoid those pitfalls.

Think of this as your ultimate guide to creating a bathroom that’s not only beautiful, but also functional and a true reflection of your style.

Section 1: The Importance of Choosing

the Right Bathroom Tiles

Let’s face it, the bathroom is more than just a place to brush your teeth and take a shower.

It’s a sanctuary, a place to unwind and prepare for the day.

And tiles play a huge role in setting the tone.

Think about the last time you were in a truly amazing bathroom. What made it so special?

Chances are, the tiles were a big part of it.

They can influence the overall vibe of the bathroom, from creating a spa-like atmosphere to a modern, sleek look.

I’ve worked on bathrooms that felt like a luxurious retreat, simply because the tile choices were spot on.

On the other hand, I’ve also seen bathrooms that felt cold and uninviting, despite being brand new.

The wrong tiles can make a small bathroom feel even smaller, or a large bathroom feel cavernous and impersonal.

But it’s not just about aesthetics.

Tiles also need to be practical.

They need to be durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear, moisture resistant to prevent mold and mildew, and easy to clean.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had homeowners complain about tiles that are impossible to keep clean or that chip and crack easily.

Choosing the right bathroom tiles is about finding the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.

It’s about creating a space that looks great and stands up to the demands of daily life.

According to a 2023 survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), bathroom renovations are consistently among the top home improvement projects.

And within those renovations, tile selection is a key decision point, influencing both the budget and the overall satisfaction with the finished space.

Section 2: Factors to Consider When Choosing

Bathroom Tiles

Okay, so you know why choosing the right tiles is important.

But how do you actually go about doing it?

There are a few key factors to consider before you even start browsing through tile samples.

Size of the bathroom:

This is a big one. In a small bathroom, large tiles can actually make the space feel even smaller.

Why? Because they reduce the number of grout lines, which can make the floor or wall feel like one continuous surface.

However, using too small tiles in a large bathroom can make the space feel busy and cluttered.

I generally recommend using medium-sized tiles in small bathrooms to create a sense of balance.

For larger bathrooms, you can get away with larger tiles, but be sure to break them up with interesting patterns or accent tiles.

Lighting:

Lighting plays a huge role in how tiles look.

Natural light will bring out the true colors and textures of the tiles, while artificial light can alter them significantly.

I always recommend bringing tile samples home and looking at them in different lighting conditions before making a final decision.

Consider the amount of natural light your bathroom receives.

If it’s a dark bathroom, you might want to opt for lighter tiles to brighten up the space.

If it’s a bright bathroom, you can get away with darker tiles, but be careful not to make the space feel too cold.

Color scheme:

Your tile choices should complement the existing color palette of your bathroom.

If you have a lot of neutral colors, you can add a pop of color with your tiles.

If you have a lot of bold colors, you might want to stick with neutral tiles to create a sense of balance.

I always recommend creating a mood board with your paint colors, fixtures, and tile samples to see how everything looks together.

Tile material:

There are a ton of different tile materials to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular options:

• Ceramic: This is a classic choice that’s affordable, durable, and easy to maintain. It’s a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.

• Porcelain: This is a denser and more durable option than ceramic. It’s also more water-resistant, making it ideal for bathrooms.

  According to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less, making them highly resistant to moisture damage.

• Natural stone: This includes materials like marble, granite, and slate. It’s a luxurious option that adds a touch of elegance to any bathroom. However, it’s also more expensive and requires more maintenance.

• Glass: This is a stylish and modern option that can add a lot of light and sparkle to a bathroom. It’s also water-resistant and easy to clean.

  However, it can be more expensive than other options and may require professional installation.

Choosing the right tile material depends on your budget, style, and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do.

I always recommend doing your research and talking to a tile specialist before making a decision.

Section 3: The Four Styles That Often Fail

Now that you know what to consider when choosing bathroom tiles, let’s talk about some common styles that can lead to design disasters.

I’ve seen these mistakes made time and time again, and I want to help you avoid them.

3.1. Style #1: Overly Trendy Tiles

We’ve all been there. You see a tile in a magazine or on Pinterest and fall in love with it.

It’s the hottest trend right now, and you just have to have it in your bathroom.

But here’s the thing about trends: they come and go.

What’s popular today might be outdated tomorrow.

You don’t want to choose a tile that you’ll be tired of in a few years.

I remember one homeowner who was obsessed with penny tiles when they were all the rage a few years back.

She put them in her entire bathroom, from the floor to the walls.

A few years later, she was completely over them and wanted to rip them all out.

The cost of removing and replacing all those tiles was astronomical.

Examples of current tile trends that may not stand the test of time include:

• Geometric patterns: While geometric patterns can be stylish, they can also be overwhelming and quickly become dated.

• Bold colors: Bright and bold colors can be fun, but they can also be difficult to live with in the long run.

• Textured tiles: Textured tiles can add visual interest, but they can also be difficult to clean and maintain.

Instead of chasing trends, I recommend choosing classic and timeless tiles that will look good for years to come.

Think about natural stone, subway tiles, or simple geometric patterns in neutral colors.

These options are always in style and will stand the test of time.

3.2. Style #2: Mismatched Patterns

Mixing patterns can be a great way to add visual interest to your bathroom.

But it can also be a recipe for disaster if you don’t have a cohesive design plan.

Too many patterns can create visual chaos and make the space feel overwhelming.

I’ve seen bathrooms where the floor tiles clashed with the wall tiles, which clashed with the shower tiles.

It was a sensory overload.

The key to mixing patterns is to choose patterns that complement each other and have a common theme.

For example, you could pair a geometric pattern with a solid color, or a floral pattern with a stripe.

I always recommend choosing one dominant pattern and then using smaller, more subtle patterns as accents.

You can also use color to tie the patterns together.

Choose patterns that have similar colors or that are in the same color family.

According to design principles, using the 60-30-10 rule can help achieve harmony.

This means 60% of the space should be the dominant color, 30% a secondary color, and 10% an accent color.

This rule can be applied to tile patterns as well.

3.3. Style #3: Dark Tiles in Small Spaces

Dark tiles can be dramatic and sophisticated, but they can also make a small bathroom feel even smaller.

Dark colors absorb light, which can make the space feel cramped and claustrophobic.

I’ve seen small bathrooms that felt like caves because they were covered in dark tiles.

If you have a small bathroom, I recommend sticking with lighter colors that reflect light and make the space feel more open and airy.

White, cream, and pastel colors are all great options.

You can also use reflective materials like glass or metallic tiles to bounce light around the room.

If you’re set on using dark tiles, try using them sparingly as an accent.

For example, you could use a dark tile border around a light tile floor, or create a dark tile accent wall in the shower.

Another trick is to use large mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of space.

3.4. Style #4: All-White Everything

An all-white bathroom can be clean and modern, but it can also feel sterile and lacking in character.

Too much white can make the space feel cold and uninviting.

I’ve seen all-white bathrooms that felt like hospitals.

The key to creating a successful all-white bathroom is to add texture and warmth.

You can do this by using different materials, such as wood, stone, or natural fibers.

For example, you could use a wood vanity, a stone countertop, or a woven basket for storage.

You can also add texture with your tiles.

Consider using textured tiles, such as subway tiles with a beveled edge, or natural stone tiles with a rough surface.

Another way to add warmth to an all-white bathroom is to use warm-toned lighting.

Avoid using harsh fluorescent lights, and opt for softer, warmer light bulbs.

You can also add pops of color with your accessories, such as towels, rugs, and artwork.

Section 4: Tips for Successful Tile Selection

Okay, so you know what to avoid. Now let’s talk about some tips for making successful tile selections.

Visit showrooms:

The internet is a great place to start your research, but nothing beats seeing tiles in person.

Visit tile showrooms and look at the tiles up close.

Touch them, feel them, and see how they look in different lighting conditions.

Most showrooms have design consultants who can help you choose the right tiles for your bathroom.

They can also provide you with samples and design ideas.

Samples:

Always, always, always bring samples home before making a final decision.

Tiles can look very different in your bathroom than they do in a showroom.

Bring home a variety of samples and look at them in different lighting conditions.

Place them next to your existing fixtures and paint colors to see how they look together.

Live with the samples for a few days before making a decision.

Consultation with professionals:

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about your tile selections, don’t be afraid to consult with a professional.

Interior designers and tile specialists can provide you with expert advice and guidance.

They can help you create a cohesive design plan and choose tiles that will look great in your bathroom.

They can also help you avoid common mistakes and save you time and money in the long run.

According to data from Houzz, homeowners who work with design professionals are more likely to be satisfied with their renovation projects.

Section 5: Conclusion

Choosing the right bathroom tiles is a big decision.

It’s an investment that will impact the look and feel of your bathroom for years to come.

By taking the time to consider your options and avoid common mistakes, you can create a bathroom that’s both beautiful and functional.

Remember to balance your personal taste with practicality.

Choose tiles that you love, but also that are durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Don’t rush the process. Take your time to research your options, visit showrooms, and bring samples home.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to consult with a professional.

With a little bit of planning and effort, you can create a bathroom that’s a true reflection of your style and a sanctuary you’ll love for years to come.

So, go ahead and start planning your dream bathroom.

I’m confident that with the tips and advice I’ve shared, you’ll be able to choose the perfect tiles and create a space that you’ll truly love.

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