How to Choose a Bathroom Tile

Your bathroom is a very important space, you will need to be happy with the aesthetics and be able to rely on the functionality. A key component of every bathroom is the tiles. They set the tone, the colour palette and the style of your bathroom as they usually cover the most amount of area. So you will need to fall in love with your bathroom tile choice to ensure your bathroom lives a long and happy life.

There is no ‘best’ type of bathroom tile, as each bathroom is different and each will serve different types of people and families. Bathrooms need to function for those who will use it. So, right off the bat gloss or glazed tiles for floors would not be suitable if the bathroom is going to be used by elderly people or kids.

For bathrooms that will serve elderly or kids, matt non-slip finish tiles are the way to go. Wall tiles should not be walked on… so any finish will be fine. Before moving on to colour/style of tile, you need to work out who your bathroom will serve. Only then can you move on to aesthetics. While on the topic of functionality, some tiles are easier to keep clean than others(dark colours), while some tiles are easier to clean (glazed/gloss tiles)…

After you chose sensibly for your bathroom floor tiles – you can now choose what style and colour you want to tile your bathroom in. Ideally your bathroom ware (toilet/sink/bath/shower) and tile should work together. Modern, sleek minimalist bathroom ware should be paired with tiles that will work in harmony with it and the same rationale for other styles of bathroom.

When it comes to the colour – the use or lack thereof, is also an aesthetic choice. Monochrome or multi-coloured, there is no right and wrong choice, your style and colour choice should be your own. One of the most popular bathroom tile colours for the past few years (and not slowing down) has been grey. This adaptable colour is available in nearly 50 different shades, and nearly as many patterns adorning their surface.

Tile size is another oft overlooked facet of choosing your tile but should not be. Large format (larger than 60×60) tiles can have a transformative effect on small to medium sizes bathrooms, (see Cement Grey 80×80 above) creating an illusion of space with the resulting lack of grout lines because of the large tile size. Conversely, using small tiles in a section surrounding a sink or shower in a large bathroom can remove any possible feeling of sparseness.

Give your bathroom some wow-factor by adding a feature wall. This feature wall can be as low key or over the top as you want it to be. Break up the consistent wall tile with a contrasting colour for a simple yet dramatic effect. Or add a wall of stunning natural stone cladding for a classy luxe option. 

Wood-effect tiles are a superb way of adding some textural feel to your bathroom without comprising on the functionality. Available in a dazzling array of styles, patterns and colours these tiles contain supercharged characteristics and look hyper-realistic.

In summary, there is only one *rule* – functionality – your bathroom should work for you and for all those who will use it. After creating a bathroom that works, allow your creativity to take over while bearing in mind your tiles should match your sanitary ware. Do not be afraid to look around for inspiration before making your tile choice, there is a bathroom in every house, so there is not a shortage of finished bathrooms to look at online (or call into our showrooms for some real-life inspo). 

Be bold, be brave and be happy with your bathroom!

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