We don’t doubt when you say, “It’s hard to find bathroom tile design ideas for small bathrooms.” We get it! Small bathrooms can be tricky to style, but if you pay attention to the tile design, a lot can change. Tiles can completely transform the look and feel of your space, more like, make or break the deal.
From making the bathroom appear more airy, or even adding a touch of luxury, there are no limits when it comes to tiles. In this blog, that’s exactly what we will be talking about! We will share Top 10 Small, Simple Bathroom Tiles Design Ideas along with practical tips to help you choose the best tile design for a small bathroom!
So without further ado, let’s jump right into it!
Here are the top 10 Small, Simple Bathroom Tile Design Ideas
1. Subway
When talking about something timeless classic for small bathrooms, there is nothing better than subway tiles! These small, simple bathroom tile designs with a rectangular shape and glossy finish have stood the test of time, and we are here for it. Not only do they reflect light beautifully, but they can also make even the smallest bathrooms appear brighter.
Also, let’s not forget how they are incredibly versatile! Like you can lay them horizontally or vertically as per the requirement. Want something unique? Herringbone pattern it is! Subway tiles can pair up amazingly with dark grout or marble basins.
2. Hexagonal
If you lean towards a modern, geometric touch, then hexagonal tiles will be your favorite! These are the kind of tiles that can be used on floors, accent walls, or even inside the shower for a sleek, stylish finish.
Because let’s face it— one problematic thing with small bathrooms is the clutter. One the other hand, these small hex tiles in muted tones can give a clean and contemporary look, while larger ones can be used as a statement feature on the floor.
3. Large Format
One of the illusion tricks many designers use is to put large-format tiles into smaller bathrooms. It is because these tiles can help to reduce the grout lines and create a seamless, less-cluttered appearance, making them an ideal small, simple bathroom tile design.
So, even if the space is not a lot, you can still make your bathroom look visually larger. Especially if you go with light-colored tiles in beige, cream, or soft-grey, they can make it seem airy and give it an open vibe.
And guess what? It comes with a bonus! As these small bathroom wall tile designs are large, the grout lines are only a few, so it’s pretty easy to maintain as well.
Also Read: Discovering the Top 10 Bathroom Vanity Design Ideas!
4.Textured
There are many types of textured tiles, but here are some that you can look at for smaller bathrooms:
- Penny tiles
Penny tiles can be an amazing choice for medium sized bathrooms! If your bathroom is small to medium, with not much stuff to put in, then this small bathroom wall tiles design is ideal. They make your bathroom look fuller and larger at the same time. So if you love to experiment with textures, and only like a few things in a bathroom— this is the one for you.
- 3D tiles
Who doesn’t love to brush their hand on textured tiles? Especially if they are 3D- 3D-textures! These bathroom tile design ideas for small bathrooms hold so much personality that even a small bathroom can seem like it was made very thoughtfully. They can go with every color and every pattern, as these tiles take up most of the attention. With these, you don’t have to worry about any other design!
5. Marble Effect
If you are looking for a natural stone vibe, but are also conscious of the cost— we have got the best tile design for a small bathroom! The marble effect is an evergreen design, which is what most homes go with.
It is because marble tiles are affordable in comparison to others, and can make any space look super luxurious. They replicate the veining and texture of real marble without the high maintenance needs. You can use them on the floor, vanity backsplash, or shower to create a spa-like atmosphere in your small bathroom.
6. Porcelain
If you love ceramic tiles made from refined clay, then porcelain small bathroom wall tiles design is what you are thinking about! They are fired at high temperatures, which makes them dense, less porous, and comes with a huge range of designs. In fact, their textures can even appear as real stone.
But here is the best part— if you look closely at them, they almost look like someone water-painted them with their hands. They have a unique color sequence with a glossy finish, which makes them look like textured under a glass. And here is an even better part— they are super easy to clear, resistant to moisture, and look high-end without a high-end price tag.
7. Mosaic
Mosaic tiles are also gaining a lot of attention among the new generation because of their finish and style. These are often chosen by people who love to reflect their personality through their design choices.
They are available in glass, ceramic, and stone finishes and work wonderfully as borders, shower niches, or even entire accent walls. The reason why this modern small bathroom tiles design fits so well with small spaces is because of the small scale of tiles, which makes them flexible for tight corners, leaving space for neat designs.
Also Read: Quick Bathroom Makeover: 10 Transformative Decor Ideas
8. Black
Contrary to popular belief, dark tiles, especially black, can work beautifully in small bathrooms— if positioned and complemented correctly. We get it, it’s very bold, and a lot can go wrong if not paid attention to.
However, matte and charcoal black tiles can add a lot of drama and sophistication to a space. It’s like using them as a feature wall behind the vanity or shower. Also, you can always balance black tiles with lighter accessories, mirrors, and lighting features.
9. Patterned
Nothing speaks more character than patterned tiles! They are the ones that can make a small bathroom look premium without over-crowding it. For this, you can choose subtle, repeating designs to maintain a cohesive look.
Whether you want to go with geometric, floral, or vintage patterns, make sure the accessories and walls around it do not take away from their stage. Because these patterned tiles can be used everywhere— the floor, behind the sink, shower, etc.
So, it’s best to stick to one area to avoid clutter. In addition to this, we don’t think you should worry about colors a lot, as anything with a lighter base (with a pop color design) will work wonders!
10. Natural Stone
We cannot talk about tiles without mentioning the natural stone tiles! These beautiful tiles are made from organic materials sourced from the earth, like marble, granite, slate, limestone, and travertine.
Here, each tile is unique and gives away a luxurious, timeless look that can add character to any bathroom. If you are into earthy tones and like to keep plants in your bathroom, this modern small bathroom tiles design is what you can blindly go for! These stones can last you a lifetime if you maintain them well.
Some Mistakes You Can Stay Away From
When buying the tiles, it’s very common to make decisions that can ruin the entire look and feel of your bathroom. So, here are some mistakes you can stay away from:
- Out of creativity, people mix more than two or three types of small bathroom wall tiles design (in terms of color, texture, and size). This might feel interesting, but it can make a small space feel chaotic. So, make sure that you choose a cohesive palette that goes together.
- Black tiles are in trend, but that is usually misinterpreted! Many people put black tiles, wirhout any source of natural or artificial light. It’s like, if you love dark hues, you have to pair it with brighter walls, or good lighting.
- Another mistake people make is not planning the tile layout. This is when those awkward cuts and uneven alignment become very common.
- Choosing slippery tiles for wet areas is another common mistake people make when choosing the best tile design for a small bathroom! These glossy tiles alook amazing, but for floors, you want to go for more matte, or textured tiles.
- Last but not least, the maintenance! Especially if you go with natural stones, you should know about their sealing needs and regular care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is a 24×24 tile too big for a small bathroom?
No, not necessarily! While 24×24 tiles are considered large, they can actually work well in small bathrooms. We believe it also comes down to how to style it. But considering fewer grout lines and a spacious feel, the tiles can create a clean, open, and uncluttered look.
Q2. What tile looks best in a small bathroom?
Glossy, light colored tiles will always look the best in small bathrooms. Whether you go for subway tiles, small mosaic tiles, large-format or porcelain, they can be the best tile design for small bathroom if you choose the color wisely.
Q3. What tiles make a small room look bigger?
Large format tiles in light shades like white or beige can make a small room look bigger. As these tiles have fewer grout lines, they create an illusion of a spacious room, which, if kept clean, can look elegant and minimalistic.
Q4. Can you use large floor tiles in a small room?
Yes, you can! Large tiles mean the grout lines will be fewer. Plus, if you choose them in a lighter color, then they can look like an uninterrupted flow of tiles. This will make your floor look more expansive and neat, and the perfect modern small bathroom tiles design.
Q5. What are the disadvantages of big tiles?
One of the biggest disadvantages of big tiles is that they are difficult to install in tight spaces. Which is why they require more cuts, and so the wastage it brings is a con!
