5 TOP TRENDS IN BATHROOM TILE DESIGN

Picking ceramic tiles for your bathroom is not so simple anymore. There is so much variety in design, shape, color, and texture that it can be overwhelming. Tiles were mostly laid down for their functional benefits (resistance to water, durability, low maintenance) but today, their aesthetic impact is just as important as their function. This is why manufacturers have expanded their selections to provide really unique styles for homeowners. They focus on the finishes, colors, shapes, and patterns.

Trend #1: Graphic Tile Patterns

Whether on the floor or the wall it’s the perfect accent tile in any room!  Either in soft subtle hues or bold contrasting colors the intricate patterns available for these tiles with lure you in and capture your heart. This trend is number one on our list because it’s going to be, or should I say, it already is HUGE! Grey patterned tiles will continue to expand in popularity. From subway tiles to ceramic, it’s safe to say that graphic pattern tiles can be anywhere and everywhere especially your bathroom. This style really gives homeowners the chance to tap into their creative side, or hire a designer to get creative for them.Right now we are mostly seeing encaustic ceramic tiles being a popular choice for those with patterned tiles, however, porcelain styles are coming out with the same thing!

Trend #2: Move Over Glossy Tiles, Matte Finishes 

The popularity of matte finish tiles follows us into the new year. They feature a soft but powerful beauty–style that does not get too overwhelming.  An advantage of matte tiles is that they do not show smudges and water marks as easily as glossy tiles. This makes them ideal for the bathroom floor, especially in busy bathrooms. The low sheen makes them easier to maintain. When installing marble finish tiles make sure there is enough lighting, both natural and artificial, as these tiles are not known for reflecting light.

Glossy finish tiles feature a more dramatic effect on the bathroom. They tend to create an elegant, highly polished look and feel. This is why they are still popular. They are especially great for small bathrooms as they tend to reflect plenty of light and create the perception of a space that is larger than it seems. But because they need more maintenance work and are a slip hazard, glossy finish tiles are often used on walls or low-traffic bathroom floor areas.

If you are looking for understated elegance with unspoken sophistication, go for matte finish tiles. They are also great if you want an earthy style in your bathroom. But if what you are looking for is something a bit more dramatic and attention-capturing, glossy finish tiles are right up your alley.

Trend #3: Neutral Tiles 

Contemporary designs make big use of neutral colors and this remains the case for bathroom tile trends. Bright colors such as blue, red and yellow are not commonplace in the bathroom and will not be the shining star anytime soon. Instead, homeowners are falling more in love with neutrals and especially nude neutrals such as grey and creams.  Grey and beige have become super popular as complementary neutrals.  So much so, that a new color has emerged by name and featured in product selections. 

For bathrooms that need a bit more brightness, white is perfect.  The bathroom is built for relaxing and these colors reinforce this atmosphere. By being neutral, they allow the mind to stay calm and relax creating a sanctuary in the home. You can use these colors from the flooring all the way to the ceiling. To ensure the bathroom doesn’t become lifeless, layer in different shades of neutral colors, textures, shapes and/or finishes to bring everything together in a new and lovely way.

Trend #4: Subway Tiles with More Pizazz

Some may think subway tiles can be boring. Those white 3 by 6-inch rectangles can be quite commonplace.Subway tiles will get a bit more interesting as the tiles depart from the traditional size and pattern. Specifically, we are going to see these tiles offered in more colors, larger sizes, and a-typical design patterns (dome, beveled, arched, and sculptural). Subway tiles are getting thicker and longer, with dimensions as large as 8 by 20.  Pair that with contrasting grout color and the stage has been set for a marvelous reversal from the common all-white look. You can even couple different colors of tile in vertical or horizontal bands or incorporate different patterned bathroom floor tiles to create a delightful wall mosaic for your bathroom. 

Trend #5: Dimensional Tiles

It is not just colors and patterns of tiles that are getting more diverse, manufacturers are also playing around with the shapes.Bathroom tile trends will vary from traditional rectangle to a variety of other geometric shapes.  One particular shape that has made a resurgence in recent times is the hexagon. Hexagonal tiles are making their way back into the bathroom in all sizes, colors, and textures especially on shower floors, where they create a uniquely different appearance.

You could place these striking tiles on your bathroom floor in big bold graphic tile design patterns, geometric shape tiles and combine with color patterns to create complicated and visually arresting styles.