12 New Bathroom Tile Ideas 2024

Looking to make a splash with your next bathroom update? Discover the endless possibilities tiles can offer, from bold tile patterns to serene spaces that soothe the soul.

TL;DR: 12 New Bathroom Tile Ideas for 2024

• Where to Use Tiles: Focus on splash zones like around basins, showers, and baths, or opt for a fully tiled modern look.
• Budgeting Tips: Ceramic tiles are affordable and durable, while natural stone adds luxury. Always order 10% extra tiles for breakages.
• Maximising Space: Use light-coloured tiles to make small bathrooms look bigger, or larger tiles to reduce grout lines.
• Patterned Tiles for Style: Victorian, geometric, and hexagonal tiles can transform floors and walls.
• Creative Layouts: Try vertical tiling to add height or mix tile shapes for extra visual interest.
• Mixing Textures: Combine wood-effect and stone-effect tiles to create warmth and depth without the upkeep.
• DIY Installation: Start tiling from the top down, use spacers for even gaps, and consider professional help for tricky areas.

Ready to boss your bathroom? Read on for the full blog!

Table of Contents

• Where to Use Bathroom Tiles
• How to Set Your Tile Budget
• Maximising Space with Tile Size and Colour
• Choosing Patterned Tiles for Style
• Creative Tile Layouts and Shapes
• Mixing Textures: Wood-Effect & Stone-Effect Tiles
• Feature Walls and Floors with Bold Tiles
• DIY Bathroom Tile Installation Tips
• Should You Tile Over Existing Tiles?

Ready to get into it? Click through the section links above to uncover the tile trends, tips, and tricks that'll transform your bathroom into a personal sanctuary.

There’s something about tiles that turns a bathroom into a personal retreat — where everyday routines feel like luxurious escapes. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern spa or a cosy, rustic haven, tiles can set the mood.

Tiles have been the bathroom go-to for centuries (if they were good enough for the Romans, they’re definitely good enough for us). The right tile choices can take your bathroom from simple to extraordinary, transforming it into a space you’ll never want to leave. 

Here's everything you need to know about picking the perfect tiles for your bathroom, plus some brilliant ideas to spark your next bathroom renovation!

Part 1: Tile Triumphs – The Basics

Where to Use Tiles in the Bathroom

Tiles are traditionally used around washbasins, showers, and baths to protect against splashback. However, many now opt to tile all bathroom walls for a fully cohesive, polished look. For smaller spaces, consider tiling just splash zones or adding feature walls to prevent a boxed-in feel.

For floors, tiles are perfect for high-moisture areas, offering durability and style. When tiling bathroom floors, especially in wet rooms or shower enclosures, textured tiles are crucial to provide slip resistance in consistently wet areas. If you’re considering underfloor heating, larger tiles are recommended to minimise grout lines, which don’t conduct heat as efficiently as tiles.

Tiles can also extend beyond bathrooms and kitchens. In bedrooms, for instance, tiles with bold colours or patterns can create striking feature walls, particularly behind the bed, adding a contemporary and unique touch to your home.

What's your budget?

A budget is one of the first things you'll need to decide upon before buying your tiles. If you are on a tight budget, ceramic tiles are a good choice, as they are affordable, durable and look lovely when installed correctly. If you have a little more cash to splash, natural tiles may be the ones for you. They're long-lasting and will transform your bathroom into a luxurious haven.

If you’re after a budget-friendly option, waterproof laminate or vinyl flooring is a great alternative. But when ordering tiles, always  purchase 10% extra to account for breakages, cutting, or future repairs — this is especially useful when using a tile calculator (available on any tile page) to determine the exact number of tiles needed for your space.

Think of it as planning for that ‘just in case’ moment, like packing an extra pair of socks on holiday.

Focus on Key Areas

When choosing tiles for your bathroom, it’s essential to consider how different areas can stand out and enhance the overall design. For example, if your bath adjoins one or more walls, tiling the area around it can turn your bath into a standout feature. Simple white tiles or travertine-style and beige-coloured tiles can add elegance while providing protection from splashes.

For the floor, tiles offer plenty of creative opportunities. Mosaic tiles can be used to inlay patterns, adding a dynamic touch to what might otherwise be a simple space. Whether you opt for wood-effect tiles for a rustic feel or a bold chessboard pattern with black and white tiles, remember to coordinate your wall and floor tiles for a cohesive look.

Shower enclosures also provide a chance to play with contrast. Unlike the rest of the bathroom, the inside walls of your shower don’t need to conform to the same colour or tile style. Consider using light blues, dark greys, or even contrasting whites to create a focal point. For added style, experiment with metro tiles in different patterns.

In smaller bathrooms, avoid using very large tiles, as they can make the space feel even more compact. Instead, opt for smaller, plain tiles that can open up the room visually, even if they take more time and effort to install.

Finally, think about the people who will be using the space. For family bathrooms, bolder, primary colours can create a fun, child-friendly environment. For more mature or style-focused spaces, consider elegant greys or wood-effect tiles to create a sophisticated atmosphere.

Alright, enough of the waffling — let’s get to the good stuff! Whether your bathroom’s big, small, or somewhere in between, here’s how to tile it to perfection…

Step Right Up, Tile Enthusiasts!

1. Big or Small, Tiles Make It All!

Whether your bathroom is big or small, tile size and colour have a major impact on the room’s vibe. Larger tiles reduce grout lines, making the room feel more spacious, while smaller mosaic tiles add intricate detail to key areas, like behind the basin, without overwhelming the space. For a bright, airy feel, opt for neutral tones and lighter grout, which opens up the room visually. Glossy, glass and mirror tiles can reflect light and create a sense of depth, while matt finishes add definition for a stylish, modern look.

In smaller bathrooms, light-coloured tiles, such as whites, creams, or light greys, are your best friend. They reflect light and make the space feel more open. These shades also act as a blank canvas, allowing you to introduce colourful accessories without cluttering the look.

Pro tip: Prevent a claustrophobic feeling. Avoid floor to ceiling tiling in small spaces - it can feel cramped. Instead, mix different tile designs or consider wood-effect flooring for a stylish contrast that adds warmth without shrinking the space visually.

Our Top Picks: 

• Colour Cascade Green Gloss Wall Tiles
• Martil Brick Red Porcelain Wall Tiles
• Alaska Glass & Stone Mosaic Tile Sheet

2. Patterned Tiles for Maximum Style

Choosing the right patterned tiles can completely transform your bathroom. Whether you want bold, traditional designs or sleek, modern patterns, tiles give you endless ways to create a unique look. Here are some top ideas to inspire your next bathroom update:

Victorian Elegance

Victorian-style patterned tiles bring vintage charm to any space. While using them wall-to-wall can feel overwhelming, pairing them with wooden panels on the lower portion of the wall adds balance. These designs work beautifully in traditional or period-style bathrooms, offering timeless elegance.

Create a Striking Backdrop

For a more subtle approach, use patterned tiles to create an understated backdrop behind your bath or vanity. This technique is both cost-effective and practical, protecting walls from moisture while adding style without overpowering the room.

Make a Feature of Your Floor

A patterned floor can serve as the focal point of your bathroom, especially in smaller spaces. Pair a feature floor with plain metro tiles on the walls for a balanced look. For a vintage Victorian aesthetic, carefully selected floor tiles can bring your design together, adding warmth and character.

Mix and Match for Contrast

Mixing patterns with simpler tiles is a creative way to add visual interest. For example, you could use patterned tiles on the upper part of the wall, separated by a border from sleek metro tiles on the lower half. This prevents overwhelming the space while still offering plenty of style.

Play with Geometric Patterns

Geometric tiles, like herringbone, chevron, or hexagons, add both shape and texture. These striking ceramic or wood-effect patterns bring movement and depth to your space, especially when mixed with contrasting colours. For a bolder look, try arranging tiles diagonally or in a staggered brick bond pattern. This adds a dynamic, personalised touch while ensuring a clean finish.

Modern Hexagonal Tiles

Hexagonal tiles bring a contemporary edge to bathrooms. They add character while keeping the space sleek and stylish. Use them as a focal point in shower enclosures or feature walls, or go all out with a patterned hexagonal floor.

Calming Blue Tones

For a more soothing and subtle design, consider longer, narrow tiles in soft shades of blue. With subtle patterns, these tiles exude sophistication and create a calming atmosphere without overwhelming the room.

Our Top Picks:

• Bradley Patterned Wall and Floor Tiles
• Elba Blue Inverse Star Patterned Wall & Floor Tiles
• Vista Terrazzo Effect Hexagon Porcelain Wall + Floor Tiles

3. Try a Feature Alcove for Practical Style

Want to add a touch of functional style to your bathroom? Create a feature alcove within your shower or next to your bath by using different tiles to highlight the recessed area. This is perfect for displaying toiletries or adding a pop of colour without overwhelming the space.

Our Top Picks:

• Pella Grey Terrazzo Effect Hexagon Wall & Floor Tiles 
• Reno Patterned Wall and Floor Tiles
• Mataro Blue Patterned Decor Wall Tiles

4. Make a Statement with a Chessboard Tile Pattern

Planning a bathroom can often resemble a game of chess—carefully moving your pieces around, considering your strategy and working yourself into a winning position. Ready to checkmate boring floors? Let’s play! Vinyl and laminate are good low cost options but for the perfect finish, tiles are truly regal. 

A classic black-and-white chessboard tile floor adds drama to any bathroom. This timeless look is perfect for traditional or vintage designs and creates a bold, contrasting visual that's sure to impress.

A black-and-white floor is a classic look that never goes out of style. Whether you choose plain tiles or a patterned design, a monochrome floor will make a bold statement.

Our Top Picks:

• Stonehouse Studio Chequers Black Patterned Wall and Floor Tiles

5. Create Visual Interest with Vertical Tiles

Laying tiles vertically can add height and depth to your bathroom, making it feel taller and more spacious. This trick works especially well in shower enclosures, drawing the eye upward for a sense of added height.

Our Top Picks:

• Stonehouse Studio Otsu Mini Kit-Kat Mosaic Tile Sheet Gloss White with Shaded Edges
• Paragon Sage Gloss Pill Wall Tiles 50 x 250mm
• Martelli Grey Stone Effect Decor Wall Tiles - 300 x 900mm

6. Mix Different Tile Shapes for Added Interest

Why stick to one tile shape? Mixing rectangular metro tiles with hexagonal floor tiles or other shapes can add texture and personality to your bathroom, making it feel more dynamic and interesting.

Our Top Picks:

• Stonehouse Studio Loreto White Terrazzo Effect Wall and Floor Tiles
• Roxbury 1500 Freestanding Modern Bath
• Chatsworth Wall Hung Blue Vanity with Chrome Handle & Low Level Toilet

7. Combine Textures with Wood and Stone

Mixing wood-effect and stone-effect tiles is a great way to create a warm, earthy feel while keeping things modern. These materials add texture, warmth, and durability without the maintenance worries of natural materials. They’re moisture-resistant and much easier to care for in a bathroom setting.

You don’t have to settle on just one material. Mix chrome fixtures with wood-effect tiles, or combine marble and ceramic finishes to add contrast and create a unique, personalised bathroom.

Marble tiles add a touch of luxury to any bathroom. Use them on the floor or for an all-over wall finish to create an elegant, sophisticated space.

Our Top Picks:

• Textured Alps Terra Stone Effect Wall Tiles
• Otaru Bamboo Effect Cream Wall Tiles
• Stonehouse Studio Gatley White Marble Effect Tiles
• Beacon Walnut Wood Effect Floor Tiles

8. Use Coloured Grouts for a Personal Touch

Why not get creative with grout? Coloured grout can add an unexpected pop to your bathroom, helping tiles stand out. Try black grout with white tiles for a sharp contrast, or go with grey grout for a more subtle, sophisticated look.

Intermission: Time for a Tea Break!

We’ve breezed through some cracking tile ideas so far — everything from where to place them, to making the most of small spaces, and even showing off with bold patterns. Here’s your well-earned intermission… 

Time to give your brain (and your scroll finger) a break. Pop the kettle on, stretch those legs, and get ready for Part 2 — we’ve still got plenty more tile inspiration to come!

Part 2: Let’s Keep the Tile Party Going

Tea break over? Good, because Part 2 is here to take your bathroom reno to the next level! We’ve got texture tips, feature floors, and more tile tricks up our sleeve. Once more unto the breach…

9. Add Colour with Metro Tiles

On-trend designs at the moment include metro tiles (so-called as they resemble the small tiling used in underground train stations). Opt for deep blue or burnt orange for a modern take, and try laying them in a herringbone or chevron pattern to add even more visual interest.

Create a stunning feature wall using metro tiles. Whether behind your bath or inside your shower, they add a bold visual element and can be contrasted with lighter walls or neutral floors.

Mix and match metro tiles in various colours to create a fun, vibrant bathroom. This technique works best in contemporary bathrooms where you want to inject energy and playfulness into the design.

Herringbone patterns add timeless sophistication to your bathroom. Whether using metro tiles or wood-effect planks, this layout brings instant character to your space.

Chevron and herringbone tile patterns are dynamic, adding movement to your bathroom’s design. Highlight these designs with contrasting grout, or keep it subtle by matching the grout to the tiles.

Create a trendy ombré effect, where tiles transition from light to dark, by using tiles in varying shades of the same colour. This is a striking way to add depth, especially with large-format tiles in blues or greys.

Our Top Picks:

• Harrison Green Gloss Wall Tiles - 100 x 200mm
• Victoria Metro Flat Brown Tiles 200 x 100mm
• Victoria Metro Wall Tiles - White Marble

10. Go Bold with Dark Tiles

Dark tiles create a dramatic, sophisticated look. While light tiles help open up a space, dark tiles provide contrast and can create a striking backdrop for your fixtures.

Our Top Picks:

• Stonehouse Studio Adelphi Black Hexagon Wall & Floor Tiles
• Eris Graphite Wall Tile - 250 x 500mm
• Stonehouse Studio Tetra Matt Black Wall and Floor Tiles

11. Patchwork Perfection for an Eclectic Vibe

Patchwork tiles are perfect for adding a touch of eclectic style to your bathroom. Use them on the floor or create a feature wall to add vibrancy and character to your space.

Our Top Picks:

• Verini Encaustic Effect Wall and Floor Tiles - 200 x 200mm

12. Add Rustic Charm with Distressed Tiles

Distressed tiles bring a rustic, lived-in feel to your bathroom without the worry of actual damage. Perfect for coastal or farmhouse-style bathrooms.

Our Top Picks:

• Maenza Gloss Greige Rustic Wall Tiles - 316 x 600mm
• Branford Taupe Rustic Stone Effect Tiles - 75 x 280mm
• Toulon Rustic White Gloss Wall Tiles

Part 3: Our Top Tile Tips 

How to Fit Your Bathroom Tiles Like a Pro

If you plan to install your bathroom tiles yourself, preparation is key. Ensure you have essential tools like adhesive, spacers, tile cutters, and a tape measure. Before tiling, make sure to waterproof the walls around your shower and bath, as these areas will come into frequent contact with water. There are waterproofing kits and wall matting products available that make this task simple but essential for a long-lasting installation.

Proper plotting is crucial to ensure a smooth, even finish. Decide where your fixtures, fittings, ledges, and frames will go, and mark those areas with a marker, so you avoid drilling into tiles later. Once planned, always start tiling from the top to the bottom for a more professional finish, free of awkward cuts at the top of your walls. Even in modern bathrooms, walls may not be perfectly uniform, so measure your bathroom accurately to account for slight variations in size.

When selecting tiles, remember that larger tiles can make the job easier and cleaner due to fewer cuts, especially in smaller spaces. However, if you're opting for smaller tiles like metro tiles, keep in mind that they require more time and precision. 

Always use spacers to ensure uniform gaps between tiles. If you're tiling over different surfaces, like wood or cement, consider the material. Tiling over wood provides warmth underfoot, while tiling over cement may benefit from installing underfloor heating to add comfort.

Not confident? It might be worth hiring a professional for a high-quality, watertight finish.

Should You Tile Over Old Tiles?

While you can tile over existing tiles, it’s not always the best approach. Tiling over loose or damaged tiles can cause problems later on. Removing old tiles and prepping the wall will give you a smoother, more reliable result

The Grand Finale

Phew, you made it! We know this blog was a long one, but thanks for sticking with us. Hopefully, you’re now brimming with ideas to transform your bathroom into the retreat you deserve.

Whether you're planning small tweaks or a full renovation, these 12 tile ideas will help you create a space that oozes style and practicality.

For even more bathroom inspiration, DIY tips, and expert buying guides, be sure to check out the rest of our blog.

And if this guide sparked your creativity, why not share it with your friends and followers on social media? Spread the tile love and help others transform their spaces too!

Find Your Perfect Tile Match Today.