picket tile Archives - The Tile Shop Blog Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:14:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 147117943 15 Great Large Format Bathroom Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/great-large-format-bathroom-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/great-large-format-bathroom-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=13617 Defined as any tile with one side longer than 23″, large format tile requires fewer grout lines, creating spaces that...

The post 15 Great Large Format Bathroom Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
Defined as any tile with one side longer than 23″, large format tile requires fewer grout lines, creating spaces that look and feel expansive (bonus: fewer grout lines mean easier cleaning). From luxurious marble to durable stone looks, these oversized tiles are available in a range of designs that deliver big style with low maintenance. Read on for 15 large format tile ideas that will make the biggest impact in your bathroom.

1. Make Your Floor Feel Expansive

Requiring fewer grout lines, large format tile creates a sense of openness that can visually expand the footprint of a small powder room or compact primary bath. In this elegant transitional bathroom, designed by @esslingerdesigncompany, the crisp white veining in the grey stone-look Wells Pearl Matte 12″ x 24″ tile blends tonally with the white grout, minimizing the appearance of the joints and creating space-enhancing cohesion across the floor.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Space-Maximizing Small Bathroom Tile Ideas

This transitional bathroom features grey stone-look large-format floor tile and grey handmade-look subway tile.
Featuring: Wells Pearl Matte and Tribeca Gypsum White. Design and photography by @esslingerdesigncompany.

2. Create a Chic & Unique Space With Marble

Whether lush and expressive or delicately veined, marble is the epitome of luxury. Available in sizes up to 12″ x 24″, large-format marble tile delivers the look of a traditional stone floor or slab stone wall in an easy-to-install format. This charming bathroom, designed by Annie Selke, features creamy ivory Arctic White tile. Subtle natural variations in the stone make each piece unique, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind space.

Shop our wide selection of marble tile for more uniquely expressive looks.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs

This gorgeous white bathroom features a brushed marble tile floor.
Featuring: Arctic White. Design by Annie Selke. Photography by Bethany Nauert Photography.

3. “Paint” the Room With Laura Park Tile

Featuring expressive marble-look detail in cool blue pastel inspired by the ocean and her signature watercolors, the Laura Park Seaside Marble large format tile creates an artistic tableau in this beautiful bathroom. Paired with the coordinating herringbone mosaic tile and the patterned Cosmo Aegean Blue (featuring one of Park’s most popular original designs), the vivid blue tile infuses the space with expressive movement and brilliant tones that are both soothing and invigorating.

Explore our exclusive Laura Park designer collection for more captivating shapes and abstract motifs designed to mix and match.

4. Marble-Look Tile = Low-Maintenance Luxury

Love the look of marble but not the upkeep? Large format marble look tile offers the perfect solution. Available in sizes up to 48″ x 48″, these tiles replicate the natural veining of real stone in a durable porcelain or ceramic format. In this opulent bathroom, designed by Gray Space Interiors, the Invisible Grey tile fills the space with bold, expressive movement.

Explore our extensive selection of marble look tile for more beautiful, low-maintenance looks.

Large-format marble-look porcelain tile in shades of white and gray covers the walls and floor of a bathroom that also features a deep white soaker tub with matte black faucet.
Featuring: Invisible Grey. Design by Gray Space Interiors. Photography by Brian Wetzel.

5. Add Texture

The raised fluted detail of the Kelli Fontana Tommas Classico tile (also available in grey-veined Tommas Carrara) creates both tactile and visual texture, as the ridges cast subtle shadows along the wall. Featuring smooth, rounded flutes, the 12″ x 35″ tile engages the senses as you run your hand along the surface, filling the space with delicate elegance. This romantic aesthetic is further enhanced by the elaborate leaf motif on the checkered Kelli Fontana Inlay Proper in Eden Ode and Florence Lace floor tile.

If you love this bold, classic and whimsical look, explore our exclusive Kelli Fontana designer collection.

6. Supersize Your Style With Porcelain Panels

Taking large format to the max, porcelain slab panels are available in sizes up to 32″ x 94″ and can be purchased as complete shower and tub kits. Shown here in beautiful Masterstone White, this tile features a contemporary mix of cool and warm neutrals, delivering the beauty of natural marble in durable, easy-to-maintain porcelain. Minimal grout lines create a seamless, high-end look while making cleaning a breeze.

Shop all four natural stone-inspired styles: Max Rapolano Ivory, Statuario Nuovo, Masterstone White and Calacatta White.

Note: These oversized panels require specialized equipment and professional expertise for installation and are not recommended for DIY projects. Contact your local Tile Shop for a list of qualified installers in your area.

Featuring: Masterstone White.
Sign up for emails.

7. Mix Marble & Marble-Look Tile

You don’t have to choose between the exquisite elegance of marble and the durability and easy care of marble-look tile. By combining the two, you can create a space that’s both unique and practical—and the lower price point of marble-look tile can help stretch your budget.

In this stunning space, designed by Nikki Chu, Macchia Vecchia porcelain wall tile is paired with Calacatta Evora marble floor tile. The bold veining of the marble-look tile complements the subtle natural variation of the marble, creating a harmonious yet striking design.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Modern Bathroom Tile Ideas

8. Add a Vertical Stripe

Add visual interest and the illusion of height to your shower with a long, skinny tile—like the 12″ x 35″ Atins Lambri Shell shown here. The tile’s fluted surface adds a tactile element, while its soothing beige stone details complement the veining in the Marmo Calacatta Gold wall tile in this lovely space, designed by @the_daily_diy_official.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Ultra-Stylish Neutral Shower Tile Ideas

9. Match With a Mosaic

Create visual distinction between your bathroom and shower areas while maintaining a cohesive look by pairing large-format tile with a coordinating mosaic. In this gorgeous, contemporary space, Moonstone Off White large format tile is used in the main bathroom, while the Moonstone Off-White Picket mosaic adds texture and traction in the shower. The matching design ties the space together, making it feel elegant and intentional.

Shop this expressive stone-look tile in this and two more distinct colorways: Moonstone Beige (and Picket) and Moonstone Gray (and Picket).

10. Choose Pre-Scored Tile for Easy Installation

Another benefit of large format tile is that it simplifies installation by covering more area with fewer pieces. The Cool Blue tile features pre-scored grout joints, giving the appearance of 18 individual handmade-look tiles while offering the convenience of a single large piece. We love how this tile is installed with extra-wide horizontal grout joints for an elevated design detail.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design

Order $3 samples.

11. Make a Major Play With a Checkerboard Design

Classically chic, checkerboard is a timeless design that’s getting major play in contemporary spaces. Level up this simple layout with large format square tile. Here, the Livingstone tile in Grigio and Nero hopscotch across the floor and tub surround for a delightful, dynamic effect—a true game changer!

For an easy win, explore our curated checkerboard pairings.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Unique and Unexpected Checkerboard Tile Ideas

12. Get a Water-Resistant Wood Look

Bring the ruggedly refined look of hardwood to your bathroom with large format wood-look tile. Realistic graining and knotting mimic wooden planks in these long, skinny tiles. Suited to a range of styles—including modern farmhouse, Japandi, and transitional—these water-resistant porcelain and ceramic tiles protect your floors and walls while offering exceptional design.

Shop our wide selection of wood-look tile, like the Truewood Beige porcelain tile featured in this gorgeous modern farmhouse bathroom, designed by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Wood-Look Tile Pros & Cons

This modern farmhouse bathroom features beige wood-look porcelain floor tile.
Featuring: Truewood Beige. Design & Photography by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven.

13. Choose a Cement Look for Sleek Industrial Design

You don’t need a downtown loft to embrace the cool, urban aesthetic of industrial design. Richly detailed cement-look porcelain or ceramic tile brings this sophisticated style to any home—whether in the heart of the city or on the farthest suburban outskirts.

Here, Softcement Graphite tile infuses this West Bay Homes–designed bathroom with sleek industrial vibes. We love how the natural elements—in the form of the wildlife print and plant—contrast with the cement-look tile, adding warmth and organic appeal.

Shop this chic tile in all three on-trend colorways: Graphite, Silver and White.

A modern bathroom with large-format grey floor and wall tile and a shower featuring black with white veined marble-look tile.
Featuring: Softcement Graphite, Shanxi Black Flamed and Livingstone Nero. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting.

14. Create a Space that Shines With Metallic-Look Tile

Featuring stunning color and a chic metallic sheen, Ionic Copper tile (also available in Steel [black] and White) creates the look of a single sheet of metal across your walls or floors. With a rectified edge that minimizes the appearance of grout lines, this 12″ x 47″ tile delivers the look of copper in a durable, rust-proof porcelain format—perfect for wet bathrooms and showers.

Featuring: Ionic Copper.

15. Achieve Big Style on Any Budget

No matter your budget or style, you’ll find a wealth of beautiful tile and flooring to bring your dream space to life at The Tile Shop. Priced under $7/sq. ft., the large format Macula Matte tile and Villa Cool Grey Gloss subway tile add elegant, affordable style to this contemporary shower. The lower half is tiled in 31″ x 31″ marble-look tile, reducing grout lines in the areas that collect the most dirt and soap residue, while the upper portion of subway tile creates a sleek contrast that maintains tonal cohesion.

Shop our wide selection of Tile Under $7 for more affordable on-trend styles.

Let’s Create a Space You’ll Love!

Convinced that bigger is better? Shop our vast assortment of large format tile to find the perfectly expansive style for your space. And if you need more inspiration, check out our 36 Bold and Beautiful Bathroom Ideas for 2025, or schedule a free design consultation–we’re here to help bring your dream space to life!

Find a Tile Shop showroom near you.

The post 15 Great Large Format Bathroom Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/great-large-format-bathroom-tile-ideas/feed/ 0 13617
25 Ultra-Stylish Neutral Shower Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/ultra-stylish-neutral-shower-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/ultra-stylish-neutral-shower-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:30:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=14300 Quietly luxurious, pleasantly tranquil and universally appealing, neutrals are the go-to choice for timeless design that adds lasting value to...

The post 25 Ultra-Stylish Neutral Shower Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
Quietly luxurious, pleasantly tranquil and universally appealing, neutrals are the go-to choice for timeless design that adds lasting value to your home. But if “neutral” brings to mind bland beige and sterile grey spaces, we have 25 stunning contemporary showers that are sure to change your mind!

While the classics—white, beige, grey and brown—remain popular, the modern neutral palette has expanded to include serene, nature-inspired blues and greens, along with striking bronze, terracotta and moody black tones. These lush yet subdued hues create visually rich tableaus that remain comfortably within neutral territory, and by layering tones, patterns and textures, you can bring stylish complexity to even the simplest color palette.

1. Add Distinct Texture

One way to add interest to a minimal color scheme is through shape and texture. This stunning shower, designed by @the_daily_diy_official, creates visual complexity with accents—the Atins Lambri Shell tile stripe and Calacatta Gold Matte Hex tile in the shower niche. While these tiles tonally complement the main Marmo Calacatta Gold wall tile, their distinct shape and texture introduce a subtle visual disruption that engages without overwhelming the senses.

2. Maintain Elegant Cohesion With a Stone Collection

Lush, luxurious and enduringly appealing, natural stone adds enjoyment and value to your home. This beautiful bathroom is bathed in Siberian Pearl marble. Featuring an ice-white background with grey and beige veining, the radiant, movement-rich pearly grey coloring creates a serene yet dynamic look. The stone design—which includes layered trim and a Niles With Grey Dot mosaic tile centerpiece—creates a uniform space that is anything but boring.

The Tile Shop’s exclusive natural stone collections include multiple styles with matching mosaics and trim, making it easy to achieve a wonderfully cohesive and timelessly elegant space—all in striking organic neutral tones. Explore this and some of our most popular collections: Bianco Colorato, Black Marquina, Firenze and Legno limestone.

3. Create Hex-cellent Designs

A classic shape experiencing a resurgence in interior design, hexagon tile enhances spaces with energetic movement and stylish silhouettes. This chic shower features the Marmaris Sunset hex, whose expressive stone-look veining brings vibrant movement to a calming neutral color scheme. By combining cool and warm neutrals, the tile’s contemporary palette adds stunning visual texture even with minimal accents.

Explore our wide selection of hexagon tile for a variety of colors, patterns and sizes to create an eye-catching design.

This dynamic shower features white, blue, grey and brown veined marble-look hex tile.
Featuring: Marmaris Sunset Hex.

4. Add Rich Rust Details

Even a neutral palette can be brilliant with the right details. Tonally complementary to beige and white, rust red and terracotta enrich a color scheme without straying far from comforting neutral territory. This fashionable bathroom incorporates shades of orange to stunning effect, featuring the checkerboard Kasbah floor tile in Cross Terracotta and Star Bone, alongside the movement-rich rust veining of the Arabian Pisa Oro marble-look shower wall tile.

Explore our full selection of orange tile to introduce robust, warm tones into your neutral palette. 👉

5. Don’t Let Your Budget Limit Your Style

At The Tile Shop, we’re committed to delivering quality design for every budget. Priced under $7 per sq. ft., the Macula Matte marble-look tile and Villa Cool Grey subway tile bring lavish, affordable style to this chic shower. The soft, undulating grey tones of the handmade-look subway tile complement the expressive grey veining of the large format marble-look tile for an exquisite neutral space.

Discover our wide selection of beautiful tile for every budget and style in our Tile Under $7 collection.

Schedule a free design consultation.

6. Venture to the Dark Side

Sleek and sophisticated, black and dark steely grey tile create a wonderfully soothing mood. This fashionable shower features the Imperial Pewter Matte subway tile. This shade of soft, velvety grey is so close to black that we included it in our list of black shower tile ideas. We love how the dark grey midtones are contrasted with white grout and complemented by jet-black fixtures.

To explore a more dramatic, moody look, browse our wide selection of black tile. 👉

MORE TO EXPLORE | Brilliant Black Shower Tile Ideas

A sleek and chic shower featuring black subway tile.
Featuring: Imperial Pewter Matte. Design and photography by @hutchdesignbuild.

7. Create High Contrast

White and black naturally create the perfect yin-and-yang balance, enlivening your space without disrupting its tranquility. Here, Color Mind Light AC Matte subway tile on shower walls is paired with Hex Matte Black tile in the recessed niche. White grout creates a seamless backdrop on the shower walls, then gently contrasts with the black hex tile in the niche, creating a dynamic yet subtle visual texture with standout geometric simplicity.

This contemporary shower features white subway tile and black hex shower niche.
Featuring: Color Mind Light AC Matte and Hex Matte Black. Design and photography by @katiewoodinteriors

8. Soothe With Scallops

A unique tile shape can add interest to a simple color scheme. From scallops and waves to leaves, stars, and crosses, an unexpected silhouette can enliven your space by offering a welcome deviation from the routine. Designed by @malloryandrewsinteriors, this stunning shower wall features the Tortona White tile. The scalloped edge lends softness, while the diagonal installation adds an unexpected twist, creating visual distinction even as the complementary grout maintains a nuanced design. The look is so original that carrying it through into the shower niche—where you might expect a different tile—feels both organic and playful.

This stylish shower features white scallop mosaic wall tile.
Featuring: Tortona White. Design and photography by @malloryandrewsinteriors.

9. Pick a Pretty Penny

Small but mighty, penny round tile packs a major design punch, as shown in this deceptively simple shower designed by @onecottageway. Large stripes of tightly packed Penny Round tile in Matte White and Milk create a subtle tonal shift, giving the shower an air of understated elegance. If you look closely, you’ll notice the tile also extends onto the bathroom wall, creating a cohesive space with gentle movement that feels expansive.

This beautiful shower features white and off-white colored penny tile in wide stripes.
Featuring: Penny Round Matte White and Penny Round Milk. Design and photography by @onecottageway.

10. Layer In Coastal Vibes

Warm off-white and cool denim-blue hues blend together to create this sea-meets-shore coastal chic dream space. The Signature Denim Gloss subway and London and Pencil trim tiles are layered around a picture frame of Shapes Elongated Hex Off White Two Tone mosaic tile, finished with a subtle layer of Signature Oatmeal Gloss Square Pencil trim. The muted oceanic tones create a calming atmosphere that’ll transform any house into a beach house—whether you’re East Coast, West Coast or no coast.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Coastal Chic

Order $3 samples.

11. Showcase a Beautiful Motif

By framing a patterned or mosaic tile with trim, you can create a decorative focal point that adds interest to your shower wall without overwhelming the space. If bold, bright designs aren’t your style, opt for an elegant neutral motif, like the Kelli Fontana Inlay Proper Naples Beach tile shown here. Featuring an ornate white floral pattern on a soft travertine-look background, this tile is fancy without being flamboyant.

Love this romantic, feminine aesthetic? Explore our exclusive Kelli Fontana designer collection for more of her signature bold, classic and whimsical designs.

12. Pair Natural Stone With Stone-Look Tile

Natural stone comes in a range of neutral tones—from crisp white to deep black—making marble, travertine, slate and limestone excellent choices for a neutral shower design. If you love the one-of-a-kind character of stone but want to stretch your budget or simplify maintenance, try pairing the real thing with marble-look porcelain or ceramic tile.

This tasteful wet room, designed by West Bay Homes, features Claros Siler hex floor tile and Atlanta White porcelain wall tile. We love how the lush, complex silver and beige tones of the stone contrast with the thin grey veining in the wall tile.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Wonderfully Luxurious Wet Room Tile Ideas

13. Keep It Classy With Black and White

This stylish color-blocked shower is black and white and fabulous all over. Like a well-tailored tux, Lanse Matte Picket tile in Black and White suits the space with striking contrast and crisp horizontal and diagonal lines. Installed with matching grout, the unique picket shape—named for the pointed fence posts it resembles—is subtle but distinct, while the matte finish gives the space a sleek, contemporary appeal.

Discover more dynamic designs when you shop picket tile. 👉

14. Surround Yourself With Spa-Like Serenity

Achieve the luxurious, relaxing feel of expansive stone slabs in a durable, easy-to-maintain format with oversized porcelain panels. Available individually or in complete shower and tub surround kits, these opulent designs mimic real stone and require even fewer grout lines than large-format tile, creating a near-seamless finish throughout your space.

In this spa-worthy bathroom, Masterstone White panels are installed in the shower and behind the vanity, filling the space with soft beige and gray tones for a chic, realistic marble effect. The hexagon-shaped mirror, floating vanity, and tapered sconces add contemporary contrast to this timeless tableau.

Shop porcelain panel shower kits in all four on-trend styles: Masterstone White, Calacatta White, Statuario Nuovo and Max Rapolano.

This opulent bathroom features warm greige marble-look porcelain slabs that extend from the shower walls into the main space.
Featuring: Masterstone White.

15. “Paint” Your Walls With Relaxing Pastels

Inspired by her original watercolors, our exclusive Laura Park designer collaboration is filled with painterly designs and soothing color palettes. This gorgeous shower showcases the Laura Park Seaside Marble porcelain tile, which pairs realistic stone veining with vibrant blue tones that evoke the ocean—an inspiration for many of Park’s designs. The floor and the side of the shower bench are tiled with the coordinating Herringbone mosaic, adding both visual movement and traction underfoot.

Find a store near you.

16. Luxuriate in Lush White Marble

Crisp, creamy white marble epitomizes relaxing luxury, as in this lavish shower featuring expressively veined Volakas marble. Abundant with natural movement, the corner-to-corner marble tile feels both elegant and distinctive. We love how it’s paired with a brass shower fixture for a sleek, contemporary look.

For a wealth of coordinating options, explore this and our other exclusive white marble tile collections: Arctic White, Bianco Puro, Calacata Evora and Hampton Carrara.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs

This luxurious shower features grey-veined white marble tile.
Featuring: Volakas Honed.

17. Stimulate Your Senses With Pebble Tile

The raised contours of the White Pebbles tile provide a subtle foot massage as you enter this ruggedly refined shower. Tumbled for softness and visual depth, each stone contributes to a mosaic full of natural texture. Its subdued beige‑and‑white palette feels earthy yet understated, infusing the space with a calm, spa‑like serenity.

This spa-like shower features a tumbled rock mosaic tile that runs along the far wall and floor.
Featuring: White Pebbles.

18. Add Natural Appeal With Wood-Look Tile

Wood may not be the best material choice for a shower, but you can achieve the same look with water-resistant porcelain or ceramic wood-look tile. Whether your aesthetic is rugged or refined, this look complements a range of contemporary and traditional styles.

This stately shower features Rovere Honey tile, whose realistic woodgrain details create wonderful visual texture. We how the organic feel of these long porcelain “planks” contrasts with the geometric stripe of Trois Bandes black-and-white patterned tile.

19. Add Fashion-Forward Design

Eclectic, globally inspired designs and a fashion-forward neutral color palette define our exclusive collaboration with celebrity designer Nikki Chu. This stylish shower features two of her tiles: the Tangier Cement patterned tile and the Mrembo Polished marble-look large format tile. The crisp, hand-drawn geometric motif adds movement and visual interest, complemented by the warm white background and subtle grey veining of the stone-look tile. Notice how the polished surface reflects the pattern at the corners of the shower, adding dimension and giving the small space an expansive feel.

Explore the Nikki Chu collection for more lavish, easily coordinating looks.

20. Go Green

Green might not be the first color that comes to mind when you think of a neutral color palette, but we’d like to make a case for including this lush, serene hue in the category. While bright shades of lime and kelly green can feel more invigorating than calming, a dark forest or soft mint green brings a subdued—yet still vibrant—tone to your space.

Providing a connection to nature that stimulates the senses, the deep emerald tones of the Alison Victoria Gem marble mosaic tile are cut through with thin beige veining, softening the dark surface. These expressive tones are perfectly complemented by the bold green and beige veining in the Marradi Calacatta Emerald marble-look tile featured in the shower niche. The result is a space that is at once restful and rejuvenating.

If this space turns you green with envy, explore our wide assortment of green tile. 👉

Sign up for emails.

21. Add Handcrafted Character

Crafted, painted and glazed by hand, each Zellige tile is one of a kind, infusing your space with truly unique character. This beautiful shower, designed by @hannahcustomhomes, showcases Zellige Alabaster Gloss—a radiant neutral with undulating shades of pinkish beige and grey.

If you love this authentic handmade look, explore our selection of Zellige tile in a range of traditional shapes and colors. For a bit more uniformity—or a slightly lower price point—browse our extensive collection of handmade-look tile.

This elegant shower features pinkish-beige handmade Zellige wall tile.
Featuring: Zellige Alabaster Gloss. Design by @hannahcustomhomes. Photography by @carolinesharpnack

22. Embrace Botanical Patterns

Botanical patterns, from fanciful florals to the lush leaves on display in this shower from @thehoneycombhome, provide a connection to nature that can both soothe and uplift your mood. The graceful willow branch motif on the Morris & Co. Hawkdale Willow Olive tile—which is derived from the iconic British designer’s 1887 wallpaper pattern—creates a zen-like tableau on the wall of this shower from @thehoneycombhome. Interspersed with the coordinating Hawkdale Pure Chalk tile to create negative space, this design combines naturalism with a minimalist aesthetic.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Biophilic Design and Tile for Every Style: Japandi

A soothing shower featuring white handmade-look subway tile with a willow leaf motif.
Featuring: Morris & Co. Hawkdale in Pure Chalk and Willow Olive. Design and Photography by @thehoneycombhome.

23. Accent With Trim

It’s true for tile, just as it is with clothing or bedding—layering makes your design feel more stylized and intentional. This shower beautifully demonstrates how tile can be mixed and layered to create visual interest. Featuring tile from our Signature collection, the Bianco Bevel Gloss is framed with Denim Gloss Pencil and layered with Bianco Gloss REL between the Denim Gloss London tile that bisects the space. Without straying from a simple neutral color palette, this layout elevates the shower with subtle layers of complexity.

Shop our exclusive Signature collection tile for elevated basics in a range of contemporary neutrals designed for mixing and matching.

MORE TO EXPLORE | How to Elevate Your Space with Trim

24. Create a Chain Reaction

Inspired by high-end textile designs, the Kelli Fontana Chain Reaction Pearl Beige Stone tile (also available in Black on Black marble) features a travertine “chain” interspersed with crisp white marble. The mix of stones gives this space an opulent, dynamic appeal and movement that draws the eye up the wall. It’s a perfect example of how to introduce stylish complexity while maintaining a simple color scheme.

Explore our wide selection of mosaic tile for more intricately detailed designs.

25. Consider Your Grout

Don’t discount grout when creating your tile design—this necessary element is also an essential style detail. The color you choose can dramatically transform your space: Contrasting grout can accentuate a unique layout or create a sense of movement, while complementary grout softens the design, allowing the tile to take center stage.

In this shower, Whisper Grey grout blends seamlessly with the overall design, complementing the Hampton Carrara tile in the recessed niche and creating only a subtle tonal shift from the Signature Bianco subway tile on the walls.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tips for Nailing Your Grout Color and Design

A chic shower featuring white subway tile and a grey marble shower niche.
Featuring: Signature Bianco Gloss, Hampton Carrara and Hampton Carrara Capital (this tile is no longer available, but you can create a similar look with the Hampton Carrara Barnes). Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

Let’s Create a Space You’ll Love!

Ready to design a shower that soothes and invigorates? Browse our wide selection of shower tile to find the perfect shade and design to suit your style. Need extra assistance? Schedule a free design consultation or visit your local Tile Shop, where you’ll find the materials, tools, and expert advice needed to bring your dream space to life.

The post 25 Ultra-Stylish Neutral Shower Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/ultra-stylish-neutral-shower-tile-ideas/feed/ 0 14300
12 Fabulous Black & White Shower Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/fabulous-black-white-shower-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/fabulous-black-white-shower-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 14 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=13396 What’s black and white and stylish all over? A chic shower outfitted with black and white tile. This timeless pairing...

The post 12 Fabulous Black & White Shower Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
What’s black and white and stylish all over? A chic shower outfitted with black and white tile. This timeless pairing has captivated designers since the dawn of bathroom tile—and for good reason. The contrast between deep, grounding black and crisp, luminous white creates instant sophistication, whether used in bold graphic patterns or subtle tonal designs.

Always in fashion and endlessly versatile, black and white tile transcends trends, creating spaces that feel both timeless and of-the-moment at the same time. From classic marble checkerboards to sleek modern mosaics, within this single color combination lies a surprising range of moods: dramatic or serene, vintage or contemporary, minimal or ornate.

And because both hues are true neutrals, they make the perfect foundation for evolving your space over time. Change up your look seasonally with new textiles or decor without ever losing that effortlessly polished backdrop.

Whether your taste leans traditional, modern, or eclectic, these 12 black and white shower tile ideas prove that this iconic color scheme is anything but basic.

1. Pair Black Floor Tile With White Walls

The contrast between crisp white wall tile and black floor tile adds depth and dimension to a space. In this bathroom, Jaime Nelson pairs Bianco Puro subway tile with Hex Matte Black mosaic tile on the floor. The white marble-look tile features delicate grey veining for subtle visual texture, while the mosaic floor tile offers added traction in the shower. We love how the marble-look Lombardia White wall tile and the large Black Hex floor tile complement the shower tile while still creating a visual distinction between the bathroom and the shower area.

2. Show Off Your Fashionable Taste

Eclectic and worldly, our exclusive Nikki Chu collection tiles are designed to complement each other for unique, fashion-forward spaces. This stylish shower features the Nikki Chu Fusi Carbon Steel and Zulu Graphite tiles. With its graphic, hand-drawn pattern, the Zulu Graphite tile creates a bold statement wall while maintaining the neutral color scheme, and the complementary dark-grey Fusi Carbon Steel tile adds chic cement-look detail.

3. Make It Marvelous With a Black and White Marble Mosaic

Rich and expressive, natural stone embodies luxury like nothing else—and because no two pieces are ever the same, your space is guaranteed to be one of a kind. Featuring subtle grey and beige veining, white Hampton Carrara marble is paired with black stone in the Geo with Noir mosaic wall tile. Raised, overlapping squares add both visual and tactile texture, creating a layered, sensory experience in this shower.

Order $3 samples.

4. Go Geometric

Bold and graphic or whimsical and floral, a black and white patterned tile adds visual interest to your space while maintaining a classic color scheme. This contemporary shower, designed by @tilerhub, features the geometric Ragno Blanco hex tile. Deceptively simple, this pattern can be installed in a variety of layouts—we love how this starburst design creates a dynamic sense of movement.

This chic shower features black-and-white geometric patterned hex tile.
Featuring: Ragno Blanco Hex. Design and photography by @tilerhub.

5. Pair a Pattern With Solid Subway Tile

The constraint of a black and white color scheme invites creativity in mixing styles. In this charming shower, sleek handmade-look subway tile is complemented by the Jeffrey Alan Marks Summerland Toro hex floor tile. Subtle tonal and surface variations in the Tribeca Basalt and Gypsum White tiles pair beautifully with the patterned tile’s faded embroidery motif, creating an intentional, visually rich design.

6. Add a Pastoral Scene

Style meets function in this elegant shower, designed by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven. The Saltus tile, featured in the double niches below, depicts a bucolic forest scene framed within the recessed squares. While the black and white patterned tile might be too bold for the entire space, it serves as the perfect accent for these decorative yet practical shelves.

Featuring: Calacata Evora, Saltus and Bianco Puro Somerset. Design & Photography by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven.

7. Make a Hex-Cellent Pattern

A retro shape making a comeback, the six-sided hexagon is endlessly versatile. In this dynamic shower, Black Hex and White Hex tiles are paired to create a custom honeycomb design, while the Hex Matte White with Black Flower floor tile offers a complementary yet distinct touch. Shop our extensive selection of hexagon tile to discover more mix-and-match possibilities.

Sign up for emails.

8. Create Timeless Design

Our exclusive Signature tile collection features versatile basics that create spaces that are anything but ordinary. In this stately walk-in shower, the Signature Bianco Gloss Subway tile is accented with elegant lines of glossy black trim. Explore the possibilities with the full range of mix-and-match elevated basics in our Signature collection.

9. Pair With Wood-Look Tones

Incorporating a third element into your black and white tile design adds visual depth and complexity. Here, the Mauvila Amber wood-look tile—with its natural woodgrain details—contrasts beautifully with the concentric diamond pattern of the Trois Bandes patterned tile stripe. If you love this mix of organic and geometric design, explore our wide selection of wood-look and patterned tile.

10. Don’t Forget About Grout

You don’t necessarily need black and white tile to create a bold color scheme. You can also achieve the look by choosing contrasting grout, whether you pair white tile with black grout or black tile with white grout. This gorgeous shower, designed by @kristenjoyhome, features white subway tile installed with black grout to highlight the brick-lay pattern. The dark grout not only adds drama to the white tile design but also helps hide the appearance of dirt.

Don’t let this essential detail be an afterthought. Unlock all the design potential of this functional detail with our top tips to nail your grout design.

A bold shower featuring white subway tile installed with black grout.
Featuring: Hampton Carrara Cardine and Signature Bianco Gloss Subway. Design and photography by @kristenjoyhome.

11. Make a Point With Picket Tile

Resembling fence rungs, picket tile is a modern twist on traditional stacked subway tile. There are many design possibilities when pairing black and white versions of this tile, but this color-blocking approach—using Lanse Matte Black and White tiles—demonstrates how dynamic the shape can be, even when installed with complementary grout for a more muted effect. Explore our wide selection of picket tile for more on-point designs.

12. Add Drama With Marble-Look Tile

Featuring expressive veining, the Alvardo Matte and Livingstone Nero marble-look tiles bring drama to this sleek industrial-style shower. The white-on-black and black-on-white tiles pair beautifully, with complementary thin and lush veining that creates rich visual texture. Though they mimic the appearance of natural marble, these porcelain tiles offer easy maintenance and superior durability. Shop our wide selection of marble-look tile for more designs that marry natural elegance with easy care.

This industrial-style bathroom features black and white marble-look shower tile.
Featuring: Softcement Graphite, Noir Hixton, Noir Threshold, Noir Mosaic, Alvarado Matte and Livingstone Nero. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our vast selection of shower tile, or explore our 29 Stunning Shower Tile Design Ideas for 2025 for more trending looks. Need help getting started? Schedule a free design consultation and let us help you create your dream space.

Find a store near you.

The post 12 Fabulous Black & White Shower Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/fabulous-black-white-shower-tile-ideas/feed/ 0 13396
7 Stylish Tile Ideas for an Easy-to-Clean Kitchen https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tile-ideas-for-an-easy-to-clean-kitchen/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tile-ideas-for-an-easy-to-clean-kitchen/#respond Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=13801 If cleaning the kitchen isn’t your favorite chore, we have seven tile ideas to make life a little easier—without sacrificing...

The post 7 Stylish Tile Ideas for an Easy-to-Clean Kitchen appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
If cleaning the kitchen isn’t your favorite chore, we have seven tile ideas to make life a little easier—without sacrificing style. From beautiful, durable porcelain to sleek glass subway tile, these kitchen upgrades will help keep your culinary space looking spotless.

1. Choose Low-Maintenance Porcelain Tile

Whether your aesthetic leans luxurious, eclectic or minimalist, there’s a durable, low-maintenance porcelain tile to match your style. From sleek subway to patterns that pop, porcelain comes in virtually every format you can imagine—and this tough, nonporous material can handle the spills, splatters and foot traffic of a busy kitchen.

Here, the Arabian Niro White tile features a crisp white background and expressive gray veining for a chic marble look. Glass cabinet doors reduce dust buildup—and unnecessary door opens when you can’t remember where you put the glasses—making cleanup in this chic kitchen a cinch.

2. Make Wiping Away Spills a Breeze With Glass Tile

Spills and splashes are no match for glass. This nonporous tile not only resists stains but also reflects light, brightening your cooking space and making messes easier to spot. This gorgeous kitchen, designed by @riemerkitchens, features Winter Morning glass subway tile—its cool blue tones catch the light beautifully, enhancing the room’s airy feel.

Explore our vast selection of glass tile to find a design that ✨reflects✨ your style.

This bright and open kitchen features a blue glass subway tile backsplash.
Featuring: Winter Morning. Design and photography by @riemerkitchens.

3. Minimize Grout Lines With Large Format Tile

The hardest part of your tile design to clean is often the grout joints, so choosing a tile that reduces the need for these crevices will instantly make kitchen maintenance easier. Large-format tile (available in sizes up to 48″ x 48″) covers more surface area with fewer grout lines. It can even mimic the look of a single stone slab, like the Calacata Evora marble featured on this kitchen backsplash.

Pro Tip: Choose a tile with a rectified edge to further minimize the appearance of grout joints.

A chic kitchen backsplash featuring large-format marble tile.
Featuring: Calacata Evora Honed. Design by Angelia Guthrie.

4. Choose Wood-Look Tile for Your Floor

If you love the look of hardwood but worry about bacteria settling into the grain, durable, stylish wood-look porcelain could be the perfect kitchen flooring solution. Available in a variety of realistic styles, this scratch- and stain-resistant tile is ideal for kitchens with heavy foot—or paw—traffic, and most messes can be quickly swept or mopped away. This charming space, designed by At Home With Ashley, features the Baltimore Beige wood-look tile; its realistic detail makes it almost indistinguishable from real wood.

5. …Or Luxury Vinyl Planks

Another easy-to-clean, low-maintenance natural alternative to consider is luxury vinyl. Available in a wide variety of realistic wood, stone and cement looks, this ultra-durable, waterproof material is a great flooring solution for any area of your home. Extend your kitchen floor into your great room—as this Pinch Plate Party-designed space does—for a cohesive look that ties your living space together.

Shop our wide selection of luxury vinyl flooring to find the perfect style for you. 👉

Green kitchen with brown, wood-look vinyl flooring.
Featuring: Arbour Midlands Nutmeg Oak. Design & Photography by Pinch Plate Party.

6. Create a Tile Countertop

Tile needn’t be relegated to floors and walls; a tile countertop offers easy maintenance at a lower cost than solid quartz or granite. When properly sealed, marble or porcelain tile is spill-, stain- and heat-resistant. It’s also more economical to maintain—if a chip occurs, you can replace a single tile rather than the entire counter. This transitional kitchen features Firenze Carrara marble for an elegant, one-of-a-kind surface, but for superior stain resistance, you can opt for durable porcelain tile.

Pro Tip: Regularly seal your grout to keep your kitchen looking pristine.

7. Extend Your Tile to the Ceiling

Taking your tile design to the ceiling isn’t just a style trend—it also provides extra protection for your walls. This English country cottage kitchen showcases Laura Ashley Wexboard Midnight tile from countertop to ceiling, featuring a charming, wallpaper-like pattern that’s moisture- and stain-resistant. Even better, the cabinets also reach the ceiling, eliminating another hard-to-clean spot. Discover more inspiration for counter-to-ceiling kitchen tile designs here.

Make Your Kitchen Dreams a Reality

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen tiles to find your perfect style, and peruse our kitchen tile ideas for extra inspo. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

The post 7 Stylish Tile Ideas for an Easy-to-Clean Kitchen appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/tile-ideas-for-an-easy-to-clean-kitchen/feed/ 0 13801
20 Bathoom Tile Ideas to Pair With Wood Vanities https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/bathoom-tile-ideas-to-pair-with-wood-vanities/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/bathoom-tile-ideas-to-pair-with-wood-vanities/#respond Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=13139 With its unique natural details and endless versatility, wood is always in vogue. Whether you’re looking for tile to coordinate...

The post 20 Bathoom Tile Ideas to Pair With Wood Vanities appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
With its unique natural details and endless versatility, wood is always in vogue. Whether you’re looking for tile to coordinate with your existing bathroom vanity or planning to build your design around a new fixture, these 20 tile ideas prove that natural wood pairs beautifully with virtually any style—from sleek mid-century modern to cozy-chic modern farmhouse.

1. Express Your Artistic Side With Laura Park Tile

Inspired by her abstract artwork and the popular textiles derived from her mixed-media designs, our new and exclusive Laura Park tile collection showcases a stunning array of colors, styles, and motifs—offering endless possibilities for creative expression. This elegantly dynamic bathroom features four Laura Park tiles in coordinating colors and patterns: the Cosmo Aegean Blue patterned tile, Seaside Marble porcelain tile, and Bespoke White in both 5 in. and 2.56 x 5 in. sizes. A simple, warm wood vanity anchors the space, adding a touch of traditional sophistication to this artful design.

Love this look? Explore the full The Tile Shop x Laura Park collection.

2. Make It Sleek and Boho Chic!

Worldly and eclectic, modern boho chic design is all about celebrating your unique taste. Here, designer Brooke Pavel showcases a more muted—yet still vibrant—interpretation of this globally inspired style. By pairing a Picket Florencia Super Bianco tile backsplash with a light wood vanity and a blush pouf seat, Pavel strikes a delicate balance between the soft color palette and the bold geometry of the elongated hex tile and wood-carved diamond design.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Boho Chic

This boho-chic bathroom features a white picket wall tile.
Featuring: Picket Florencia Super Bianco. Design and Photography by Brooke Pavel.

3. Create Contrast

This chic transitional bathroom, designed by @emerson.studios, is a prime example of how to create harmonious contrast. The vanity, with its fine woodgrain detail, is paired with diamond-shaped, dove-grey Chalk Silver RMB porcelain floor tile. The tile’s soft, cool coloring, leather-like texture and geometric pattern beautifully offset the vanity’s warm, hard, organic character. This contrast extends to other design elements as well—note how the black, modern hardware plays against the traditional brass fixtures.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Transitional Design

This bathroom features a silver diamond-shaped floor tile.
Featuring: Chalk Silver RMB. Design and photography by @emerson.studios.

4. Add Elegance With a Marble Mosaic

Delicate shapes crafted from exquisite stone bring a sense of exceptional elegance to any space. For a timeless traditional look, pair a marble mosaic backsplash with a stately wood vanity. This stunning bathroom features the Bisbane Brookfield diamond-shaped mosaic, which mimics the look of tufted upholstery. The refined design beautifully complements the dark wood vanity and classic fixtures.

If you love this elevated aesthetic, explore our wide selection of marble mosaic tile.

Vanity area with tiled accent walls in a marble mosaic ran vertically in warm creamy tans and espresso clips to complete the pattern.
Featuring: Bisbane Brookfield.
Sign up for emails.

5. Bring Beautiful Blues

Cool-toned blues evoke the brilliance of the sea and sky, making them a natural complement to a warm, earth-toned wood vanity. Designed by @bellsheepstudio, this tasteful transitional bathroom features Imperial Slate Blue square mosaic tile. We love how the subdued blue tones are echoed in the chevron-patterned wallpaper and bath towels, while the creamy white wainscoting introduces another layer of warmth to the space.

This stylish bathroom features a small blue square tile mosaic floor.
Featuring: Imperial Slate Blue Gloss. Design and photography by @bellsheepstudio.

6. Pair Patterns

A wood vanity provides a neutral anchor, giving the eye a place to rest and allowing creativity to shine throughout the rest of the space. Pairing two patterned tiles—or combining a patterned floor tile with wallpaper, as @andreak_covelladesigns does in this bold, elegant space—can make your room feel vibrant and full of life. The key to successfully mixing patterns is to create a visual throughline while maintaining clear distinction. Though aesthetically different, the black-and-white stone-look pattern of the Marble Star floor tile echoes not only the tones in the floral wallpaper but also its antique charm. Not quite ready to commit to mixed patterns in your primary bath? Try it in a powder room, where experimentation is less conspicuous.

An elegant bathroom with a black-and-white marble-look star patterned floor tile.
Featuring: Marble Star. Design and photography by @andreak_covelladesigns.

7. Add Historic Details With Morris & Co. Tile

Inspired by the iconic British designer’s historic wallpaper motifs—which have adorned the walls of palaces and estates across England since the late 1800s—our exclusive Morris & Co. collection brings William Morris’s dedication to beautiful, accessible design to tile. Featuring ornate patterns in soft, neutral palettes—like the St. James Farrington Grey wall tile shown here—these sophisticated designs pair effortlessly with warm beige, grey or dark wood vanities.

8. Choose Moroccan-Inspired Artisanal Appeal

This stylish bathroom is another great example of contrasting design elements. It features Kasbah Star and Cross Terracotta tiles—drawn from traditional handmade Moroccan tilework—paired with a sleek, contemporary floating vanity. Though the tile and vanity reflect distinct styles, the warm wood and terracotta tones create a cohesive visual link between them. A curved doorway cut into the cool grey wall introduces tonal contrast, yet the modern color ties it to the vanity, while the arched shape nods to classic Moroccan architecture.

9. Create a Modern Farmhouse Haven

Refined rustic details make this space a perfect example of modern farmhouse design. The luxurious dark wood vanity perfectly matches the trim and wainscoting, while the marble countertop complements the Firenze Carrara Hex floor tile. These refined details are beautifully juxtaposed with exposed brick.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Modern Farmhouse

This modern farmhouse bathroom features a hex-shaped white marble tile floor.
Featuring: Firenze Carrara Hex. Design and Photography by The Grit and Polish.
Schedule a free design consultation.

10. Select Sleek & Serene Stone-Look Tile

Stone and wood—two natural textures that go together like peanut butter and jelly. Whether warm tones, cool tones, or a mix of both, pairing fine woodgrain details with the delicate or dramatic veining of stone-look tile creates a space that soothes the senses. Here, the subtly veined Moonstone Off-White tile offers the organic beauty of stone in the form of durable, easy-to-maintain porcelain. If you look closely, you’ll see the tile’s horizontally oriented linear pattern flows perfectly with the vanity’s woodgrain.

11. Create Natural Tranquility With Biophilic Design

Defined by its use of colors, forms, and materials found in nature, biophilic design brings the outdoors inside, creating lush, serotonin-inducing spaces. Here, a wood vanity is paired with the gorgeous Look Oliva subway tile. The rich green hue and natural wood evoke a soothing forestscape, while the delicate floral motif of the Laura Ashley Wexbord Fresh Green shower niche adds a touch of whimsy.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Biophilic Design

12. Add Rustic Appeal With Tumbled Stone

This classic finish is created by tumbling stone with rocks to create a worn, rustic look—perfectly showcased in the Claros Silver tumbled travertine floor tile featured in this charming Coco & Jack-designed powder room. With natural shades of rich brown, beige, and grey, this stone subway tile adds an organic, brick-like texture that pairs beautifully with the dark wood vanity. We also love how the gold fixtures introduce an elegant contrast to these rugged elements.

This modern farmhouse bathroom features a tumbled travertine subway floor tile.
Featuring: Claros Silver Tumbled. Design & Photography by Coco & Jack.

13. Create a Custom Subway Tile Layout

Subway tile is a classic style that effortlessly pairs with natural wood. Endlessly versatile, this design staple offers a wide range of layout options—from traditional brick-lay to contemporary straight stack. Here, the Retro Lion subway tile is installed in a vertical offset, with each row separated by the Signature Slate Blue pencil trim, creating a custom design that adds interest to the blue-and-white theme.

MORE TO EXPLORE | 6 Classic Subway Tile Layouts

14. Marry Elegance and Whimsy With Kelli Fontana Tile

Wood offers natural elegance, as do the delicate patterns and textures of the Kelli Fontana designer collection. This chic bathroom showcases her classic, bold, and whimsical style with the fluted Tommas Carrara wall tile and the checkerboard Inlay Proper in Eden Ode and Florence Lace floor tiles.

Discover more romantic, feminine styles to pair with your wood vanity in our exclusive Kelli Fontana collection.

Order $3 tile samples.

15. Match With a Modern Black-and-White Pattern

Like a well-tailored suit, a geometric black-and-white pattern exudes sleek, modern style. This ultra-chic bathroom features the Trois Bandes floor tile, whose concentric diamonds echo the points of the Picket Florencia Super Bianco backsplash tile. The floating vanity, with its contemporary black hardware and stone countertop, completes this suave space.

This chic bathroom features a black-and-white geometric patterned floor tile and white picket-shaped wall tile.
Featuring: Trois Bandes and Picket Florencia Super Bianco. Design and photography by @oakandmend.

16. Soothe the Senses with Quiet Luxury

Quiet luxury embraces natural materials and tranquil designs, making a wood vanity essential. Here, sleek wood with a white stone top and black hardware pairs perfectly with the lush Livingstone Melange large-format marble-look tile and Argile White handmade-look subway tile. The blend of warm and cool neutrals, combined with rich visual textures throughout the room, creates an atmosphere of understated opulence.

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Quiet Luxury

Bathroom with large-format marble-look porcelain tile floor.
Featuring: Argile Matte White and Livingstone Melange. Design by Nikki Chu.

17. Soften Your Design with Rounded Tile

By nature, tile is a hard element, but using a rounded shape—like the Alison Victoria Malibu Edit Pescador tile shown here—introduces soft lines that add a sense of gentle movement to your design. Creating wave-like patterns inspired by its namesake California beach, this grey-veined white marble tile flows naturally along the chic backsplash, providing a sleek contrast to the dark wood vanity.

Shop our wide selection of uniquely shaped tile for more unconventional designs.

18. Reimagine Retro With Mid-Century Modern Design

Mid-century modern design celebrates natural textures, colors and forms; a dapper wood vanity with crisp, clean lines is the perfect choice to create this enduring style. The retro-inspired Stoneware subway tile from Fired Earth complements this look beautifully. Shown here in Indigo Spruce, this chic design is also available in Linen Brick (beige), Powder White, Blue Mist, and Rainwashed (sea green).

MORE TO EXPLORE | Tile for Every Style: Midcentury Modern

19. Elevate Your Design With Trim

Like the perfect necklace or necktie, the right trim can elevate your tile design. This stunning black-and-white bathroom punctuates a basic white subway tile layout with Black Marquina marble Somerset trim. The wood vanity perfectly complements this stately tile design, adding natural refinement to the buttoned-up black-and-white walls.

Want to see more rooms in this home? Discover more of Timber Trails’ designer Julie Howard’s inspired spaces in this tour of her “Storybook” estate.

This stately bathroom features white subway tile with black grout and black marble accents.
Featuring:  Black Marquina SomersetBlack Marquina Skirting and Imperial Bianco Gloss. Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

20. Match Wood With Wood-Look Tile

If you love the warm, natural look of wood, don’t limit it to your vanity. This organic element can extend further into your bathroom design with durable, waterproof wood-look tile. Here, the Tavola Decor tile perfectly coordinates with the blond wood vanity, while the fluted diamond design adds a tactile dimension that awakens the senses. Shop our wide selection of wood-look tile to find the perfect match for your vanity.

Let’s Create a Space You Love

Ready for a bathroom makeover? Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide selection of bathroom tile to find the perfect design to match your vanity. Need more help? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom or schedule a free design consultation, and let us help bring your dream space to life.

Find a store near you.

The post 20 Bathoom Tile Ideas to Pair With Wood Vanities appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/bathoom-tile-ideas-to-pair-with-wood-vanities/feed/ 0 13139
8 Ideas to Equip Your Bathroom for Aging In Place https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/bathroom-tile-design-ideas-for-aging-in-place-universal-design/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/bathroom-tile-design-ideas-for-aging-in-place-universal-design/#respond Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=13305 The bathroom is one of the most essential—and most frequently used—spaces in any home. It’s also where safety and design...

The post 8 Ideas to Equip Your Bathroom for Aging In Place appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
The bathroom is one of the most essential—and most frequently used—spaces in any home. It’s also where safety and design intersect in especially important ways. Thinking ahead to how your bathroom will serve you in the years to come is one of the smartest investments you can make.

While many safety features can be added later, planning ahead allows you to integrate them seamlessly into your bathroom’s design today. You don’t have to sacrifice style for function—these thoughtful choices help create a true “forever home.” By incorporating features that anticipate future needs, you can enjoy a beautiful retreat now while also building in peace of mind for years to come.

From slip-resistant flooring to easy-to-navigate layouts, these ideas not only support aging in place but also reflect universal design principles—making daily routines more comfortable for people of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, caring for a loved one, or simply planning ahead, here are eight bathroom tile ideas that prove safety and style can go hand in hand.

1. Choose Floor Tile With Grip

One of the most common household hazards is slipping and falling. You can help prevent accidents by choosing bathroom floor tile that provides traction even when wet. Slip-resistant options like tumbled stone, matte or honed porcelain tile and mosaic tile offer better grip and help reduce the risk of falls.

This chic primary bathroom, designed by Julie Howard for Timber Trails, proves that safety doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. The custom floor design, made with Penny Round Gloss White and Penny Round Cloudy mosaics, is not only fashionable, but the tiles’ small format and many grout joints also provide extra traction throughout the space.

A charming bathroom featuring a custom white and blue penny-round mosaic tile floor.
Featuring: Penny Round Gloss White and Penny Round Cloudy. Design by Timber Trails Development Company. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

2. Invest in a Wet Room

A wet room—an enclosed area that contains a shower head (or two) and sometimes even a tub—provides the space needed to move comfortably, regardless of mobility. This luxurious West Bay Homes–designed wet room features Claros Silver travertine floor tile and Atlanta White marble-look porcelain wall tile. When properly sealed, the honed and filled travertine offers traction to help prevent slipping, and the grout lines in the hex mosaic add extra grip. The porcelain wall tile is both durable and easy to clean, for simple upkeep. This space is large enough to comfortably accommodate a wheelchair or a second person to assist with bathing, and you could make it even more accessible by adding grab bars, a lower handheld showerhead and a bench.

This large, luxurious wet room features travertine hex floor tile and a white-with-grey-veining marble-look wall tile.
Featuring: Atlanta White, Claros Silver, Claros Silver Barnes, Claros Silver Threshold, Claros Silver Skirting and Claros Silver Hex. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting.

3. Install a Curbless Shower

Even if you don’t have space for a full wet room, removing the curb can significantly improve your shower’s accessibility. Eliminating the step makes it easier for anyone to enter, including those who use a wheelchair. This subtle update creates a more functional space without compromising style—as seen in this chic open shower—but be sure your shower floor is properly sloped toward the drain to prevent water from pooling or flooding.

In addition to being curbless, this shower features an extra-wide entry for easy maneuverability and a herringbone mosaic floor tile to provide grip (as suggested in idea #1 on this list).

4. Highlight the Shower Entry With Contrast

For another layer of safety, make the shower threshold easy to spot with contrasting tile colors. For example, a black curb against a white floor, or darker grout outlining the edges, creates a visual cue that reduces trip hazards without sacrificing design.

While the shower shown below features a raised curb, the designer has ensured the area is clearly visible; a white honed marble curb piece pops against the matte black porcelain floor inside the shower and beyond. Selecting a high-contrast color for the curb signals to the eye that this is an area of transition, making it harder to overlook. It’s a small but significant choice that can make a big difference.

Walk-in shower with white subway tile on the walls and black mosaic tile on the floor. A white shower curb piece clearly delineates between the shower floor and the rest of the space, and makes the curb more visually prominent.
Featuring: Bianco Puro Honed 2 x 8 in., Hex Matte Black Mosaic, Bianco Puro Honed Curb, Black Hex, and Lombardia White Matte. Design by Jaimie Nelson. Design by @jaimienelsondesign.

5. Add a Shower Bench or Seat

A shower bench is a smart upgrade that can be enjoyed at any age. While a freestanding bench can be placed in a large enough shower, a built-in bench has the advantage of staying securely in place during use. It can also be designed to match your shower tile, helping it look and feel seamlessly integrated into the space.

This elegant Ashford Carrara marble bathroom, designed by @sarablakehome, features a coordinating marble shower bench that provides a stylish, cohesive accessibility update. Ensure your bench is installed at an ergonomic height—typically 17″ to 19″—to make sitting and standing more comfortable.

If you don’t have the space or budget for a full shower bench, a tile shower seat offers a simple and relatively affordable way to boost comfort and make a space more accommodating.

Order $3 samples

6. Install Stylish Grab Bars

Grab bars provide stability when entering or exiting the shower, and today’s options can be as sleek as your fixtures, blending seamlessly into your design. In this sophisticated black-and-white bathroom, designed by @pike_custom_buildersnj, black metal grab bars coordinate with the shower fixtures and colors in the patterned tile. We love how the black grout adds sleek contrast with the white tile while also creating a visual through-line between the surfaces.

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t add grab bars right away, consider adding blocking in your shower walls so the necessary support is there if you decide to install them later.

A stylish shower featuring a black-and-grey patterned tile and outfitted with black metal grab bars.
Featuring: Artisan Conte Gris and Imperial Bianco Gloss Subway. Design and photography by @pike_custom_buildersnj.

7. Rethink Your Vanity

The standard vanity height—31.5″ not including the countertop—may be too low for you to comfortably perform your daily routines. If you find yourself straining your back to reach the sink, consider raising it to the kitchen counter standard of 34.5″. Alternatively, if you find the standard too tall to accommodate your height or mobility aids, you can lower your vanity instead.

In this design by @oakandmend, the vanity includes a recessed area for a stool, creating a comfortable space for morning and evening routines. Tucking the stool under the countertop keeps the bathroom clear of obstacles, and it can easily be removed to make space for a wheelchair. We love how the Alto Beachwalk chevron tile creates a stunning backsplash for this elegant vanity.

This transitional bathroom features a wood vanity with a space for a seat and glass chevron-patterned backsplash tile.
Featuring: Alato Beachwalk Chevron and Imperial Bianco Matte Hex. Design and photography by @oakandmend.
Sign up for emails.

8. Add Accessible Storage

Shower caddies often create clutter and can be difficult to reach—especially when hung high over the shower head. A built-in shower niche offers a smarter solution, blending form and function in one. Niches keep essentials within easy reach and off the floor, reducing trip hazards while adding a design focal point. For even more versatility, consider installing multiple niches at different heights, as shown in this marble-look shower, to serve everyone from children to seated adults.

A luxurious shower featuring beige marble-look tile and marble mosaic tile floor.
Featuring: Savannah Antique. Design by Nikki Chu.

Create Your True “Forever Home”

Updating your bathroom with universal design features now is a smart investment that will help expand your options so you can enjoy your home for years to come. Explore our vast selection of bathroom tile for designs that match your aesthetic and meet your needs, or schedule a free design consultation and let our friendly tile experts help outfit your space for both safety and style.

Find a store.

The post 8 Ideas to Equip Your Bathroom for Aging In Place appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/bathroom-tile-design-ideas-for-aging-in-place-universal-design/feed/ 0 13305
Top 10 Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/top-10-stunning-white-bathroom-tile-designs/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/top-10-stunning-white-bathroom-tile-designs/#respond Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:11:00 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=6285 Clean, fresh and bright–some of our favorite bathroom designs feature white tile. If you envision your perfect room in hues...

The post Top 10 Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
Clean, fresh and bright–some of our favorite bathroom designs feature white tile. If you envision your perfect room in hues of ivory and cream, these ideas are sure to dazzle!

1. Design Outside the Box With Hexagon

Hexagon tile is a classic that’s always on trend and a great way to add interest to an all-white bathroom. The Bianco Puro marble tile shown here helps give this bathroom a designed look to this clean, white floor.

Bathroom white marble-look tile wall and hexagon marble tile floor.
Featuring: Lombardia White and Bianco Puro Hex. Design and Photography by Matt Dahlman.

2. Always-In-Style Subway Tile

Subway tile is a staple when it comes to walls and backsplashes, but that doesn’t mean it’s basic. Try installing your subway tile vertically for a modern look that will add height to your walls.

Sign up for emails.

3. Create High Contrast With Black and White

There are few color pairings as classy and bold as black and white. This shower makes a striking statement with its layered use of black and white tiles, evoking a flawless blend of modern contrast and timeless elegance.

4. Embrace Artisanal Details With Handmade-Look Tile

Add character and artisanal allure with handmade-look tile like the Nuovo Riad Bianco tile. With a similar appearance to handmade Moroccan Zellige tiles, these feature slight color and texture variations from piece to piece that will give your bathroom unique character.

Featuring: Nuovo Riad Bianco. Design by Alison Victoria.

5. Add Charm With a Mosaic

Whether intricate or orderly, mosaic tile will add beauty and movement to bathroom walls. This chic bathroom features the KitKat White porcelain mosaic tile, arranged in a playful vertical pattern that adds texture and clean charm to the space. The crisp white finish and dynamic layout elevate the room with a fresh, modern simplicity that feels both inviting and polished.

This relaxing bathroom features long, thin white mosaic wall tile.
Featuring: KitKat White.

6. Create a Spa Experience With Marble

Bathe your bathroom in ultimate luxury with marble tile. Marble comes in a variety of colors, but we love how classic white, like the Firenze Calacatta collection, creates a bright and brilliant spa-like room.

7. Make a Point With Picket

Take your white bathroom design up a notch with picket tile. The elongated hexagon shape of is a fun twist on a classic subway that will add a dynamic element to your white walls.

Bathroom with white picket tile wall and gold mirror.
Featuring: Picket Florencia Super Bianco. Design and Photography by Brooke Pavel.

8. A Subtle Take on Texture and Shine

This bathroom wall features Coco White Matte and Glossy subway tiles arranged in a clean horizontal stack, alternating between finishes to create a subtle striped effect. Though uniform in color, the contrasting sheens catch and reflect light differently, adding quiet depth and texture to the space without overwhelming it.

It's better in real life. Order $3 samples.

9. Express Your Niche Personality

Shower niches are a great place to showcase an artistic tile that would be overwhelming in a whole room. Create a surprising detail in a white shower with a patterned or mosaic tile.

White subway tile shower with black and white tree patterned tile niche.
Featuring: Bianco Puro and Saltus. Design & Photography by Haneen Matt of Haneen’s Haven.

10. Add Dimension With Sculptural Tile

Make your walls a masterpiece with textured sculptural tile. In this sophisticated shower, Kelli Fontana’s Tommas Classico tile brings depth and movement to the walls with its fluted design and marble-look finish. Light catches the raised texture in subtle ways, adding dimension without overwhelming the space. For more bold and expressive looks, browse the full Kelli Fontana designer tile collection.

Ready to begin your bathroom project? Schedule a free design consultation to get started on your next project – whether it’s a weekend DIY refresh or a major renovation, our tile experts are happy to answer any questions you may have!

We love to see all of your creative spaces! Don’t forget to share your projects with us by tagging us @thetileshop on Instagram or uploading it directly to our Customer Room Gallery.

Plan your visit. Find a Tile Shop location near you.

The post Top 10 Stunning White Bathroom Tile Designs appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/top-10-stunning-white-bathroom-tile-designs/feed/ 0 6285
15 Modern Bathroom Tile Ideas https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/modern-bathroom-tile-ideas/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/modern-bathroom-tile-ideas/#respond Fri, 30 May 2025 15:56:14 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12612 Does your bathroom still feature questionable 1900s details that have lost their vintage charm? Ditch the shag carpet and embrace...

The post 15 Modern Bathroom Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
Does your bathroom still feature questionable 1900s details that have lost their vintage charm? Ditch the shag carpet and embrace the 21st century with a fresh tile design that’ll stand the test of time. From cool industrial vibes to eclectic patterns and serene neutrals, these ultra-modern bathrooms showcase the best of contemporary design. Discover 15 on-trend tile ideas to create a space you’ll love for years to come.

1. Create Organic Appeal with Wood-Look Tile

From biophilic design to Japandi, the celebration of nature is a modern trend shaping today’s most sought-after styles. This serene, ultra-modern space features the Tavola Decor wood-look wall tile. Mimicking the look of real wood—enhanced with raised design details—this waterproof porcelain tile brings a sense of tranquility and natural beauty to the space. Complementary neutral tones in the Trevi stone-look floor tile and Firenze Calacatta marble wall tile complete the at-home spa retreat.

2. Choose a Sleek and Chic Brick-Look Tile

Beautifully textured and effortlessly urban, brick-look subway tile adds stylish character with a rustic edge. Here, Alison Victoria showcases her Brick x Brick Petal tile on the shower wall. Installed in a vertical offset pattern, the undulating pale pink tones give this traditional look a fresh, modern update. Explore our exclusive Alison Victoria collection for more of the renowned HGTV interior designer’s signature “city chic” styles.

Schedule a free design consultation.

3. Create a Scalloped Edge

Add softness to your contemporary tile design with a rounded or scalloped edge. This elegant bathroom features the Wave White tile–its curved edges soothe both the eye and the mind. Also available in Old Cream (beige), Grey Owl and Blue Reef, this tile can be installed in a variety of layouts to create gentle, wave-like patterns. Explore our wide selection of uniquely shaped tile for more modern forms.

A contemporary bathroom featuring white wave-shaped tile.
Featuring: Wave White.

4. Add a Stylish Shower Niche

Say goodbye to clunky shower caddies and store your shampoo in style with a shower niche. This timeless trend lets you showcase a beautiful mosaic or patterned tile that might be overwhelming in a larger application. In this shower, designed by @modernly_you, a double niche features the Sampson marble mosaic tile–its beige and white basketweave design adds a touch of sophistication to the sleek, modern space.

This contemporary shower features white handmade-look subway tile and a white and a double shower niche with a beige marble mosaic tile.
Featuring: Villa White Matte and Sampson Mosaic. Design by @modernly_you. Photography by @awoea_photography.

5. Stimulate the Senses

Invigorating and visually dynamic, raised-texture tile is a modern design trend with lasting appeal. This elegant bathroom features the Kelli Fontana Tommas Carrara wall tile; the fluted pattern on the marble-look porcelain creates subtle shadows that shift with the light and adds a tactile dimension to the shower space. If you love this bold, whimsical look, explore our exclusive Kelli Fontana designer tile collection.

Learn How To Do It Yourself

6. Maintain Neutral Territory

Miles from millennial grey and basic beige, modern neutrals offer complex tones and rich visual texture. This serene bathroom features Coco Canvas matte, one of our most popular tiles, and shows how to bring depth to a neutral color scheme. Installed in a herringbone pattern, the handmade-look subway tile adds visual interest through movement and subtle shade variation while maintaining a clean, understated palette. Discover more design possibilities in this guide to subway tile layouts.

This serene bathroom features a cream handmade-look subway tile in a herringbone pattern.
Featuring: Coco Canvas Matte.

7. Celebrate Vintage Patterns

Everything old is new again–historic patterns and designs are making a big comeback in modern interiors. From Victorian tiles that mimic traditional pressed-tin styles, to ornate patterns like the Vintage White floor tile shown here, classic aesthetics add a touch of contemporary cool to any space.

8. Embrace Eclecticism

Create a space as bold as your personality with an eclectic patterned tile. This stylish, modern bathroom puts an abstract twist on coastal chic design with the Jeffrey Alan Marks Big Sur Off the Hook tile. Featuring a playful graphic pattern reminiscent of glazed pottery, this tile feels both artistic and approachable. Explore our exclusive Jeffrey Alan Marks designer collection for more modern coastal designs.

Sign up for emails.

9. Make Fine Lines

Everything is neatly stacked on this bathroom wall featuring the KitKat White tile. The slim, rectangular shapes create vertical lines that draw the eye upward, adding a sense of height, while the horizontal grout lines subtly expand the space. Also available in Grey, this evenly spaced mosaic tile makes a big impact with small pieces.

Bathroom wall tiled in long thin white tiles with a brown wood shelf holding toiletries.
Featuring: KitKat White.

10. Add Industrial Vibes With a Cement-Look Tile

Exuding sophisticated industrial style, the Softcement Graphite large-format tile transforms this West Bay Homes-designed bathroom into an urban loft. The half-wall is finished with Noir Honed Hixton limestone trim tile, adding an elevated touch to the cool, worn concrete-look tile. The result is a space that feels both rugged and refined.

A modern bathroom with large-format grey floor and wall tile and a shower featuring black with white veined marble-look tile.
Featuring: Noir Honed Hixton and Softcement Graphite. Design by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. Build by Rick and Kelli Vogelgesang of West Bay Homes. Photography by Spacecrafting.

11. Choose a Fashion-Forward Pattern

Graphic and expressive, the Nikki Chu Zulu Graphite tile brings high-end fashion energy to this bathroom. The hand-drawn-look pattern–inspired by the celebrity designer’s international travels–is multi-directional, offering endless options for personalization. Love this global, eclectic aesthetic? Shop our exclusive Nikki Chu designer collection for more unique, modern designs.

12. Mix Finishes

Add subtle visual interest to your modern bathroom by mixing glossy and matte finishes. This bathroom design features Coco Canvas Matte with a double band of Coco Canvas Glossy for contrast. The horizontally stacked matte tile offers the smooth, understated look favored in contemporary spaces, while the vertically stacked glossy tile introduces a hint of shine and dimension.

Order $3 samples.

13. Put a Modern Twist on Traditional Styles

This chic shower offers a fresh take on traditional forms. The Lanse Matte Black and White Picket tiles feature an elongated hexagon shape, stacked horizontally in a layout reminiscent of classic subway tile. The black-and-white color-blocked walls create a sleek interpretation of a timeless palette. Modern elements–like the streamlined hardware and built-in shelf–keep this space feeling current, while subtle nods to the classics ensure lasting style.

14. Add Artisanal Appeal

A trending design element rooted in ancient tradition, Zellige tile is crafted, painted and glazed by hand using centuries-old techniques. The result is authentically unique pieces that bring charm and character to modern spaces. In this bathroom, Carmeon Hamilton pairs the classic Moroccan Star and Cross pattern with graphic black-and-white wallpaper, vibrant woven fans and a hip mirror.

15. Create a Dramatic Sense of Movement

The Macchia Vecchia tile’s striking gold, grey, brown and ochre veining energizes this luxurious bathroom with dynamic movement and sleek sophistication. While this design pairs porcelain wall tile with marble floor tile to embrace a contemporary palette of warm and cool neutrals, stylish, durable marble-look tile is available in a range of vivid colors–including some you won’t find in nature.

Your bathroom is ready for a modern update! Explore our wide selection of bathroom tile, and find even more inspo with 36 Bold and Beautiful Bathroom Tile Ideas for 2025. Not sure where to start? Schedule a free design consultation and let our experts help you find the perfect design for your space.

Find a store.

The post 15 Modern Bathroom Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/modern-bathroom-tile-ideas/feed/ 0 12612
7 Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/7-tips-to-nail-your-grout-color-and-design/ https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/7-tips-to-nail-your-grout-color-and-design/#respond Fri, 23 May 2025 14:41:48 +0000 https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/?p=12524 Complementary or contrasting, dark or light, wide joints or narrow–grout can completely transform your tile design. Don’t let this essential...

The post 7 Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
Complementary or contrasting, dark or light, wide joints or narrow–grout can completely transform your tile design. Don’t let this essential style element be an afterthought; read on for seven tips to help you choose your grout with confidence.

1. How to Decide Between Complementary Vs. Contrasting

Whether you choose a complementary or contrasting grout depends on your desired design outcome. Complementary grout creates a sense of cohesion, while a contrasting color adds drama and emphasis. Consider these two spaces, both featuring Lanse Matte Black Picket tile. In the left bathroom, complementary grout softens the diagonal lines of the tile installation, resulting in a chic, contemporary look. On the right, a traditional horizontal stack paired with contrasting grout highlights the unique picket shape, with the distinct lines enhancing the space’s eclectic aesthetic.

Featuring: Lanse Matte Black Picket.

2. Consider Your Trim

When selecting grout for her children’s bathrooms, designer Julie Howard chose colors to complement the trim pieces rather than the main tile. The bathroom on the left matches Superior Charcoal grout with the Black Marquina Somerset trim. On the right, Superior Whisper Grey coordinates with the Hampton Carrara trim. Both rooms feature the same white subway tile, illustrating how grout can drastically transform the look of a space. Explore our Tour of Julie Howard’s “Storybook” Estate for more inspired spaces and design tips from Timber Trails’ lead designer.

Featuring: (Left) Black Maruqina SomersetPenny Round Matte WhitePenny Round Matte BlackBlack Marquina CurbBlack Marquina Skirting and Imperial Bianco Gloss. (Right) Hampton Carrara CapitalHampton Carrara CroniceHampton Carrara HexHampton Carrara SkirtingImperial Bianco Gloss and Hampton Carrara Subway. Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography Jonn and Maura Stoffer.

Learn from a Pro! Watch Everything You Need to Know About Grout

Find a Tile Shop showroom near you.

3. Determine if you want Wide or Narrow joints

Grout joints usually range in size from 1/16 in. to 1/8 in. While the size of your grout joint may depend on your tile–rectified edges allow for smaller joints–it’s also an aesthetic choice. Smaller grout joints used with large-format tile will result in a seamless look, making your space appear more expansive and cohesive. This installation method can even mimic the look of a single stone slab, as is demonstrated in the kitchen on the left.

If you’re installing handmade or handmade-look tile, wider grout joints will help accommodate and minimize the variation in the tile edges. In contrast, smaller joints tend to highlight these irregularities. The kitchen backsplash on the right features wide grout joints to soften the hand-cut edges of the handmade Zellige White Gloss tile.

Pro Tip: For smaller grout joints, honed natural stone and glass tile, use unsanded grout. Use sanded grout for larger grout joints and heavy tile.

Featuring (left): Calacata Evora. Design by Angelia Guthrie. Featuring (right): Zellige White. Design by Fox Homes.

4. Use Grout to Create Unity in Your Design

When choosing grout, it’s important to consider all the elements in the space–not just the accompanying tile. Here, the thick white grout joints accentuate the grid layout of the Look Avio tile featured on the shower wall. The alternating horizontal and vertical lines create a visual throughline that connects the shower wall to the white geometric pattern on the Ragno Taupe floor tile.

5. Consider Varying Your Joint Widths

Varying your grout joint sizes adds an extra layer of interest to your tile design. The Cool Blue tile featured in this shower is actually a 12 x 24 in. large-format tile designed to mimic the appearance of smaller, handmade-look square tiles. The vertical grout line aligns with the pre-scored grout joints within the larger tile, while the thicker horizontal grout lines enhance the visual appeal and contribute to the contemporary aesthetic.

Sign up for emails from The Tile Shop.

6. Match Your Grout to Your Cabinets

When developing your tile design, it’s important to consider all of the elements in your space. Kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities can influence your grout choice just as much as the tile. In this high-contrast kitchen designed by Timber Trails, the grout is matched to the white cabinetry. The white-on-black grout and tile combination adds dimension and drama while drawing attention to the cabinets.

7. Consider Cleaning and Maintenance

No matter where it’s installed, your grout is likely to accumulate dirt, dust or soap residue over time. As you might expect, dark-colored grout does a better job of hiding dirt than lighter shades. For floors–especially in high-traffic entryways or mudrooms–a dark grout can reduce the frequency of cleanings. Sealing your grout will also help keep it clean and looking fresh longer. Learn the best methods for maintenance in our How to Clean Grout guide.

This elegant mudroom features a black limestone subway tile floor.
Featuring: Noir Honed Subway. Design by Julie Howard for Timber Trails. Photography by John and Maura Stoffer.

When you consider your desired aesthetic and preferred level of maintenance, you can choose a grout that both enhances your space and suits your lifestyle. Discover the many hues of grout available, and if you’re planning to DIY, check out our guide on How to Grout Like a Pro. Have more questions? We’re here to help! Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, or schedule a free design consultation to get started on your project.

Order $3 samples.

The post 7 Tips to Nail Your Grout Color and Design appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

]]>
https://tileshopblog.wpengine.com/7-tips-to-nail-your-grout-color-and-design/feed/ 0 12524