7 Popular Bathroom Tile Designs

A few years ago, tiles were mostly laid down for their functional benefits (resistance to water, durability, low maintenance) but today, their aesthetic impact is just as important as their function. This is why manufacturers have expanded their selections to provide really unique styles for homeowners. With advice from our experts, we have identified the top 2021 bathroom tile trends you should be on the lookout for. They focus on the finishes, colors, shapes, and patterns.

#1: Graphics Tile Patterns

Whether on the floor or the wall, it’s the perfect accent tile in any room! Either in soft subtle hues or bold contrasting colors, the intricate patterns available for these tiles will lure you in and capture your heart. From subway tiles to ceramic, it’s safe to say that graphic pattern tiles can be anywhere and everywhere especially your bathroom. This style really gives homeowners the chance to tap into their creative side or hire a designer to get creative for them. Right now, we are mostly seeing encaustic ceramic tiles being a popular choice for those with patterned tiles, however, porcelain styles are coming out with the same thing! Expect to see an array of bold prints and colors all over tiles this year!

#2: Matte (finish) Tiles

The popularity of matte finish tiles follows us into the new year. They feature a soft but powerful beauty–a style that does not get too overwhelming. An advantage of matte tiles is that they do not show smudges and watermarks as easily as glossy tiles. This makes them ideal for the bathroom floor, especially in busy bathrooms. The low sheen makes them easier to maintain. When installing matte finish tiles make sure there is enough lighting, both natural and artificial, as these tiles are not known for reflecting light. If you are looking for understated elegance with unspoken sophistication, go for matte finish tiles. They are also great if you want an earthy style in your bathroom.

#3: Neutral Tiles

Contemporary designs make big use of neutral colors and this remains the case for 2021 bathroom tile trends. Bright colors such as blue, red, and yellow are not commonplace in the bathroom and will not be the shining star anytime soon. Instead, homeowners are falling more in love with neutrals and especially nude neutrals such as grey and creams. Grey and beige have become super popular as complementary neutrals.  So much so, that a new color has emerged by name and featured in product selections. So be on the lookout for “Greige”.

#4: Subway Tiles

Some may think subway tiles can be boring. Those white 3 by 6-inch rectangles can be quite commonplace. In 2021, subway tiles will get a bit more interesting as the tiles depart from the traditional size and pattern. Specifically, we are going to see these tiles offered in more colors, larger sizes, and a-typical design patterns (dome, beveled, arched, and sculptural). Subway tiles are getting thicker and longer, with dimensions as large as 8 by 20. Pair that with contrasting grout color and the stage has been set for a marvelous reversal from the common all-white look. You can even couple different colors of tile in vertical or horizontal bands or incorporate different patterned tiles to create a delightful wall mosaic for your bathroom. It’s even becoming popular to see homeowners using mismatches tiles patterns or textures to get that unique bathroom design we all desire. The possibilities are really endless since subway tiles can be mixed and matched in all sorts of fascinating variations.

#5: Dimensional Tiles

It is not just colors and patterns of tiles that are getting more diverse, manufacturers are also playing around with the shapes. 2021 bathroom tile trends will vary from traditional rectangle to a variety of other geometric shapes. One particular shape that has made a resurgence in recent times is the hexagon. Hexagonal tiles are making their way back into the bathroom in all sizes, colors, and textures especially on shower floors, where they create a uniquely different appearance. To take it one step further, create unique patterns, using different colored tiles, and repeat through space. Why stop at the shower floor? You could place these striking tiles on your bathroom floor in big bold graphic tile design patterns, geometric shape tiles and combine them with color patterns to create complicated and visually arresting styles.

Geometric tiles can be used on a large scale (all walls or entire flooring) to set the tone for the bathroom or they can be used on an accent wall to create a bold pivot from the rest of the bathroom. In small bathrooms, they help improve the perception of space especially when matched well with neutral colors. In large bathrooms, they form artful accents in places like the spa area or the makeup station.

#6: Wood Planks (flooring)

Wood planks are just beginning to make a splash in the marketplace. Non-traditional tile sizes have been getting popular for some time now. Most people are going larger overall, but with planning, you can customize the size. Most widths are 6″, but the lengths vary from 12″ to 48″ long. Allowing you to create ornate patterns such as herringbone. While realistic wood-grained tiles are most common like oak, maple, & cherry; there are lots of other finishes available to make them seem distressed, weathered, or whitewashed. Porcelain wood grain tiles are perfect for the bathroom since it offers greater stain and water resistance without sacrificing design aesthetics. The wood grain tiles only enhancing the organic feel much needed in a bathroom space. For a more compelling look, you could try mixing natural stone planks and other materials such as concrete with wood grains. This adds an unexpected but welcome style to your flooring.

#7: Marble Tiles

Marble is a high-end material that is popular for its stunning luxurious beauty. Marble is a natural rock and each piece comes with its own unique coloring and style. The differences in veining and subtle color shading result in an appealing overall look. Despite its connection to palaces and mansions; marble has gradually made its way into our homes, particularly the bathrooms. Thanks to Mother Nature, technology, and improved transportation; homeowners have access to a large variety of different color & patterned slabs to choose from. But like so many other areas of the house, we are seeing a return to soft color tones in 2021. These neutral finishes allow the natural beauty of marble to shine through at its best and without any impediments.

Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom can be quite a challenge. There is so much variety. You have to choose what color, finish, and shape you want not to mention the material itself. Hopefully, the above information on bathroom design trends for 2021 will help you decide which tiles will look best on your bathroom floor or walls.

*All images are from the internet.