Originally published September 17, 2019. Last updated September 24, 2025.
Your bathroom sets the stage for how you start and end every single day. With the right tiles, you can create a space that feels calm, stylish, and tailored to your taste, be it sleek modern finishes or timeless classic details.
From clean, minimalist vibes to bold, eye-catching patterns, tiles for bathroom design are the foundation of a stunning transformation. To help you get started, here are eight design tips that will make your remodel both beautiful and functional.
1. Finalize Your Bathroom Tile Budget
Before falling in love with a design, set a clear budget. This ensures you stay realistic about your options and avoid overspending. Consider not only the cost of the tile itself but also professional bathroom tile installation.
Working with a contractor early on can give you a clear picture of labor costs, prep work, and potential hidden expenses.
2. Stay Inspired by Bathroom Remodeling Trends
Once you know your budget, it's time to explore what's hot in the world of bathroom design. Trending bathroom colors like soft neutrals, moody blues, and earthy greens are dominating remodels this year. Pair them with matte black fixtures for an industrial edge or go eco-friendly with recycled tiles and sustainable finishes.
By blending timeless classics with modern trends, your bathroom will feel fresh and current for years to come.
3. Pick Your Focal Tile
Think of your focal tile as the star of your bathroom design. It could be a dramatic patterned floor, a mosaic backsplash, or bold geometric wall tiles. This statement piece sets the tone for the rest of your bathroom.
To complement it, choose supporting tiles in neutral or muted shades. For example, a bold basketweave pattern pairs beautifully with smooth, understated porcelain tiles.
4. Limit Your Tile Choices to Three
When it comes to mixing tiles, less is more. Stick to a maximum of three different styles, such as a focal tile, a wall tile, and a floor tile. This keeps your bathroom cohesive and avoids visual clutter.
A balance between textures, finishes, and trending bathroom colors can create a harmonious, magazine-worthy space.
5. Think About Tile Size
Tile size plays a surprisingly big role in the overall look of your bathroom. Large-format tiles can make a small bathroom appear more spacious, while small tiles like penny rounds or mosaics can add intricate detail.
Subway tiles remain a classic, especially for shower walls, while oversized rectangular tiles are gaining popularity for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
6. Coordinate with Your Kitchen Style
Consistency across your home design creates flow. If your kitchen features warm wood tones, modern hardware, or open shelving, echo some of those elements in your bathroom. Choosing tiles or finishes that complement your kitchen makes your spaces feel connected and thoughtfully designed.
7. Embrace Industrial-Inspired Design
If you love the modern-meets-functional look, industrial style is a perfect choice. Pair tiles for bathroom walls that mimic concrete with matte black fixtures, exposed metal, or glass accents. Mixing raw textures like stone, glass, and steel creates a bold yet refined atmosphere that feels both trendy and timeless.
8. Work with the Pros to Maximize Your Renovation
A bathroom renovation is all about creating a space that works better for you every day. Hiring a professional team for your bathroom tile installation ensures precision, durability, and a flawless finish.
At Holland Kitchen & Baths, we've been helping homeowners transform their bathrooms and kitchens into dream spaces since 1986. Whether you already have a vision or need expert guidance, our award-winning designers are here to help.
Call us today at (860) 236-3111 to get started on your bathroom remodel.