The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Tile for Your Bathroom Renovation

The perfect tile may make or break the overall appearance of your bathroom. With endless colors, dimensions, and sheens, you must have a general idea of what you want before visiting a tile showroom.

It is also important to remember that three kinds of tiles are typically enough for both floor and wall. Adding too many can result in a busy and chaotic look.

Size

The size of the tile you select can significantly impact the look and feel of your bathroom. Large tiles can elongate boxy rooms, creating the illusion of space and making them appear larger. Large tiles also allow for fewer grout lines, creating a more open, clean-feeling room.

On the other hand, smaller tiles can create many grout lines that make rooms feel smaller and more cramped. When shopping for tile, it is a good idea to test samples and work with a professional during installation so that you can use materials halfway through your renovation.

Other factors to consider when selecting tile are the shape and pattern you want to use in your design. Hexagon and octagon-shaped tiles are currently having a massive trend in interior design, offering a bolder look than traditional square or rectangular-sized tiles. They can also be arranged in a herringbone or chevron pattern to further elongate narrow bathrooms. When selecting tiles for floors, it is essential to remember that they need to be slip-resistant since they will be wet.

Style

In addition to color and pattern, the style of your tile is also a significant factor in choosing what’s best for your bathroom renovation. Choose a material that will complement and highlight the other elements of your bathroom design, such as your vanity or bathtub.

The size of your bathroom will also influence your tile decision. For example, a small bathroom may benefit from a lighter, more neutral tile design. On the other hand, a large bathroom may work well with a more vibrant, patterned tile.

Regardless of the style you’re going for, it’s essential to test out samples of your chosen tiles at the best tile shop in Chicago before making a final decision. This will give you a better understanding of how the tiles will work in your specific bathroom design and allow you to determine which colors, patterns, textures, and shapes will work together. It’s also a good idea to bring in a contractor or interior designer to help you navigate your options and consider factors that may need to be more apparent to the untrained eye.

Texture

A tile’s texture can significantly impact the look and feel of your space. Smooth tiles have a glossier finish that looks more luxurious, while rougher textures may create a more natural look that some find appealing.

The textured surface of a tile creates a fascinating interplay of light and shadows, enlivening any space. In addition, it can help to hide wall imperfections that might otherwise be difficult to clean. Mold and mildew are standard issues with bathroom walls, but textured tiles can conceal these unsightly spots and make them less noticeable to onlookers.

One of the most popular ways to use textured tile is to mix it with smooth tiles of the same color and style. For example, matt floor tiles prevent slippage, while glossy wall tiles catch the light and reveal a subtle patterned effect. This mix of textures can give your bathroom an extra dimension while allowing you to maintain a consistent design throughout the room. This is also a great way to add depth and drama to your space without overdoing it.

Color

There are numerous color options available. Travertine has warm tones with natural pits that give each tile a little individuality (but be sure to opt for filled travertine to stop water from penetrating and staining the stone). Limestone is another popular option that works well in traditional or modern bathrooms. And, of course, there are also a huge variety of blues and greens to choose from.

Regardless of what tile you choose, it’s important to remember that the grout lines are just as important as the tiles themselves. A dark grout will highlight any color variations in the tile, while a light grout will blend them in.

Pattern

Tile is a permanent feature in your bathroom and offers more opportunities for creative design than a simple coat of paint. Choosing an exciting pattern or layout can elevate your look and add to the overall resale value of your home.

Start by determining your style and what kind of impact you want to make on the room. 

If you love a clean, modern look, try a straight-laid pattern that showcases your tiles the most. Consider offsetting the tiles by one-half for a unique variation to create a staggered effect. This will also hide any imperfections in your dry-fitting process.

Opt for an angled pattern if you like a more textured or geometric design. This will add visual interest to your space without creating too much of a distraction from the rest of the room. This pattern is especially effective with hexagonal or other angular tile shapes. It’s essential to test a few different patterns before making a final decision, as each layout will have a distinct look.