A Guide To Mixing Bathroom Tiles Like A Pro

Updating or remodelling your bathroom can generate a return on investment of at least 69% on average, Architectural Digest reveals. In particular, wall and floor tiles are a great way to add style, texture, and beauty to your bathroom. You can even embrace the trend of mixing and matching tiles to jazz things up even further. But, careful planning is needed so your tiles go well together without clashing or being overly similar. You’re aiming for a cohesive design that’s still varied enough to be eye-catching.

By choosing tiles that vary in shape, finish, or contrast, you can create a stylish bathroom that looks modern and inviting.

Same Colour, Different Shape

Choosing a couple of different sized tiles that share the same general colour is an easy way to mix bathroom tiles while keeping things stylish. It’s hard to go wrong with this decor choice, just take care to choose tiles in colours that fit your overall bathroom theme (modern, vintage, vibrant etc).

In particular, subway tile — a rectangular, ceramic tile similar to a brick —, is a classic and elegant choice. You could feature a large version of subway tile on your wall, and create a herringbone pattern on your floor with smaller subway tiles, for example. You can even opt for a colourful shade of granite to create a contrast that truly makes your tiles pop. Dark grey grout, for instance, is a good choice here.  

Create a Contrast 

Creating contrast with mixed tiles — whether that means juxtaposing colour, texture, or shape — adds another dimension to the room and gives it the wow factor. An easy way to do this is in the shower. Small shower insets can showcase eye-catching tiles that contrast with your dominant tile colour.

For instance, a narrow strip of turquoise mosaic tile that runs across your shower wall can add a pop of colour that breaks up a monotone wall of white tile. Whichever sort of tile you go for, regular cleaning is essential to keep your tiles looking new and germ-free. The floor is actually the dirtiest part of your bathroom and harmful bacteria like staphylococcus and E. coli can build up fast. So, mop your tiles at least once a week to remove dirt and grime and keep them looking their best. 

Mix Matte and Glossy Finishes 

Matte tiles absorb the light and typically suit darker rooms, whereas glossy tiles are shiny and light-reflecting, which makes them great in modern or colourful spaces. Mixing the two finishes can add interest to your bathroom. You can either have an equal mix of the two different tiles, or opt to feature one more than the other — it really depends on your personal preference. Also, feel free to mix colours. For example, white glossy wall tiles will look great with matte blue or grey floor tiles. 

Mixing and matching bathroom tiles can seem intimidating, but, if done right, you’ll successfully create a truly special space. Whether you decide to vary shape, embrace contrast, or play around with finishes, tiles can be a stylish addition to your bathroom.