Small Tiled Bathroom Ideas

Tile can add texture and color to your bathroom while standing up to moisture.

In a small bathroom, tile can be a way to make a design statement while creating a surface that will stand up to moisture and condensation. As you plan a tile design for the bathroom, consider your desired effect carefully, as tile can be expensive to replace.

Gradient

With the limited space in a small bathroom, the necessary equipment usually takes up all of the space that might otherwise be used to create a design scheme. When you want to add a dramatic statement to your bathroom, use a tile gradient. Start with small glass tiles in a range of shades of one color. Arrange the tiles so the darkest color is on the bottom, moving up through the spectrum so the lightest color is on the top. In doing so, you can ensure that the lighter color will not cast an unflattering light on your face in the mirror.

Colored Backsplash

When you have a small amount of wall space, use it to add a tile backsplash for a bold pop of color. Choose a bold color that will not go out of style in a few years and place it in a highly visible place: behind the sink, around the bathtub, or at the top of the ceiling. Even with a small amount of colored tile, you can make a big impression in a small bathroom.

Multiple Sizes

In a small bathroom, you can make a dramatic visual statement with multiple sizes of tiles. Choose a consistent color palette or color family to unify the tile design, and select three or four tile sizes. Because the contrast between sizes can be visually powerful, you might choose calming earth tones or low-contrast colors. Experiment with patterns to see which will make the most of the room. Use a step design to break up a plain wall, for example, making the most of the edges and corners of the tiles.

White and Blue

Make the most of the natural light in a small bathroom by using white and blue tiles. Use a mainly white base to reflect the light and give the impression of more space. Add blue tiles in stripes in the shower, on a backsplash, or in a random pattern to give the sense of a Greek island. The bright blue will contrast with the white for a fresh, open feeling without overpowering the room.

References

• This Old House: Using Tile in the Bathroom
• Floor Tiles Design: 5 Techniques to Use Blue Color in Bathroom Tile Design; 2011