12 Porcelain Bathroom Tiles That Will Make You Forget About Paint
From swirly patterns to shimmery zellige.
Updated Oct 11, 2018 3:04 PM
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Not all tiles are created equal. If you want rustic, go for zellige; if it’s the luxe look you’re after, try marble. But when it comes to durability, there’s a reason porcelain tile bathrooms are so popular—the material is super-sturdy, water resistant, and prime for high-traffic areas. The only challenge is picking the right color.
Given its mass appeal, it’s no surprise that there are so many different hues available. To narrow it down, think of your tiling as the mood ring for the room: Do you want to create the ultimate zen oasis? Do you need an invigorating space to get ready in the morning? Whatever setting you’re going for, we have the colorway to lay the perfect foundation.
Orange
Energize even the tiniest of powder rooms with the fiery hue—either to emphasize a shower nook or the walls if you’re feeling bold. For a marbled effect, pick this swirly number to give any corner an otherworldly galactic-inspired vibe. And if you want to get creative, arrange Stacy Garcia’s coral pieces in a custom formation: Channel your inner designer and create the bespoke pattern of your dreams.
Black and White
Who said neutrals have to be boring? Not this graphic design, which is great for adding an unexpected hit of style to the floor. For the classic look of an all-white space with a twist, ditch the subway shape and choose fish scales. These glossy ones will match any decor—from the antique mirror you picked up at a flea market to the contemporary color-blocked shower curtain you fell in love with.
Pink
Go the pastel route with a blush option—millennial pink is anything but cliché with these pieces. Mimic Lourdes Hernández’s stunning spa-like tub area with a simple hexagon silhouette, or use a striped design for your shower wall. Pepper in some of your favorite humidity-proof plants for a bit of contrast.
Yellow
If your bathroom lacks light, fake it: Citron-hued tiles are guaranteed to brighten up any space. Nemo’s watercolor-inspired squares mirror the handcrafted nature of zellige through the color variation and unique nature of each piece. Double down on that artistic touch with the Aura collection, made to ape an Impressionist painting—bring the museum to your tub with a dedicated corner decked out in the pretty motif.
Green
There’s something about an emerald-colored room that feels like the height of glamour; couple the rich hue with interesting texture and you have yourself a winning combination. Start small with Waterworks’s penny mosaic or splash out on something more dramatic. We’re bookmarking this tortoiseshell print for an eye-catching 3-D alternative to wallpaper.
Blue
For crafting a relaxing corner dedicated to unwinding, go with shades of aqua. Ann Sacks’s patterned pieces will make you feel like you’ve escaped to some sunny Mediterranean villa—use them with plaster walls or cement finishes to complete the look. Or stay on the simple side with a soft blue hexagon. The washed-out color instantly adds charm and is the perfect backdrop for all your future at-home spa evenings.
See more tile ideas: 8 Kitchens Where the Backsplash Is the Main Event Life Is Too Short to Settle on Boring Bathroom Tiles No One Would Ever Accuse These Colorful Tiles of Being Boring