Tile Ideas for Your Shower
Elevate your shower with a boldly shaped tile that adds visual interest and provides traction. Try a herringbone pattern, like the one shown here, or experiment with alternating shapes and sizes, like penny rounds and small hexagons.
Large-format tiles are becoming an envied focal point for bathrooms. Play with tile layouts that use these larger slabs, like staggering them in a traditional brick-bond pattern or laying them horizontally to create a modern wainscot.
Herringbone Patterns
Herringbone patterns are an eye-catching design option that combines elements of both classical and modern design styles. This classic zigzag parquet pattern, named for its resemblance to the bones of herring fish, can be used on walls, floors and other surfaces and is available in a wide range of tile shapes, sizes and colors.
The herringbone layout is a great way to add interest to a bathroom wall or floor without using border tiles. It also allows you to create a seamless and continuous pattern that will complement any type of tile. For a striking look, mix tile finishes such as glossy and matte or even use different color tiles to add a pop of contrast.
While herringbone can be laid in a variety of ways, the most common is to start at one end of a room and work your way across the space, or vice versa. This will ensure that the herringbone pattern flows seamlessly and that the directional element of the pattern is consistent throughout the room.
A herringbone tile pattern can be used with a wide range of materials, from natural stone to porcelain. When it comes to choosing the perfect tile for a herringbone shower, look for a material that reflects your style and will stand the test of time. Marble is a timeless choice that looks spectacular with herringbone, while a darker tile like sandstone will add a more rustic and traditional feel.
Floor Tiles
Most shower tile ideas focus on walls and niches, but your floor is a great opportunity to add style, too. Create a contrasting border with a herringbone pattern or patterned tile, or try a single strip of a different color.
Use a dark grout to highlight zigzag lines in herringbone tile or a white grout to make a monochromatic pattern pop. You can also experiment with different shapes to create a custom shower floor design, such as using small hexagon tiles in a patterned pattern or penny rounds for a dynamic look.
A natural stone tile can elevate a traditional bathroom with its earthy and soothing undertones. Try a marble-look tile with veining for a timeless look, or opt for a concrete-look tile for a modern take on the trend. This beautiful brown ochre tile, featured in this shower designed by Becca Interiors, offers a unique and classic look that complements the brass fixtures and wood vanity.
You can also choose a large-format tile for your shower floor to minimize the number of grout lines and give your room an expansive feel. This stone-look tile, shown here in a herringbone pattern, adds a sophisticated touch and coordinates with the wall tile for a cohesive design. The large-format tile also helps keep the bathroom clean, making it easy to maintain.
Corner Shelves
Adding shelving to your shower is one of the most effective ways to add storage space. Recessed shower shelves (also known as tile niches) provide a clean, elegant appearance and have the added benefit of keeping items off the floor of your shower.
Many home owners, designers and installation professionals opt for a recessed shelf that has a hook attachment that can be used for shower slings, like poofs or washcloths. These slings help to keep towels, body washes, back scrubbers and exfoliating sponges organized.
Another popular option for shower storage is a corner shower caddy. These are generally made of stainless steel and feature premium plated coatings that are designed for wet environments. This type of product is great for storing body washes, soaps and shampoos as well as coordinating bath products such as hair brushes and combs.
Lastly, shower shelves for tile are a great solution for new installations or remodels. These types of shelves are typically installed at the time of tile installation and are integrated into the wall with thinset adhesive. They are much more durable than traditional shower shelves that install after the fact as these can potentially crack through your shower waterproofing systems and allow water and bacteria to enter the walls of your home, resulting in mold growth and other costly damage.
Spa Experience
A spa experience is all about calming the mind and body, so it’s important to include textures and shades that evoke relaxation. Using natural materials such as wood and stone can help create a connection to nature that’s incredibly soothing. Light colors like beiges and calming grays are also popular for spa-like bathrooms. Avoid high-contrast pairings like black and white, which can be energizing rather than calming. Instead, try neutrals with shades inspired by nature such as seafoam green or sky blue for a serene color palette.
A shower’s surface is the perfect opportunity to make a design statement with a unique textured tile. A glazed zellige or handmade glazed travertine tile that has soft waves or geometric shapes will capture the light and look stunning under a cascade of water.
If you don’t want to commit to a completely textured tile, simply use a coordinating pencil trim to add an artistic touch around your shower head. This subtle detail makes a big impact, elevating your bathroom’s design without making it too busy.
Incorporate plants and flowers into your bathroom to instantly add a soothing touch. Whether you place a small vase on your vanity or add flower petals to your showerhead, fresh plant life can be an easy and affordable way to create a spa-like vibe in your home.
