Bathroom Tiles - Decorating Ideas | Ideas for Home Garden Bedroom Kitchen

Add pattern
Mosaics are a versatile option for a bathroom. Plain mosaics add a bit of shimmer to walls, giving movement to the room, while their small size makes them ideal for creating pattern; take a look at the extraordinary designs plotted by computer by Italian company Bisazza, or at designs such as this pretty and feminine design (pictured) by tile and stone specialist Ann Sacks.

Make use of mirror
Mirror is a great way to enhance both light and space in a bathroom and is an ideal material to use as it can withstand splashes and moisture and is easy to clean. In this design by Evitavonni, mirrored tiles create a smart splashback, bringing elegant Art Deco style to the room.

Create texture
If you prefer not to have pattern but also want to avoid a wholly plain look, then texture is the way to go. It is a big trend for bathrooms this year, and is particularly effective when combined with a good lighting scheme, which will highlight the relief pattern and create a cocooning atmosphere. Here, designer Fiona Barratt-Campbell uses subtle texture to help focus the eye on the smooth, elegant bath.

Choose exotic
Handmade Moorish designs, known as Zelliges, bring unusual pattern to a bathroom and are especially successful in wetrooms and shower enclosures, creating a hammam feel. In Britain, Habibi and Studio Dar both specialise in these Arabesque tiles, but Fired Earth also has these fabulous Paris Caberet tiles in its new collection.

Go for bold
Tiles are not just for walls; they are, of course, also a favourite finish for the floor. Where space allows, try using classic encaustic tiles in a large-scale monochrome pattern, such as the one seen here, to make a bold statement.

Opt for classic
Classic bathrooms are popular once more and there are a number of period-inspired tile collections around to choose from. Border tiles, inset patterned tiles and co-ordinating shades in both plain and patterned floor and wall tiles will add architectural interest to an otherwise plain room.

Metallic finish
Porcelain tiles are a versatile option as they are suitable for use on floors and walls, can be plain or patterned and can replicate a range of materials, including wood and metal. These Ruggine Caldera tiles have a wonderful weathered metal finish that adds interest over a larger area. Make sure to use the appropriate tile for the surface; floor tiles, for example, tend to be stronger and have a matt, anti-slip finish.

Create atmosphere
While white and pale colours are fresh choices for the bathroom, darker shades can add a sense of drama and have a cocooning effect. Here, warm lighting allows these purple mosaic tiles to shimmer, while an ornate mirror frame adds a super-luxe touch.

Choose a unique print
Surface View prints patterns from the British collections at the V&A, The Natural History Museum and The National Gallery on to a range of surfaces, including tiles. Add impact to a bathroom by using printed tiles as a bath splashback or inside a shower, and paint the rest of the walls or cover in plain field tiles to co-ordinate. Modern designs by Ella Doran and Scandinavian Surface are available, too.

Seamless scheme
New technology has led to ultra thin tiles that can be laid directly over existing flooring and wall tiles. “You need to ensure they are of the highest quality in terms of strength and durability,” advises Annabelle Filer, Architect and founder of The SCIN Gallery. Inkjet technology is used to faithfully replicate stone patterning, which means it is easy to have the classic look of stone without the drawbacks of weight, size limitations and cost. Large-format tiles are now available in sizes measuring up to 3m by 1m, and can be butted against each other to give a seamless finish.