With average bathroom dimensions in Ireland being around 4.4 square meters, installing the right tiles is essential to maximise visual impact. Options range from classic ceramics to modern mosaics, allowing for personal expression while ensuring durability. Popular trends include large-format tiles for a seamless look, patterned tiles for added interest, and eco-friendly options made from recycled materials. With clever paint & tile designs, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish sanctuary that meets your practical needs and budget.
1.
Use a subtle splashback to enhance visual interest
Create a focal point with a small tile feature behind your sink. Opt for an off-centre sink with a sleek black tap for a modern twist. The splashback adds visual interest without overwhelming the space. Choose tiles that complement your overall colour scheme, perhaps incorporating metallic or textured elements for added depth. This approach works well in smaller bathrooms or powder rooms where you want to make a statement without cluttering the space.

2.
Incorporate textured tiles for added dimension
Add depth and interest to your bathroom with textured 3D tiles. These tiles create artistic movement and elegance, turning your walls into a sculptural feature. Use in a shower enclosure or as an accent wall. Keep other elements simple to let the 3D tiles take centre stage. This trend works well in modern and contemporary bathrooms.

3.
Choose a calming blue palette for a serene atmosphere
Explore the versatility of blue hues, from soft sky blue to deep navy. Blue tiles can create a range of moods, from calm and serene to bold and dramatic. Use lighter blues for a fresh, airy feel or darker shades for a more luxurious atmosphere. Combine different shades and textures of blue for added depth and interest. This trend works well with various styles, from coastal to contemporary.

4.
Embrace bohemian designs for a relaxed vibe
Embrace your free-spirited side with kaleidoscopic hand-painted tiles in soothing lilac hues. These vibrant tiles create a vintage feel, perfect for pairing with a classic roll-top bath. Choose tiles with intricate patterns and mix different designs for an eclectic look. Complement the tiles with brass fixtures and plush textiles. This style works particularly well in period homes or for those wanting to create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colours and patterns for a truly bohemian vibe.

5.
Add moroccan tiles for an exotic touch
Bring a touch of exotic charm to your bathroom design with handmade Moroccan Zellige tiles. Known for their unique variations in colour and shape, these tiles add character and depth to your space. Use as a feature wall or in the shower area. The imperfect nature of these tiles creates a beautifully organic, artisanal look that’s full of personality.

6.
Opt for terrazzo flooring for a modern aesthetic
Make a statement with large-scale terrazzo tiles. This trendy material adds texture and interest to your bathroom floor or walls. Choose a colour palette that ties in with your bathroom details, such as towels or accessories. Terrazzo works well with both modern and retro-inspired bathrooms. For a bold look, use terrazzo on both floors and walls; if you prefer subtler accents, use it as an accent wall or in the shower area. Pair with simple, sleek fixtures to let the terrazzo shine.

7.
Mix colours and patterns for playful sophistication
Mix colours and patterns for a fun yet sophisticated look. Try custom polka-dot hexagon tiles for playful touches that don’t overwhelm the space. Balance bold patterns with neutral areas to maintain a cohesive look. This approach allows you to express your personality while keeping the overall design elegant. Perfect for family bathrooms or guest ensuites.

8.
Use kit kat tiles for a contemporary look
Kit Kat tiles offer texture and interest without overpowering your space. These elongated rectangular tiles can be arranged in various patterns for a custom look. Opt for subtle colourways like soft greys, creams, or pale blues for a calming effect. Use these tiles as a feature wall in the shower or behind the vanity, working particularly well in modern or minimalist bathrooms. Mix different shades of the same colour for added depth, or stick to one hue for uniformity.

9.
Select marble tiles for timeless elegance
Achieve the luxurious look of marble without the hefty price tag using stone-effect tiles in porcelain or ceramic. These mimic natural marble but are more durable and easier to maintain. For striking contrast, pair with deep blue accents in towels or accessories. Use large format tiles to minimise grout lines and create a seamless look, suitable for both traditional and contemporary bathrooms, adding elegance to any space.

10.
Choose faux wood tiles for durability and warmth
Enjoy the warmth of wood without the maintenance concerns using porcelain or ceramic wood-look tiles. These durable options mimic real wood grain and texture, ideal for moisture-rich bathroom environments. Use on floors or extend to shower walls for a cohesive look. Perfect for creating a cosy, natural feel while ensuring practicality.

11.
Incorporate botanical motifs for a natural feel
Bring the outdoors in with botanical print tiles in soft pink hues, extending the theme by painting your bathtub to match for cohesion and playfulness. Contrast these with green walls to complete the nature-inspired theme, ideal for bright bathrooms filled with natural light. Add real plants or botanical-themed accessories to enhance this look; use botanical tiles as an accent wall or in the shower area for subtlety if preferred.

12.
Create a dark, moody atmosphere with deep colours
Create a moody, sophisticated bathroom using glossy chocolate tiles paired with black furniture, adding a matt black washbowl for textural contrast. This dark-on-dark look is perfect for an intimate atmosphere; use large format tiles to minimise grout lines and create sleekness while balancing darkness with good lighting and mirrors to maintain openness; metallic accents can add glamour here as well.

13.
Use wavy patterns to evoke a sense of calm
Incorporate curved tiles with scalloped or rounded edges to add a sense of movement and softness to your bathroom. These tiles create wavy, calming edges that contrast beautifully with straight lines of fixtures and fittings. Use as a feature wall or in the shower area for maximum impact. This style works particularly well in coastal or spa-inspired bathrooms.

14.
Achieve a cohesive look with matching elements
Create a seamless look by matching your feature tiles with your bathroom furniture. Choose a floating sink and storage unit in a colour that complements your tiles. Add a mini mirror with built-in lights for a sleek, modern touch. This approach works well with both bold and subtle tile choices. The key is to create a cohesive colour palette throughout the space. Consider extending the tiles behind the mirror or using them to frame the vanity area for a polished finish.

15.
Use pebble tiles for a spa-like shower experience
Create a spa-like atmosphere with pebble-textured floor tiles, particularly in the shower area. These tiles add comfort underfoot and provide excellent traction. Choose natural stone colours for an authentic look, or opt for more vibrant hues for a modern twist. Pair with larger format tiles on the walls for a balanced look. This style is perfect for creating a relaxing, nature-inspired bathroom.

16.
Blend different materials for a mixed media approach
Blend different materials and patterns for a truly unique bathroom. Install geometric art wallpaper with marble-effect tiles and large format tiles for a luxurious feel. The key is to balance the busy wallpaper with simpler tile choices. Use marble-effect tiles on the floor or in the shower area, and large format tiles on remaining walls. This combination creates a sophisticated look that’s both timeless and on-trend. Keep accessories minimal to let the mixed materials shine.

17.
Choose green tones to bring nature indoors
Embrace biophilic design through green wall tiles and terrazzo flooring, creating a calming atmosphere reminiscent of nature’s tranquillity; varying shades of green provide depth and interest while natural accessories like wooden shelves enhance organic appeal—ideal for all bathroom sizes but especially effective in smaller spaces where tranquillity is desired—add plants to improve air quality further!

18.
Use wallpaper-inspired tiles for artistic flair
Make a statement with intricate tiles featuring wallpaper-like patterns. Think black-and-white landscapes or detailed floral designs. Use these tiles as a feature wall or in a recessed area for maximum impact. Keep the rest of the bathroom simple to let the detailed tiles shine. This approach allows you to add drama and personality to your space without the maintenance issues of actual wallpaper in a humid environment.

19.
Combine wood and tile for warmth and texture
Create a stunning backdrop with marble-effect tiles paired with warm wood elements. The double sink area becomes a focal point, with the luxurious marble tiles providing an elegant contrast to the natural wood tones. This combination adds depth and texture to your bathroom, creating a sophisticated yet inviting space. Use large format tiles to minimise grout lines and enhance the seamless look of the marble effect. Add brass or gold fixtures to complement both materials.

20.
Incorporate art deco elements for vintage glamour
Transport your bathroom to the roaring twenties with distressed damask patterned tiles featuring a subtle metallic effect. This Art Deco-inspired theme brings a touch of vintage glamour to your space. Choose tiles with an aged appearance for authenticity. Pair with mirrored surfaces and chrome fixtures to enhance the era’s signature shine. Add geometric shapes in your accessories or mirror frames to complete the look. This style works particularly well in period properties.

21.
Use bold colours to create striking contrasts
Make a statement with zigzag patterned tiles in saturated colours for a vibrant, eye-catching bathroom. Create a feature floor that becomes the room’s centrepiece. Choose contrasting colours like deep blue and bright yellow for maximum impact. Keep walls and fixtures simple to let the floor shine. This daring approach works well in smaller spaces like powder rooms, where you can afford to be more adventurous with your design choices.

22.
Create a vibrant space with jewel-toned accents
Transform your bathroom into a vibrant jewel box with bold greens and blues in glossy finishes. These rich hues add depth and luxury to your space. Use as an accent wall or go all-out for a dramatic effect. Pair with metallic fixtures for added glamour. This trend works particularly well in powder rooms or smaller bathrooms where you can afford to be more daring.

23.
Layer greens for a fresh, natural aesthetic
Combine bottle green kit kat tiles with dark marble and light terrazzo for a rich, layered look. Use the kit kat tiles as a feature wall, perhaps in the shower area. Incorporate dark marble on the vanity top or as large format floor tiles. Add light terrazzo as an accent, perhaps as a splashback or on a secondary wall. This combination of textures and shades of green creates depth and interest, perfect for a luxurious master bathroom.

24.
Embrace retro rose tones for nostalgic charm
Create a sophisticated space with smoky rose wall tiles paired with a classic marble splashback. Add mirrored surfaces to reflect light and enhance the sense of space. Incorporate retro touches like a vintage vanity or brass fixtures to complement the rose tones. This combination creates a soft, feminine look that’s both timeless and on-trend. The marble adds a touch of luxury, while the pink tiles bring warmth and character to the space.

25.
Maintain order with neatly stacked tile patterns
Create a sense of order and symmetry with neat, stacked tile patterns. Try vertically stacked mosaics or KitKat tiles in white for a clean, modern look. This approach works well in contemporary bathrooms, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. Use contrasting grout to emphasise the pattern, or match the grout colour for a more subtle effect.

26.
Use blue hues to create depth and interest
Make waves with fish-scale tiles in a vibrant blue hue. The unique shape and shimmering glazed surface create movement and interest in your bathroom. Use these tiles as a feature wall or in the shower area for maximum impact. Pair with white fixtures and simple accessories to let the tiles take centre stage. This playful yet sophisticated look works well in both modern and coastal-inspired bathrooms.

27.
Add trim details to enhance tile designs
Add visual interest and complexity by layering trim around mosaics or other tile patterns. This technique is particularly effective for shower accents or feature walls. Use contrasting colours or materials for the trim to make it stand out. This approach allows you to create a custom, high-end look that adds depth and dimension to your tile design.

28.
Incorporate iridescent tiles for shimmering effects
Create a mesmerising feature wall with iridescent mosaic tiles. The varied textures and light-catching properties of these tiles add depth and interest to your bathroom. Use as a shower backdrop or behind the vanity for maximum impact. Keep the rest of the bathroom simple with neutral tones to balance the busy feature wall. This look works particularly well in bathrooms with good natural light, as it will enhance the tiles’ shimmering effect.

29.
Choose pink and white patterns for playful design
Combine a playful zigzag pattern in pink and white for a fresh, modern look. Use these tiles on the walls and pair with a marble-effect floor for a touch of luxury. The zigzag pattern adds energy and movement to the space, while the pink and white colour combo keeps things light and airy. This look is perfect for a family bathroom or a guest en-suite, adding personality without overwhelming the space.

30.
Embrace coastal themes with blue and white patterns
Capture the essence of the beach with blue and white patterned tiles inspired by California’s coast. Think wave-like patterns or nautical motifs. Use these tiles on floors or as a feature wall to create a fresh, breezy atmosphere. Pair with natural wood elements and plenty of white for an authentic coastal feel. This style is perfect for creating a relaxing, holiday-inspired bathroom.

31.
Use mint green accents for a fresh, peaceful vibe
Incorporate clever shelving into a tiled backdrop using mint green tiles for a peaceful, organised feel. The soft green hue creates a calming atmosphere, while the built-in shelving adds functionality without cluttering the space. Use the shelves to display plants, toiletries, or decorative items. This look works well in smaller bathrooms where storage is at a premium, combining style and practicality.

32.
Create drama with contrasting pink and black tiles
Create a bold statement with charcoal black tiles contrasted against pink ones. Use black grouting with the pink tiles for added definition and to tie the two colours together. This dramatic combination works well in a modern or industrial-style bathroom. Use the black tiles as a base and the pink as an accent, perhaps in a geometric pattern or as a feature wall. Add metallic accessories in gold or copper to soften the look and add warmth.

33.
Surprise with unique tile layouts in the shower
Make your walk-in shower or wetroom a focal point with colourful or patterned tiles. This unexpected element adds personality to an often overlooked area. Choose bold geometric patterns or vibrant hues that complement your overall colour scheme. Keep the rest of the bathroom simple to let the shower tiles shine. This approach works well in both modern and traditional bathrooms.

34.
Bring nature inside with organic shapes and colours
Embrace biophilic design with organic shapes and nature-inspired colours. Think leaf-shaped tiles in various shades of green, or earth-toned tiles with subtle textures. This style increases connectivity with the outdoors, creating a calming, restorative space. Add plants and natural materials like wood or stone to enhance the effect. Ideal for creating a peaceful retreat in your bathroom.

35.
Select timeless travertine tiles for classic appeal
Embrace the natural beauty of travertine, a type of limestone, for a unique and timeless look. Available in warm and cool shades, these stone tiles offer one-of-a-kind patterns and textures. Use large format travertine tiles for floors and walls to create a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere. Pair with modern fixtures for an interesting contrast between old and new.

36.
Use monochrome designs for a bold statement
Embrace the timeless appeal of black and white with bold, graphic patterns. From classic checkerboard to intricate floral designs, this colour combination offers endless possibilities. Use patterned tiles on floors or as a feature wall, balancing with solid colours elsewhere. This high-contrast look works well in both traditional and modern bathrooms, adding drama and sophistication.

37.
Explore geometric shapes for modern aesthetics
Embrace nature with a modern twist using bold, geometric floral patterns. These structured designs offer a fresh take on traditional floral motifs, perfect for creating a statement wall or floor. Pair with solid colours to balance the bold pattern. This style works well in both contemporary and transitional bathrooms, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space.

38.
Add subtle pops of colour to enhance your design
Add a touch of colour without overwhelming your design using subtle coloured pencil trims. These thin strips of tile can accent borders, frame mirrors, or highlight niches. Choose a hue that complements your main tile colour for a cohesive look. This technique allows you to incorporate trendy colours in a timeless way.

39.
Capture the glamour of the roaring twenties
Channel the glamour of the 1920s with Art Deco-inspired mosaic tiles. Look for repeated geometric shapes and metallic accents. Use these tiles to create a feature wall or frame a vanity area. Pair with chrome fixtures and mirrors for authentic Art Deco flair. This style adds a touch of vintage luxury to your bathroom.

40.
Create unique patterns by mixing different tile shapes
Create a unique, personalised look by mixing and matching designs with hexagon or penny round tiles. This approach allows you to play with colour and pattern, creating a custom ’tile tapestry’. Use this technique for feature walls or to define specific areas in your bathroom. Perfect for those who want a truly one-of-a-kind bathroom design.

Frequently Asked Questions
What types of tiles are best for small bathrooms?
Small bathrooms benefit from large-format tiles to reduce grout lines and create a seamless look. Additionally, patterned tiles can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
How do I choose the right tile colour for my bathroom?
Light colours can make a bathroom feel larger and more open, while darker shades can add depth and sophistication. Consider the overall colour scheme and natural light when selecting tiles.
Are there eco-friendly tile options available?
Yes, many manufacturers offer eco-friendly tiles made from recycled materials or sustainable sources. Look for options like porcelain or ceramic tiles that have a lower environmental impact.
What tile patterns are trending for bathrooms?
Current trends include herringbone, chevron, and geometric patterns, as well as classic black-and-white combinations. These designs can add character while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
How can I use tiles to create a focal point in my bathroom?
Use bold or patterned tiles on one wall or as a backsplash to draw attention. Incorporating unique shapes or colours can turn your shower or vanity area into a stunning feature.