Best Bathroom Tile Designs 2020: Trends that Will Transform Your Space
Stepping into a bathroom can be a moment of pure relaxation, a sanctuary from the outside world. The right tile designs can elevate this experience, transforming your bathroom into a haven of style and functionality. As we move into 2020, bathroom tile trends are more exciting and diverse than ever before, offering a blend of classic elegance and daring innovation. This comprehensive guide will explore the hottest bathroom tile designs of 2020, providing you with inspiration and practical insights to make your dream bathroom a reality.
The Enduring Appeal of Classic Subway Tiles
Subway tiles, with their timeless rectangular shape and clean lines, have been a mainstay in bathroom design for decades. But 2020 sees a resurgence of subway tiles, not as a predictable choice but as a canvas for creative expression. Think beyond the traditional white and embrace the spectrum of colors, patterns, and finishes that contemporary subway tiles offer.
1. A Palette of Colors
While white subway tiles remain a classic, 2020 welcomes a rainbow of hues. Think cool blues and greens for a calming spa-like atmosphere, warm terracotta tones for a touch of rustic charm, or vibrant pops of yellow and orange for a more playful feel. The key is to choose a color that complements your bathroom’s overall style and personality.
2. The Magic of Glazes
Glazes add depth and character to subway tiles, creating a range of visual effects. From glossy finishes that amplify light to matte textures that offer a subtle sophistication, there’s a glaze to suit every aesthetic preference. Consider using a mix of glazed and unglazed tiles for a dynamic interplay of textures.
3. Breaking the Mold with Patterns
Subway tiles don’t have to be monotonous. Embrace patterned tiles for a touch of visual interest. Geometric designs, subtle floral motifs, or even herringbone patterns can add a unique twist to the traditional subway tile layout.
4. Beyond the Standard Size
Traditional subway tiles are typically 3″ x 6″, but 2020 encourages exploration of different sizes. Larger subway tiles create a more spacious feel, while smaller tiles provide a more intricate and detailed appearance. Experiment with different dimensions to find the perfect fit for your bathroom.
The Rise of Large Format Tiles
Large format tiles, often measuring 12″ x 24″ or even larger, are making a dramatic impact on bathroom design in 2020. These tiles offer a number of advantages, including a seamless, contemporary look and a reduction in grout lines, which can make cleaning easier and enhance the visual appeal.
1. Sleek and Sophisticated
Large format tiles instantly elevate the look of any bathroom, creating a sense of spaciousness and modernity. The absence of numerous grout lines contributes to a sleek and uncluttered aesthetic.
2. Versatility in Design
Large format tiles are available in a wide range of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone. This versatility allows you to tailor the look of your bathroom to your specific style preferences.
3. Easy Maintenance
Fewer grout lines mean less cleaning effort, making large format tiles a practical choice for busy bathrooms. The smooth, non-porous surfaces are also easy to wipe down and maintain.
The Intricacy of Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles, with their small, individual pieces assembled into intricate patterns, add a touch of artistry to bathroom design. In 2020, mosaics are experiencing a revival, embracing a wider range of styles and materials.
1. Classic Elegance
Traditional mosaic tiles, often made from glass or ceramic, exude a sense of elegance and timeless beauty. They are particularly well-suited for accent walls, backsplashes, or shower floors.
2. Modern Minimalism
Contemporary mosaic tiles often feature geometric designs, metallic accents, and subtle color variations. They create a sleek and minimalist look that complements modern bathroom styles.
3. Nature Inspired
Mosaic tiles can capture the beauty of nature, emulating the look of stone, wood, or even natural textures like sand or pebbles. These tiles bring a sense of tranquility and connection to the outdoors.
The Natural Beauty of Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles, with their inherent beauty and unique character, have always been a popular choice for bathrooms. In 2020, the focus is on selecting stones that reflect the desired ambiance and complement the overall design.
1. Marble: The Epitome of Luxury
Marble, with its elegant veining and luxurious sheen, is a classic choice for bathroom tile. It adds a touch of sophistication and grandeur to any space.
2. Granite: Durability and Style
Granite is a highly durable and resistant stone, making it a great option for high-traffic areas like shower floors. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities.
3. Travertine: Warm and Rustic
Travertine, a natural stone with a unique, porous surface, adds a warm and rustic charm to bathrooms. Its warm tones and earthy texture create a welcoming ambiance.
4. Slate: Contemporary Elegance
Slate, with its distinctive layered appearance, offers an elegant and contemporary feel. Its natural variations in color and texture create a unique and visually appealing surface.
The Trend of Patterned Tiles
Patterned tiles have become a powerful design element in 2020, adding a touch of personality and visual interest to bathroom spaces. From geometric patterns to floral motifs, there are endless possibilities to create a truly unique bathroom.
1. Geometric Patterns
Geometric patterns are a hot trend in bathroom tile design, adding a touch of modern sophistication. Think bold stripes, intricate hexagonal designs, or even simple squares arranged in a repeating pattern.
2. Floral Motifs
For a more romantic and whimsical touch, incorporate floral patterned tiles. These tiles can range from subtle floral accents to bold, eye-catching designs.
3. Damask Patterns
Damask patterns, with their elegant and intricate designs, add a touch of historical charm to bathrooms. They can be used as a focal point on an accent wall or incorporated into a more subtle pattern.
4. Artistic Tiles
For a truly unique look, consider incorporating artistic tiles into your bathroom design. These tiles feature original artwork, hand-painted designs, or even photographs, allowing for a personalized touch.
The Importance of Tile Grout
Grout, the material that fills the spaces between tiles, is often overlooked in bathroom design, but it plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. The right grout color and material can enhance the look of your tiles and ensure durability.
1. Color Considerations
Grout color can dramatically impact the overall look of your bathroom tiles. Contrasting grout colors can highlight the tile patterns, while matching grout can create a seamless and cohesive look.
2. Material Options
Grout comes in a variety of materials, each with its own pros and cons. Epoxy grout is known for its durability and water-resistance, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like showers. Cement grout is a more traditional option, offering a range of colors and finishes.
3. Grout Maintenance
Grout can become stained or discolored over time, so regular cleaning is essential. Use a grout cleaner specifically designed to remove dirt, mold, and mildew.
Choosing the Right Bathroom Tile: A Comprehensive Guide
With so many bathroom tile options available, choosing the right tiles can seem overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make informed decisions and create a bathroom that reflects your unique style:
Step 1: Define Your Style
Before you start browsing tiles, take some time to define your overall bathroom style. Are you drawn to modern minimalism, rustic charm, or classic elegance? Once you have a clear vision, you can start narrowing down your tile choices.
Step 2: Consider the Space
Think about the size and layout of your bathroom. Large format tiles can make a small bathroom feel more spacious, while smaller tiles can add visual interest to a larger space. The shape and size of your bathroom will also influence your tile choices.
Step 3: Choose Your Materials
Each tile material has its own unique characteristics and properties. Ceramic tiles are affordable and versatile, while porcelain tiles are more durable and water-resistant. Natural stone tiles offer inherent beauty and longevity, but they can be more expensive.
Step 4: Think About Color and Pattern
Color and pattern play a significant role in shaping the mood and feel of your bathroom. Light colors can make a space feel larger, while darker colors can create a more intimate ambiance. Patterns can add visual interest and personality to your bathroom.
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Grout
Grout plays a crucial role in the overall look and functionality of your bathroom tiles. Choose a grout color and material that complements your tiles and meets the needs of your bathroom space.