Best Tile Designs for Small Bathrooms: Make Your Space Shine

Designing a small bathroom can feel like a balancing act. You want style and function, but you also need a design that enhances the space, making it feel open and inviting. Here, we’ll share some of the best tile designs to transform your small bathroom, creating an illusion of space while keeping it stylish and functional.

1. Bright and Light: Embrace White and Neutral Tiles

Ape Fado White, available at Procida Tile

Light colors can make a small space feel larger and more open, reflecting light and giving the room an airy feel. White, cream, and soft gray tiles are classic choices that expand the visual space. Subway tiles in a glossy finish add dimension and reflect light beautifully, while white marble tiles lend a touch of luxury without overwhelming the room.

Design Tip: To keep it interesting, use different tile shapes or add subtle texture. Hexagon or penny tiles in white bring texture and style without compromising space.

2. Go Big with Large Format Tiles in A Small Bathroom

Ape Imperiale Blue, available at Procida Tile

It may sound counterintuitive, but large tiles can make a small bathroom appear more spacious. Fewer grout lines create a smoother, more cohesive look, drawing the eye across the room and reducing visual clutter. Large porcelain or ceramic tiles are ideal, offering a seamless finish that makes walls and floors feel expansive.

Design Tip: Choose a grout color that closely matches the tile to create a continuous look, which further opens up the space.

3. Vertical Tiles to Draw the Eye Up

Ape Mud Light Green, available at Procida Tile

Vertical tile layouts are fantastic for small bathrooms as they draw the eye upwards, making the walls seem taller. Try installing vertical subway tiles in the shower or on an accent wall. This layout elongates the space and adds a modern twist to a traditional tile.

Design Tip: Consider pairing vertical tiles with a high gloss finish to add reflectivity and make the space feel even taller.

4. Add Depth with Dark Accent Walls

Elegance Attiva and Canova Statuario, available at Procida Tile

If you’re craving a bit of drama, a dark accent wall can actually enhance a small bathroom by adding depth. A bold navy or charcoal tile on one wall can ground the space and create a focal point without overwhelming it. For a natural look, consider slate or dark-toned marble tiles.

Design Tip: Keep the other walls lighter to avoid making the room feel closed-in. A dark accent wall works best with lighter flooring and white or light-colored fixtures.

5. Floor-to-Ceiling Tiling for a Seamless Look

Blue Aqua, available for special order at Procida Tile

Floor-to-ceiling tile creates a cohesive look that helps make a small bathroom feel larger. By removing the visual break between painted walls and tiled areas, you’re essentially wrapping the room in tile, which draws the eye continuously and makes the space feel taller.

Design Tip: Choose a subtle, low-contrast tile if tiling the entire wall. Small or light-colored tiles are best to avoid overwhelming the space.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best tile designs for a small bathroom doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By incorporating strategic tile layouts, colors, and textures, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish retreat, even with limited space.

Thinking of renovating your small bathroom? Visit Procida Tile’s showroom in Deer Park, NY, to explore our curated selection of bathroom tiles, from sleek modern designs to timeless classics. Our team of interior designers is here to help you make the most of your space with the perfect tile choices.