Wild Ideas for Bathroom Tiles
posted 4/28/2012 3:28:46 AM

Bathroom Tile Ideas tend to value practicality over design, but just because bathrooms focus on function doesn't mean that the form has to be understated or dull. Tile along walls, floors or tub surround is a versatile way to add color, texture or patterns to your interior bathroom design. Experiment with a variety of tile materials and shapes to create a design that complements your wild design aesthetic and adds a fresh look to your bathroom.

Tile Shapes

Most standard bathroom tiles are either rectangular or square. Add visual interest to your bathroom tile designs with alternatively shaped tiles. Instead of standard 12-inch square tiles for your bathroom floor, opt for elongated diamond shaped tiles laid on a vertical line to lengthen your bathroom. Create a playful and distinct backsplash with a series of circular tiles that resemble bathroom-appropriate bubbles. Incorporate a circular border around the inside of your shower surround to carry the design throughout the bathroom. If you like the simplicity of the square or rectangular, choose a rectangular tile that is oddly sized; for example, opt for extra long tiles that are only 1 to 2 inches wide but at least 12 inches long for your backsplash or shower surround.

Alternative Materials

Porcelain, ceramic and laminate tiles are common options for bathrooms, but alternative materials introduce unexpected textures and colors into your bathroom design. Recycled glass are a stylish and environmentally friendly design that are well-suited for backsplashes and shower surrounds; recycled glass tiles tend to be slightly opaque and are available in a range of saturated or muted colors. Metal tiles are also an option for bathrooms. Contemporary bathrooms maintain their sleek modern lines with stainless or brush steel tiles while country bathrooms get a modern twist with copper tiles. For even more impact, opt for metal tiles that have been pressed with a design like a floral pattern or border.

Wild Patterns

Even standard square or rectangular tiles can take a walk on the wild side with creative patterns and designs. If you aren't afraid of color, select small tiles in the shades of the rainbow; tile your shower or floor beginning in one corner with tiles placed in the order of the visible spectrum. If you are artistic, design your own mosaic with a series of small, differently colored tiles. Mosaics are ideal for shower surrounds or large bathroom floors. Opt for circular designs that contrast with the simple square tiles. Even if you aren't artistic, many manufacturers sell preset mosaic tiles backed with a mesh lining that applies to the floor or wall.

Interactive Designs

Playful homeowners love the childlike impact of interactive tile designs. Interactive tile designs invite bathroom visitors to use or change the tile in some way; interactive designs are best suited for shower surrounds where bathroom goers spend the most time. Turn the largest wall of your shower into a checkerboard by laying black and white tiles in an alternating checkerboard pattern. Purchase adhesive bath stickers in simple shapes like circles or hearts, and place them in position on the wall so bathers can play a quick game. Another option for an interactive tile design is heat sensitive tiling. Heat sensitive tiles change color as they are heated by touch or hot water; the tiles shift in a variety of ways to resemble melting liquid, tie-dye or watercolor designs.