Did you know that the average person spends over 3,000 hours in the bathroom throughout their lifetime? That’s a lot of time if you are not overly fond of it!
If your bathroom is stuck in a bit of a style rut, don’t be disheartened. A simple update with the right choice of tiles can transform it into a masterpiece. At EMC Tiles we stock a vast selection of bathroom wall and floor tiles in different colours, patterns and textures, from chic and modern designs to more traditional and retro styles and ones that scream pure opulence. Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to guide you and help you create your dream space.
The Power of Tiles
When it comes to bathroom renovations, tiles reign supreme. Bathroom tiles do more than just protect your walls and floors from moisture; they also set the tone of the room, influence lighting and they can even make a small space appear larger.
Tiles are incredibly durable. Unlike other materials that can buckle or warp under constant moisture exposure, tiles stand strong. Spills, splashes and steam are no match for their resilience, which means your bathroom makeover is here to stay.
Whether you prefer the sleek, minimalist look of large-format porcelain tiles or the warm, rustic charm of hand-painted ceramic tiles, the right choice of bathroom wall tiles can elevate a functional room into a stylish sanctuary. From classic marble looks to trendy geometric patterns, at EMC Tiles, we have a tile design to suit every taste.
Can I Paint Bathroom Tiles? We Hear You Ask.
We know that painting your existing tiles or installing waterproof wall panels are quick and economical DIY options for refreshing your bathroom’s appearance, however, they come with limitations that might make your bathroom less appealing. While special one-coat tile paint offers a fresh look, these are generally not as durable or moisture-resistant as the original tile surfaces, making them susceptible to chipping, peeling and mould in the humid conditions of a bathroom. Additionally, painted tiles and waterproof wall panels can be difficult to maintain, requiring gentle cleaning to avoid damaging the paint and frequent touch-ups due to wear and tear.
From an aesthetic and investment perspective, painting bathroom tiles might also put off potential buyers who may view it as a cosmetic fix rather than a substantive improvement. Ultimately, replacing the bathroom tiles might involve more upfront costs and effort but it provides a more permanent solution and a far superior result.
Bathroom Design Inspirations
The possibilities are endless with the right choice of bathroom tiles, allowing you to create a bathroom that reflects your unique style.
Are you Dreaming of Timeless Elegance?
For a touch of sophistication, explore EMC Tiles’ selection of natural stone tiles. Marble effects offer classic veining patterns, while stone looks provide a sense of serenity. These tiles are perfect for creating a bathroom that exudes timeless luxury.
Is Bold and Modern More Your Style?
If you are looking for a contemporary vibe, EMC’s range of bold colours and geometric patterns is your playground. Make a statement with daring pops of colour – think emerald greens or sapphire blues. For a touch of playful energy, geometric patterns like hexagons or terrazzo can add a unique twist to your bathroom design.
Are You After a Spa Sanctuary?
Transform your bathroom into a tranquil oasis with tiles that evoke a spa-like atmosphere. Mosaic tiles, with their intricate patterns and textures, add a touch of luxury and visual interest. Natural stone tiles such as calming limestone or pebbles, further enhance the sense of peacefulness.
Yearning for a Touch of the Mediterranean?
Channel the warmth and charm of the Mediterranean with earthy terracotta tiles or breezy blue hues. Mosaic tiles in calming sea greens and sandy beiges can complete the picture, transporting you to a relaxing coastal getaway.
Or, Is Industrial Chic Your Vibe?
Embrace the raw beauty of exposed brick with textured concrete-effect tiles. Geometric black and white patterns add a touch of sophistication, while metallic accents can create a touch of modern edge.
We at EMC Tiles don’t just offer design inspiration; we provide the perfect canvas for your vision. Our exquisite range of bathroom tiles includes various tile types to suit your style and budget.
Choosing the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom
When renovating your bathroom, the selection of tiles plays a crucial role. Tiles are available in a variety of materials. Understanding the differences between ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles can help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
- Ceramic Tiles: Ceramic tiles are known for their versatility and wide range of colours and designs. They are easier to cut and install than harder materials, making them a popular choice for DIY projects. Ceramic tiles are highly resistant to stains, making them ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms. They can be glazed to offer a glossy finish or left unglazed for a more natural, earthy look.
- Porcelain Tiles: Porcelain tiles are renowned for their durability and water resistance. They are denser than ceramic tiles and are often used in high-traffic areas because of their ability to withstand heavy use without showing wear. They offer a consistent colour and pattern, which can mimic natural stone or hardwood floors, providing elegance and sophistication to any bathroom design.
- Natural Stone Tiles: Natural stones such as marble, granite or slate offer unique textures and colours. Each tile is one-of-a-kind, adding a luxurious and custom feel to your bathroom. These tiles bring an element of natural beauty and provide a timeless look that never goes out of style.
If you are looking for simple bathroom makeover ideas, below we outline five different ways to use tiles to achieve your dream bathroom.
1. Colour Schemes
Selecting the right colour scheme for your bathroom tiles can dramatically alter the atmosphere of the space. Whether you aim for a serene retreat or a bold statement room, the colours and patterns you choose will set the tone.
Enhance Your Spaces with Colour
- Light Colors: For smaller bathrooms, light colours such as whites, creams and pastels can make the space feel larger and more open. They reflect more light, which helps to brighten and expand the area visually.
- Soft Pastels: Ideal for smaller bathrooms, soft pastels are soothing and can make any space feel serene and spacious.
- Dark Colours: In larger bathrooms, dark colours such as navy, charcoal and black can add a dramatic and sophisticated touch. They work well in spacious environments where they won’t overwhelm the space.
- Neutral Colours: Neutral tones continue to be popular for their versatility and timeless appeal. Beiges and soft grey tiles can easily integrate with various decor styles and add warmth to the bathroom.
- Bold Monochromes: Monochrome colour schemes, using various shades of a single colour, create a cohesive yet striking look. Deep blue and green tiles can be mixed with lighter shades of the same colour for a sophisticated finish.
2. Get Creative with Tile Layouts
Beyond the stunning designs, tiles offer a world of creative possibilities when it comes to layout. Don’t settle for the ordinary!
- Classic with a Twist: The ever-popular subway tile gets a complete makeover with a vertical layout. This simple change can elongate the appearance of your bathroom walls and add a touch of sophistication.
- Herringbone Design: A herringbone pattern offers a stylish classic feel. This layout creates a sense of movement and adds visual interest, perfect for bathroom wall tiles and floors.
- Chevron Patterns: Similar to herringbone, the chevron pattern offers a touch of dynamism. The zig-zag design adds playful energy and pairs beautifully with bold, neutral colour palettes.
- Mosaic Magic: Mosaic tiles are a fantastic way to introduce pops of colour and intricate patterns. Use them as a feature wall, a shower accent, or even to create decorative borders.
- Contemporary Geometric Tiles: Use these to introduce a dynamic element to your bathroom’s design, available in a range of colours that can be tailored to small and large spaces.
- Mixed Tile Sizes: Using a combination of different tile sizes can create a uniquely patterned and textured look. This can be particularly effective for shower areas or as a decorative border around the room.
3. Think Big or Think Small!
Your tile choice can make or break the feel of your bathroom but follow this simple rule to get it spot on every time!
Enhancing Small Bathrooms
Use simple patterns or plain tiles to avoid visual clutter. Striped patterns can be used vertically to create the illusion of height in low-ceiling rooms or horizontally to make a narrow bathroom feel wider.
- Mirror Tiles: Incorporating mirror tiles can amplify light and create a sense of depth, making a small bathroom feel larger and more open.
- Large-Format Tiles: Fewer grout lines and a seamless look help expand a small space visually. Using larger tiles on the walls and the floor can give a more unified appearance.
- Light-Coloured Tiles: Using light colours for the majority of the space with a few darker tiles to create a focal point can also help in expanding the visual space of a small bathroom.
Maximising Large Bathrooms
Larger spaces can handle more complex and bold patterns without feeling cramped. Consider large-format tiles or intricate mosaics to make use of the expansive canvas. Don’t be afraid to combine different tile layouts and sizes! Our extensive tile range at EMC Tiles allows you to mix and match to create a truly personalized design that reflects your unique style.
4. Feature Walls and Accents
In modern bathroom design, feature walls and accents serve as focal points that add character and style to the space. These design elements can transform an otherwise plain area into a visually striking statement.
The Role of Feature Walls
- Visual Impact: A feature wall attracts the eye and can immediately draw attention, setting the tone for the entire room.
- Artistic Expression: It allows homeowners to express their style preferences and personality through unique textures, colours and immersive patterns.
- Enhancing Small Spaces: In smaller bathrooms, a feature wall can create a sense of depth and intrigue without overwhelming the space.
Tiles for a Standout Feature Wall or Accents
- Contrast and Complement: Choose tiles that contrast with the rest of the bathroom to make the feature wall stand out, or select tiles that complement existing colours and textures to enhance the overall cohesion of the space.
- Texture and Size: Textured tiles can add depth and interest. They provide a tactile experience that adds richness and sophistication. Large-format tiles or mosaic tiles can vary the scale and detail in the design.
- Glossy Ceramic Tiles: Perfect for adding a sleek, modern look, glossy tiles reflect light beautifully, making a small bathroom feel larger and more luxurious.
- Colour and Pattern: Bold colours and dynamic patterns can turn a wall into a piece of art. Consider the mood you want to create—tranquil with soft, natural tones, or vibrant with bright, bold hues.
Installation Tips
By incorporating a feature wall or accents into your bathroom, you can elevate the space from functional to fabulous with relatively simple changes.
- Focal Points: Decide on the placement of your feature wall. Common choices include the wall behind the vanity or the shower wall, as these areas naturally draw the eye.
- Lighting: Consider the lighting when selecting tiles for a feature wall. Reflective tiles can be used to brighten a space, while matte tiles might be better for an understated look.
5. Mixing and Matching Tiles
Mixing and matching tiles in a bathroom can create a unique, personalised look that reflects your individual style. However, it’s important to do so thoughtfully to avoid a chaotic appearance.
Tips for Mixing and Matching Tiles
- Start with a Colour Scheme: Choose a base colour to keep the look cohesive, and select additional colours that complement or contrast with it effectively. This could be a neutral palette with a pop of colour, or a blend of warm or cool tones.
- Vary Textures Thoughtfully: Combining different textures can add depth and interest. For example, a glossy finish can be paired with a matte finish to enhance visual appeal or smooth tiles can be juxtaposed with textured tiles for a tactile element.
- Consider Size and Scale: Mixing tiles of different sizes can add visual interest and rhythm to a space. Use larger tiles on the floors and smaller tiles on the walls, or vice versa, to create a dynamic look. It is also effective to use one size of tile as the main feature and another size as an accent.
Mixed and Matched Styles
- Modern Industrial: Combine large, plain concrete-effect tiles with smaller, decorative metal-effect tiles for a chic industrial look. This can create a strong visual impact, particularly good for larger bathrooms.
- Beach House Vibes: Mix blue glass mosaic tiles with sandy-coloured large-format tiles to create a refreshing, beach-inspired look. This combination works well around showers or as a backsplash.
- Rustic Elegance: Pair wood-effect porcelain tiles with stone-effect decorative accents for a rustic yet refined style. This mix is perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in any bathroom setting.
Shop Bathroom Tiles at EMC
Visit EMC Tiles and explore our wide range of bathroom tile options that allow for creative mixing and matching. Whether you are aiming for a bold statement or a more understated design, we can help you create your dream bathroom.
Pop down to one of our East Midlands Showrooms or browse our extensive selection on our website.
