Buyer’s Guide: Bathroom Tiles

Such is the diverse range of bathroom tiles now available for your bathroom you will be amazed at the different looks that can be achieved. Whether you wish to inject some colour to your bathroom or create a feature around your basin or within the shower there is a vast choice of colours and style for you to choose from. With the huge choice available it can be difficult to know where to begin! Here in our buyer’s guide to bathroom tiles we hope to simplify some of the decisions for you and explain the different looks you can create in your own bathroom;

Which Types of Bathroom Tiles Should I Choose?

Whether you are looking for floor or wall tiles you will not be disappointed at the range of colours and finishes you can choose from. Our Core Collection from the House of British Ceramic Tile offers a selection of both types in every style from block colours to patterned borders and even marble effects. They are offered in a range of different finishes from matt to gloss to best suit the overall look you are wishing to achieve in the bathroom. First things first which bathroom tiles can you choose between?

Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are the most popular type for the bathroom as they are easy to keep clean and maintain. They are available in a huge range of styles and do tend to be very cost effective. The only downside of this type of tile is that they don’t retain heat very well.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are extremely hard-wearing and durable which means they can even be used in outside areas. They are available in both matt and glazed finishes depending on which you prefer for your bathroom space. They do tend to be heavier than ceramic versions though so it is important that you check your wall will support their weight.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are the ideal for your bathroom walls if you want to create a glossy finish. They can also reflect the natural light around the room making them ideal for smaller bathroom spaces or those lacking in natural light. They are available in both block colours and attractive mosaics too make a pretty feature for your bathroom. Glass tiles are also easy to clean and hard wearing but tend to be slightly more expensive than ceramic versions.

Natural Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles can really help you to create a luxurious finish for your bathroom as they bring a touch of nature to your space. They are a popular choice for modern bathrooms as they are hardwearing and timeless. You can create a really classy finish with natural stone versions from travertine to slate finishes. It is the most popular type of floor to couple with underfloor heating too as it conducts the heat efficiently.

This type of tile is more expensive than others but we think the finish they create is worth the initial outlay. Your design choices may be made on more aesthetic than practical decisions though and so we will now look at the different effects you can create in your bathroom which may sway your decision on the tiles that you purchase!

What Different Looks Can You Achieve With Tiles?

Tiles can be used throughout your bathroom on both the floors and the walls or you can just select an area you wish to cover such as behind your basin or vanity unit. Here is a rundown of some of the different effects you can create;

Adding a Splash of Colour

With the common trend for modern bathroom suites to be white some of us can be left with a bland looking bathroom space. If you want to create colour in the bathroom coloured floor or wall tiles will help you achieve this. Our Colour Compendium collection offers a vast range of block colours to help you inject this much needed brightness from blues to purple and even red you can really create a unique bathroom space.

Another collection ideal for creating this effect is the Impact Glass range these brightly coloured wall tiles will certainly create an impact in your bathroom space. The glass tiles have a gloss finish which will reflect the natural light and create a visually stunning effect. Choose from a fantastic range of colours from gold to mink to greys to best suit your bathroom decor.

Adding a Feature Wall

If you don’t want to add too many tiles to your bathroom then the perfect compromise is to create a feature wall. This can be in the form of a splash back around your basin or bath or by tiling within your entire shower enclosure to provide a contrast to the rest of the bathroom. Mosaics are a perfect way to achieve this as they offer a variety of shades into your room that will really catch the eye in the bathroom. You can opt for soft neutral tones or more vibrant shades depending on the look you wish to achieve with our extensive Mosaic tiles range.

Designer Style

To create a touch of designer flair in your bathroom then you may wish to opt for some of our stunning Laura Ashley tile designs. This beautiful collection offers a selection of different patterns that will add a touch of class to your bathroom space. From attractive floral patterns to textured patterns and even complimentary borders this range can transform your bathroom into a space that looks like something out of a home design magazine!

Stone or Wood Effect Tiles

If you love the look of more natural finishes then the latest in tile technology will blow your mind! Our range of HD Technology range uses Inkjet technology to create the look of textured natural materials such as stone and marble onto smooth ceramic tiles. These tiles will really add a touch of glamour to your bathroom and are available in a range of shades from whites and beiges to greys. These products allow you to add wall or floor tiles to your bathroom that ooze luxury without breaking the bank!

Create a Monochrome Look

Still a very popular look for bathrooms is the monochrome look. This classic look is achieved easily by simply adding black tiles to contrast against the white of today’s modern bathroom suites. You can choose to add a monochrome feature wall or go out with the contrasting style across the entire bathroom. Our Tiles by Studio Conran offer this contrast in both smooth and mosaic styles to add a masculine feel to your bathroom. If you love the idea of dark and light contrasting tiles then you may also like the Function and Form range too. This range has shades of greys and ivory to offer similar contrasts and texture to your bathroom tiles.

Hopefully this guide will have inspired you to think of the type of tiling design you may wish to add to your bathroom. Not only do we stock a varied and extensive range of tiles but we are able to provide you with all the tiling essentials you will need to keep your tiles looking pristine and in top condition for years to come.