Walk-In Shower Tile Ideas: Timeless Designs

For a unique tiled shower idea in your walk-in shower, consider adding Moroccan mosaic tiles. Their intricate geometric patterns and bright colors create a timeless and elegant look in your space. With small details that form larger, eye-catching patterns, they are a great design idea for walk-in shower floor tiles. Plus, the small size of these tiles means that they have more grout, enhancing safety in a slippery space like your shower.

These tiles are made of materials like glass, ceramic and stone which can be arranged in different patterns to match your style preference. A herringbone or checkerboard pattern can give a modern look. You could create a shower design with a medallion in the center surrounded by smaller patterns. Or choose a border of mosaic tiles in contrasting colors with a white center to add visual interest.

A popular tile idea for walk-in showers is marble tiles. Give your shower an edge by using white marble tiles with streaks of black running through them. It’s a contemporary bathroom and shower tile idea that can make your area feel spacious. An open shower concept, where the bathroom tiles seamlessly blend with the shower area, works well with this design. You can choose to add tiles with multiple streaks of different lengths for an eye-catching pattern. Or make it more subtle by using tiles with minimal black streaks.

When appropriately sealed, marble tiles can be durable. They are also resistant to scratches and chips. Opt for honed or textured marble tiles since they are more slip-resistant than polished marble tiles.

Porcelain tiles are considered easy to maintain and are a popular choice for bathroom tiles. Create graphic designs with soft blue tones and contrast them with white ceramic tiles or opt for bold designs like half-moon shapes and geometrical patterns. You can even find small mosaics or subway tiles that create a spacious look, making them an excellent choice if you're looking for small walk-in shower tile ideas.

Deciding on a smooth or textured tile makes all the difference in the appearance of your walk-in shower. Think about whether you want a matte or glossy finish. You could even consider a polished or glazed look to elevate your shower space. Glazed porcelain tiles are typically waterproof and resistant to stains.

Wood-look tiles give you the aesthetic of wood with the water resistance of tile. These are tiles with a ceramic or porcelain base but printed with a wood design. Their natural, earthy tones create a soothing atmosphere, making them a popular option for showers. Wood-look tiles offer a natural wood grain look. This includes the variations in colors, knots and striations that can be found in wooden floor and wall panels. Distressing techniques are used for a more realistic appearance.

Consider using these tiles for the walls instead of the floors since wood-look tiles might not be as slip-resistant as other floor tiles designed specifically for wet areas.

One of the most classic shower ideas with tiles is subway tiles, inspired by New York City subways. Their black-and-white striped design creates a bold and dramatic look for your walk-in shower. Use these ceramic tiles to cover the entire space and create a strong visual statement.

You can get smaller size tiles with more grout lines for better slip resistance or a large format for a sleek look. Explore layouts like vertical stacks, horizontal bands or herringbone patterns, depending on your personal preferences.

Natural stone is a great walk-in shower tile idea for a luxurious bathroom. Some popular options include marble, travertine, granite and slate. Basalt is a natural stone that can be easily shaped into interlocking tiles and is available in a variety of shades, including darker tones. This is also an excellent shower tile design for small bathrooms as the tile’s long and narrow shape can make small spaces appear larger and more stylish.

Since natural stones require upkeep due to their porous nature and susceptibility to staining, choose a stone type that has a smooth surface and is designed for showers. Large format granite tiles are a great option for DIY enthusiasts. They’re easy to cut with basic tile-cutting tools and are highly durable.

Encaustic tiles are one of the best tile ideas for a walk-in shower. They’re traditionally ceramic tiles but can be found in porcelain as well. These handcrafted tiles are made from concrete and natural pigments in a multi-layered mold system. Known for their resistance to scratches, stains and moisture, encaustic tiles often feature intricate designs, making them a great option for shower floors.

Choose encaustic tiles with a vintage motif to add a touch of elegance and charm to your space. For a softer look in your walk-in shower, you can opt for floral patterns in pastel colors. Roses, lilies and other flowers are typically used for this idea in pastel shades like pink, green and cream.