Choosing feature wall tiling for the bathroom

If you’re looking to add style and character to your bathroom, feature wall tiling can be a fantastic option. This can attract attention, create visual interest, and emphasise your style or interior design. But what should you consider when choosing feature wall tiling for the bathroom? And how can you be sure to choose the right option for your bathroom space, both in terms of practicality and functionality?

So what are the important considerations when choosing feature wall tiling for the bathroom?

There are a number of important factors to consider when it comes to creating stylish and effective feature wall tiling in the bathroom. These include:

• The style and design
• The colour and tone
• Creating bold feature wall tiling
• Creating subtle feature wall tiling

Feature wall tiling to suit your bathroom style

One of the first factors to consider when it comes tiling a bathroom feature wall is the style and overall design. If you are aiming for a contemporary bathroom for example, you will need to choose tiles that complement this. You should consider:

• Modern and minimalist tiling design- If you are aiming for a contemporary style overall, and you prefer clean lines and simplicity, look for tiles with a sleek and uncluttered design. Neutral colours like whites, greys, or soft blues are popular and effective for contemporary bathrooms. For a minimalist feel, you could also choose large format tiles. These are larger than standard tiles, which means that they have fewer grout lines, which creates the appearance of continuous tiling. For your feature wall tiling, why not consider using a complementary or contrasting tile colour, to draw attention and interest?
• Traditional and classic tiling design- If your bathroom design leans towards a more traditional or classic style, consider tiles with timeless patterns such as metro tiles or even tiles with a marble effect. Colours like deep blues, whites, and subtle beiges work well here. Classic patterns like herringbone or hexagonal layouts can bring a touch of elegance to a traditional bathroom, and direct attention to your feature wall. 
• Rustic or industrial- For those with a taste for rustic or industrial design, natural materials or tiles that mimic the appearance of natural stone, wood, or concrete are ideal. Textured tiles or reclaimed-look tiles add warmth and character. Earthy tones like terracotta, taupe, or dark greys can enhance a rustic theme, making the bathroom feel more inviting and cosy, and draw the eye to your feature tiling.
• Scandinavian- Scandinavian design is all about warmth and functionality. If this style would be perfect for your bathroom, look for tiles with soft colours, like light greys or muted pastels, and clean shapes. Subway tiles, for instance, are popular in Scandinavian-inspired bathrooms, as well as wood effect tiling. Either of these can be effective for your feature wall tiling.

Choosing the right colour tiles

Colour is an important factor to bear in mind when choosing tiles for your feature wall tiling. This can have a big impact on the atmosphere of your bathroom, setting the mood and the tone. When choosing feature wall tiling, the colour you choose becomes even more important because it needs to pair well with your overall colour scheme, while also drawing the eye. Some tips to consider when choosing the colour include:

• The size and lighting of your bathroom- In smaller bathrooms, lighter colours tend to work better as they open up the space and make it feel larger. Shades like white, beige, or pastel tones are perfect for this, as these can make a small bathroom feel more airy and bright. If you have a spacious bathroom with plenty of natural light, you have more flexibility to explore darker and bolder colours without making the room feel cramped. For these, black and dark grey colours can add a dramatic, sophisticated twist.
• The mood you want to create- Colours evoke different moods and atmospheres. This means that you need to choose the right colours for the right effect. For example, if you want your bathroom to be a relaxing space, consider choosing cooler tones like blue or green, which are often associated with tranquillity. For a warm, inviting atmosphere, earthy shades like terracotta or soft greys work well. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a bold, energetic look, then bolder colours such as navy blue, dark green, or even black could make a stunning statement.
• Coordinate with fixtures and fittings- To create a cohesive look, you should consider the colours of your bathroom fixtures. This includes the vanity, taps, and shower. For example, if you have brass or gold fixtures, warm colours like beige or light brown on the feature wall can complement these well. Silver or chrome fixtures pair nicely with cool or neutral feature wall shades.

Choosing bold feature wall tiling for the bathroom

If you would like to create a bold feature wall that really stands out in your bathroom, you will need to carefully consider a number of factors for your tiling. These include:

• Dark or vibrant colours- Dark colours, like navy, charcoal, or deep green, can create a luxurious and dramatic look. This can be especially effective when paired with contrasting light-coloured elements in the bathroom. Alternatively, you could choose a vibrant colour, like teal, mustard, or even a rich coral. This can create an eye catching and contemporary look.
• Experiment with patterns and textures- Bold patterns like geometric shapes, chevron, or Moroccan tiles are a great way to add visual interest. If you want a truly unique look, try a bold pattern with textured tiles, like 3D or sculpted designs. These can add dimension and intrigue.
• Mosaic or statement tile design- Mosaics or statement tiles are an effective way to create a unique feature wall. These tiles often come in intricate designs or vibrant colours and can be used to form a mural or decorative pattern. A mosaic feature wall can be particularly effective behind the sink or as a backdrop for the shower, though this is more effective in a traditional or classic bathroom.
• Combine with neutral surroundings- When opting for a bold feature wall, it’s often best to keep the surrounding tiles and fixtures neutral to let the feature wall stand out. A balance of bold and neutral elements will prevent the space from feeling overwhelming while still making a statement.

Choosing subtle tiles

Not every feature wall has to be bold. Choosing a subtle feature wall instead can create a sophisticated, calming space that still draws the eye but doesn’t overpower the room. Why not consider:

• Choosing light or neutral colours- Subtle feature walls often use light or neutral colours, such as whites, greys, or soft pastels. These colours create a timeless look and can make the bathroom feel open and airy. 
• Textured tiles of soft patterns- Textured tiles in subtle colours can create a feature wall that feels both sophisticated and understated. For instance, consider tiles with a linen or wave texture in light beige or pale grey. Subtle patterns, like a soft herringbone or basketweave, can add depth without overwhelming the space.
• Large-format tiles- Larger tiles with fewer grout lines create a cleaner, more understated look, which can be ideal if you want the feature wall to be a subtle addition rather than a focal point. Large-format tiles in neutral tones or with a slight pattern can create a calm, seamless effect.
• Marble or stone-effect tiles- Marble or stone-effect tiles come in natural, muted colours like greys, whites, and soft beiges. These tiles can add a luxurious feel to your bathroom without being overly bold. They work especially well if you want a natural, spa-like vibe.

If you’re looking for tiling options for your bathroom, we are the team for you here at Tiles 2 Go! As the number one choice for tiling in Preston, we have a variety of tiles to choose from. Why not take a look at what we have in store or online, today?