10 Creative Bathroom Tile Ideas for 2020: My Favorite 2020 Bathroom Tile Trends That Still Feel Fresh Today

I still laugh when I think about the time a client asked me to find tiles “that look like melted marshmallows.” Back then, I thought it was the weirdest request, but the hunt led me to discover a playful, glossy tile that became the star of their tiny bathroom makeover. That project reminded me how bold ideas can transform even the smallest spaces — and why small bathrooms often spark the biggest creativity. In this article, I’m sharing 10 bathroom tile ideas from 2020 that I still love using with my clients today.

1. Matte Black Tiles

Back in 2020, matte black started showing up in bathrooms everywhere. It gives a moody, sophisticated vibe, especially when paired with brushed gold fixtures. The only challenge? Fingerprints can show, so you'll be wiping them more often — but the drama is worth it. I once used them in a small loft bathroom, pairing them with neutral concrete textures to keep the space balanced.

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2. Terrazzo Revival

Terrazzo made a huge comeback. It’s playful, colorful, and surprisingly versatile. I love terrazzo in shower niches — it hides water spots and makes the space instantly cheerful. The tricky part is not overdoing it; too much can feel overwhelming.

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3. Geometric Patterns

Hexagons, diamonds, and even bold chevron patterns — in 2020, we saw bathrooms becoming geometric playgrounds. A geometric floor tile can make a tiny bathroom feel designed and intentional. I've used it before with a simple white subway tile on the walls for contrast.

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4. Large Format Tiles

Big tiles in small bathrooms? Absolutely! They reduce grout lines, making the space look larger and cleaner. This was especially popular for sleek modern designs. I often matched them with minimal fixtures and a light, airy layout to enhance the spacious effect.

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5. Pastel Hues

Mint greens, blush pinks, and powder blues offered a softer alternative to all-white bathrooms. I love how pastel tiles reflect light subtly, giving warmth without overpowering the space. Just be sure to choose a palette that won’t date too quickly.

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6. Textured 3D Tiles

These tiles add depth and create interesting shadows. I once used soft wave-shaped tiles to make a feature wall behind a bathtub, and it instantly became the client's favorite spot. They can be pricier, but even a small section can have a big impact.

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7. Metallic Accents

Gold, copper, and even gunmetal tiles became accents rather than the main star. They work beautifully as a border or in mosaic form. The key here is restraint — too much metallic can make a bathroom feel like a disco ball.

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8. Checkerboard Patterns

Black-and-white checkerboard tiles may be old school, but 2020 gave them a modern update with oversized squares and unexpected color combinations. It’s a bold move that works well in vintage-inspired bathrooms.

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9. Wood-Look Porcelain

For those who love the warmth of wood but want the durability of tile, wood-look porcelain was a 2020 favorite. It’s also great for adding a spa-like vibe to a bathroom. I often combined this with clean Scandinavian elements to create a calm atmosphere.

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10. Moroccan Zellige Tiles

Handmade zellige tiles with their uneven surfaces and rich, saturated colors became a hit. They have a natural, lived-in charm I still adore today. Installation takes more care because of their imperfections, but the result is one-of-a-kind.

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FAQ

Q: Are 2020 bathroom tile trends still relevant?

A: Absolutely. Many of the trends from 2020 have proven timeless, especially when paired with updated fixtures and accessories.

Q: What’s the easiest trend to try on a budget?

A: Pastel or geometric tiles — you can use them in small doses like a backsplash or a single wall.

Q: Which tile type is low maintenance?

A: Large-format porcelain tiles; fewer grout lines mean less cleaning.