10 Bathroom Ideas with Black and White Tile: Fresh Design Inspiration for Timeless Black & White BathroomsElena MarloweJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Classic Checkerboard Floor2. Subway Tile with Dark Grout3. Hexagon Floor Magic4. Bold Statement Wall5. Monochrome Mosaics6. Black Floor, White Walls7. Penny Tiles with a Twist8. Vertical Stripes9. Herringbone Contrast10. Graphic Border LinesFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, I had a client who swore they wanted their bathroom to look like an old 1920s movie scene. I thought they were joking until they pulled out a black-and-white film still and said, “Exactly this!” That project taught me something: small spaces, like bathrooms, can be the perfect playground for bold tile ideas.1. Classic Checkerboard FloorYou can’t get more iconic than a black-and-white checkerboard tile pattern. It instantly gives a retro feel yet stays timeless. Just be prepared to keep the grout clean — the contrast makes every speck show.save pin2. Subway Tile with Dark GroutSimple white subway tiles outlined with black grout make the walls pop. I once used this in a narrow bathroom, and the space felt both fresh and graphic. If you’re planning layouts, tools like a room planner can help visualize proportions.save pin3. Hexagon Floor MagicSmall black hex tiles mixed with white create a playful, vintage look. It’s a favorite for period homes but also adds charm to modern spaces.save pin4. Bold Statement WallPick one wall and go all out with a striking tile design—think geometric patterns or oversized black tiles framed with white. It’s dramatic without overwhelming the whole bathroom.save pin5. Monochrome MosaicsI love using small mosaic tiles in mixed shades of black, white, and grey. They add texture, and the variation hides water spots surprisingly well.save pin6. Black Floor, White WallsInverting the classic scheme, a matte black floor grounds the space while white walls bounce light around. If you’re drafting different tile combos, the free floor plan creator is a lifesaver for quick experiments.save pin7. Penny Tiles with a TwistWhite penny tiles with random black inserts make for a unique and fun floor. It feels modern but has a nod to retro bathroom design.save pin8. Vertical StripesAlternate vertical bands of black and white tiles. This can make a low ceiling feel taller — a trick I stole from a boutique hotel I worked on.save pin9. Herringbone ContrastUse black tiles in a herringbone pattern against plain white walls. The texture and pattern keep it interesting without going overboard. If it’s your first time working with patterned layouts, try a bathroom design tool to play before committing.save pin10. Graphic Border LinesAdd a slim black tile border around the walls or shower niche. It frames the space and can tie together floor and wall designs seamlessly.save pinFAQQ: Are black-and-white tiles hard to maintain?A: The contrast can make dirt more visible, especially on grout, but sealing grout and regular cleaning makes upkeep manageable.Q: Will black-and-white tile go out of style?A: Unlikely — it’s been around for over a century and adapts well to both vintage and modern interiors.Q: Can I use black-and-white tiles in a small bathroom?A: Yes, in fact it can make a small bathroom feel more stylish and intentional if patterns are used strategically.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE