10 Bathroom Tile Design Ideas for Small Bathrooms: Creative and Space-Boosting Tile Ideas for Compact BathroomsLena MarloweSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Vertical Subway Tiles2. Glossy White with Light Grout3. Tiny Hexagon Floors4. Marble-Look Porcelain5. Half-Wall Tile in Bold Color6. Large-Format Wall Tiles7. Mosaic Niches8. Wood-Effect Porcelain9. Classic Black and White Check10. Mirror-Accented TilesFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, a client asked me if we could put three different patterns of tiles in her tiny bathroom — and make it look “calm but exciting.” I nearly choked on my coffee, but the challenge opened my eyes to how much character even a few square feet can hold. Small bathrooms are tricky, but that’s where big creativity comes alive. Today, I’m sharing 10 bathroom tile design ideas perfect for compact spaces, inspired by real projects I’ve worked on and those little design victories along the way. And yes, some even came from my own bathroom design adventures.1. Vertical Subway TilesFlipping classic subway tiles vertically draws the eye upward, instantly making a small bathroom feel taller. It’s a little twist that costs no extra but changes the perception of height.save pin2. Glossy White with Light GroutHigh-gloss white tiles with light grout reflect more light, making a snug space sparkle. Just remember, they do show water spots, so keep a microfiber cloth nearby.save pin3. Tiny Hexagon FloorsI love a good hex pattern. Small hex tiles add texture without overwhelming the floor, and the grout lines can even help prevent slips. Pairing them with a neutral wall keeps balance in check.save pin4. Marble-Look PorcelainPorcelain tiles that mimic marble give a luxe look without the slippery price tag (or maintenance headaches). I used them in a client’s guest bath, and guests still ask if it’s real stone.save pin5. Half-Wall Tile in Bold ColorTiling halfway up the wall in a bold hue adds personality but keeps the upper half light, so the space still feels open. I once used deep teal — paired with clever layout tweaks — and it became the most Instagrammed corner of the house.save pin6. Large-Format Wall TilesIt sounds counterintuitive, but bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which can make walls feel less busy and more spacious. Just be sure the installer is comfortable handling the size.save pin7. Mosaic NichesAdding a pop of mosaic in a shower niche creates a focal point and lets you splurge on pricy tile without covering the whole wall. It’s practical storage and eye candy in one.save pin8. Wood-Effect PorcelainWood texture brings warmth, and in porcelain form, it handles water like a champ. I’ve used it on bathroom floors where clients wanted spa-like coziness without the warping risk.save pin9. Classic Black and White CheckRetro checkerboard floors are making a comeback. They add punch to a small bathroom, but I recommend balancing them with plain walls to avoid pattern overload — unless you’re going full vintage drama.save pin10. Mirror-Accented TilesTiles with subtle mirror insets bounce light around beautifully in tight quarters. Too many can feel flashy, so I like to use them as framing detail, often paired with thoughtful space planning to maximise the effect.save pinFAQQ: Can dark tiles work in a small bathroom?A: Absolutely — use them selectively, like on one feature wall or the floor, balanced with lighter tones elsewhere.Q: Is matte or glossy better for small spaces?A: Glossy reflects light and brightens, while matte hides water spots better. Sometimes mixing them works best.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