10 Tile Bathroom Flooring Ideas: From My Design Desk: 10 Small-Space Tile Ideas to Maximize StyleMarina LavoieSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Large-Format Tiles for Fewer Grout Lines2. Classic Black-and-White Checkered3. Herringbone Patterns with Wood-Look Tiles4. Stone-Look Porcelain for Spa Vibes5. Moroccan-Inspired Cement Tiles6. Neutral Terrazzo Tiles7. Full-Color Monochrome for Impact8. Tiny Penny Round Tiles9. Matte Hexagonal Tiles10. Mixed Tile ZonesFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI still remember a client who insisted on a pure white, glossy tile bathroom floor — beautiful, but slippery enough to make me hold my breath every time I visited. That “oops” taught me something important: the best tile choices balance aesthetics and practicality. Small bathrooms are where design magic really happens, and today I’m sharing 10 tile bathroom flooring ideas that can transform even the tiniest space into a stunner.1. Large-Format Tiles for Fewer Grout LinesIn small bathrooms, fewer grout lines can make the floor feel more expansive. I once used oversized matte porcelain tiles in a 3㎡ apartment bath, and it tricked the eye into thinking the room was almost double its size. Just remember: they require precise measurement — no room for sloppy cuts. You can play with layouts using an interactive bathroom planner before committing.save pin2. Classic Black-and-White CheckeredIt’s timeless, a little bit retro, and adds personality without overwhelming a small footprint. I love doing it with slightly smaller tiles in tight spaces, as it becomes a charming graphic feature. The downside? Grout requires more frequent cleaning to keep that crisp look.save pin3. Herringbone Patterns with Wood-Look TilesClients often want the warmth of wood but fear water damage. Wood-look porcelain in herringbone instantly adds movement and texture. I’ve had projects where the pattern alone became the selling point for prospective buyers — it reads custom and high-end without breaking the bank.save pin4. Stone-Look Porcelain for Spa VibesIf you love the natural feel of marble or slate but not the upkeep, stone-look porcelain is your best friend. It’s tough, low-maintenance, and still feels luxurious. I usually pair it with soft, indirect lighting to complete the “spa” atmosphere.save pin5. Moroccan-Inspired Cement TilesThese bold, intricate patterns work wonders in small bathrooms because the floor becomes the feature wall. I once combined them with minimal white subway tiles on the walls — instant boutique hotel feel. Just seal them properly; cement is porous and will otherwise show water spots.save pin6. Neutral Terrazzo TilesThere’s something playful about terrazzo’s confetti-like chips, and in soft neutrals, it doesn’t overwhelm small spaces. Recently, I used it in a client’s powder room, and guests kept asking for the supplier’s contact. You can map out materials with a visual layout tool to check balance before ordering.save pin7. Full-Color Monochrome for ImpactThink all green, all navy, or even blush pink tile floors — a gutsy choice that makes the space memorable. The trick is to balance it with neutral wall finishes so it feels chic instead of cartoonish.save pin8. Tiny Penny Round TilesThey’re budget-friendly, great for curved areas, and insanely grippy when wet — which is a plus for safety. The only gripe? More grout means more cleaning. But in a vintage or eclectic bathroom, it’s pure charm.save pin9. Matte Hexagonal TilesHex tiles bridge modern and classic style beautifully. I’ve used dark matte hexagon floors to ground a very light, airy bathroom design, and the contrast was perfect. When planning contrast-heavy designs, I sometimes simulate the light and shadow using a 3D visualization tool to avoid surprises.save pin10. Mixed Tile ZonesFor awkwardly shaped bathrooms, mixing tile types can help “zone” areas subtly — for example, bold patterned tiles in the shower area and solid, calming tones elsewhere. It’s functional and visually interesting, but requires careful transition detailing to look intentional.save pinFAQQ: Are matte or glossy tiles better for bathroom floors?A: I lean toward matte for safety — less slip risk — especially in households with kids or older adults.Q: How can I make a small bathroom feel bigger with tile?A: Larger tiles with fewer grout lines, lighter colors, and consistent flooring from wall to wall can create the illusion of a bigger space.Q: Which tile type is most durable?A: Porcelain is typically the top for durability, low maintenance, and water resistance in bathrooms.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