10 Tiled Shower Ideas for Small Bathrooms: Creative and space-smart shower tile ideas from my 10+ years of small bathroom design experienceSienna HartwellJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Go Vertical with Subway Tiles2. Large Format Tiles3. Contrasting Niche Tiles4. Floor-to-Ceiling Marble Style5. Glass Mosaic Accent Strips6. Hexagon Floor Tiles7. Herringbone Statement Wall8. Same Tile, Different Finish9. Wrap Tiles Around Corners10. Dark Moody Tiles with Bright LightingFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, a client asked me to make their tiny bathroom “feel like a luxury hotel.” The catch? The entire shower area was barely wider than my arm span! That project taught me a lot about how smart layout choices and the right tiles can completely transform a compact space. Small bathrooms aren’t a limitation—they’re actually the best playground for design creativity. Today, I’m sharing 10 tiled shower ideas that I swear by after years of trial, error, and happy clients.1. Go Vertical with Subway TilesInstead of the usual horizontal pattern, I sometimes flip subway tiles vertically. It draws the eye upward, making the shower feel taller. The only caveat: you need a steady hand for grouting so the lines stay crisp.save pin2. Large Format TilesBig tiles in a small shower might sound crazy, but fewer grout lines mean a cleaner, more open look. It’s also easier to clean—though the tile cuts around fixtures can be a bit trickier for your installer.save pin3. Contrasting Niche TilesI love adding a pop of pattern in recessed niches. Against calm wall tiles, it becomes an instant focal point and functional storage. Plus, it’s a perfect spot to test bolder styles without overwhelming the space.save pin4. Floor-to-Ceiling Marble StyleUsing marble-look porcelain tiles up to the ceiling gives a sophisticated spa vibe. It’s moisture-resistant, more budget-friendly than real marble, and with a good layout visualizer, you can ensure the veining flows beautifully.save pin5. Glass Mosaic Accent StripsSometimes, running a narrow strip of shimmering mosaic through the wall line creates texture and light reflection. It’s like jewelry for your shower—use sparingly to keep it elegant.save pin6. Hexagon Floor TilesHex tiles on the shower floor add character and slip resistance. Smaller sizes also make slope installation toward the drain easier. The downside? More grout to maintain.save pin7. Herringbone Statement WallA herringbone pattern in the shower instantly elevates the room and draws attention away from its size. It does require more cutting and precision, so factor in extra installation time.save pin8. Same Tile, Different FinishI’ve used the same tile in both matte and glossy finishes—matte on the floor for safety, glossy on the walls for easy cleaning. With careful planning in a detailed 3D mock-up, it ties the entire bathroom together seamlessly.save pin9. Wrap Tiles Around CornersContinuing shower tiles beyond the glass enclosure into the surrounding wall makes the whole bathroom feel bigger. It blurs visual boundaries so the shower doesn’t feel boxed in.save pin10. Dark Moody Tiles with Bright LightingYes, dark tiles can work in a small shower—as long as you pair them with bright, layered lighting. The contrast gives depth and drama without feeling oppressive.save pinFAQQ: Which tile color works best for small showers?A: Lighter shades visually expand the space, but adding darker accents can still work well with the right lighting.Q: How do I clean grout easily?A: Choose epoxy grout for stain resistance and use a mild cleaner regularly to prevent buildup.Q: Can I mix tile styles in a small shower?A: Absolutely! Just limit it to 2–3 styles and balance bold with neutral for harmony.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