Can you mix tile colors in a bathroom?
Mixing tile colors in a bathroom can add visual interest and dimension to the space. With careful planning and execution, using different tile colors and patterns can result in a stylish, cohesive look. Here are some tips on successfully combining tile colors in a bathroom remodel or redesign.
Assess the bathroom size and layout
The size and layout of the bathroom are important considerations when mixing tile colors. A large bathroom has more room to integrate multiple colors without looking busy or disjointed. In a small bathroom, limiting the tile colors to just 2 or 3 complementary hues can prevent the space from feeling cluttered.
Focus tile color variations in key areas, like the shower walls or floor, to make the biggest impact. For other areas like the vanity backsplash or a decorative accent wall, sticking to a single tile color is advisable in tight spaces.
Establish a color scheme
Having a cohesive color scheme is crucial when blending tile colors in a bathroom. The colors should complement each other and flow nicely throughout the space. Cool tones like blue, green and gray pair well together, as do warm earth tones like beige, brown and terracotta.
Mixing very contrasting hues like navy blue and lime green can look disjointed unless done very strategically. Stick to 2 or 3 colors within the same color family for the most cohesive look. Use one color as the dominant hue on major surfaces like walls and floors, then add splashes of the accent colors through tile in key areas.
Vary colors by surface
Creative ways to mix colors in bathroom tile is to vary the hues used on the floor, walls and shower or tub surround. Using different colors in this way breaks up the space visually. For example, navy blue tile on the floor grounds the space while mint green shower tile and neutral beige vanity tile provide contrast.
Or make the shower tile the accent using bold multicolored mosaic tile or patterned tile while the floor and vanity backsplash remain neutral. Include a decorative chair rail, wainscoting or border tile to transition between the color zones.
Use pattern and texture
Incorporating tile with different patterns and textures along with an array of colors adds more visual variety. Geometric, mosaic and Moroccan-style decorative tiles can blend seamlessly with solid subway, brick or rectangular floor tiles in complementary hues.
Mixing polished, matte and textured tile finishes also brings depth to a space with mixed colors. Use bolder patterns and textures sparingly to highlight specific areas, like behind the vanity, tub or in the shower.
Transition between colors
When transitioning from one tile color zone to another, consider adding an accent strip or border tile. This can provide separation between the colors in a natural, fluid way. For example:
| Navy blue floor tile | Neutral thin brick border tile | Mint green wall tile |
Without the border tile, the navy and mint tiles may clash. The neutral brick creates a transition between the colors. Chair rail molding or trim can also transition colorful tile zones.
Carry colors into other elements
Tying everything together cohesively is key when mixing bathroom tile colors. Echo accent colors in the tile through other elements like wall paint, window treatments, fixtures or accessories. A vase, artwork or decorative towels in colors that complement the tile scheme helps pull the look together.
Create a custom shower curtain that incorporates the tile color palette. Paint the vanity or wall cabinets a color featured in the tile design, like the dominant floor or wall tile hue. This makes the colors feel intentional.
Get creative with paint or inset designs
Painting a creative accent wall is an affordable way to mix up tile colors in a bathroom. For example, stencil patterns onto a wall painted a contrasting color from the major bathroom tile. Or paint stripes, geometric shapes or florals. Use a special epoxy paint formulated for tile on shower or tub walls.
Inset decorative ceramic, glass or metal medallions can also showcase custom colors. These small round or square designs inset into other tiling add handcrafted style. Choose medallion colors and designs that complement the overall tile scheme.
Conclusion
Blending two, three or even more tile colors can create a stylish, custom bathroom look with visual appeal. Just remember to vary colors by surface, establish a cohesive color scheme, transition between hues, and echo colors throughout the space. With careful planning and strategic placement, mixing tile colors can take a bathroom design to the next level.
