As we begin a new decade of the 2020’s, everything in interior design has changed. Kitchens and living spaces have embraced new trends, and one room that hasn’t been excluded in this is the bathroom. What once was a standard layout with a singular use for tiles, unique combinations in tiles have emerged and taken over bathroom remodels by storm. With so many options available, it can be an intimidating process to choose the best tiles for your renovation or new construction. Facets of Lafayette is your local tile store and expert and is ready to help you create the shower of your dreams. Before you make your final decision, learning more about the tiling process, trends and options can ensure you don’t experience any hiccups along the way.

What Are My Tiling Options?
Not every tile is made for the same purpose. We have this great list here that breaks down which tiles are used exactly for each reason. Your countertops may look different from your shower floors. For walls of your shower stall, we recommend using ceramic, porcelain, or stone,, which will make it easy to clean. For your countertops, you may want to consider quartz, granite, ceramic, mosaic or porcelain. Mosaic is great for creating fun designs, while granite can hide dirt easily and is easy to clean. Keep in mind ceramic can be very cost effective and is easier to repair.

What is Trending This Year?
Subway tiling: You’ve been seeing subway tiles everywhere, and it’s not going to stop anytime soon. Many kitchen refreshes are modeling this popular tile, and you shouldn’t be surprised to see it in bathrooms as well. But of course there is going to be a twist – look out for matte, ceramic, or beveled styles. 

Wood: Before you baulk and have nightmares of wood paneling, wood tile looks different and many are trying to use it in a more classy way. (See example here.) Others are also using this as an alternative to wood flooring. This can definitely be something to consider if you would like a more rustic look to your bathroom. 

Botanical ready: Just as we have seen an increase in nature elements throughout the last year, tiles are no exception. Expect to see a larger trend of plants and flowers interwoven in tiles to create a scene of nature.

Neutral views: Neutral is making a comeback and taking a different spin in your bathroom haven. The most common colors that are making the scene are a blend of white, gray and beige. The best part with choosing this style is it is bound to last throughout the years, as opposed to choosing another bold option.

Geometric: Some bathroom tiles are now taking shapes of diamonds and triangles for a polished and refined look.

Pink is making a comeback?: We guess the saying is true–every style truly gets recycled, but we think there is always a twist. While you may envision pepto bismol pink from the 80s and 90s, instead what is popping up on the scene is blushes of pinks, with gold finishes. These styles are also taking a couple of the other popular trends, such as mixing in subway or geometric tiles for a modern look.

Coefficient of Friction
You may have not heard of this before, but this is something to be aware of when purchasing tile, especially for the floor of your shower stall. Usually, the more slip resistant a floor is, the hardest it is to clean. Keep this in mind when you are picking out a specific tile and how slippery it can be. If you would like to learn more about the coefficient of friction, check out this informational article here.

Visit the Tiles Experts
No one knows tiles like our staff at Facets of Lafayette. We are ready to sit down with you and figure out what tiling combinations and materials will brighten your space and ensure your bathroom is a peaceful sanctuary. With our years of experience and passion, we can help design the bathroom of your dreams.