Looking to transform your bathroom with minimal effort? Bathroom feature tiles are the perfect solution to add style, personality, and a touch of luxury to your space.
From bold statement walls to subtle design accents, feature tiles can completely change the look and feel of your bathroom. Whether you’re going for a modern, minimalist design or a more classic style, the right feature tiles can make a lasting impact.
Keep reading for the latest trends and creative ideas to help you choose the perfect feature tiles for your bathroom.
What are Bathroom Feature Tiles?
Bathroom feature tiles are decorative tiles used to create focal points or add visual interest to specific areas of a bathroom. These tiles can be applied to walls or floors and come in various styles, colours, and patterns. They help enhance the overall design by highlighting key features such as the shower, bathtub, or vanity.
Why Choose Bathroom Feature Tiles?
Bathroom feature tiles are a simple way to bring style and character into your space. They add interest, make a statement, and are built to last, all while being practical for everyday use.
1. Visual Appeal
Feature tiles bring colour, texture, and personality to your bathroom. Whether it’s a bold pattern or a striking colour, they create a visual impact that can transform the room.
2. Focal Points
By placing feature tiles behind the vanity, bathtub, or on one wall, you can draw attention to key areas. This helps make the bathroom feel more interesting and balanced.
3. Functionality
Feature tiles are not just for looks. They’re durable and moisture-resistant, making them perfect for high-traffic areas like showers or splash zones where you need both style and practicality.
4. Personalisation
Tiles allow you to express your personal style. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional design, feature tiles give you the freedom to design a bathroom that fits your taste.
5. Durability & Longevity
Tiles are tough and built to last. They resist stains, moisture, and wear, making them a smart choice for a bathroom feature that will stand the test of time.
Where Should You Put Feature Tiles in a Bathroom
Feature tiles can make a big difference in your bathroom’s look, but placement is key. There are areas where they work best and others where they might not be as effective. Knowing where to put them can make your space feel well-balanced and stylish.
Best Locations for Bathroom Feature Tiles
These spots are perfect for placing feature tiles that will add character and style to your bathroom.
1. Shower Areas
The shower is a natural focal point in most bathrooms. Using shower feature tiles here can create a bold look. Consider vibrant patterns or textured tiles to make this space stand out, but keep in mind the extra care needed to clean grout in wet areas.
2. Behind Bathtubs
Placing feature tiles behind the bathtub gives this area a clean, stylish feel. It becomes the main point of focus without overpowering the rest of the room. This is a great spot for a calm, serene design.
3. Vanity Area
Feature tiles behind the vanity can add a bit of personality without making the room feel too busy. It’s a simple way to refresh the space and make it feel more coordinated.
If you’re unsure about which vanity to choose, check out our curated list of the best bathroom vanities you won’t want to miss.
4.Opposite Entry
The wall directly across from the bathroom door is an excellent place for feature tiles. It’s the first thing you see when you walk in, so it’s a great opportunity to make a statement with your tile choice.
Which Areas to Avoid
While feature tiles can work well in many spots, there are some areas where they may not have the impact you’re looking for.
1. Niches and Cluttered Spaces
Avoid placing feature tiles in niches or areas filled with bathroom products. Cluttered spaces can take attention away from the tiles, making them feel less noticeable.
2. Small Spaces with Too Much Detail
In small bathrooms, covering too many areas with feature tiles can make the space feel crowded. Stick to one key area or use half-wall tiles to keep the room from feeling too busy.
3. High-Maintenance Areas
Some areas like the shower, where tiles need frequent cleaning, feature tiles might add more maintenance. Consider placing them in low-maintenance spots where they can stay looking good with minimal effort.
Curious about non-slip bathroom tiles? Our blog explains everything you need to know.
Popular Types of Bathroom Feature Tiles
When it comes to bathroom feature tiles, there are several options that can add style and personality to your space. Each type has its own unique benefits, and choosing the right one depends on your design preferences.
1. Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles are versatile and work well for creating detailed patterns or adding texture to your bathroom. They’re perfect for curved surfaces, like showers or alcoves, and with options in glass, ceramic, or stone, you’ve got a lot of variety to choose from.
2. Natural Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles, such as marble and slate, offer a luxurious and timeless look. They’re durable and add a sophisticated feel to your bathroom. However, they do require more maintenance, like sealing, to keep them looking their best over time.
3. Subway Tiles
Subway tiles are a timeless choice for modern bathrooms. They’re simple to use and look great in minimalist designs. You can arrange them in classic patterns like stacked or herringbone to create a sleek, clean look.
4. Textured Tiles
Textured tiles add depth and interest to your bathroom. They’re perfect for larger walls or accent spaces, giving the room a more dynamic feel. These tiles are great for areas like the vanity or behind the bathtub.
5. Terrazzo and Cement Feature Floors
Terrazzo and cement tiles are trending for their unique and artistic designs. Their colourful, speckled patterns work beautifully on bathroom floors, giving the space a modern and creative feel. These tiles are ideal for making a bold statement without overwhelming the room.
6. Large Format Floor Tiles
Large-format tiles are great for creating a clean, seamless look on the floor. These tiles reduce the number of grout lines, making the floor feel spacious and open. They work particularly well in larger bathrooms or for creating a minimalist design.
7. Timber Look Feature Tiles
Timber look feature tiles offer the warmth and texture of wood without the maintenance. They bring a natural, earthy feel to your bathroom while being durable and moisture-resistant, making them an ideal choice for wet areas. Timber look tiles come in a variety of shades and finishes, from light oak to dark walnut, allowing you to create a rustic or modern vibe.
Modern Bathroom Feature Wall Tiles Ideas
Bathroom Feature tiles can completely transform the look of your bathroom. Below are some ideas to help you decide where to place them for maximum impact.
1. Feature Wall Behind the Bathtub
The area behind the bathtub is a classic choice for feature tiles. It adds a bold statement to your bathroom, making the bathtub the focal point of the room. Whether you choose a striking pattern or a luxurious material, this spot creates a sense of sophistication.
2. Feature Wall Behind the Vanity
Placing feature tiles behind the vanity is an easy way to add character to the bathroom. It brings attention to the vanity area without overwhelming the rest of the room, creating a balanced and functional design.
3. Shower Feature Wall
Bold or patterned tiles in the shower area can make this space stand out. Using feature tiles here draws attention to the shower as the bathroom’s focal point, giving the space a more dynamic and stylish feel.
4. Half-Wall Feature Tile
For smaller bathrooms, using feature tiles on a half-wall offers the right balance. It introduces interest and personality without crowding the space, making it ideal for tight or compact rooms.
5. Vertical Stripes
Vertical stripes on a feature wall can make your bathroom feel taller. This design trick is perfect for compact spaces or rooms with lower ceilings, helping create the illusion of height and a more spacious feel.
Modern Bathroom Feature Tile Ideas for the Floor
Feature tiles aren’t just for walls. Adding them to the floor can bring the whole bathroom design together, offering a unique and stylish look. Here are some modern ideas for using feature tiles on the floor:
6. Bold Patterned Floor Tiles
Bold, patterned tiles on the floor make a statement as soon as you enter the bathroom. Whether you choose geometric designs, intricate mosaics, or vintage patterns, they can turn the floor into a key feature of the room, adding energy and visual interest.
7. Contrast Floor Tiles
Contrast floor tiles are perfect for creating a balance between the walls and the floor. A dark-coloured floor tile paired with lighter wall tiles can make a striking difference, adding depth and dimension to the space.
Want to learn more about modern bathroom renovation ideas? Check out these 20 ideas you’ll love.
Feature Wall Design Trends for 2025
As you plan your bathroom feature tiles, consider these trending styles to keep your space modern and fresh:
1. Monochrome Feature Walls
Monochrome feature walls are all about using a single colour or hue across large spaces. This design creates a clean, simple look that adds elegance and sophistication to your bathroom.
2. Bold Patterns
Geometric, art deco, and vintage patterns are making a comeback. These bold designs add personality and turn your bathroom feature wall into a work of art.
3. Textural Contrast
Mixing matte and glossy finishes is becoming a popular trend. This combination creates visual and tactile intrigue, giving your feature wall a dynamic feel and making it more engaging.
4. Soft, Neutral Tones
Soft pastels and earthy tones help create calming, spa-like bathrooms. These colours create a relaxing atmosphere, making them perfect for a bathroom retreat.
5. Vibrant Pops of Colour
Bright blues, emerald greens, and mustard yellows are trending for adding character and life to your bathroom. These vibrant colours bring energy to your space, making it feel fresh and lively.
Choosing the Right Bathroom Feature Tile for Your Space
The right feature tile can completely transform your bathroom. It’s important to choose tiles that suit your space, style, and practical needs. Here are some things to consider when making your choice.
- Bathroom Style: Match your tiles with the overall style of your bathroom. If you have a coastal theme, go for light and airy tiles. For a more modern bathroom, choose sleek, simple designs.
- Bathroom Size: Larger tiles are great for spacious bathrooms and create a clean, open look. Smaller tiles are better for compact spaces, as they help avoid a cramped feel.
- Tile Colour: Light colours, like whites and pastels, brighten small bathrooms. Darker tones or bold colours are great for adding warmth and personality to larger spaces.
- Tile Pattern: Classic options like subway tiles or mosaics work well in most bathrooms. For something bolder, consider geometric or vertical patterns to create a sense of height.
- Functionality: Make sure the tiles are water-resistant and easy to maintain, especially in wet areas. Ceramic, porcelain, and stone are great choices for bathrooms.
Find the Perfect Tiles to Transform Your Bathroom
Creating your dream bathroom begins with the right feature tiles, and we have everything you need to make it happen. At TFO, our bathroom tile collection features elegant wall tiles, durable floor tiles, modern decorative tiles, bold patterns, soft neutrals, and classic finishes to suit any style.
Each tile is carefully selected to fit modern Australian homes, ensuring your space feels fresh, stylish, and practical.
If you need any assistance, our in-house interior designer, Stephanie, is available for personalised colour consultations to make your decisions easier.
Browse our wide selection of bathroom feature tiles or visit our Sydney showroom to get started!
Bathroom Feature Tiles FAQs
Should You Have a Feature Wall in a Small Bathroom?
Yes, you can have a feature wall in a small bathroom. However, it’s important to keep it balanced. A half-wall of feature tiles or using subtle patterns and lighter colours can add interest without making the space feel cramped.
What is the Best Tile Material for a Bathroom Feature Wall?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular choices for bathroom feature walls due to their durability and water resistance. Natural stone like marble adds luxury, while mosaic tiles are great for intricate designs and adding texture.
Can You Use Feature Tiles on the Floor?
Absolutely! Feature tiles can be used on the bathroom floor to create a statement look. Bold patterns, terrazzo, or large-format tiles work well to add style while ensuring the floor is practical and durable.
How Do I Choose the Right Tile Colour for My Bathroom?
When choosing tile colours, consider the size of your bathroom and the mood you want to create. Lighter colours brighten smaller bathrooms, while darker shades or bold colours can add warmth and character to larger spaces.
Can I Mix Different Tile Patterns in My Bathroom?
Yes, mixing different tile patterns can create an interesting and dynamic look. However, it’s important to balance the patterns. If you use a bold design on the feature wall, keep the floor tiles simple, or vice versa, to maintain harmony.
How Do I Maintain Feature Tiles in a Bathroom?
Maintaining feature tiles involves regular cleaning with mild, non-abrasive cleaners. For natural stone tiles, sealing is recommended to prevent moisture damage, while grout lines may need occasional cleaning to prevent mold buildup.
