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Choosing the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom: A Style & Function Guide

Tiles are one of the biggest style decisions you’ll make when designing a bathroom — and one of the most practical too. From colours and textures to slip ratings and finishes, the right tiles can elevate your space and make it easier to live with for years to come.

At Olney Bathrooms, we guide customers through every part of the design process — and that includes helping you choose tiles that look amazing and perform well in your space.

Here’s what to think about when choosing the right tiles for your bathroom:

1. Start with Style – What Look Do You Love?

Your tiles set the tone for the whole room. Start by thinking about the style you’re going for:

  • Modern & Minimal: Large-format tiles in soft neutrals, concrete-effect or matt finishes

  • Classic & Timeless: Metro tiles, marble-effect porcelain, or soft stone shades

  • Bold & Beautiful: Patterned floor tiles, colourful feature walls, or geometric layouts

We’ll help you pull together a look that works with the size of your space, your fittings, and your overall vision.


2. Think About Function – Where Are the Tiles Going?

Different areas of the bathroom need different types of tiles:

  • Floor Tiles: Must be durable and slip-resistant. We recommend porcelain with a suitable slip rating (R10 or higher).

  • Shower Walls: Choose water-resistant tiles with low porosity — porcelain or glazed ceramic works well.

  • Feature Areas: Want to add a splash of personality? Feature tiles can go behind a vanity, in a recessed shelf, or around a bath.

We’ll always recommend the right material for the right spot — and ensure it’s installed properly to stand the test of time.


3. Size & Layout – Make the Most of Your Space

  • Small bathrooms: Larger tiles can reduce grout lines and make the room feel more open.

  • Feature walls: Smaller tiles or mosaics add texture and detail.

  • Long, narrow spaces: Use rectangular tiles laid horizontally to visually widen the room.

We can show you layout options using your actual bathroom dimensions, so you’ll see what works best before you commit.


4. Finish & Colour – Get the Mood Right

  • Glossy finishes bounce light and work well in darker or smaller rooms.

  • Matt tiles feel more modern and hide water marks better.

  • Light colours feel clean and spacious.

  • Darker tones add drama and depth — especially when paired with feature lighting or brass fittings.

Not sure what suits your space? We’ll bring samples and ideas to your consultation so you can see how they look in your own lighting.


5. Let the Professionals Handle the Fitting

Even the most beautiful tiles won’t look right if they’re badly fitted. Our experienced installation team ensures:

  • Perfect alignment and clean grout lines

  • Waterproof sealing in all the right places

  • Professional finish from start to end


Why Choose Olney Bathrooms?

We don’t just supply tiles — we design entire bathrooms with care and expertise. From Olney to Bedford, we help homeowners choose the right materials and bring it all together beautifully with our full design-to-installation service.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/100063850350191/?ref=embed_page