Best Shower Tile Ideas: For Big & Small Bathrooms

The right shower tile doesn’t just finish your bathroom — it transforms it. Whether you're remodeling a spacious primary suite or refreshing a compact guest bath, choosing the best tile for your shower walls and floors can instantly spruce up your space.

From creating the illusion of space to embracing bold patterns, there are endless ways to personalize your shower with tile. Below, our Baker Bros experts will walk you through smart tile ideas for small bathrooms, large bathrooms, and universally stylish showers — plus a few expert tips to bring your vision to life.

Shower Tile Ideas for Small Bathrooms

If you’re working with limited square footage, the right tile choices can make your bathroom feel brighter, bigger, and more functional.

1. Use Light-Colored Tiles to Brighten and Open Up the Space

Soft neutrals like white, cream, or light gray reflect light beautifully, making your shower feel more open and airy. Glossy finishes can amplify this effect, especially in bathrooms with limited natural light, giving you a bathroom design that looks like it’s been done by a professional.

2. Try Vertical Tile Layouts to Add Height

Instead of traditional horizontal layouts, install tiles vertically to draw the eye upward and make your shower appear taller. It’s the perfect shower tile design. Consider stacked rectangular tiles or even vertical subway tile arrangements for a sleek, modern look.

3. Incorporate Mosaic Tiles for Grip and Visual Interest

Mosaics bring just enough visual interest while keeping the space feeling open. You can create various tile patterns to draw the eye in. They’re also a smart choice for shower floors thanks to their added grip from extra grout lines — combining safety and style.

Pro Tip: Shop smaller format tile options like mosaics or penny rounds to enhance texture and function in small showers.

Shower Tile Ideas for Large Bathrooms

Larger bathrooms offer more freedom to explore bold tile choices, from statement walls to oversized formats that reduce grout lines.

1. Use Large Format Tiles to Minimize Grout Lines

Large format tiles (think 12x24 inches or larger) create a seamless, spa-like look and require fewer grout lines—great for both style and easy maintenance.

2. Create a Focal Wall with Pattern or Color

Add impact with a feature wall in your shower. Use bold colors, geometric patterns, or textured tiles to contrast with your main tile selection. It’s a great way to showcase your personality while keeping the rest of the space neutral.

3. Extend Shower Tile to Bathroom Walls or Floors

Carrying the same tile outside the shower onto the surrounding walls or floors creates continuity and makes a big bathroom feel cohesive. It’s a subtle yet luxurious design move for both bathroom floor tiles and shower floor tiles.

Pro Tip: Explore oversized and statement tile styles to create stunning focal points and reduce visual clutter.

Universal Shower Tile Tips (For Any Bathroom Size)

These tile tips work whether your bathroom is big or small:

• Stick with Porcelain or Ceramic: Both are water-resistant, durable, and come in a wide range of styles. Porcelain has a slight edge in strength and stain resistance.
• Add Texture for Safety: Especially for shower floors, look for textured or matte-finish tiles that reduce slip risk. They make for beautiful shower tiles.
• Keep Grout in Mind: Choose grout colors that complement or contrast with your tile for either a seamless or high-impact look. Sealed grout also makes maintenance easier.

Quick Picks by Style

• Timeless: White subway tile with dark grout
• Bold: Black and white contrast with matte finishes
• Natural: Stone-look porcelain in soft earth tones
• Creative: Mosaic tile niches and accents
• ‍Modern: Vertical or stacked layouts in large format tiles‍
• Playful: Opt for a soft pink tile to add warmth, charm, and a pop of personality‍
• Elegant: Classic white marble tile for a timeless, spa-like feel

Design Your Dream Shower with Baker Bros

Whether you want a sleek spa escape or a cozy, functional retreat, the perfect shower tile starts with the right materials. Browse the full tile collection at Baker Bros to find premium options for every bathroom size, style, and budget.