Best bathroom tile designs 2020

In 2020, I embarked on a bathroom renovation. My outdated bathroom desperately needed an update. I spent weeks researching the best tile designs, pouring over magazines and websites. I finally decided on a stunning, modern design that I knew would completely transform the space. It was a challenging, but ultimately rewarding, experience!

Choosing the Right Tile⁚ A Personal Journey

Selecting the perfect tile felt like a monumental task! I started by browsing countless online retailers, Pinterest boards, and design magazines. The sheer variety was overwhelming – from classic subway tiles in a myriad of colors to large-format porcelain slabs with intricate patterns, to the more unique and artistic mosaic tiles. I knew I wanted something that felt both modern and timeless, something that wouldn’t look dated in a few years. Initially, I was drawn to the sleekness of large, grey porcelain tiles. They seemed practical and sophisticated. However, after visiting a local tile showroom, I discovered a beautiful collection of handmade, textured ceramic tiles in a soft, warm beige tone. These tiles had a subtle, almost organic texture, with slight variations in shading that gave them a unique character. They immediately captured my attention. I spent hours running my fingers across the samples, comparing the different shades and textures. The showroom assistant, a friendly woman named Evelyn, was incredibly helpful, guiding me through the various options and explaining the pros and cons of each material. She pointed out the durability of porcelain and the elegant charm of the handmade ceramics. Ultimately, the warmth and character of the handmade tiles won me over. They felt more inviting and less sterile than the porcelain. I envisioned them creating a spa-like atmosphere in my bathroom, a welcome contrast to the cold, impersonal feel of the old tiles. The decision wasn’t easy, but I knew I’d chosen tiles that would not only look beautiful but also stand the test of time. The subtle variations in color and texture promised a more interesting and visually engaging space than a uniform, predictable tile would have provided. It was a personal journey of discovery, balancing aesthetics with practicality, and I felt confident in my final choice.

The Installation Process⁚ A DIY Adventure (Mostly!)

I’d always considered myself reasonably handy, so I bravely decided to tackle most of the tile installation myself. My friend, Mark, a seasoned DIY enthusiast, offered invaluable advice and moral support. The demolition phase was surprisingly messy – chipping away at the old, cracked tiles revealed layers of old adhesive and grout. I spent hours scraping and scrubbing, getting covered in dust and grime. After the painstaking demolition, I meticulously prepped the walls, ensuring they were perfectly level and clean. This took far longer than I anticipated! Laying the new tiles proved more challenging than I expected. Maintaining consistent spacing and ensuring straight lines required a lot of patience and precision. I invested in a good quality tile leveler, which definitely helped. There were moments of frustration – a few cracked tiles, a slightly uneven line here and there – but I persevered. Mark’s guidance was essential; he helped me troubleshoot a tricky corner and showed me a clever technique for cutting tiles around the plumbing fixtures. Grouting was another lesson in patience. I meticulously cleaned the excess grout, ensuring a neat and professional finish. The final step was sealing the grout to protect it from water damage. While I tackled the majority of the project myself, I did call in a professional tiler for the shower area, a task that I felt was beyond my skill level, and I didn’t want to risk any mistakes that could compromise the waterproofing. Overall, it was a rewarding experience, a testament to the power of perseverance and the satisfaction of a job well done (mostly!). The sense of accomplishment was incredible, and the transformation of my bathroom was worth every bit of the effort.

Unexpected Challenges and Solutions

The seemingly straightforward project threw a few curveballs my way. First, I discovered a significant amount of water damage behind the old tiles, far more extensive than I’d initially anticipated. This meant a delay while I repaired the underlying wall, a task that involved patching and re-plastering. I also underestimated the time required for sourcing materials. My chosen tile, a beautiful, textured porcelain, was on backorder for several weeks, pushing back my projected completion date. Then, during the tile-laying process, I encountered an unexpected issue with the shower niche. The existing niche was poorly constructed, and the tiles wouldn’t adhere properly. I had to improvise, creating a temporary support structure to ensure the tiles stayed in place while the adhesive cured. Another unexpected challenge arose when I tried to cut a particularly stubborn tile. My tile cutter, despite being relatively new, struggled with the dense porcelain, resulting in a chipped edge. Luckily, I had purchased extra tiles, allowing me to replace the damaged one. The final unexpected hiccup involved the grout. I chose a dark grey grout to complement the tiles, but it turned out to be more absorbent than I’d expected, requiring multiple applications to achieve a uniform, even finish. Throughout these challenges, I learned to adapt and improvise, finding creative solutions to unexpected problems. Each hurdle, though initially frustrating, ultimately taught me valuable lessons in patience, problem-solving, and the importance of thorough planning. The final result was well worth the unexpected detours, proving that even the most carefully planned projects can throw you a few curveballs.

The Finished Product⁚ A Spa-Like Oasis

The transformation was breathtaking! My once drab, outdated bathroom was reborn as a luxurious, spa-like retreat. The textured porcelain tiles, in shades of calming grey and soft white, created a sophisticated and serene atmosphere. The light reflected beautifully off the glossy surfaces, enhancing the feeling of spaciousness. I chose subtle, brushed nickel fixtures to complement the tiles, creating a cohesive and elegant design. The carefully chosen grout perfectly accented the tiles, adding depth and visual interest without being overwhelming. The new shower niche, meticulously tiled and sealed, was a particular point of pride. I incorporated a small, built-in shelf for toiletries, adding both functionality and style. The overall effect was incredibly calming and relaxing; the space felt significantly larger and brighter than before. Every morning, I start my day in this tranquil haven, and every evening, I unwind and relax in my newly transformed bathroom. The soft light filtering through the window creates a warm, inviting glow, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day. The feeling of accomplishment is immense, knowing that I created this beautiful space with my own two hands. It’s more than just a bathroom; it’s a sanctuary, a testament to the power of hard work and careful planning. Friends and family are constantly complimenting the stunning transformation, and I couldn’t be happier with the final result. The project exceeded my expectations, and I am already planning my next home improvement adventure!