Say Goodbye To Bold Bathroom Tile And Try For A More Trendy Natural Style

Last year, bold tiles held strong as a trendy look for bathrooms. From statement-making plaid tiles to richly colored ones, these popular styles can add personality and flair to any bathroom floor. This year, however, some interior design pros expect to see these classic tiling styles replaced by more muted, natural alternatives.

"Ahead, we will see trends leaning more heavily into texture and subtle movement," designer Sarah Trop, founder of the design studio FunCycled, predicted in a recent interview with The Spruce. "Natural stone, handmade tiles, and organic materials will dominate," Trop added. They'll still add contrast and visual interest, she noted, just in a "softer, more calming way" that leans less maximalist and more minimalist. 

We like this forecast because its soothing, subdued feel mirrors other bathroom design trends for 2026, like incorporating wellness features that make your bathroom feel like a spa-inspired oasis. Low-contrast tiles made of organic materials can create a relaxing aesthetic that's easy on the eyes and on the spirit. Who wouldn't want to feel more relaxed when they retreat into their bathroom to take a shower or wash their face at the end of a long, busy day?

Ready to ditch your high-contrast bathroom tiles and swap them out for something trendier and more muted? First, measure the dimensions of your bathroom floor so you know exactly how much tile you need to purchase. Then, decide on a material that suits your space and lifestyle. You'll also want to choose the best tiling based on your bathroom's lighting, which can affect how it appears once installed.

Tiles made of natural stone materials like marble or slate are hygienic, highly durable, and offer a soft, organic look that's perfectly on-trend. However, they're not particularly forgiving of unevenness or other imperfections underneath them. They're also cold to the touch, which could be uncomfortable on your feet in your bathroom if you live in a region that experiences harsh winters. By contrast, porcelain bathroom tiles are more versatile, relatively inexpensive, and better at retaining in-floor heat.

Beyond these practical considerations, picking the perfect natural tiles for your bathroom also depends on your budget and style preferences. Fans of modern home decor aesthetics might gravitate toward the sleekness and shine of ceramic or porcelain tiles in neutral colors. Those who favor a rustic or vintage-inspired aesthetic may prefer the textured look of marble or slate tiles in subdued hues or patterns, even if these materials are slightly more of an investment upfront. You can compare and contrast different tile styles and materials at popular online retailers like Home Depot and Tilebar.