While the main purpose of a bathroom is functional, it can also be a stylish space. Whether you’re drawn to bold designs or a timeless look, selecting the right floor and wall tiles can enhance your bathroom’s aesthetic. Tiles offer a plethora of options in terms of colors, shapes, and sizes, making it easy to find a style that suits your taste. However, it’s crucial to consider your bathroom’s lighting when choosing tiles, as it can significantly impact the space’s brightness. Depending on the type and amount of lighting, certain tile choices can either brighten or dim the bathroom’s ambiance.
Bathrooms with limited light can appear even darker if decorated with dark tiles. To enhance brightness in such spaces, opt for light-colored tiles. Although dark tiles can make a space feel smaller, they can also add coziness to overly spacious bathrooms. It’s important to note that light and dark tiles aren’t limited to just black and white. Timeless tile colors often include muted neutrals like beige and sage green.
Bathroom lighting can affect tile shape, finish, and color
A tile’s color isn’t the sole factor influencing a bathroom’s brightness; the tile’s finish and size also play roles. Glossy tiles reflect more light, thus brightening the room. Conversely, if your bathroom already enjoys ample natural light, overly shiny tiles might make the space feel too intense. In such cases, matte tiles could be a better choice for a more inviting atmosphere.
Tile size also affects reflectivity. While intricate mosaic tiles can add visual interest, they might absorb light if paired with the wrong grout color. For smaller bathrooms, consider larger tiles to reflect more light and make the space feel open. Shiny tiles with extensive surface areas are particularly useful in darker areas like showers and water closets.
Accounting for natural vs. artificial lighting
When choosing tiles based on your bathroom’s lighting, consider the light’s source. Bathrooms with abundant sunlight benefit from shiny, neutral tile colors and patterns that maintain brightness while offering a natural look. The same applies to bathrooms with warm artificial light, where earth tones thrive. Conversely, in bathrooms with cooler lighting, cool-toned tiles create a clean, non-clinical feel. If your bathroom lacks natural light, pale-colored tiles can help brighten a windowless space.
Since tile stores may not replicate your bathroom’s lighting, it’s wise to bring samples home. Place them on your bathroom floor or wall throughout the day to see how they appear under different lighting conditions. This approach ensures your tile choice will look beautiful at any time of day.
