Little more than a large rectangle on first glance, a shower stall is actually an opportunity to create a spa-like retreat at home, equipped with all of the essentials to begin the day in luxury. And the options for tile are endless -- from handmade Zellige to traditional marble to something in between, the tile choice sets the tone for the look and feel of the entire bath.

 

Design by Ethan Feirstein | Photo by Christian Harder

Dark & Moody

Designed with contrast in mind, this Sag Harbor bath is the inverse of the attached dark-hued bedroom. The butter yellow beadboard lends a softness to the iridescent green-black Zellige tile, which is laid in the traditional style of a straight-stack with no grout. Brass plumbing fixtures pop against the dark shade of the tile and ties the two spaces together nicely.

Shop our similar style: Artisan Black

 

Design by Heidi Caillier | Photo by Haris Kenjar

Traditional Pairing

For the ultimate in traditional bath materials, one cannot go wrong with marble. It ages with authenticity, making it the perfect choice for historic and traditional structures. Here, marble subway tile pairs beautifully with marble checkerboard floors, a custom wood vanity that feels like a piece of furniture, and a charming clawfoot bathtub. Brass finishes and a well-placed window offer a brightness and keep the room from feeling too serious.

Shop our similar style: Honed Carrara Marble, Black Antique Marble, White Antique Marble

 

Design by Anne McDonald | Photo by Haris Kenjar

Texture to Spare

This combination of traditional materials like handmade tile and hexagon-shaped terra cotta tile is a counter point to the sleek, modern application. The curb-less shower entry, linear drain, and modern plumbing fixtures mean the design feel current and relevant when paired with the minimal vanity, while the textural materials give the space warmth and personality.  

Shop our similar style: Handcraft Glazed Brick, Makoto Umi Terracotta

 

Design by Alexandra Killion Interiors | Photo by Analicia Herrmann

Dose of Color

Rather than continue the all-white space into the shower room, this Houston designer injected the room with a soft aqua tile for an ethereal feel. The symmetrical view from the doorway provides a pleasing glance and the extra-long niche has plenty of space for lotions and potions.

Shop our similar style: Artisan Aquamarina

 

Design by Heidi LaChapelle | Photo by Erin Little

Playful & Minimal

This is not your average tub-and-shower combo. Designed by Heidi LaChapelle and architect Kaplan Thompson, the tub is mounted beneath and slab of soapstone, a smart choice given its nonporous and nonabsorbent qualities. The handmade tile surround and light wood planks lend a textural, traditional element, while the playful patterned floor tile feel whimsical.

Shop our similar styles: Handcraft Glazed Brick, Ceramic Encaustic