For tile fans such, the more tile, the better. Because tiling large areas requires a sizable investment, it’s worth getting samples and experimenting with how tiles work together. These tips offer guidance on how to combine tiles for the best look. Get acquainted with these basics of combining different shapes, colors and finishes for a symphony of bathroom tiles.
Balance busy patterns

Use small statement tiles, such as these oblong mosaics, to create a feature on a backsplash or another small area rather than across an entire room. Combine them with large-scale plain tiles and you’ll avoid a design that makes your eyes go funny.

Pair pattern with plain

Restrict your use of patterned tiles to one surface – either the floor or a feature wall. Here, contemporary hexagonal tiles take centre stage, while large-scale oblong wall tiles provide a light-enhancing glossy background.

Play with scale

One of the most important tips for mixing tile well is to create balance by combining small and large scale patterns. In this bathroom three tile types are combined successfully: Tiny hexagonal mosaics on the bath and walls, medium hex tiles on the basin surround and large oblong tiles on the floor. The monochrome palette helps create a harmonious whole.

Treat stone as a neutral

Floor-to-ceiling subway tiles with grey grout make a statement in this supersize shower. To soften the graphic grout lines as well as to create a cohesive design, pair them with natural grey stone, which adds visual interest with a neutral pattern that doesn’t try to compete.

Combine matte finishes

For a bathroom with tactile appeal, choose two types of matte tiles and break up large areas with an alternative surface, such as this exposed brick, or with plain painted walls.

Vary shape, not color

For an easy mix that works in any space, take two tile designs in the same solid color but different shapes and let the grout lines form the pattern. 
For a pronounced effect, choose a contrasting shade, like this dark grey grout, which is paired with white subway tiles and tiny hexagonal mosaics.

Juxtapose matte and glossy

Get away with combining similar-size tiles and busy patterns by choosing one matte style and one shiny. These high- gloss , beveled-edged subway tiles work beautifully with the soft encaustic finish of the monochrome floor tiles.