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A beautiful bathtub deserves a beautiful surround; that’s where bathtub tile designs come in. Dramatic mosaics or classy subway tiles: which one would you pick? With so many bathtub tile designs available, we have curated our top 11 designs just for you. Remember, the best bathtub tile designs are those that not only look stunning but also give you that much-needed me time.
Essential considerations for choosing bathtub tile designs:
- Customisation: When considering a bathtub tile design, remember the flexibility for customisation in terms of tile sizes, shapes, colours, and patterns. This allows you to tailor the design to match your aesthetic preferences and bathroom theme effectively
- Durability: Properly installed and maintained, tiled bathtubs can be very durable and last for many years. Most tiles are also resistant to scratches and chips
- Aesthetics: Tiled bathtubs can create a high-end and luxurious look, especially with the use of decorative tiles or mosaics. You can personalise the design to match your bathroom’s overall aesthetic
- Waterproofing: Crucial to prevent leaks and moisture damage. Ensure the installer uses proper waterproofing membranes and techniques
- Slope: The bottom of the tub floor needs a slight slope to allow water to drain properly
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning with appropriate products is necessary to maintain the grout and tile surface
- Anti-slip measures: Consider adding textured tiles or applying a non-slip treatment to the bathtub floor to prevent slipping hazards
What type of tile is best for a bathtub?
Here are 11 unique bathtub tile designs just for you!
#1: Vertical tiles

The classic black and white bathroom! Vertical tile design on a small bathroom bathtub can create an illusion of height, making the whole area feel bigger than it is. Tiling the bathtub’s exteriors helps minimise water damage on the bathtub walls.
Also Read: 15 Beautiful Bathroom Tiles Designs That Will Leave You Floored
#2: Square tiles

Wood look-alike tiles offer a warm and natural aesthetic, which can create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom. Wood is susceptible to water damage and rotting in a high-moisture environment like a bathroom, so make sure you use only tiles with a wood look.
#3: Same tiles on the wall, floors and bathtub
Lighter & brighter, or dark & dramatic? Tiles can make your bathroom feel mammoth or minute! Installing the same kind of tiles on the floors, walls and the bathtub can create a visual continuation that can either make the bathroom look larger or smaller, depending on the colours of the tiles. If the tiles are dark, it can make the bathroom look smaller while lighter-coloured tiles can make the bathroom appear larger.
Also Read: Mesmerising Restroom Tile Designs That Will Make You Go Wow
#4: Mosaic

Mosaics are always a good choice, whether on a curved bathtub or a shower cubicle. They are inherently waterproof, particularly those made from ceramic or porcelain. The weight of the tiles and underlying structure can be significant. Reinforcement of the floor joists might be necessary to support the weight of a filled bathtub.
#5: Natural stone

R: Image source: Pinterest @seattletimes
Natural stone bathtub tiles design can retain heat which means you get to have those loooooong warm baths! Natural stones like marble, granite, and travertine are very durable and a luxurious addition to your bathroom.
Also Read: Best Bathroom Flooring Options for Indian Homes
#6: Typical Roman bathtubs

Image source: Pinterest @mpalaniuk
Feeling tense? Take a Roman vacation (in your own bathroom)! Roman bathtubs are typically larger than your standard bathtubs and are usually entirely tiled with cement tiles. These bathtubs are better for acupuncture because of their textured surface.
#7: Tiles on the rims

Image sources: Pinterest @erinelise209 and @oro_c
Tiling the rim of the bathtub can provide an additional layer of waterproofing, helping to prevent water from seeping into the surrounding walls or floor. Choose grout that is waterproof and mould-resistant. Grout colour can also impact the overall appearance, so consider whether you want it to blend in with the tiles or create contrast.
Also Read: 40+ Stunning Floor Tiles to Transform Your Bathroom
Beyond the beauty: Considerations before making the final splash
- Cost: Tiled bathtubs can be more expensive than traditional options due to the materials and labour involved
- Complexity: Building a tiled bathtub is a complex process that requires skilled craftsmanship. It’s recommended to hire a professional with experience in this area
- Weight: Tiles and the underlying structure can add significant weight, requiring proper reinforcement of the floor joists to support the weight of the filled bathtub
- Maintenance: Grout between the tiles can require regular cleaning to prevent mould and mildew growth
- Comfort: The rigidity of tiles might feel less comfortable compared to the smooth surface of traditional bathtub materials
How can Livspace help you?
We can design your bathroom interiors with the most durable materials and trending designs.
- Our team can custom design your dream home with curated render designs and expert advice
- We have delivered over 75,000 happy homes
- We promise high-quality and durable materials
Loved one of the above bathroom designs or have a Pinboard saved with bespoke interiors? Book a consultation with Livspace today!
Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability. The Pinterest images used in this blog are solely for illustrative purposes. We do not claim ownership of these images, and all rights belong to their respective owners. If you are the owner of any image and would like it to be removed or credited differently, please contact us.