Penny tiles have remained a staple in interior design for over a century, offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern flexibility that few other materials can match. These small, circular tiles provide an incredible tactile quality and visual texture, making them a favorite for homeowners looking to add character to their bathrooms. Whether you are aiming for a classic black-and-white retro aesthetic or a contemporary spa-like retreat, penny tiles offer endless possibilities for customization. Their small size allows them to wrap around curved surfaces easily, while the variety of materials like porcelain, glass, and marble ensures they fit any budget or style preference perfectly.
1. White penny tile floor
Choosing a white penny tile floor is a timeless decision that instantly brightens up any bathroom space while providing a clean and crisp aesthetic. This design choice works exceptionally well in smaller bathrooms because the light color helps the room feel more expansive and airy. When you pair these small tiles with a contrasting dark grey or black grout, you create a beautiful graphic pattern that highlights the individual circles, adding depth to the floor. Alternatively, using white grout creates a seamless, subtle texture that feels soft underfoot. It is a versatile foundation that allows you to experiment with colorful towels, wooden vanities, and modern matte black hardware.
2. Black penny tile shower
Creating a black penny tile shower is a bold way to introduce drama and sophistication into your bathroom renovation project. These dark, circular tiles can be used on both the walls and the floor to create a moody, cocoon-like atmosphere that feels incredibly luxurious. To keep the space from feeling too heavy, consider using a lighter grout to emphasize the mosaic pattern or stick with black grout for a sleek, monochromatic look. Pairing black penny tiles with brass or gold fixtures adds a touch of high-end elegance, while natural wood accents can help soften the industrial feel of the dark ceramic or porcelain surfaces.
3. Blue penny tile wall
Incorporating a blue penny tile wall can transform a standard bathroom into a serene, water-inspired sanctuary that feels both fresh and inviting. From soft sky blue to deep navy, these tiles offer a range of moods that can suit any design style, whether it is coastal or contemporary. A full-height accent wall behind the vanity or inside the shower creates a stunning focal point that draws the eye and adds significant visual interest. Using a light-colored grout helps the blue hues pop, while the glossy finish on many glass penny tiles reflects light beautifully, making the entire bathroom feel much more dynamic and bright.
4. Green penny tile backsplash
A green penny tile backsplash is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to bring a touch of nature and tranquility into their daily routine. Shades like sage, emerald, or forest green are currently trending and pair wonderfully with organic materials like marble countertops and light oak cabinetry. This smaller application of penny tiles allows you to experiment with bold colors without overwhelming the entire room. The repetitive circular pattern adds a layer of texture that breaks up the flat surfaces of the vanity area. It is a practical yet stylish solution that protects your walls while serving as a beautiful decorative element in the space.
5. Pink penny tile vanity
Designing a pink penny tile vanity area is a playful and modern way to add a soft glow and personality to your bathroom. Blush or dusty rose penny tiles have become increasingly popular in contemporary "grandmillennial" or boho-chic designs, offering a sophisticated take on a classic feminine color. When used as a backsplash or a full feature wall behind a mirror, these tiles create a warm and flattering backdrop for morning routines. To keep the look sophisticated rather than sugary, pair the pink tiles with modern fixtures in matte black or brushed nickel and incorporate plenty of white space or natural stone elements.
6. Grey penny tile floor
Opting for a grey penny tile floor provides a neutral and sophisticated base that complements almost any color palette or design theme. Grey is a practical choice for bathroom flooring because it is excellent at concealing water spots and dust, making maintenance much easier for busy households. You can choose from a variety of shades, ranging from light silver to deep charcoal, to achieve the specific level of contrast you desire. A matte finish on grey porcelain penny tiles offers a contemporary look that feels smooth and comfortable underfoot. It serves as a perfect bridge between traditional white fixtures and more modern, colorful accents.
7. Matte black penny tile
Matte black penny tile is a favorite among designers looking to create a high-contrast, modern aesthetic that feels both edgy and elegant. Unlike glossy finishes, matte tiles absorb light, creating a velvety texture that adds a sense of depth to floors or shower walls. This specific finish is particularly effective at hiding fingerprints and water marks, making it as functional as it is beautiful. When paired with crisp white walls and minimalist fixtures, matte black penny tiles create a striking graphic look. You can also use them to create custom patterns or borders within a larger field of white tiles for a bespoke touch.
8. Flower pattern penny tile
Installing a flower pattern penny tile floor is a charming way to pay homage to traditional vintage designs while adding a custom feel. By using two or more contrasting colors, you can create delicate "daisy" motifs that repeat across the floor, adding a sense of whimsy and historical character. This look is particularly popular in farmhouse or traditional style bathrooms where a touch of pattern is desired. The small scale of the tiles makes it easy to create these intricate designs without needing to cut large slabs. It is a labor of love that results in a truly unique and handcrafted bathroom floor.
9. Penny tile shower niche
Using penny tile in a shower niche is a clever way to add a subtle pop of texture and color to a functional storage area. Because penny tiles are mounted on flexible mesh sheets, they are incredibly easy to install in small, recessed spaces where larger tiles might require difficult cuts. You can choose a color that matches your main shower walls for a cohesive look or opt for a contrasting shade to make the niche stand out as a decorative feature. This small detail elevates the overall design of the shower, making it feel more intentional and professionally styled while providing a durable surface.
10. Sage green penny tile
Sage green penny tile is a top choice for creating a biophilic bathroom design that emphasizes a connection to the natural world. This soft, earthy hue has a calming effect on the mind, making it perfect for a space dedicated to relaxation and self-care. Sage green tiles look stunning when paired with warm metallic finishes like unlacquered brass or copper, which enhance the organic feel of the color. Whether used as a floor-to-ceiling shower surround or a simple vanity backsplash, these tiles provide a gentle wash of color that feels sophisticated and timeless rather than trendy or overly bold.
11. Navy blue penny tile
Navy blue penny tile offers a rich and classic look that brings a sense of stability and luxury to the bathroom. This deep, saturated color works beautifully as a floor tile, especially when paired with white grout to create a crisp, nautical-inspired aesthetic. Navy penny tiles also make a dramatic statement when used on a single accent wall, providing a dark backdrop that makes white porcelain sinks and tubs truly stand out. The circular shape of the tiles softens the intensity of the dark blue, ensuring the space feels cozy rather than cold. It is a sophisticated choice for traditional homes.
12. Marble penny tile bathroom
Incorporating marble penny tile into your bathroom design is the ultimate way to blend classic luxury with interesting geometric texture. Natural stone like Carrara or Calacatta marble provides beautiful grey veining that ensures no two tiles are exactly alike, adding a high-end feel to the space. Marble penny tiles are frequently used on bathroom floors or shower pans because they offer excellent slip resistance due to the high density of grout lines. The soft, honed or polished finish of the stone feels wonderful underfoot and coordinates perfectly with larger marble slabs or subway tiles on the walls for a cohesive, upscale master bath.
13. Gold penny tile accent
A gold penny tile accent wall is a glamorous choice for those who want to infuse their bathroom with a sense of opulence and light. These metallic-finished tiles reflect light around the room, making even small powder rooms feel bright and expensive. While a full room of gold might be overwhelming, using them as a vertical stripe in the shower or a backsplash behind the vanity creates a stunning focal point. Gold penny tiles pair exceptionally well with white marble and sleek black fixtures, creating a high-contrast look that is modern yet classic. It is a perfect way to add a jewelry-like sparkle.
14. Wood floor penny tile transition
Creating a seamless wood floor and penny tile transition is a popular design technique for open-concept master suites or bathrooms with adjacent hardwood hallways. Instead of using a traditional metal transition strip, designers often "nestle" the penny tiles into the wood planks in an organic, staggered pattern. This creates a beautiful visual flow that feels custom and artistic. The small size of the penny tiles makes it easy to create these curved or irregular borders. This technique is not only visually stunning but also practical, as it allows you to have durable, waterproof tile in wet areas while maintaining the warmth of wood.
15. Bordered penny tile floor
A bordered penny tile floor is a classic design element that adds a sense of structure and architectural interest to a bathroom. By using a contrasting color of penny tiles to create a "frame" around the perimeter of the room, you can define the space and give it a more formal, finished appearance. This technique was very common in early 20th-century homes and continues to be a favorite for traditional or vintage-style renovations. You can keep it simple with a single row of dark tiles or create more elaborate Greek key or striped patterns for a truly bespoke and high-end look on your floor.
16. Terracotta penny tile bathroom
Terracotta penny tile is a wonderful way to bring warmth, texture, and a Mediterranean or Southwestern vibe into your bathroom design. These unglazed clay tiles offer a beautiful range of natural earthy tones, from soft peach to deep burnt orange, which add instant character and soul to the space. Terracotta is naturally slip-resistant and feels warm to the touch, making it an excellent choice for bathroom flooring. When paired with white plastered walls and blackened steel fixtures, terracotta penny tiles create a modern rustic look that feels grounded and inviting. It is a refreshing departure from the standard porcelain or ceramic options.
17. Iridescent penny tile shower
An iridescent penny tile shower is a magical way to create a space that shifts and changes depending on the light and the angle. These glass tiles feature a shimmering finish that reflects a rainbow of colors, similar to the inside of a seashell or a pearl. This makes them a perfect choice for creating a spa-like atmosphere that feels ethereal and relaxing. Because the tiles are glass, they are also incredibly easy to clean and resistant to mold and mildew. Using iridescent tiles on a curved shower wall or a domed ceiling can emphasize their reflective qualities, creating a truly immersive and luxurious bathing experience.
18. Charcoal penny tile floor
A charcoal penny tile floor offers a modern and masculine aesthetic that provides a strong foundation for any bathroom design. This deep grey shade is less harsh than pure black but still provides enough contrast to make a significant impact. Charcoal tiles look particularly striking when paired with light grey grout, which highlights the circular pattern without being too distracting. This color choice is incredibly practical for high-traffic bathrooms as it hides dirt and wear exceptionally well. Whether your style is industrial, minimalist, or contemporary, charcoal penny tiles provide a versatile and durable surface that will look great for many years to come.
19. Multi color penny tile
Using multi color penny tile is a creative way to add depth, movement, and visual interest to a bathroom backsplash or shower wall. Instead of a solid block of color, these tiles feature a mix of complementary shades that create a beautiful mosaic effect. This can range from a subtle blend of whites and greys to a vibrant mix of blues and greens that mimic the look of water. The variety of tones helps to hide small imperfections and makes it easier to coordinate the tiles with other elements in the room. It is a playful and dynamic choice that adds a custom, artisanal feel.
20. Penny tile powder room
A penny tile powder room is the perfect place to experiment with bold colors or intricate patterns that might feel too overwhelming in a larger master bathroom. Because powder rooms are small, you can afford to use premium materials like glass or marble penny tiles to create a "jewel box" effect. Covering all four walls in a shimmering penny tile can make the space feel incredibly luxurious and intimate. Pairing the tiles with a unique pedestal sink and a statement mirror will complete the look. It is a high-impact design choice that will surely impress guests and add a touch of whimsy.
21. Vertical penny tile stripe
Adding a vertical penny tile stripe in your shower is an effective way to create a focal point and add a sense of height to the room. By running a band of contrasting penny tiles from the floor to the ceiling, you can break up a large expanse of plain subway tiles and add a touch of personality. This design technique is often used to highlight the shower fixtures or to create a "waterfall" effect that draws the eye upward. It is a cost-effective way to incorporate expensive or bold tiles into your design without having to purchase enough to cover the entire bathroom wall.
22. Large penny tile floor
While traditional penny tiles are about one inch in diameter, opting for a large penny tile floor can provide a more modern and updated look. These slightly larger circular tiles, often measuring two or three inches, offer a bolder graphic pattern that feels fresh and contemporary. They provide the same slip-resistant benefits as their smaller counterparts but with fewer grout lines to clean. Large penny tiles look fantastic in spacious bathrooms where the pattern has room to breathe. They are available in a wide variety of materials and finishes, allowing you to achieve a sleek, minimalist look that still feels textured and interesting.
23. Porcelain penny tile shower
A porcelain penny tile shower is one of the most durable and low-maintenance options available for a bathroom renovation. Porcelain is denser and less porous than ceramic, making it highly resistant to water, stains, and scratches. This makes it an ideal material for wet areas like shower floors and walls where longevity is key. Porcelain penny tiles come in an endless array of colors and finishes, including those that mimic the look of natural stone or wood. Their small size and numerous grout lines provide excellent traction, ensuring a safe and non-slip surface for everyone in the family to use daily.
24. Glass penny tile backsplash
A glass penny tile backsplash adds a layer of depth and luminosity to the vanity area that other materials simply cannot match. The translucent quality of glass allows light to penetrate the tile, creating a glowing effect that can make the entire bathroom feel brighter and more open. Glass tiles are also non-porous, meaning they will not absorb stains or odors and are very easy to wipe clean. Whether you choose a soft frosted finish or a high-gloss polished look, a glass penny tile backsplash provides a sleek and modern touch that elevates the overall aesthetic of your bathroom design beautifully.
25. Non slip penny tile floor
Installing a non slip penny tile floor is a smart and stylish way to prioritize safety in the bathroom without sacrificing design. The small diameter of penny tiles means there is a high ratio of grout to tile, which naturally creates a textured surface that provides excellent grip for bare feet. This is particularly important for shower floors, wet rooms, and bathrooms used by children or the elderly. Many manufacturers also offer penny tiles with a slightly textured or matte finish to further enhance their slip-resistant properties. You can enjoy the beautiful mosaic aesthetic while having peace of mind that your floor is safe.
26. Vintage penny tile bathroom
A vintage penny tile bathroom design is all about embracing the nostalgic charm of the early 20th century while incorporating modern comforts. Classic color combinations like black and white or white and forest green are hallmarks of this style. You can use penny tiles to create traditional patterns like hexagons, diamonds, or simple borders that evoke a sense of history and craftsmanship. Pairing these tiles with a clawfoot tub, a pedestal sink, and cross-handle faucets will complete the authentic retro look. It is a timeless aesthetic that remains popular because it feels both familiar and incredibly stylish in any home environment.
27. Modern penny tile wet room
A modern penny tile wet room is a sleek and functional design choice that maximizes space and creates a spa-like atmosphere. In a wet room, the entire floor is waterproofed and tiled, allowing the shower to be open to the rest of the room. Penny tiles are the perfect material for this application because they can easily accommodate the slope needed for the floor drain. Using the same penny tile on the floors and walls creates a seamless, "wrapped" look that feels very contemporary and clean. This minimalist approach is ideal for small bathrooms where you want to eliminate visual clutter and barriers.
28. Dark grout penny tile
Using dark grout with penny tiles is one of the most effective ways to make a bold design statement while also being incredibly practical for high-traffic bathrooms. The contrast between light tiles and dark grout lines emphasizes the circular shape of each tile, creating a mesmerizing honeycomb effect that draws the eye. This technique is particularly popular for floors because dark grout hides dirt, stains, and wear much better than lighter options, keeping your bathroom looking fresh for longer. It adds a touch of industrial or vintage flair to the space, especially when paired with traditional white porcelain tiles or modern matte finishes.
29. Beige penny tile floor
A beige penny tile floor is a wonderful choice for those who want a warm and inviting bathroom that feels soft and organic. Beige is a versatile neutral that pairs beautifully with other earthy tones, wood accents, and cream-colored walls. Unlike stark white, beige tiles provide a gentle warmth that makes the room feel more cozy and less clinical. This color is also very forgiving when it comes to showing dust or light debris. Whether you are aiming for a Mediterranean, boho, or traditional style, beige penny tiles provide a subtle and sophisticated foundation that allows your other design elements to shine.
30. Ombre penny tile wall
An ombre penny tile wall is a stunning and artistic way to introduce color and movement into your bathroom. By gradually transitioning from a dark shade at the bottom to a lighter shade at the top, you can create a beautiful gradient effect that mimics the look of a sunset or the ocean. This technique is particularly effective in a walk-in shower or as a full-height feature wall behind a freestanding tub. The small size of the penny tiles makes it easy to blend the different colors seamlessly. It is a unique and customized design choice that adds a high-end, designer feel.
Conclusion:
Transforming your bathroom with penny tiles is an excellent way to infuse personality, texture, and a touch of historical elegance into your home. As we have explored, these versatile little circles can adapt to any style, from the most minimalist modern wet rooms to the most intricate vintage-inspired powder rooms. Their durability and slip-resistant nature make them a practical choice for wet areas, while their aesthetic flexibility allows for endless creative expression. Whether you choose a bold monochromatic look or a delicate floral pattern, penny tiles will continue to be a beloved design element that stands the test of time beautifully in any renovation project.
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