6 Must-Know Traditional Tile Flooring Styles for a Stunning Bathroom

Your bathroom floor does more than take foot traffic; it sets the whole mood of the space. Whether you are going for timeless elegance or bold personality, the right traditional tile flooring can completely elevate your bathroom. Here are six classic styles worth knowing, complete with cost insights to help you plan smarter.

1. Herringbone Tile

Few patterns command attention quite like herringbone. This traditional tile flooring style arranges rectangular tiles in a V-shaped zigzag that adds instant dimension and artisanal flair.

• Available in marble, porcelain, and ceramic, with costs ranging from $4.25–$50 per square foot
• Neutral colorways deliver subtle texture; bold hues create a dramatic focal point
• Works beautifully in both minimalist and maximalist bathroom designs

Pair black porcelain with black grout for a stark, graphic look, or go with marble herringbone to soften an industrial-style space.

2. Cement (Encaustic) Tile

Cement tile, also called encaustic, brings handcrafted character to any bathroom. Made from natural materials, it offers more texture and grip underfoot, making it a smart safety choice.

These tiles are porous and need sealing, but the payoff is worth it. Mix graphic cement floors with glossy subway wall tiles for a balanced, layered aesthetic. Costs typically run $10–$18 per square foot for an 8″ x 8″ tile.

3. Ceramic Tile

Ceramic is the ultimate workhorse of traditional tile flooring. Water-resistant, budget-friendly, and endlessly versatile, it can mimic marble, wood, slate, and more.

• A solid performer priced between $3.50–$40 per square foot
• Available in solids, patterns, and natural material looks
• Large-format patterned ceramic (like a 16″ x 16″ gray tile) can add personality to a basement bath

It’s the style that plays well with everything, from floral wallpaper to clean, modern finishes.

4. Hexagon Tile

The hexagon has been a bathroom staple for over a century, and it’s not going anywhere. Its honeycomb geometry creates visual interest without overwhelming a space.

Dark hex tile paired with light grout grounds a design and adds a modern edge. Classic white marble hex keeps things airy and timeless, especially with a few black accents. Expect to spend $5–$45+ per square foot, with marble and ceramic starting around $15.

5. Penny Tile

Penny tile brings serious vintage charm to the bathroom. These tiny circular tiles, often mounted on mesh sheets, can cover floors, walls, or both for a cohesive, immersive look.

• White porcelain penny tile starts as low as $5 per square foot
• Colorful mosaics run $18 or more
• Gradient color arrangements (think blue-to-white) can create a stunning, watercolor-like effect

This is the tile that turns a bathroom into a conversation piece.

6. Basketweave Tile

Basketweave is old-school in the best way. The interlocking rectangular pattern evokes vintage bathrooms but adapts effortlessly to contemporary spaces as part of a minimalist design.

Porcelain basketweave starts around $8 per square foot, while high-quality marble begins at $30. It’s a traditional tile flooring choice that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Your Bathroom Deserves the Best

The right tile doesn’t just cover your floor; it defines the entire feel of your bathroom. Whether you gravitate toward the bold geometry of herringbone or the vintage warmth of penny tile, there’s a style here for every vision and budget.

Visit zicklincontracting.com to get started on your bathroom renovation today.