Penny tiles are having a major moment in bathroom design, and it’s easy to see why. These charming circular mosaics deliver vintage appeal with modern versatility, transforming ordinary bathrooms into showstopping spaces. Whether you are eyeing a classic white penny tile bathroom wall or dreaming of a bold blue penny tile bathroom floor, these petite rounds pack a serious style punch while offering practical benefits like slip resistance and water drainage.
Why Penny Tiles Steal the Show
The beauty of a bathroom penny tile floor lies in its versatility and texture. Those tiny circles create a subtle grip underfoot—perfect for wet areas—while adding dimensional interest that flat tiles simply can’t match. The penny tile for bathroom floor applications works beautifully because it naturally guides water toward drains and provides superior slip resistance.
At Zicklin Contracting, we’ve installed countless penny tile bathroom floors over our 37+ years of experience, and clients consistently love how these tiles age gracefully while maintaining their charm.
Best Materials for Your Penny Tile Floor
Porcelain Penny Tiles ($15-50 per sq. ft): Porcelain dominates the penny tile market for excellent reasons. It’s virtually waterproof, incredibly durable, and available in endless colors. A blue penny tile bathroom floor creates coastal vibes, while white or black options deliver classic elegance.
Ceramic Options ($1-5 per sq. ft): Budget-friendly ceramic penny tiles offer similar aesthetics at lower price points. They’re ideal for powder rooms or less-trafficked bathrooms.
Natural Stone ($10-30 per sq. ft): Marble or travertine penny tiles bring luxury but require regular sealing to maintain their beauty in moisture-rich environments.
Grout Colors That Make or Break Your Design
Grout selection dramatically impacts your penny tile’s final appearance. Here’s what we’ve learned:
- High Contrast (Dark grout with light tiles): Creates a honeycomb effect that emphasizes each circle—dramatic and graphic
- Matching Tones: Makes the floor appear seamless and expansive, perfect for smaller bathrooms
- Gray Versatility: Works with everything from penny tile blue selections to neutral palettes
Professional installation typically adds $10-18 per square foot to your total project cost.