small black bathroom design ideas for modern spaces

10 small black bathroom design ideas

whether you’re drawn to a dramatic monochrome palette, the timeless elegance of a black and white checkerboard floor, or the sharp contrast of black subway tiles paired with gold light fixtures, black tiles offer endless creative possibilities. here are just ten different ways you can make black tiles work in your small bathroom.

1. black accent wall with contrasting tiles

a black accent wall in a small bathroom can create a striking focal point, especially when paired with lighter tones on the other walls. this design choice adds depth without overwhelming the space.

try using white or soft neutral tiles for balance, creating a dynamic yet harmonious look. the contrast can emphasize certain architectural features or fixtures, drawing the eye to specific areas. (the vanity backsplash, for example.) this approach works well for those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic, allowing the black feature wall to make a bold statement while maintaining a sense of openness and lightness in the rest of the bathroom.

2. monochrome black for a bold look

going all-in with monochrome black tiles can give your small bathroom a bold and dramatic aesthetic — perfect for making an impact in what might otherwise be an underwhelming space. covering both the walls and floor in black creates a cohesive and powerful design that feels both luxurious and modern.

to keep the space from feeling too dark, try using reflective surfaces like glossy black tiles, large mirrors, and well-placed lighting fixtures such as sconces. altogether, the design will feel striking and edgy, all while still giving you a neutral backdrop for other decorative elements.

3. black subway tiles paired with gold or brass fixtures

white subway tiles are a popular option for bathroom or shower walls, but not your only one. black ones provide a timeless yet modern feel, especially when paired with gold or brass fixtures. the metallic accents add warmth and shine against the dark tiles, creating a luxurious contrast that feels undeniably chic. and in a small bathroom, this combination can exude elegance without feeling over-the-top.

another thing we love about black subway tiles? the long, rectangular shape of tiles brings a sense of geometry and structure to the space. for those who want classic and modern bathroom — with a glamorous touch for good measure — this is a popular choice.

4. black and white checkerboard floor

classic, retro, sophisticated, timeless, elegant—they’re all words we’d use to describe a black and white checkerboard floor. and if you haven’t had the nerve to install one in a larger space like the kitchen, a small bathroom is your perfect opportunity.

this is an enduring tile trend for a reason, creating a dynamic pattern that adds movement to the space. (it can even make a room feel larger than it really is.) it also suits various styles, from vintage to modern, depending on how you furnish the rest of the bathroom. either marble and cement would be a good choice here.

5. vertical black tiles for height illusion

most minds jump to horizontal tile installations, but there’s no reason you can’t go vertical. using vertical black tiles in a small bathroom can create the illusion of height, making the room feel taller. this is because the long, slim lines draw the eye upward, elongating the space visually.

have a bathroom with lower ceilings? this technique will work especially well, whether you go for glossy or matte black tiles. and if you want to enhance the sense of openness even further, try pairing vertical black tiles with light-colored walls or contrasting grout. it’s a subtle yet effective way to make a small bathroom feel more spacious and elegant.

6. black herringbone pattern for texture

don’t forget that you can get creative with your tile layout. black tiles laid in a herringbone pattern introduce visual complexity to a small bathroom, making the space feel more dynamic. more so than other tile layouts, the zigzag arrangement creates movement, adding depth and interest to a monochromatic color palette.

black herringbone tiles work particularly well on accent walls or floors, where their intricate design can become a focal point. (think: a black vanity.) these bathroom tiles also provide an edgy yet luxurious look, while their unique pattern adds a sense of craftsmanship. paired with light grout, the pattern pops even more.

7. matte black floor tiles with light walls

black tiles give you the unique opportunity to play with contrast in a big way. try pairing matte black floor tiles with light walls to create a sophisticated and balanced look. the non-reflective surface of the matte tiles offers a soft, modern style, while off-white or white walls help to keep the space open and airy. it’s a combination that really grounds the room, especially if you introduce other contrasting elements like black fixtures.

another perk here: matte black tiles are practical, since they are less likely to show water spots or dirt. this look works well for minimalist designs, allowing the contrast between the dark floor and light walls to stand out without feeling harsh or overpowering.

8. pairing black with naturals

pairing black tiles with natural elements like wood, stone, and greenery softens the boldness of black while adding a warm, organic feel to a small bathroom. imagine a sleek, modern backdrop, along with natural materials that bring different textures, balance, and harmony.

there are countless ways to nail this approach — wood accents, natural stone countertops, and plants, for example. all of these bring a calming and earthy vibe to the space, contrasting beautifully with the dark tiles. if you’re someone who appreciates a blend of contemporary and organic aesthetics, this look is for you.

9. black tiles with pops of color

who says black tile needs to stay within a neutral color palette? pairing black tiles with pops of color can transform a small bathroom into a vibrant, lively space. the dark backdrop makes bright accents stand out, whether through towels, artwork, bright fixtures, or other tiles.

colors like pink, teal, and mustard can add personality and warmth, creating a striking contrast against the black tile. want to maintain some flexibility in your design? you can easily switch out colorful elements like textiles and trays to refresh the look without a full renovation. with this approach, black tile is your canvas, allowing playful accents to take center stage.

10. mix in some grey notes

if you want to lean into black’s softer side, try mixing black tiles with grey tones. this creates a more nuanced look in a small bathroom, with varying shades of grey adding depth and dimension. grey also helps tone down the starkness of the color black while still maintaining a modern, elegant feel. it’s a great way to embrace the black look without committing to a fully dark design.

a black and grey blend works beautifully on floors and walls — or even as an accent to balance dark black with a subtler tone. and if you’re one for texture or pattern, good news: a greyscale palette can offer this while still keeping the space feeling cohesive.

why choose black for small bathrooms?

when most people begin choosing tile for a small bathroom, they immediately gravitate toward the lighter end of the spectrum. and it’s understandable: white tile, in particular, has a reputation for making a small space feel light and airy.

but this doesn’t mean that black tile doesn’t play well into smaller areas. in fact, choosing black tile for a small bathroom can create a sleek, modern look that adds depth and sophistication. the dark tone makes the space feel intimate and cozy.

if you’re still worried about things feeling cramped, try opting for a glossy tile. this type of tile reflects light, allowing the room to maintain an open feel. black tiles also contrast beautifully with different colors, lending a statement-making, modern design aesthetic.

another reason we love black bathroom tile? it’s often less likely to show dirt and stains, which can help minimize maintenance. with strategic lighting and thoughtful design elements, black tiles can transform a small bathroom into a spa-like retreat that feels both luxe and classic.

choosing tile for a small black bathroom

now that you have some modern black bathroom inspiration under your belt, let’s explore a few more factors you’ll want to consider.

creating texture and depth

by now, you probably understand that the world of black tile is vast, with a variety of finishes to choose from. some tiles like glazed porcelain and brick are glossy and smooth, adding a touch of shine to any surface they meet. others have a matte finish, letting the natural texture of the material show through.

if texture is what you’re after, look into cement, raw terracotta, and unglazed brick tile options. while these tend to call for slightly more care and attention throughout their life (sealing, for example) they add a sense of depth that can’t be beat.

incorporating versatility and durability

when it comes to versatility and durability, choosing the right tile for the bathroom is key. after all, it’s a space that sees water and moisture on the daily. bathrooms also tend to be heavily trafficked. fortunately, tile options abound.

for floors, cement, porcelain, slate, and raw terracotta are some of the best materials out there. (just keep in mind that unglazed tiles will need to be finished with a penetrating sealer for water resistance.) for walls, you have even more options, such as glazed brick and zellige.

as a good rule of thumb, we always recommend checking a tile’s technical specifications and material guidelines before committing to it for your bathroom remodel. these resources will help you understand how the tile holds up to foot traffic, what it needs in terms of sealing, and more.

glossy vs matte

to go glossy or opt for matte — now, that is the question. in many cases, such as tiling a vanity backsplash, this is entirely up to you and your personal style. but there are some functional considerations to keep in mind.

first, let’s talk floors. generally speaking, matte tiles such as cement, raw terracotta, and slate are best for bathroom floors because they offer increased slip resistance — a must in a room that sees heavy water exposure. this is especially true of shower floors, of course. if you do go for a glossy tile, be sure it is smaller than 2 inches by 2 inches in sizes, so grouting can offer additional traction. (this is where penny rounds shine.)

choosing tile for a wall? the world is your oyster, but remember that matte tiles tend to need a little more tlc when it comes to maintenance. many types of matte tile need regular resealing, for example. if you’re looking for easier cleaning, go for a glazed tile such as zellige or ceramic tile.