Traditional Tiles by Bowman Bathrooms
At Bowman Bathrooms, we believe that timeless design never goes out of style. Our range of traditional bathroom tiles offers elegant, lasting solutions for those who appreciate classic aesthetics and heritage-inspired interiors. Whether you are renovating a period property or simply prefer a more traditional look for your bathroom, traditional tiles can help you create a space that feels warm, welcoming and full of character!
With designs influenced by historic homes as well as Victorian and Edwardian architecture, traditional tiles continue to be a popular choice among homeowners looking for charm and sophistication in their bathrooms.
Understanding Traditional Tiles
Traditional bathroom tiles are defined by their classic patterns, muted colours, and a sense of formality or history. Unlike the clean lines and minimal tones associated with modern tiles, traditional tiles embrace ornament, symmetry, and timeless craftsmanship.
These tiles are often inspired by Victorian, Georgian, or Edwardian periods, and may include intricate borders, floral motifs, encaustic patterns, and bevelled surfaces. Many of them come in natural materials such as marble, terracotta, or ceramic with a hand-glazed appearance, although porcelain has become a popular choice for its durability and low maintenance.
The aesthetic of traditional tiles tends to favour soft, neutral tones—such as creams, sage greens, dark blues, and burgundy, although black and white checkerboard flooring remains a firm favourite in period-style bathrooms.
Types of Traditional Bathroom Tiles
When it comes to our traditional tile options, there are several distinct styles that reflect different historical periods and design influences. Understanding these can help you choose the right type of tile for your bathroom’s overall look.
Victorian floor tile
One of the most recognisable tiles, these are often made up of small square or geometric shapes in a repeating pattern. These are traditionally laid in hallways, but have become increasingly popular in bathrooms for creating a sense of luxury. They are particularly effective in bathrooms with roll-top baths or high-level cisterns.
Metro tiles or subway tiles
With their bevelled edges and glossy finishes, these are another popular option. Although often associated with modern interiors, metro tiles originated in the early 1900s and remain a staple of traditional bathroom design when used in period-appropriate colours such as off-white, olive green or soft blue.
Decorative ceramic tiles
These are great for decorating walls, often featuring hand-painted or transfer-printed designs that can introduce floral or geometric detail typical of Edwardian and Arts and Crafts styles. These are often used as a border or inset within a field of plain tiles to create a sense of detail and craftsmanship.
Marble-look tiles
In contrast to more contemporary stone-look or concrete-effect tiles, traditional designs often lean towards marble-look tiles or real natural stone. These can bring a refined atmosphere to larger bathrooms or master suites.
Where Traditional Tiles Work Best in the Bathroom
Traditional tiles can be used throughout the bathroom to add warmth and historical character, though they are especially effective when used sparingly in key areas. On bathroom floors, traditional patterned tiles can provide a sense of structure and purpose, especially in older homes where original features are being preserved or replicated.
On walls, using a half-height tiling approach with metro tiles or plain ceramics topped with a dado or border tile is a classic look. This is often paired with painted plaster above the tile line, in heritage colours that tie in with the rest of the scheme.
Inside showers, traditional tiles offer a chance to contrast clean modern glass screens with heritage-inspired backdrops. Small hexagonal tiles or classic checkerboard patterns can provide visual interest while staying in keeping with traditional aesthetics.
For bath surrounds, backsplashes or alcoves, subtle patterned tiles or hand-finished glazed tiles can create points of interest without overwhelming the space.
Traditional Tile Trends
While traditional tiles draw on long-established design principles, there has been a resurgence in period property renovations and classic interior design, meaning more traditional tile designs are also firmly on trend! Many homeowners are blending traditional and modern elements to create bathrooms that feel both elegant and practical.
One notable trend is the use of soft, matte finishes over glossy ones, which offer a more subtle and natural look. Likewise, earthy tones and pastel glazes have become more popular than brighter, high-shine options, as they better reflect the colours seen in historic interiors.
Another trend is to combine traditional floor tiles with shaker-style furniture, freestanding baths, and brass or bronze fittings, creating bathrooms that are both timeless and on-trend.
Sustainably made traditional-style tiles, including those produced using traditional techniques or from recycled materials, are also increasingly popular among environmentally conscious homeowners.
Why Choose Bowman Bathrooms for Traditional Tiles?
At Bowman Bathrooms, we understand that a traditional bathroom is about craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creating a space that feels cohesive.
Our design and installation team has extensive experience working with period-style bathrooms and traditional tiles. We offer guidance on everything from colour matching to layout planning, ensuring that your bathroom reflects the character of your home while also meeting modern standards.
We source our traditional tiles from trusted brands known for quality and authenticity. Whether you’re after Victorian mosaic floors, rustic metro walls, or decorative borders, we offer a curated selection that balances heritage charm with long-lasting performance.
We also provide:
- Full bathroom renovation services including tiling, plumbing, and installation
- Personal design consultations to help visualise and plan your traditional bathroom
- A local showroom in Braintree where you can view our most popular tile collections in person
An end-to-end service that makes the process simple, reliable, and enjoyable
Begin Your Traditional Bathroom Project with Bowman Bathrooms
If you’re planning to create a bathroom inspired by classic design or looking to restore a period property with thoughtful detail, our traditional tile range provides the perfect foundation.
Contact us today to book a consultation or visit our Braintree showroom to explore our collections in person. At Bowman Bathrooms, we make it easy to blend history and home with elegance and expertise.
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