The Surprising DIY Bathroom Trend That Will Dominate 2024
Bathrooms don’t always get the style attention they deserve, as they’re not exactly a prime hangout spot at home (unless you love to soak in a bathtub, of course!). But even if you aren’t a bath person, it’s worth putting a little extra time into designing a bathroom that you love — after all, you know you’ll be seeing it almost first thing every morning and last thing every night.
Looking for some inspiration to help guide your makeover? While there are lots of ways to turn a boring bathroom into a personal sanctuary, designer and author Dabito says there’s one surprising trend that’s been dominating 2024 bathroom renovations: fun and funky custom patterns made with ceramic tile.
2024’s Biggest Trend: Creating Custom Ceramic Tile Patterns
Dabito’s designs for his studio Old Brand New are typically full of color, and he’s incorporated bold patterns in bathrooms in the past. But the twist he’s seeing (and loving!) this year? Tile patterns that are designed completely by the DIYer, rather than purchased ready-to-install.
“People are creating fun patterns using tiles,” he says. “I’m happy to see more maximalism in the mix.”
In earlier years, you might have seen bold patterns in mosaic-style tiles — purchased and installed in sheets — or in tiles that had the pattern pre-glazed. But now, you’re more likely to see patterns created by DIYers themselves through installing same-size tiles in a mix of colors.
Dabito notes that this tile work is often done alongside colorful paint jobs and even playful sculptural sinks, as shown in the above photo of a Kosovo designer’s funky bathroom. But you don’t have to go bold in every aspect of a bathroom redo to lean into this trend — the tile itself can be the centerpiece. “I’d create a unique pattern using ceramic tiles in different colors and sizes,” Dabito says of how he’d lean into this trend. “Then I’d install it from floor to ceiling or going up half the wall.”
As for the color combo, that’s totally up to you too. Go big with a bold contrast, or choose something more subtle like two shades of the same color. No matter how you approach this trend, you’ll be able create something completely unique to your own home and style.
