When renovating a bathroom, wall protection is high on your agenda – especially for areas around the tub and shower. But if you’re not a fan of traditional tiles, you may be wondering what bathroom tile alternatives there are.
Although bathroom tiles are so versatile when it comes to creating a design you like—whether you’re going super minimalist with white subway tiles or a Mediterranean-inspired mosaic—they can also be a pain to install. You’ll need to know how to tile a wall if you want to try your hand at DIY, and you’ll also need to know how to grout, otherwise you’ll need to call in a professional.
If that’s not your thing and you’re not entirely convinced about using tiles, don’t worry – there are a number of practical options that will still make your bathroom suitable for everyday use while adding a healthy dose of style.
1. Wall panels
(Image credit: Crosswater)
Bathroom wall panels are one of the most affordable alternatives to tiles and can fill an entire wall with minimal effort. They come in many different styles, so whether you want a wood-effect panel for a calming look or want to spice up a luxurious setting with marble, there is a panel to suit your taste.
Wall panels are also less expensive than tiles, so if you’re looking to save money on your bathroom renovation without compromising on plumbing or fixtures, this is a great way to achieve a similar look for less money.
“Thanks to modern innovation and design, today’s wall panels are high-performance products and are no longer seen as just an alternative to tiles for bathroom projects, but have become a considered choice. Innovation in the supply of bathroom wall panels means that finishes such as marble, granite, wood and tile effects can be replicated to provide a cost-effective, sustainable alternative to these materials,” explains Lidia Cetrangolo, Marketing Manager at Grant Westfield.
Stylepanel, glossy navy blue chevron acrylic decorative panel for bathroom
Aquadry Pergamon marble effect 1-sided shower wall panel set
SlatWall, waterproof, natural oak and black
2. Marble
(Image credit: Future PLC)
It’s hard to find anyone walking past a quality marble surface – they’re spectacular, super luxurious and give a bathroom the feel of a hotel-like sanctuary. Marble bathroom ideas are also a great alternative to tile as they stand the test of time – marble is generally an investment, but if you’re staying in your home for a while, it can be worth it.
When properly cared for, marble can last for decades and is resistant to mold, chipping and fading. To maintain its elegant appearance, it requires regular maintenance, including periodic re-sealing. Marble is also heavy, so you may not want to cover an entire wall with it—a small splash with a striking grain effect will do the trick.
Other types of natural stone, including quartz and granite, are also impressive alternatives to tiles. While you’ll need an experienced installer to lay them, you’re guaranteed to get the wow factor with this look.
3. Wallpaper
(Image credit: Future PLC)
“It’s often thought that you can’t use wallpaper in the bathroom, but with the right preparation, application and maintenance, wallpaper can be a relatively easy and inexpensive way to add some color or personality to this room,” explains Chelsea Clark, Marketing Director at Lust Home.
Wallpaper for the bathroom can be a great alternative to tiles. The impact is just as dramatic and it’s a great way to add lots of pattern to a room, plus they have the added benefit of being much easier to change. There are also lots of waterproof wallpapers on the market that will give you peace of mind when wallpapering a room with limited ventilation, such as a cloakroom. We love this range of splash-proof wallpapers from Graham & Brown, which offer a huge range of patterns.
Laura Ashley Whitebrook Wallpapers
Spring flowers garden wallpaper
4. Color
(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)
Bathroom paint ideas may seem like an obvious choice, but are often not recommended for bathrooms where humidity is at an all-time high. However, there are a number of ways to use paint as a tile alternative.
You’ll want to add a more practical finish directly around splash zones, but in most cases you can influence the design with paint. Specialist moisture-resistant paint like this option from Dulux will give you the peace of mind that your paint won’t immediately chip and peel in high humidity.
You need to prepare the walls properly, be sure to use a primer, and make sure the bathroom is well ventilated. But other than that, you have complete creative control when choosing a color scheme. We love when a bathroom is full of color to create a bold look that completely envelops you.
FAQ
Which material is best suited for shower walls without grout?
Let’s face it, grouting can be a real slog. It takes time and if you don’t like doing it yourself, you’ll have to call in a professional, which will add to the cost of your renovation project. Plus, grouting can get dirty over time and if your space isn’t well ventilated, it can also get moldy. In short, if you want tiles, the extra work is absolutely worth it, but if you’re not scared, there are other materials available.
For a simple shower idea, PVC wall panels are the best choice. They’re water-resistant and can be installed in a single step, giving you a unified bathroom look quickly. The single-panel design is also super easy to clean – no need to get out a toothbrush to scrub the grout.
Which tile alternative do you prefer?
