Let's get this Hub started by giving a very brief overview of the two types of shapes that your bathroom tiles come in (just for reference, this does no simply apply to bathroom tile designs. I'm going to go over a few of the tile types and materials I like later on. The ones I chose to discuss are selected for thier good-looks, durability and non-slip quality.

In general, tiles come in two forms: rectified and chamfered. Rectified tiles live up to their name by being cut in sharp right angles. Chamfered tiles have slightly rounded edges. For most projects we recommend rectified tiles as they are easier to set and keep equallty spaced.

In this Hub I'm going to explain:

1. Types of Tile
2. Tips for selecting you bathroom tile designs
3. Bathroom Tile Maintenance

Ceramic: Most commonly used, and easy to maintain. They come in gloss and matt finishes as well as ceramic- / porcelain-backed. Available in different patterns and colors, and in various sizes. Some recent designs show embossed tiles in myriad textures and available in different shapes, colors, and sizes.

Ceramic bathroom tiles cover the walls and basin, adding a sleek, contemporary touch. Note the shelf holding frames and decorative items like elephant statues. They show up well against the white contrasting background.

Enameled Porcelain: This is also relatively new. It gives your bathroom a sleek, metallic sheen as they look exactly like steel plates, complete with screws. They will not oxidize or rust, unlike the real thing. However, avoid using them on the floor as the metallic glaze can be slippery when wet.

Homogenous: These tiles are easy to maintain. Their homogenous nature (front, sides and back are in same color tone) means the edge or thickness is in the same color. Almost scratch-resistant, they come in matt or polished finishes. Prices tend to be higher for polished finishes.

Glass: "Glass accent tile is really exciting right now," says Bill Wolf, owner of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen in Grand Rapids, Mich. Used for backsplashes, shower walls and as accents on floors, glass tiles add a depth, sparkle and luminescence not found in ceramic or natural stone.

With a broad color palette, and finishes ranging from glossy to flat, glass tiles can fit most design schemes. When used sparingly, vivid glass tiles can provide exciting visual highlights. Conversely, when covering an entire bathroom wall, glass tile can create a luxurious spa-like atmosphere.

Granite: Durable and toughest among the different types of tiles. Almost scratch-resistant, it comes with a consistent tone. Designers and architects usually choose dark or dull-tone tiles for commercial premises. The most affordable ones come from China.

Other Stones: Limestone and sandstone are beautiful, but they are porous and prone to stains as they are difficult to maintain. Most commonly featured in tropical- or resort-inspired interiors.

Ceramic mosaics: These can complement retro-inspired interiors and are easy to maintain. They are also available in primary and secondary colors. Be it square or hexagonal, they bring dazzling eye candy, especially for curved surfaces. They’re also the best choice for steps, hard angles and curbs as there are no sharp edges that can cause injuries.

The bathtub below is given the royal treatment with gold mosaics covering all curved surfaces. This is complemented with gilded faucets and handrail while the floor is in sanded marble.

Stainless Steel Mosaics: New and still relatively uncommon in the market, they are suitable for very modern and stark interiors. Other than square, shapes include hexagon and diamond. Finishes come in stainless steel hairline, stainless steel mirror, stainless steel etched or gold color.

The tiny bathroom below is finished with stark, metallic mosaics which embellish the walls while also making it easy to clean.