Best Tiles for Your Chicago Bathroom

Choosing the right tile is one of the most impactful decisions you can make during a remodel. It sets the tone for the entire space. There’s so much to consider before choosing the right tile that works for your bathroom, including aesthetic, durability, and functionality.

At Areté, we understand that a bathroom remodel is a significant investment. It’s an opportunity to create a space that is both functional and a true reflection of your personal style.

Our interior design professionals are here to simplify the process. Read on for a few tips to help you choose the perfect tile for your bathroom.

Popular Chicago Bathroom Styles

Chicago’s residential architecture tells a story of the city’s history. Understanding your home’s style is the first step toward a cohesive and thoughtful bathroom design.

Classic Chicago Bungalow Bathrooms

Found in neighborhoods across the city, the Chicago bungalow is a beloved architectural icon. Built primarily between 1910 and 1940, these homes are known for their sturdy brick construction and practical layouts. Their bathrooms often feature classic, enduring designs. Think clean lines, durable materials, and a touch of vintage charm. The goal in a bungalow bathroom is to honor its historical roots while incorporating modern functionality.

Modern High-Rise Bathrooms

Soaring above the city, Chicago’s high-rises offer breathtaking views and a contemporary urban lifestyle. Bathrooms in these modern marvels are often sleek, minimalist, and luxurious. The design focuses on clean lines, high-end finishes, and a sense of spa-like tranquility. Large format tiles, neutral color palettes, and reflective surfaces are common, creating an open and airy feel that complements the expansive city views.

Vintage Greystone Bathrooms

Greystones are another quintessential Chicago housing type, distinguished by their stately limestone facades. Common in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Logan Square, these multi-flat buildings date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their interiors often boast intricate details and a sense of old-world elegance. A Greystone bathroom remodel presents a unique opportunity to blend historical character with contemporary luxury, often featuring rich materials and detailed patterns.

Top Tile Options for Your Remodel

With a style in mind, let’s explore some of the best tile options to bring your vision to life.

Subway Tile

Subway tile is a timeless classic for a reason. Its clean, rectangular shape is incredibly versatile and can suit almost any design aesthetic.

• Best for: Chicago Bungalow bathrooms. The simple, utilitarian look of subway tile honors the practical origins of the bungalow. A traditional offset pattern in white or off-white is a perfect fit.
• Why we love it: It’s affordable, easy to clean, and offers endless design possibilities. You can create different looks by changing the layout (herringbone, stacked), using a contrasting grout color, or opting for a beveled edge.

Mosaic Tile

Mosaic tiles are small tiles, often one or two inches, that are arranged to create a pattern. They are perfect for adding personality and intricate detail to a space.

• Best for: Vintage Greystone bathrooms. A black-and-white basketweave or hexagon mosaic floor is a hallmark of early 20th-century design. It adds authentic historical character while feeling fresh and stylish. Mosaics also work beautifully as an accent in a shower niche or on a feature wall.
• Why we love it: Mosaics are excellent for adding visual interest and texture. They are also a great choice for shower floors, as the numerous grout lines provide natural slip resistance.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is a durable, man-made material that can mimic the look of natural stone, wood, or even concrete. Its versatility and strength make it a top choice for modern applications.

• Best for: Modern High-Rise bathrooms. Large-format porcelain tiles (think 24×48 inches or larger) are ideal for creating a seamless, expansive look. Fewer grout lines contribute to a clean, minimalist aesthetic. A porcelain that mimics the look of Calacatta marble or polished concrete can provide a luxurious feel without the high maintenance.
• Why we love it: Porcelain is incredibly durable, water-resistant, and requires very little maintenance. The technological advancements in its design mean you can achieve a high-end look at a more accessible price point.

Marble Tile

For ultimate luxury, nothing compares to natural marble. Each piece is unique, with its own veining and character, bringing a sense of opulence and organic beauty to a bathroom.

• Best for: Vintage Greystone or High-Rise bathrooms. In a Greystone, Carrara or Calacatta marble can elevate the space with timeless elegance. In a modern high-rise, a bold, dramatic marble can serve as a stunning focal point for a feature wall or floor.
• Why we love it: Marble is synonymous with luxury. Its natural beauty is unparalleled and can significantly increase the value of your home. It creates a serene and sophisticated spa-like ambiance.

Tile Characteristics

Before you make your final decision, keep these practical considerations in mind:

• Budget: Tile prices vary dramatically. Subway and basic porcelain tiles are generally the most budget-friendly, while natural stone like marble and intricate mosaics come at a higher price point. Remember to factor in the cost of installation, which can also vary based on the complexity of the tile and pattern.
• Maintenance: How much time are you willing to spend on cleaning? Porcelain and ceramic tiles are low-maintenance and easy to clean. Natural stone, like marble, is more porous and requires regular sealing to prevent staining and water damage.
• Design & Scale: The size of your tile should be proportionate to the size of your bathroom. Large-format tiles can make a small bathroom feel bigger by reducing the number of grout lines. Conversely, a small mosaic might get lost in a very large space unless used as a specific accent.

Areté: Your Luxury Chicago Bathroom Designers

Choosing the right tile for your Chicago bathroom is about balancing your home’s architectural style, your personal taste, and practical needs. This will aid you in selecting a tile that not only looks beautiful on day one but also brings you joy for decades. A well-designed bathroom is more than just a functional room; it’s a personal sanctuary.

Our team of expert designers and craftsmen is dedicated to creating spaces that are thoughtfully designed and meticulously built. If you’re ready to transform your bathroom into a space that truly feels like home, we invite you to connect with us.

Give us a call at 773.683.3033 or contact us today. Let’s build something beautiful together.