If you’re looking for the best tub surround ideas to upgrade your bathroom, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or simply refreshing your space, the right tile design can make all the difference. For those exploring new options for tub surrounds in Milwaukee, WI, there’s no shortage of beautiful, practical, and on-trend choices that will transform your bathroom into a relaxing retreat.
At The Tile Group, we help people reimagine their tub and shower areas with stunning tiles that blend style and functionality. From low-maintenance surfaces to bold color statements, here are nine tile ideas for bathtub surrounds that are guaranteed to elevate your space.
1. Easy-Clean Large Format Tile
If you’re after a low-maintenance shower and tub area, large format tiles are an ideal choice. These oversized tiles reduce the number of grout lines, which means fewer places for mold, mildew, or soap scum to build up. They’re easy to clean, offer a modern aesthetic, and work well in both minimalist and contemporary designs.
Large format porcelain or ceramic tiles in neutral tones can give your tub surround a sleek, hotel-inspired feel. Bonus: the minimal grout lines also create a seamless look that makes your bathroom feel larger and more open—perfect for small Milwaukee bathrooms that could use a little visual breathing room.
2. Luxury Herringbone Design
For a more upscale and eye-catching design, the herringbone tile pattern is a timeless winner. This layout is both classic and current, offering a level of visual interest without overwhelming the space. You can choose natural stone, ceramic, or porcelain tiles in a soft color palette to create an elegant, spa-like vibe around your tub.
Herringbone designs are especially striking when paired with metallic fixtures or marble accents, instantly adding a sense of luxury. It’s one of the best tile ideas for bathtub surrounds if you want your tub area to become a design focal point.
3. Accent Color Block of Tile
If you love clean, minimalist design but still want to inject some personality, try incorporating a color block of accent tile into your tub surround. This approach uses a solid section of color—like deep green, navy blue, or terra cotta—to break up a neutral space and draw the eye.
Accent tile blocks are also a smart way to tie in other elements of your bathroom design, like vanity colors or textiles, for a cohesive look. In homes across Milwaukee, we’re seeing this idea take off for both modern and transitional bathrooms.
4. Trendy Tiny Hexagon Tiles
Tiny hex tiles offer a nostalgic feel with a modern twist. These small geometric tiles can be used in one solid color or mixed into patterns for an artful, mosaic-like surround. They bring a lot of charm and texture to a space, and they work great in homes that lean vintage, eclectic, or farmhouse in style.
Their size also allows for interesting grout designs or even color variations within the same tile field. If you want something playful yet sophisticated, hexagon tiles are a fantastic way to go.
5. Luxurious Glass Tiles
Glass tiles immediately elevate a bathroom space by adding a sense of shine, depth, and luxury. Whether in soft seafoam hues, bold cobalt blues, or subtle grays, glass tile reflects light beautifully and can make your tub area feel more open and airy.
They’re a perfect choice for those who want a light and elegant surround without going too neutral. Plus, glass tiles are easy to wipe clean, making them a stylish and practical choice for busy households.
6. Fresh, Seamless All-White
When it comes to timeless elegance, you can’t go wrong with an all-white tub surround. Using white tiles with matching white grout creates a seamless look that’s both calming and clean. This minimalist approach works especially well in small or dark bathrooms, as it brightens the space and adds an airy, spa-like quality.
To keep the white look from feeling too clinical, you can mix in subtle variations in tile texture or finish. Think glossy subway tiles, matte large format tiles, or even a touch of marble veining to add dimension while keeping it monochrome.
7. Textured Interest
Another great option for tub surround ideas is to focus on texture. Rather than relying on color or pattern, textured tiles create visual interest through depth and surface variation. Think 3D ridges, wavy lines, or lightly raised geometric shapes.
Textured tiles are especially effective when used in a single, solid color like ivory, soft gray, or taupe. They give your tub surround a sophisticated edge and are a great fit for contemporary or Scandinavian-inspired bathrooms.
8. Contrasting Grout
Sometimes the most impactful design choices are in the details—and choosing grout color can make a world of difference. Using a grout color that contrasts with your tile (think black grout with white subway tiles, or light grout with dark green tiles) highlights the shape and pattern of the tiles, creating definition and visual interest.
Contrasting grout is a great way to emphasize tile layout, such as brick, chevron, or stacked patterns. It also adds a graphic element that can balance out more traditional or neutral bathrooms.
9. Dramatic Colors
Ready to go bold? Dramatic colors like emerald, navy, charcoal, or even deep plum can transform your tub surround into a statement piece. These rich hues bring personality and mood to your bathroom, making the space feel curated and luxurious.
Dramatic tile works best when paired with simple, clean lines and complementary fixtures—think gold hardware, a crisp white tub, or matte black accents. If you’re looking to create a bathroom that feels uniquely “you,” this is one of the best tile ideas for bathtub surrounds to consider.
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Your tub surround doesn’t have to be boring. With so many beautiful, functional, and modern tub surround ideas available, there’s no reason your bathroom can’t feel like a spa retreat—whether you’re going for bold color, low-maintenance practicality, or timeless elegance.
At The Tile Group, we specialize in designing and installing stunning tub surrounds in Milwaukee, WI, that fit your style, budget, and daily routine. Ready to bring your dream bathroom to life? Contact us today for a free estimate and let’s make your vision happen.
