Start with a Design Anchor
Before diving into tile types and finishes, start with a design anchor—something that inspires the overall look. It could be a bold accent tile, a favorite color, or even a spa-style photo from Pinterest. Once you’ve defined your inspiration, it becomes easier to choose complementary tile options for the floor, walls, and niches.
At Big Bob’s, many of our tile collections are pre-coordinated, making it easy to mix and match shower floor tiles, wall tiles, and accents for a cohesive, designer finish.
Prioritize Slip Resistance on the Shower Floor
Safety always comes first, especially in a wet area like the shower. For the shower floor, choose smaller format tiles (usually 12"x12" mesh sheets) with good texture and grip. The general rule is that individual tiles should be no larger than 2”x2” to ensure proper drainage and slip resistance.
Top Floor Tile Picks:
- Mosaic porcelain or ceramic (matte finish)
- Textured natural stone with honed finish
- Pebble tiles for a natural, spa-like aesthetic
Choose Water-Resistant, Durable Materials
Walk-in showers are constantly exposed to moisture, so water resistance is non-negotiable. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are excellent choices—they’re non-porous, durable, and easy to maintain. Natural stone can be stunning but requires sealing and ongoing care.
Best Tile Materials:
- Glazed porcelain – low absorption, stylish options
- Ceramic – budget-friendly and durable
- Sealed natural stone – great for walls or accents when properly maintained
Coordinate Style with Layout and Space Size
Let your bathroom's size and style guide your tile layout. Large-format tiles (like 24"x48") are on-trend and look beautiful on shower walls, but in smaller bathrooms, they may feel overwhelming.
Square tiles (6”x6”) are making a comeback for a retro-modern vibe, and subway tiles remain timeless for walls.
Layout Tips:
- Vertical installations can make ceilings feel taller
- Contrasting grout can add bold definition to your tile pattern
- Neutral tones give you a spa-like, timeless finish
- Wood-look porcelain adds warmth and texture while being waterproof
Don’t Forget the Walls, Niches, and Accents
Your wall tiles don’t need to be slip-resistant, which opens up more design options. Many homeowners mix and match for visual interest—using a neutral base and a bold accent in the niche or a contrasting stripe.
Mix-and-Match Ideas:
- Matte subway tiles + mosaic or glass niches
- Stone-look porcelain + metallic accent strips
- Large-format tiles + small hex mosaics
Consider Cleaning and Maintenance
Tiles may be beautiful, but grout makes or breaks the maintenance factor. White grout is a classic choice but does require more upkeep. For lower maintenance, consider darker grout or upgrade to epoxy grout, which resists mold, staining, and doesn’t need sealing.
Easy-Care Options:
- Glazed ceramic or porcelain
- Large-format tiles (fewer grout lines = less cleaning)
- Epoxy grout over traditional cement grout
Final Thoughts
At Big Bob’s Flooring Outlet of Kansas City, we know that choosing tile for your walk-in shower is more than just picking something pretty—it’s about combining safety, practicality, and style for a space that you'll love for years.
Let us help you bring your dream shower to life with expert advice, affordable pricing, and a wide selection of in-stock tile options at our Overland Park, Independence, and Liberty locations.
Need Help Choosing the Right Tile?
Stop by one of our showrooms or schedule a free design consultation with our tile experts. Whether you’re creating a spa retreat or a modern minimalist bathroom, Big Bob’s has the tile (and the know-how) to get you there.
