A New World of Bathroom Tile Choices

Period black and white mosaic tiles are still popular, says Kalmus, and mosaic tiles fit well into more traditional designs as well as modern ones. Walker Zanger's Antium line lets you bring the look of ancient Roman mosaics into your bath.

Rug mosaics are another traditional look gaining popularity, says Tina Krashna, of Ceramiche Tile in Pittsburgh, Pa. And these tile rugs rival the lushness of any Persian one.

"We achieve the visual intricacy of patterned area rugs with stone and quartz mosaics that will last a lifetime," says Krashna. She's been using Sicis' Rug Mosaics.

For a simpler look, Kalmus says that concrete is continuing to win converts: "Concrete has been on the scene as countertop material for a while, but now we're seeing it used in floors and walls — great for Zen-type environments in a more contemporary setting." Ann Sacks' Clodagh flooring is concrete in 14 X 14-inch square tiles with convex sides, softening a hard material.