Create a Checkerboard

As classy as it is cheery, a checkerboard pattern will add some fun and whimsy to your space. And this versatile pattern needn’t be relegated to black-and-white floors. Any square-shaped tile can make a checkerboard, so you can mix colors and patterns to create a winning design. You can even stay neutral like Racheal Jackson of Banyan Bridges did for this grey and white checkerboard backsplash. We love how the handmade look tile adds texture to this kitchen wall, and how she used color to create a dopamine-inducing tableau.

Pick Two to Three Bold Colors

A lot of colors can easily become overwhelming. To keep your room from becoming too busy, try sticking to two to three analogous colors (colors that are close to each other on the color wheel). That’s what Zig and Co. did in this bright and fun entryway. A lot is happening in this room, but there are only three colors–blue, green and yellow–which helps keep the room looking cohesive.

Use a Colorful Trim

You don’t need to saturate an entire room to showcase your favorite color. A somerset or pencil trim will add a pop of color that can tie into other elements in the room or just provide a point of interest in an otherwise neutral space. This laundry room, designed by At Home With Ashley, uses a single line of pink pencil trim to add color to the marble subway tile design. While Ashley also uses a pink floral wallpaper in this space, a white or neutral colored wall would match the tile just as well.

Pair Black and White With a Bold Color

A black-and-white tile complements virtually any color palette–a great choice if you’re considering dipping your toe into dopamine decor. This vibrant room, designed by Timber Trails, pairs the Firenze Carrara Polished Wheaton with Black marble tile with a hot pink walls. The color saturation is excellent but can be easily altered with a new coat of paint.

Have Fun With Shapes

Shape is another way to bring joy to a space. This Art Deco-inspired bathroom, designed by Bari J. Ackerman, uses tile to create a glamorous backsplash. The tiled arches mimic the rounded shapes of the mirrors and light fixtures, while the individual hexagon tiles add to the vintage allure of this charming room. You can use tile to create shapes, or choose from a uniquely shaped tile for an unexpected look that will brighten your mood.

Embrace a Bold Pattern

A bold pattern is a great way to infuse your space with fun and cheer. If you’re worried about overwhelming the room, use a neutral or solid color on the other surfaces. The Laura Ashley Sunflower Charcoal with Cloud Blue patterned floor tile shown here, pairs well with the Laura Ashley White Beveled wall tile for a space that is bright and fanciful, while still being tasteful. Explore our wide assortment of patterned tile to discover a design that fills you with happiness.

Start With a Neutral Base

Even the most charming, joy-filled room can use a place to rest your eye. A neutral tile, whether on the floor or the wall can provide some respite in a busy room. The Baltimore Beige Wood Look tile floor in this room designed by At Home With Ashley, adds to the charm of the pretty nature-inspired wallpaper, without distracting. Wood-look tile and luxury vinyl tile are perfect for adding realistic charm to your space while allowing for more creativity throughout the room.

Envision Your Space With a Moodboard

Wondering where to start on your new dopamine decor space? Try making a moodboard! Think of the objects, colors and accessories that give you the most happiness and energy. Explore tile in your favorite color, or browse our selection of patterned tile for a design that sparks joy. This style is about using everything in your space to create good vibes. If you’ve gathered your inspiration, or even if you need a little help getting started, you can schedule a free design consultation, our friendly Tile Experts are always here to help!

Found a tile that sparks joy? Order a sample to see it in your space, or use our Tile Visualizer to help envision your project. Need some more inspiration? Explore whimsical patterns in real spaces on our Customer Room Gallery and Instagram. And don’t forget to tag us when you’ve created your own dopamine-inducing room–we love to see your designs!

The post Tile for Every Style: Dopamine Decor appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

I Spy DIY’s Loft Bathroom

Jenni Yolo of I Spy DIY took this loft bathroom from drab to dazzling! By dividing the room and installing a stand-alone shower, she created a spa experience in this loft bathroom. We love how the neutral tones of the Riad Grey tile and the Royal White Polished Hex create a calming, peaceful mood and make the bright red accessories pop. For more stunning bathroom ideas, check out 16 Luxurious Bathroom Designs.

Craven Haven’s Boys’ Bathroom

For this Jack and Jill style bathroom accessible to both her boys’ rooms, Mackenzie from Craven Haven wanted a look that was at once classic and fun, and we think she nailed it! This bathroom redo captures the charm of boyhood with its simple color scheme and geometric lines, but remove the red step stools and you have a room perfect for teenagers. The Cali Black and White floor tile has a fun, but orderly design, while the Verano Anthracite and White handmade-look subway tile feature a slightly wavy texture and a glossy finish to reflect the light, making the room appear brighter. The black and white tiles mean this room can be easily updated as her kids evolve their style.

Entryway by Revival 4106

As evident by the before photos, this 1915 house required a complete remodel when it was purchased by the couple behind Revival 4106. They used the Cloth Black and White tile for the entryway and back staircase and we love how it complements the black metal light fixture and the muted green of the entryway. This patterned tile, a fun twist on a classic black and white checkerboard, breathes new life into this house!

I Spy DIY’s Loft House Blue Tiled Bathroom

For her Loft House downstairs bathroom, Jenni Yolo took a risk with bold, dark colors, and we definitely think it’s paid off! The Marrakesh Blue and Off White handmade-look tiles add an artisanal charm to this room. The checkerboard pattern in the shower and the Cross Black and Snow White custom patterned tile on the floor work well together, each providing some respite in what could otherwise be a heavy, dark-colored room. Contrasted with the harsh whites of the before picture, this renovation does an amazing job of creating a room that is at once peaceful and bold.

Craven Haven’s Utility Room

This utility room designed by Mackenzie of Craven Haven is more than just utilitarian. The Trecento Calacatta Marbello luxury vinyl tile provides good movement with its bold grey veining that mimics natural stone. We love how the off-white base of the tile matches the color on the upper wall, allowing for the deep plumb cabinetry and wainscoting to stand out. Luxury vinyl flooring is easy to install and maintain, making it the perfect choice for a DIY project in a high-traffic area.

Haneen’s Haven Bathroom

Haneen from Haneen’s Haven turned this bathroom from blah to brilliant! Using her artistic sensibilities, she created a room that perfectly blends classic and modern details. The Truewood Beige Wood Look tile adds a warm, organic element to this room. For the shower, she went with a simple black and white color scheme. The Saltus patterned tile creates an unexpected artistic moment in these beautiful shower niches.

Fireplace by Kendall Design Build

The Noir Honed Chevron mosaic tile creates a boldly-stylish moment in this chic family room. The black tile paired with the dark cabinetry is a sophisticated redo in this family space and allows for color to come through elsewhere in the room, like the bright gold couch and wooden coffee table. For more ideas on how to use mosaics in your home, check out 12 Mosaic Tile Designs That Will Make a Masterpiece.

Feeling inspired to reimagine your space? Schedule a free design consultation to get started on your next project – whether it’s a weekend DIY refresh or a major renovation, our tile experts are happy to answer any questions you may have!

We love to see all of your creative spaces! Don’t forget to share your projects with us by tagging us @thetileshop on Instagram or uploading it directly to our Customer Room Gallery.

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