Bathroom flooring and wall finishes

Luxurious bathroom floors and walls have the power to completely transform a space, adding a sense of tactile luxury that elevates both comfort and visual appeal. We asked bathroom experts about trending luxury materials, tech-enhanced finishes, and how textured walls – like 3D tiles and polished concrete – contribute to a sophisticated, high-end bathroom design.

What are the top luxury materials currently trending for bathroom flooring and wall finishes, and what makes them stand out in terms of design and durability?

“We’re currently seeing a strong shift towards “all-in-one” seamless finishes for bathrooms, where the same product and colour are used across both the floor and wall surfaces, and sometimes even extending to the counters and ceilings. What makes these materials stand out is not only their design versatility but also their exceptional durability. Cement-based finishes are known for their long-lasting nature and resistance to wear, moisture and staining (with the appropriate preparation and sealing in place), which makes them particularly suitable for bathrooms. These coatings can be seamlessly applied, creating a visually appealing, continuous surface with no grout lines, which enhances both the aesthetic and ease of maintenance.” – Joanne Sykes, marketing director at Cemcrete

How are natural stones like marble, travertine, and onyx being used in innovative ways for bathroom surfaces, and what are their maintenance requirements?

“Natural stones are being used in bold and creative ways, such as statement walls, waterfall countertops, and even sculptural bathtub surrounds. Marble is often paired with minimalist designs to highlight its veining, while travertine’s earthy texture is perfect for creating a spa-like ambiance. Onyx, with its translucent properties, is being backlit to create stunning visual effects. However, these materials require regular sealing to prevent staining and etching.” – Shazeen Jooma, head of marketing at Classic Luxury Tiles and Bathrooms

What role do textured wall finishes, like 3D tiles or polished concrete, play in creating a high-end bathroom atmosphere?

“Textured wall finishes are instrumental in creating a truly high-end bathroom atmosphere. 3D tiles, with their sculptural forms, add a dynamic, almost artistic element. Polished concrete, when executed flawlessly, exudes a modern, minimalist chic. These textures play with light and shadow, adding depth and visual interest to the space. They elevate the bathroom beyond mere functionality, transforming it into a space of sensory delight.” – Amadea Oberholzer, executive consultant & designer at Lifestyle Ceramics

How can homeowners incorporate advanced technology into luxury bathroom finishes, such as heated floors or self-cleaning tiles, to enhance both comfort and style?

“Heated floors offer an unparalleled level of comfort and are therefore a sort after luxury in bathrooms. When combined with cement-based coatings, these systems can be seamlessly integrated beneath the surface, keeping the floor smooth and visually uninterrupted. The result is a clean, minimalist look that doesn’t compromise on functionality. The warmth radiates evenly across the floor, helping to create a cozy environment, especially in the early mornings or during the winter months.

“Going one step further – you have the ability to install these systems beneath any other bathroom surface coated with a cement-based decorative coating, extending the heating to areas that typically go unconsidered. There are key points to consider in the application of under surface heating systems combined with decorative cement-based coatings, so always reach out for specific technical information before embarking on this application.” – Joanne Sykes, marketing director at Cemcrete

Can you discuss the growing popularity of terrazzo and glass tiles in luxury bathroom design, and how they offer both aesthetic appeal and functionality?

“Terrazzo or terrazzo-look tile designs suit many architectural styles, from classic to industrial. Because terrazzo tiles complement various design aesthetics, they offer excellent design flexibility, making them a popular choice for flooring. Terrazzo is a decorative form of concrete that contains marble aggregate, making it an extremely durable flooring option. Porcelain tiles with a printed terrazzo look are highly realistic, require no sealing, and offer added benefits such as low maintenance and zero water absorption.” – Liza Watermeyer, visual merchandise and design manager at Tile Africa

Featured image: Cemcrete