Bathrooms with tiles up to half height

In contemporary interior design, bathrooms have evolved into true wellness sanctuaries — spaces where every detail matters. One of the most influential trends in recent years is half-height wall tiling, a solution that beautifully blends aesthetics, practicality, and creative expression. This approach invites you to experiment with textures, colors, and materials to craft rooms that feel balanced and full of personality, while still enjoying the protection and durability that ceramic coverings provide.

At Dune Cerámica, we’re constantly exploring new ways to express beauty through ceramic design. Our collections embrace this trend with options that range from handcrafted finishes to sleek, modern proposals — allowing you to create half-height tiled bathrooms defined by character, harmony, and visual flow.

What is half-height wall tiling?

Half-height wall tiling consists of covering only part of the wall — typically up to halfway or three-quarters of its height — with ceramic material, while leaving the rest painted or finished in another texture. This mix of tiled and smooth surfaces opens up a world of design possibilities. By playing with contrasts in texture and color, you can create bathrooms that feel dynamic, balanced, and full of depth.

Unlike full wall tiling, where every surface is clad in ceramic, partial tiling creates a lighter, more adaptable look — perfect for those who want a modern, functional bathroom without overwhelming the space, yet still protected from moisture in the areas that need it most.

Why half-height tiling works so well

The rise of half-height tiling is no coincidence. This approach has become a favorite among interior designers thanks to its ability to merge style, practicality, and efficiency. Here are some of the key reasons behind its popularity:

- Material and labor savings. By tiling only the lower section of the walls, you use less ceramic and reduce installation time — resulting in a more sustainable and cost-effective project without compromising on design quality.

- Greater creative freedom. The upper section can be finished with decorative paint, wallpaper, or even textured materials for striking visual contrasts. This versatility makes it easy to tailor the space to any aesthetic — from Scandinavian minimalism to colorful maximalism.

- A sense of spaciousness. Leaving the upper portion untiled makes the walls feel taller and the room airier, particularly in small or low-light bathrooms.

- Easy maintenance. The tiled section protects against splashes and humidity, while the painted upper walls can be easily refreshed or updated. It’s a practical, long-lasting solution that keeps your bathroom beautiful and easy to care for.

How high should you tile?

One of the most common questions when planning a half-height tiled bathroom is: how high should the tiles go? While there’s no single rule, these general guidelines will help you find the right balance between design and function:

- 90 cm (around 3 ft): The most common height, aligning with most sanitary fixtures. It creates a visually balanced effect and leaves room for paint or décor above.

- 120 cm (around 4 ft): Offers extra protection against moisture — ideal for busy bathrooms or when you want a more immersive look.

- Up to the sink or vanity top: A practical option that ensures visual continuity and makes cleaning easier. It also helps define different zones within the bathroom.

Additional considerations:

- In bathrooms with low ceilings, opt for lower tiling heights to maintain a sense of space.

- In wet zones like showers or bathtubs, it’s best to tile up to the ceiling for maximum protection.

- The layout of mirrors, sinks, and furniture can also guide where your tiling should start and stop to ensure harmony across all elements.

Choosing the right materials and finishes

The success of a half-height tiled bathroom isn’t just about how high you go — it’s also about choosing the right material and finish. These decisions define both the atmosphere and the longevity of your design.

The best ceramic tiles for partial wall tiling

Ceramic wall tiles are a natural choice for this trend thanks to their variety of formats, textures, and designs. They’re ideal for the lower wall areas that need resistance to moisture, and they pair beautifully with painted finishes, vinyl wallpaper, or microcement above for a fresh, balanced look.

Ceramic vs. porcelain: what’s the difference?

Both materials are durable and resilient, but they have distinct qualities that make them suitable for different areas of the bathroom:

- Ceramic is lighter and easier to cut, making it ideal for interior walls and decorative sections.

- Porcelain is denser and less absorbent, so it’s perfect for areas in direct contact with water, like showers or backsplashes.

Textures, formats, and colors

Half-height tiling invites experimentation. Subtle reliefs add depth, while glossy finishes bounce light around the room, enhancing brightness. Small-format “subway” or mosaic tiles bring a timeless, vintage touch, while large formats create a seamless, modern effect.

Neutral shades — whites, greys, and beiges — continue to dominate for their calming and spacious feel. But bold hues, metallic glazes, and deep enamel finishes are gaining ground in more daring interiors, adding a sophisticated and distinctive edge.

Inspiration: five styles for half-height tiled bathrooms

Half-height tiling is a simple yet powerful design technique: it visually divides the wall, highlights texture in the lower section, and leaves space above for light and air. Here are a few ways to bring this concept to life using Dune Cerámica collections:

Nordic style: minimal serenity with warm materials

In a Nordic-inspired bathroom, focus on visual clarity, soft textures, and natural materials. Use light tones for the tiled section and off-white or pale beige paint above. Add natural wood furniture, matte metal fixtures, and linen textiles for a serene, balanced space.

Another Scandinavian take combines small-format beige tiles with large-format pieces in similar hues for a warm, monochromatic look — a trend that’s very much in vogue.

Mediterranean style: light, color, and coastal freshness

Channel the essence of the Mediterranean with half-height tiles in navy or aqua tones that evoke sand and sea. Above, use warm white paint to enhance natural light. A slim trim between both finishes adds a refined touch.

For a twist, pair wood-look tiles on the lower half with a blue ceramic reminiscent of ocean waves — like our Sea series.

Industrial style: urban edge and authentic materials

This look celebrates raw textures and contrasts. Combine darker blue or grey tiles with natural materials like rustic wood or metal accents. A black-framed vanity or shelving unit will complete that authentic, loft-inspired feel.

Contemporary style: refined elegance

Opt for sleek lines and noble materials. Try marble-effect tiles up to mid-wall height and balance them with darker ceramic on another wall for a sophisticated, timeless effect.

Modern rustic: texture, warmth, and artisanal charm

For a cozy yet elegant look, half-height tiling provides the perfect foundation. Combine it with exposed wooden beams, aged wood shelves, and vintage-style brass or bronze fixtures to achieve a space that feels both natural and luxurious.

Half-height tiled bathrooms offer endless creative potential — and Dune Cerámica’s collections are the perfect ally for exploring them. With a wide array of textures, finishes, and colors, they make it easy to design spaces where aesthetics and practicality coexist in perfect harmony.

Ultimately, half-height tiling is more than a design trend — it’s a versatile, enduring approach that transforms any bathroom into a space filled with personality, balance, and timeless style.