When planning a bathroom renovation in Ireland, choosing the right tile finish is crucial—not only for aesthetics but also for functionality. At Deco Stones, we understand Irish homeowners face unique challenges: compact spaces, damp conditions, and a desire for style and safety. Here's a localized guide to selecting between matte and gloss tiles—and how to combine them for a stunning bathroom design.
✅ Non‑slip safety
Matte tiles offer natural anti‑slip properties, ideal for wet bathroom floors and shower zones, greatly reducing fall risks.
✅ Hides grime
In humid Irish bathrooms, matte finishes better conceal water spots, fingerprints, and smudges—a practical advantage.
✅ Natural aesthetic warmth
Pairing matte tiles with wood-look finishes and green accents creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere—a big hit in Ireland’s interior trends
✅ Low‑maintenance
These tiles are easy to clean without harsh chemicals. Just occasional sealing keeps them looking fresh.
⚠️ Downsides
Matte tiles can make small or dark bathrooms feel more enclosed since they absorb light.
✨ Enhance space visually
Gloss tiles reflect light, brightening up compact Irish bathrooms and creating a sense of spaciousness—perfect for our typical family homes.
✨ Glamorous and luxurious
A glossy finish adds elegance, ideal for high-end or contemporary bathroom styles—especially popular in Cork & Dublin design circles.
✨ Simple cleaning
Their smooth surfaces allow quick wipe-downs with glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
⚠️ Risks
Gloss tiles are notoriously slippery when wet, making them less suitable for flooring unless paired with non-slip inserts. They also show every water mark and scratch more clearly
For style and safety, use a 70:30 ratio: matte tiles for floors and shower areas, and gloss tiles for walls. This creates a visually striking balance while maintaining practicality.
✔️ Floors & shower zones: matte → non‑slip and discreet.
✔️ Walls: gloss → reflective, brighter, more open feel.
✔️ Ratio suggestion: 70% matte + 30% gloss yields a harmonious contrast
| Your Need | Recommended Finish |
|---|---|
| Small or low‑light bathrooms | Gloss on walls adds space, matte for non‑slip floors |
| Safety‑focused households | Matte everywhere ensures maximum grip |
| Easy upkeep & hidden dirt | Matte is more forgiving day‑to‑day |
| High‑end or minimalist style | Gloss brings elegance; matte adds calm modernity |
Explore wood‑effect matte tiles (e.g., Giornatta collection) for warm, natural looks that suit Irish homes
Large‑format gloss tiles reduce grout lines, making tiny bathrooms appear larger
Ensure safety: if using gloss on floors, be sure to add anti‑slip strips or mats.
Choosing between matte and gloss bathroom tiles shouldn’t be an either/or decision. A thoughtful combination tailored to Irish bathrooms—matte for safety and gloss for style—creates a space that's beautiful, functional, and easy to live with. At Deco Stones Ireland, our extensive tile range and team of experts are here to bring your vision to life. Visit our Cork showroom or browse online to explore how you can elevate your bathroom project.
Thinking about a bathroom refresh? Contact us today for a free consultation—and don’t forget your online tile calculator to get precise quantities!
