'I loved it because it reminded me of an antique rug,' – Gloria Steinem's Bathroom Flooring is a Masterclass in Subtly Innovative Design

Tile has massive untapped potential to transform a bathroom. Though it's easy to visualize this material covering the walls and floors of a bathing space, it's harder to think outside the box, with tile as art, furnishing, and even shelving. The bathroom of Gloria Steinem's home, on the other hand, is full of inspiring tile ideas.

The journalist and activist worked with the acclaimed team at Hallworth Design to transform the bathroom of her New York Brownstone, and the result is stunning. Gloria explains on Instagram: 'Several years ago, my New York City apartment was in great need of repair due to deterioration, which is common in old brownstones. A dear friend of mine introduced me to the great designer Jane Hallworth and her team. During our very first meeting, she showed me the tile featured here on the floor. I loved it because it reminded me of an antique rug. So, we went from there – or, I should say, Jane and her thoughtful team did.'

As the bathroom flooring shows, the design of Gloria's space comes together in a glorious combination of new and old materials. She continues: 'They matched that original floor tile with walls by clé tile. Jane’s team, with the help of Edmund Lewis’ team, even salvaged an archway from another room and turned it into a vanity.'

Recreate Gloria's Look at Home With The Cozy Bathroom Edit

Gloria's choice to use tile as decor is in line with bathroom trends for the coming year, which prioritize a connection to the natural world through warm materials. Soma Pillay, Design Specialist at Bathroom City explains: 'Bathrooms in 2026 will embody calm sophistication, creating serene, spa-like spaces designed for both function and restoration.'

She continues: 'Nature continues to play a central role in bathroom design. In place of stark white schemes, 2026 will bring palettes inspired by the outdoors; think soft greens, warm neutrals, clay, and muted stone tones. Organic textures such as wood grain, rattan, and raw stone are being used to add warmth and authenticity. Simple touches like potted plants or daylight-optimising layouts complete the sense of calm, helping bathrooms feel more restorative and connected to nature.'

A neutral bathroom will never go out of style, but as Gloria's space shows, the addition of unique details is what really takes a design to the next level. Soma states: 'While neutral tones are still embraced, homeowners are becoming braver with accents and patterns. Feature tiles, coloured grouts, and painted ceilings are reintroducing individuality and energy into bathroom design. Expect to see rich jewel tones, bold mosaics, and decorative wall panels paired with classic neutrals for balance.'

Beautiful materials can create tricks of the eye that would stun anyone. From richly tiled bathroom floors to built in shelving, luxurious tiles are one of the best ways to accomplish this.