In 2025, bathroom design is all about creativity and individuality, and one of the easiest ways to achieve a standout look is through tile shapes. While colours, finishes, and patterns play a significant role in the overall aesthetic, the shape of the tiles can have an equally transformative effect. From bold geometric designs to organic, flowing forms, the tile shapes trending this year provide endless opportunities for customisation and personal expression. Whether you’re revamping a small en suite or creating a luxurious spa-like retreat, understanding the tile shapes dominating the scene in 2025 is essential.

The Everlasting Appeal of Subway Tiles

Subway tiles remain a classic choice for bathrooms, but in 2025, they’re being reimagined with modern twists. While the traditional 3×6-inch rectangular format is still widely used, new proportions and creative layouts are bringing fresh energy to this timeless shape. Longer subway tiles, such as 2×10 or 3×12-inch options, are particularly popular for creating sleek, contemporary looks.

Layout plays a critical role in updating the classic subway tile. Vertical stacking, diagonal arrangements, and offset patterns give these tiles a modern edge. For an even bolder statement, pairing subway tiles with contrasting grout colours can emphasise their shape and arrangement, adding depth and texture to bathroom walls and showers.

Hexagonal Tiles: A Geometric Favourite

Hexagonal tiles, often referred to as honeycomb tiles, are a firm favourite in 2025 for their ability to balance tradition with modernity. Their six-sided shape creates a sense of symmetry and order while still feeling dynamic and playful. Hexagonal tiles come in a variety of sizes, from small mosaics to large-format options, allowing homeowners to tailor their use to the scale of the space.

In bathrooms, hexagonal tiles are often used on floors, where their geometric shape adds visual interest. Smaller hex tiles are ideal for intricate patterns or ombre effects, while larger tiles work beautifully in minimalist designs. These tiles are also increasingly being used on walls, either as a full feature or as an accent around mirrors and vanities. Textured or metallic finishes on hexagonal tiles can add an extra layer of sophistication.

Fish Scale Tiles: Organic Elegance

Also known as mermaid or scallop tiles, fish scale tiles are making waves in 2025. Their curvaceous shape brings a sense of fluidity and movement, making them an excellent choice for creating calming and organic bathroom designs. The overlapping pattern of fish scale tiles mimics the rippling effect of water, making them a natural fit for wet areas such as shower walls or splashbacks.

These tiles are often seen in glossy finishes, which enhance their water-inspired design by reflecting light. Soft pastel colours like mint green, blush pink, and baby blue are particularly popular, as they emphasise the serene and airy feel of the tiles. For a dramatic effect, fish scale tiles in metallic finishes or deep jewel tones create a luxurious, eye-catching statement.

Chevron and Herringbone: Timeless Patterns

Chevron and herringbone patterns are not new to the world of tiling, but in 2025, they continue to be a go-to choice for homeowners looking to add texture and depth to their bathrooms. Both patterns use rectangular tiles but differ in their arrangement: chevron tiles are cut at an angle to create a seamless zigzag pattern, while herringbone involves laying rectangular tiles in an overlapping V-shape.

These patterns work well on both walls and floors, offering versatility in their application. For a modern twist, homeowners are opting for oversized chevron or herringbone tiles, which make the patterns more prominent and impactful. Contrasting colours or finishes within the same pattern can further enhance the visual effect, creating a bold yet elegant design.

Penny Round Tiles: Playful and Retro

Penny round tiles are enjoying a resurgence in 2025, bringing a touch of retro charm to contemporary bathrooms. These small, circular tiles are perfect for creating playful and intricate designs, whether used as a full surface covering or as an accent feature. Their compact size makes them ideal for mosaic-style applications, where they can be arranged in various patterns or gradients.

In bathrooms, penny round tiles are often used on floors, where their small size provides excellent slip resistance. They’re also popular for shower niches, splashbacks, and decorative borders. Matte finishes give penny tiles a soft, understated look, while glossy or metallic options add a touch of glamour. For a truly unique design, combining penny round tiles in different colours or textures can create striking custom patterns.

Square Tiles: Back to Basics with a Modern Edge

Square tiles, once considered a basic option, are making a stylish comeback in 2025. Their simplicity allows for endless creativity in their arrangement and pairing with other design elements. Available in sizes ranging from small mosaics to large-format tiles, square shapes offer versatility and adaptability to any bathroom style.

Modern square tile designs often incorporate bold colours, textured surfaces, or hand-painted details, elevating them beyond their traditional roots. For example, combining square tiles with contrasting grout can create a grid-like effect that adds structure and rhythm to the space. Large-format square tiles with subtle veining or marbled patterns work particularly well in minimalist bathrooms, where their clean lines and understated elegance shine.

Diamond-Shaped Tiles: Angular Sophistication

Diamond-shaped tiles bring a sense of angular sophistication to bathroom design. Their unique shape allows for creative patterns, such as starburst or harlequin designs, that add visual intrigue and depth to walls and floors. These tiles are particularly striking when used in contrasting colours or finishes, creating bold and graphic statements.

In 2025, metallic and textured finishes on diamond-shaped tiles are especially popular, adding a touch of glamour and dimension to bathrooms. Whether used sparingly as an accent or across an entire surface, diamond tiles are a versatile and modern choice that makes a lasting impression.

Kit Kat Tiles: Linear Modernity

Named after the iconic chocolate bar, Kit Kat tiles are narrow, rectangular tiles that bring a sense of linear modernity to bathroom design. Their slim proportions create a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, making them a popular choice for feature walls, splashbacks, and shower enclosures.

Kit Kat tiles are often arranged vertically to emphasise height and create a sense of spaciousness. They come in a range of finishes, from glossy ceramics to textured natural stone, allowing homeowners to customise their look. For added impact, contrasting grout colours can highlight the linear arrangement, enhancing the overall design.

Triangle Tiles: Bold and Dynamic

Triangle tiles are a bold choice for those looking to push the boundaries of traditional bathroom design. Their angular shape allows for a variety of creative layouts, from simple geometric patterns to complex tessellations. Triangle tiles can be used to create striking feature walls or to add a playful touch to floors and splashbacks.

In 2025, triangle tiles in bold colours or mixed finishes are particularly popular, offering a dynamic and modern aesthetic. Pairing triangle tiles with neutral tones or natural materials helps balance their strong visual impact, creating a harmonious yet exciting design.

Mixing and Matching Tile Shapes

One of the most exciting trends in bathroom design for 2025 is the mixing and matching of tile shapes. Combining different shapes within the same space adds depth and texture, creating a truly unique and personalised look. For example, pairing hexagonal floor tiles with rectangular wall tiles can create a sense of contrast and balance. Similarly, mixing penny round tiles with square or subway tiles can add a playful and eclectic touch.

When mixing tile shapes, it’s important to consider colour and finish to ensure a cohesive design. Using a unifying element, such as a consistent colour palette or grout tone, can help tie the different shapes together seamlessly.

Practical Considerations for Tile Shapes

While aesthetics are important, practical considerations should also guide your choice of tile shapes. Smaller tiles, such as penny rounds or mosaics, are ideal for areas where slip resistance is a priority, such as shower floors. Larger tiles, on the other hand, can create a sense of spaciousness and are easier to clean due to fewer grout lines.

The scale of the bathroom should also influence your choice. In smaller spaces, compact tiles like Kit Kat or penny rounds can add texture without overwhelming the room. In larger bathrooms, bold shapes like hexagons or diamonds can make a dramatic statement.

Shaping the Future of Bathroom Design

In 2025, tile shapes are more than just functional elements—they’re key design features that can transform a bathroom into a work of art. From classic subway and hexagonal tiles to bold triangles and organic fish scales, the shapes trending this year offer endless possibilities for creativity and personalisation. By exploring new shapes and layouts, homeowners can create bathrooms that are not only functional but also visually stunning and uniquely theirs.

Fostering is a unique and rewarding way to make a difference in a child’s life. For many vulnerable children, a foster home provides the stability, love, and guidance they need to thrive. However, becoming a foster parent is a significant responsibility that requires a specific set of qualities. The decision to foster should be taken with careful thought and preparation, as it impacts not only the life of the child but also the dynamics of your own family.

Today we are looking into the essential qualities needed to become foster parents in the UK, highlighting why these traits are crucial for providing a safe and supportive environment for children in need.

Understanding and Empathy

One of the most important qualities a foster parent must have is the ability to empathise with a child’s experiences and understand their feelings. Many children entering the care system have faced trauma, neglect, or abuse. This can manifest in a range of behaviours that require patience and understanding. Empathy allows foster parents to view the world from the child’s perspective, offering support and validation to help them feel valued and secure.

Being empathetic also helps foster parents to navigate challenging situations. For instance, a child might struggle to trust adults due to past experiences, leading to resistance or withdrawal. An empathetic foster parent can approach these behaviours with compassion rather than frustration, fostering a sense of safety and belonging.

Resilience

Fostering can be both emotionally and physically demanding. Children in care often bring with them a history of instability, which can lead to behavioural and emotional challenges. Foster parents need resilience to cope with these situations while maintaining a stable and nurturing environment.

Resilience also means being able to handle setbacks. Some placements may not go as planned, and there may be moments when progress seems slow or nonexistent. Foster parents must have the emotional strength to persevere and focus on the long-term benefits for the child.

Patience

Patience is vital when working with children who have experienced difficult upbringings. Building trust takes time, and children in care may test boundaries as they try to make sense of their new environment. Foster parents need to be prepared for this process and remain calm and consistent even in the face of challenging behaviours.

For example, a foster child might struggle with routines or lash out when feeling overwhelmed. Having patience enables foster parents to respond thoughtfully, guiding the child through these moments without escalating the situation.

Good Communication Skills

Clear and open communication is essential for fostering. Foster parents need to communicate effectively with the child, social workers, schools, and sometimes the child’s biological family. This involves not only speaking clearly but also being a good listener.

Children in care often need help expressing their emotions or articulating their needs. Foster parents must create an environment where the child feels safe to share their thoughts. Equally, communicating with professionals and other stakeholders ensures that everyone involved in the child’s care is working towards the same goals.

Flexibility and Adaptability

No two fostering experiences are the same. Each child comes with their own set of needs, challenges, and background. Foster parents must be flexible and willing to adapt to new situations. This might mean adjusting routines, learning new parenting techniques, or managing unexpected events.

Flexibility also extends to the type of placements a foster parent might take on. Some foster parents specialise in short-term care, while others focus on long-term placements, emergency care, or fostering siblings. Being open to different scenarios ensures that more children can benefit from a stable home environment.

Stability and Consistency

For children who have experienced instability, a stable home environment is crucial. Foster parents need to provide a consistent routine that helps the child feel secure. This includes regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and clear expectations for behaviour.

Consistency also applies to emotional support. Foster parents must be a dependable presence in the child’s life, offering reassurance and guidance even when challenges arise. Over time, this stability helps children to develop trust and confidence in their new environment.

A Non-Judgmental Attitude

Children in care often come from backgrounds that are vastly different from what a foster parent might consider “normal.” It’s essential to approach fostering with a non-judgmental attitude, accepting the child for who they are and where they come from. This means avoiding assumptions and being open to learning about the child’s experiences, culture, and identity.

Being non-judgmental also applies to the child’s biological family. Foster parents may need to work with birth parents or extended family members as part of the fostering process. Maintaining a respectful and understanding attitude is vital for creating a positive dynamic that prioritises the child’s best interests.

A Genuine Desire to Help

Fostering is not just a job or a way to earn money; it’s a commitment to making a positive impact on a child’s life. Foster parents need to have a genuine desire to help children, driven by compassion and a sense of responsibility.

This motivation will guide foster parents through the ups and downs of the fostering journey, ensuring they remain focused on providing the best possible care for the child.

Teamwork Skills

Fostering is rarely a solo endeavour. Foster parents are part of a wider team that includes social workers, therapists, teachers, and sometimes the child’s biological family. Effective teamwork is essential for ensuring the child’s needs are met.

Foster parents must be willing to collaborate, share information, and advocate for the child when necessary. Being a team player ensures that everyone involved is working towards the same goal: the well-being of the child.

A Sense of Humour

Parenting, in any form, comes with its fair share of challenges and surprises. A sense of humour can be an invaluable tool for navigating the ups and downs of fostering. Laughter helps to build bonds with the child and creates a positive atmosphere within the home.

Additionally, being able to laugh at oneself and find joy in small moments can provide much-needed relief during stressful times. It’s a reminder that fostering, while demanding, can also be incredibly rewarding and filled with moments of happiness.

Willingness to Learn

Fostering is a continuous learning process. Each child will bring unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Foster parents must be open to learning new skills, attending training sessions, and seeking advice when needed.

Many fostering agencies in the UK offer comprehensive training programmes to equip foster parents with the knowledge and tools they need. Being proactive in learning demonstrates a commitment to providing the best possible care for the child.

Financial Stability

While fostering is not about making money, financial stability is an important consideration. Foster parents receive allowances to cover the costs of caring for a child, but they need to demonstrate that they can manage their own finances independently. This ensures that the child’s needs are met without financial stress impacting the quality of care.

Openness to Diversity

The UK is a diverse country, and children in care come from a wide range of cultural, religious, and ethnic backgrounds. Foster parents need to be open to celebrating this diversity and accommodating the child’s individual needs. This might include preparing specific foods, respecting religious practices, or learning about cultural traditions.

By embracing diversity, foster parents not only support the child’s identity but also enrich their own family’s experiences and understanding of the world.

Time and Availability

Fostering requires a significant investment of time. Foster parents need to be available to attend meetings, transport children to appointments, and support their educational and emotional needs. While some foster parents work full-time, many find that a flexible schedule or part-time work is more compatible with fostering responsibilities.

Ensuring that you have enough time to dedicate to the child is crucial for building a strong and trusting relationship.

Physical and Emotional Health

Foster parents need to be in good physical and emotional health to meet the demands of fostering. This includes having the energy to keep up with children’s activities, as well as the emotional resilience to cope with challenges.

Fostering agencies conduct assessments to ensure that prospective foster parents are physically and emotionally prepared for the role. Being honest about your health and seeking support when needed is essential for providing a stable and nurturing environment.

A Life-Changing Journey

Fostering is a life-changing journey that requires a unique combination of qualities, from empathy and patience to resilience and adaptability. While fostering comes with its challenges, it also offers unparalleled rewards for those who open their hearts and homes to children in need.

If you are considering becoming a foster parent in the UK, take the time to reflect on whether you possess these qualities and are ready for the commitment. Many fostering agencies provide support and training to help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this vital role.

By stepping forward, you have the opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact on a child’s life, providing them with the stability, love, and support they need to thrive. Fostering may not be an easy path, but it is one filled with hope, growth, and immeasurable rewards for both the child and the foster parent.

Looking to boost your income without leaving the comfort of your home? The internet is full of opportunities that allow you to turn your skills, hobbies, and free time into substantial cash. Whether you’re hoping to pay off debt, save for a vacation, or simply increase your monthly earnings, there are countless creative and flexible ways to make money online. From freelancing to starting your own online business, the digital world offers endless potential for financial growth.

Why Make Money Online?

The appeal of making money online lies primarily in its flexibility and accessibility. Unlike traditional jobs, online income opportunities allow you to work whenever and wherever you want. Additionally, with increased global internet connectivity, people from all walks of life can take advantage of skills they already have, turn their passions into profit, or learn something new to generate income. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone looking for a side hustle, there’s an opportunity online that fits perfectly with your needs.

1. Freelancing Your Skills

Freelancing is one of the most popular ways to make money online, and for good reason. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer connect professionals with businesses and individuals seeking specific services. Whether you’re a graphic designer, writer, programmer, or social media manager, you can turn your expertise into a steady income stream.

How to Start Freelancing:

• Create an account on the freelancing platforms mentioned above.
• Showcase your skills in a well-designed portfolio.
• Start with competitive pricing to build your client base.
• Gradually increase your rates as you gain experience and reviews.

Freelancing allows you to control your workload and take on as much—or as little—work as you’d like each month.

2. Selling Online Courses or Ebooks

Are you an expert in a particular subject or skill? Sharing your knowledge through online courses or ebooks is both profitable and rewarding. Websites like Teachable, Udemy, and Gumroad make it easy to upload content and start earning.

Tips for Success:

• Choose a niche topic with a demand for learning.
• Ensure your course or ebook is detailed, engaging, and well-formatted.
• Promote your products through social media, email newsletters, or blogs.
• Use customer feedback to constantly improve your future offerings.

This method is particularly exciting because it provides passive income—once your course or ebook is up and running, you can continue to earn without much additional work.

3. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel

Blogging and YouTube content creation remain among the most sustainable ways to make money online. By sharing content that genuinely interests you, you can build a following that opens doors to advertising revenue, affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and more.

Steps to Monetize:

• Start by choosing a niche you’re passionate about—be it travel, tech reviews, cooking, or personal finance.
• Consistently post high-quality, original content.
• Build an audience by promoting your blog or YouTube channel on social media platforms.
• Apply for ad programs, such as Google AdSense, and work with affiliates.

Though the process may take time and dedication, turning your hobbies into income can be incredibly satisfying.

4. Explore Dropshipping and E-commerce

With platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy, setting up an online store has never been easier. Dropshipping, in particular, is a great option as it doesn’t require you to keep inventory. Instead, you act as a middle person, passing customer orders to suppliers who handle production and shipping.

Key Steps to Succeed:

• Conduct market research to find trending products.
• Create an attractive, user-friendly online store.
• Use platforms like AliExpress to source products for dropshipping.
• Attract customers through social media ads, email marketing, and SEO.

The e-commerce space provides limitless opportunities to generate revenue if approached strategically.

5. Teaching or Tutoring Online

If you have teaching skills or enjoy helping others learn, online tutoring can be a lucrative way to make money. You can become a tutor in your specific area of expertise on platforms such as VIPKid, Tutor.com, or Preply. English speakers, in particular, can earn money teaching non-native speakers via language-focused sites.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• A strong grasp of the subject you want to teach is essential.
• Be sure to showcase your qualifications or certifications, if applicable.
• Patience and consistent communication with students are key for long-term success.

Tutoring allows you to cultivate meaningful connections while boosting your income.

6. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows you to promote products and services for a commission. By leveraging a blog, YouTube channel, or social media platform, you can recommend products that align with your niche and earn money whenever someone makes a purchase through your unique link.

Steps to Succeed:

• Join reputable affiliate programs such as Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or ClickBank.
• Create engaging content to attract a following and establish trust with your audience.
• Be transparent about using affiliate links and only promote products you believe in.

Affiliate marketing can be an excellent way to generate passive income while doing what you love. Keep at it, and over time, affiliate commissions can become a significant source of revenue.

Conclusion

There are endless ways to make money online, from freelancing to selling creative content or providing services like virtual assistance. Whatever path you choose, remember that success takes patience, dedication, and consistent effort. Use these opportunities as supplementary income sources alongside any existing job or business ventures for the best results. With determination and a willingness to learn, you can turn your online endeavors into prosperous ventures. So don’t be afraid to explore the digital world and discover what works for you!  So get started today, and let the internet work for you.  Happy money-making!