Hilary Farr Shows Us A Unique Bathroom Tile That's Perfect For Barn Homes

Hilary Farr of "Tough Love With Hilary Farr" embraces the quirk of an 18th-century barn home on the show's episode "What, Do You Live in a Barn?". Blending the client's wishes for a cozy family retreat with the essence of the house's history as a barn, Farr brings a unique design touch to the home: barn quilt square-inspired tile in the bathroom. Reminiscent of the modern barn quilt designs you may spot on the fronts of renovated antique barns, these tiles can add a touch of barnyard "whimsy," as she calls it, to your bathroom without forfeiting aesthetics or utility.

If you're looking for that barn house or farmhouse design feel without leaning too far into shabby chic shiplap wall designs or obvious plaid upholstery, then these starry tiles may just be the upgrade you need. While the tile design does look very similar to colorful hex signs on other barn homes, the more angular elements and slightly more subtle look of the barn quilt style lend a hint of elegance to a bathroom. And before you get too concerned that Farr has made it too popular or that it's a bit cookie-cutter, rest assured that there are plenty of unique design variations in this sort of tile that leave room for individual personality!

To achieve the most similar effect as Farr's design, stick with a gray and black tile option like Home Depot's version. Its porcelain material makes it durable and versatile so it can be used in a number of ways, including both indoor and outdoor settings if you want to carry the theme throughout the home. It's a great option for walls and backsplashes too, like adding a pop of design to a shower niche. 

Since the bathroom that Farr designed is meant to be a family bath for children, it makes total sense that she chose a porcelain tile. It's easy to maintain and can hide any obvious marks from kids (anyone else regret shower crayons?). Use white grout to get that bright vibrancy like she did, or use a gray grout for a uniform, muted look. 

For quirkier options that pick up on an authentic feel, head to Etsy and peruse architectural salvage and antique tile listings. While these options may be more maintenance-intensive, you'll be sure to have a truly unique design. Etsy is also a great place to find DIY, no-reno options for an upgrade on a budget. Star-design tile stencil, for example, can help you attain the barn vibe without investing too much cost or time. As Farr says on the show, "it's absolutely a little bit of elegant, a little bit of quirky, a little bit of whimsy."