I have had a similar problem having chosen and purchased travertine tiles for the bathrooms and kitchen and then we we decided to tile the rest of the living area and couldn't match the tile we already had, I was in a huge dilemma. Fortunately I found a plain tile in the same tone which should give my living area a different and moden look so my suggestion is to do as I did, and find a plain tile that matches the same tone as your existing tiles and you should be pleasantly surprised. Good luck, Barbara

We have seen a similar issue in the past. The problem occurred when the porcelain tile on the floor did not have 100% contact with the tile adhesive, this caused water to seep down though the grout join and hold in pockets under the tile in the areas where there was no direct contact. The water being trapped in the pockets under the tile does not evaporate and can leave the tiles looking stained. If this is the case with your floor tiles the bottom row of carrara marble tiles are simply acting like a sponge drawing water up. To fix the problem we would suggest that the bottom row of carrara marble and the porcelain tiles on the shower floor need to be removed and relayed ensuring full adhesive coverage. Unfortunately this may compromise your under tile heating and waterproof membrane. Proceed with caution.

Hi Amanda, the hexagon tiles on the floors will absolutely look great too and if that's the dream, then go for it. Personally, I would also try to run the hex tiles up and over the bath hob if your budget allows. A light grey grout (instead of white) and also sealing the grout properly will help to maintain. I like both vanities, they are very similar, and would probably go with the one that offers the most drawer space as there's not a lot of storage in the bathroom (speaking of which, add a niche in the shower area if you can). Also bear in mind the toilet roll holder and make sure it can be fixed to the side of the vanity despite the drawer (as you can't fix to the other side of the toilet which I presume will have a glass shower screen). Lastly, I know you've already mentioned white, but have you considered timber (or timber-look) panels for the drawer fronts? It's just a suggestion, but it will bring some warmth into the modern space and may also be another way to tie in with the federation style of the home. Found those couple of photos to give you an idea how you can introduce timber... https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/designer-bathroom-project-contemporary-bathroom-melbourne-phvw-vp~32381930 https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/neutral-bay-house-contemporary-bathroom-sydney-phvw-vp~19885477

I think she may have been referring to what is called a "French Pattern" which looks like a random mixture of square and rectangle tiles, often in travertine. However while it looks random it is actually carefully planned, and the tiles are made to a consistent thickness. It also depends on the type of tile that you are using. Many traditionally hand-made ceramic tiles have a natural variation, which adds to their appeal and visual interest. Other types of tiles, such as your porcelains are much squarer, flatter and almost identical. I would suggest that you go with your your choice of grid pattern, as laying a random pattern has too many risks (plus your tiler will hate you and charge lots extra). Be very careful about the selection of your tiles depending on your preference for a rustic more organic look, or a hard-edged architectural look. Make sure that the surface that you are tiling to has been properly prepared and is flat, smooth and true, as your tiler will not be able to correct imperfections if you have a bad wall. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls