Abstract: The present invention relates a novel adaptor to position tiles or tile-like elements within or around a bathing apparatus, or both. The present invention further includes a method of using the tile adaptor for the installation of tiles. In a representative embodiment, the tile adaptor includes one or more flanges along at least one of its sides to allow the installation of tiles of a variety of thicknesses at a number of places. The adaptor is integrated in the final bathing apparatus. One or more adaptors may be positioned on the floor, wall and/or ceiling of the bathing apparatus, depending on the design of the bathing enclosure. Advantageously, the tile adaptor is easy to install and to use, and it may conveniently be manufactured from a lightweight material such as extruded plastic or a synthetic polymer.