We now have numerous sizes of tile available up to 24″ and sometimes even larger. One easy way a homeowner can make their room appear larger is to select a larger format tile. A 16″ or 18″ tile will generally give a room a larger feeling than a 12″ tile.
Large tiles do make a room feel more spacious but only in a good-sized room. In a small bathroom they don't work quite so well and will tend to swamp the room if they're too large. Also, if there are lots of cuts involved, then this can just look messy.
With new build homes being significantly smaller than those from previous generations, homeowners are always on the lookout for the perfect solution to their small rooms. Thankfully, using large format tiles in a small space is known for giving the illusion of the room being much larger than it actually is.
Large tiles can't flex over raised areas or dips in the subfloor like smaller tiles can. If the substrate is not perfectly level, using large tiles can result in lippage, which is when the edge of one tile is higher than an adjacent tile.
Large format tiles are also more prone to cracking than smaller tiles. Because they are larger and heavier, they can be more difficult to handle and install. This means that if they are not installed properly, they can crack or become damaged over time.
One of the main disadvantages of large format wall tiles are that when used in the wrong space, they can make rooms seem smaller.
Large tiles can make the space seem smaller. However, in some instances, large tile is appropriate. Square or rectangular bathrooms can usually accommodate a light or neutral-colored large tile. For more angular or strangely-shaped bathrooms, small or mosaic tiles may be more appropriate.
Generally, it is recommended to choose tiles that are 4" or smaller for small bathrooms because it's easier to contour around fixtures and appears visually proportioned in a smaller space. Another great option is to go for a more modern design, such as using large format tiles (12"x24").
A small bathroom can actually benefit from a large tile. With fewer grout lines the walls and floor are less cluttered and the room visually expands.
The most popular and readily available tile sizes are (in inches) 12 x 12, 16 x 16, 12 x 24 and 18 x 18. The color of your tiles can hide wear and tear.
Wide Planks
Selecting wide floor planks is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a room look bigger. Instead of thin strips, go for boards at least seven inches wide. Longer planks (four or more feet in length) can help as well.
Larger tiles have fewer grout lines, thereby offering a smooth and visually appealing surface. Almost any room will look more open and expansive with large-format floor tiles. Longer rectangular tiles will draw the eye toward the more distant parts of a room and create the illusion of more space.
12×24 tiles are an extremely popular large format tile size. However, working with them may be a little different than what you are used to.
a small mosaic tile, such as penny rounds, is a good option. there will be more grout lines, but because these tiles work better around corners and fixtures, it creates a smooth flow to the room. small mosaic tiles also require fewer cuts, thus offering a more streamlined look.
Large-format porcelain tiles are a trend that can respond to the design needs of all types of applications: walls and floors, kitchen counters and worktops, both for indoor and outdoor use.
Tile Sizes & Shapes
The tried-and-true 12” x 12” tiles are still popular, but tiles are tending to be larger and larger.
Do Set Tiles in a Diagonal Pattern. Here's another optical illusion that can work in your favor: Tiles set in a diagonal pattern across the floor can help a small bathroom be perceived as larger than its actual size. This layout places emphasis on the length and width simultaneously.
Use Mirror Tiles to Make Your Small Bathroom Look Bigger
Incorporating mirror tiles is one of the most effective ways to make your bathroom look bigger using tile. Large mirror wall tiles can be used on a specific wall to reflect light. This works especially well if you place them opposite a window.
6×8 and 8×10 wall tile sizes are commonly used in bathroom installations these days. Then, the 12×12 and 12×24 wall and floor tiles also become popular sizes. As a matter of fact, you should select the bathroom ceramic wall tile according to the size of your bathroom.
12x12 Squares
1-foot square tiles may be among the top contenders for the most popular tile size. This option is very commonly used on floors, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. You'll also find 12-inch tiles in entryways and living areas.
Using larger floor tiles is a great way to trick the eye and make a room look bigger than it actually is. Larger tiles used throughout the bathroom look a lot less 'busy' than with smaller tiles, which therefore make the room appear larger; the lack of grout lines also makes the whole space appear more expansive.
If you want to create a spacious room or are craving that sleek modern look - large and extra format tiles are for you! But if you are after a more intimate feel or intricate design, smaller tiles might be for you!
Some popular sizes for floors include 300×600 mm, 600×600 mm, 610×610 mm and 800×800 mm, while wall tiles generally come in sizes of 250x350mm, 300x450mm, and 300x600mm. According to experts, large format tiles lend a more spacious look to space. However, it is advised to match tiles to room size.