Let’s be honest, tiles don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. But here’s a little secret: they’re the unsung heroes of stunning interiors. With the right shapes, sizes, and creative combos, tiles can turn any space from “meh” to “WOW, where did you get that?” If you’re ready to break out of the beige box and have some fun with your floors (and walls), you’re in the right place.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right tile color palette and material can dramatically enhance your home’s interior design and tie each space together.
- Mixing smaller tiles with larger formats creates visual interest and allows you to experiment with unique patterns across various surfaces.
- Ceramic tile is a great choice for both wall and flooring applications due to its durability, versatility, and low maintenance.
- Strategic tile layouts using square shapes, borders, or accents can help a space feel bigger and more thoughtfully designed.
- Whether you’re designing a shower, framing a window, or updating your kitchen backsplashes, there are endless ideas to help you achieve a beautiful and functional project.
Consider the Space First Before The Tile Shapes
Before you go wild with patterns and Pinterest boards, hit pause.
Your space, how big it is, how it’s shaped, the light it gets, and what’s already going on with the decor, should steer your tile decisions.
Tiles aren’t just there to survive spills and stomping feet. They’re mood-setters, style-shapers, and vibe-enhancers.
Let’s zoom in on a few things that really matter before you pick up that dreamy terrazzo sample.
Room Size
Here’s a mind-bender: bigger tiles can make a small room feel larger. Fewer grout lines mean less visual clutter, which helps the space breathe.
So if you’ve got a teeny bathroom, don’t be afraid to go big. It’s like an optical illusion, but make it fashion.
Room Shape
Working with a long, narrow hallway? Horizontal rectangular tiles can visually stretch it out. Got a square room? You’ve basically got a design playground, so go wild with layout options and funky combinations.
Different Types of Lighting
Lighting is like tile’s best friend or worst enemy. In a darker room, glossy or light-toned tiles help bounce light around and lift the mood. Got a sun-drenched space? You can afford to go moody with matte or darker finishes that add depth and drama.
Existing Interior Design Styles
Don’t fight the room. Classic spaces shine with marble or clean subway tile. Edgy, modern homes? Bring on the bold patterns, handmade textures, and unexpected shapes. Your tiles should flatter the space, not clash with it.
Tile Shapes: Endless Possibilities
Raise your hand if you thought tiles only came in squares and rectangles. It’s okay, we’ve all been there. But the truth is, tiles come in shapes that can completely shift the personality of your space. Want timeless elegance, bold energy, or quirky charm? There’s a tile shape for that.
Classic Shapes
Square and rectangle tiles are the little black dress of tiling. Think traditional floors, timeless subway walls, or large-format rectangles on the bathroom floor. Easy to install, easy to love, and always in style.
Geometric Shapes
Ready to shake things up? Try hexagons, chevrons, fish scales, or even arabesque designs. These trendy tiles add instant flair to backsplashes, shower walls, or entryways. Bonus: you’ll get compliments. Lots of them.
Creative Combinations
Here’s where things get spicy. Mixing shapes isn’t just allowed, it’s encouraged. A square-and-hexagon mashup? Yes, please. A bold mix of planks and chevrons? We see your style and we love it.
- Create a tile “rug” under your freestanding tub with a mix of shapes.
- Use multiple formats on one wall for a custom, designer vibe.
- Combine tiles and textures for subtle zoning in open-plan spaces.
Your space deserves a little drama in the best way.
Tile Sizes: Go Big, Go Small, or Go Wild
Size doesn’t just matter, it makes a statement. Big tiles say sleek and modern, while smaller tiles bring texture, character, and craftsmanship to the forefront. And guess what? You don’t have to pick just one.
Large Format
Large tiles, like 24x24s or planks, mean fewer grout lines and an expansive, uninterrupted flow. These beauties are perfect for open-plan areas, modern bathrooms, and anywhere you want that feeling of space.
Small Format Floor Tiles
Mosaic tiles and smaller subway styles are full of personality. They’re perfect for adding interest to backsplashes, niche areas, or even entire walls if you’re feeling bold. There’s just something satisfying about those tiny, intricate patterns.
Mixing Sizes
Now we’re talking. Pair large floor tiles with tiny mosaics to create depth. Frame a shower with mini-tiles and let larger ones steal the spotlight inside. Play with proportions, it adds movement, texture, and a layered, curated feel.
Cavastone Tip: “Your home is your canvas. At Cavastone, we encourage our customers to explore different tile shapes and sizes to reflect their personality and style. There are no rules, only opportunities for creativity.”
Color and Pattern: Set the Mood
Think of color and pattern as the personality boosters of tile design. Whether you’re going for zen or zing, the right palette and print can completely transform a room. [Source]
Cohesive Palette
Neutrals like beige, gray, and soft whites are timeless for a reason. They work with everything and give texture and shape to the space. Use them to build a calm, flowing vibe across multiple rooms.
Contrast
Want your tile to pop? Lean into contrast. Think bold black-and-white combos, or matte and glossy pairings for subtle sophistication. Contrasting grout can also turn a simple subway tile into a statement.
Focal Point
Tiles are perfect for bringing the drama. Feature walls, stove backsplashes, statement showers, this is your chance to go bold without overwhelming the entire room. Pick a color, shape, or pattern you love and let it shine.
Texture Adds Personality
Color may be the first thing people notice, but texture is what makes a space feel good. It’s the cozy underfoot warmth of wood-look tiles or the sleek elegance of polished porcelain.
- Glossy finishes reflect light and add polish, ideal for smaller or darker rooms.
- Matte tiles offer a grounded, natural vibe, perfect for modern or earthy interiors.
- Textured tiles like handmade clay or rustic stone give character, even when the palette stays neutral.
Mix them, layer them, and let them work their magic.
Practical Considerations: Beauty That Works
Looks matter, but let’s not forget: tiles need to perform. If you’ve got kids, pets, or a “drop-everything” cooking style, durability and maintenance are just as important as aesthetics.
Foot Traffic
Busy areas like kitchens, hallways, and entryways need tiles that can take a beating. Go for durable porcelain or stone and steer clear of delicate finishes unless you’re into constant touch-ups.
Water Absorption
Bathrooms and laundry rooms need non-porous, water-resistant tiles like glazed ceramic or porcelain. You’ll thank yourself the first time someone forgets to use the bath mat.
Maintenance
More grout means more scrubbing. If cleaning isn’t your thing, opt for larger tiles or pre-sealed grout. Love mosaics? Just make sure the grout’s sealed and you’re good to go.
Let’s Talk Combinations: Design Without Limits
Here’s where your inner designer gets to play. Mixing shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns lets you turn your home into a living, tiled masterpiece. It’s not just about what goes together, it’s about what feels right.
- Zoning: Use different tiles to subtly divide open-plan areas.
- Framing: Outline mirrors, windows, or bathtubs with decorative borders.
- Transitions: Blend tile shapes like hexagons into squares for an artful finish.
- Accent Walls: Go bold in small doses with a tiled focal wall.
- Color Blocks: Create colorful tile murals or pattern sections for a playful twist.
There’s no such thing as too creative, only not creative enough.
Bringing It All Together
Tiles are more than just something you step on or splash water against. They’re a form of expression. A way to turn the everyday into something extraordinary. Whether you’re designing a peaceful retreat, a buzzing kitchen, or a jaw-dropping entryway, tile is your secret weapon.
If all of this feels a bit overwhelming, don’t worry, we’ve got you. At Cavastone, we live and breathe beautiful tiles. From bold mosaic tiles to timeless subway tile, from dreamy bathroom floors to artistic living room accents, we’re here to help you make your design dreams real.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t just fill space, define it. Browse Cavastone’s collection of tile shapes, sizes, and styles, and start piecing together your perfect look. Browse online or swing by our showroom, where inspiration is literally built into the walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wall tile works best in a bathroom or shower?
Wall tile in a shower area should be water-resistant, easy to clean, and slip-safe. Glazed ceramic tile is a great choice because it’s durable and available in different types, sizes, and finishes to match your interior design. For added visual interest, consider using smaller tiles or mosaic tile for niches and accents.
How do I choose the right tile color palette for my home?
Start by looking at your existing decor, lighting, and room size. A neutral tile color palette with tones like beige, gray, or soft white creates a timeless base that complements most interiors. If you want to add personality, blend in bolder shades or unique patterns in smaller areas like kitchen backsplashes or shower walls.
Are ceramic tiles a good choice for high-traffic flooring areas?
Yes, ceramic tile is a great choice for flooring in kitchens, hallways, and entryways. It’s durable, easy to maintain, and comes in many styles that can match the look of natural stone, concrete, or wood. You can achieve both functionality and style with the right tile material.
Can I use smaller tiles to make a space feel bigger?
Surprisingly, yes, smaller tiles can create depth and movement when used strategically. For example, using smaller tiles around a window, mirror, or in a border can draw the eye outward and enhance visual interest. However, in tight areas, larger tiles are often better to reduce grout lines and create a seamless look.
What are some ways to add visual interest using tile?
Play with different tile shapes, finishes, and unique patterns. A feature wall tile in a contrasting material, or a herringbone layout in your kitchen backsplashes, can completely transform a space. Even mixing matte and glossy tiles within the same color palette can make your surfaces feel more dynamic.
How do I pick tiles that match my overall interior design?
To ensure your tiles work with your interior design, consider the style of your home and how the tile will be used. For example, modern homes often pair well with large square or concrete-look tiles, while traditional spaces might lean toward subway tile or smaller decorative options. Always look at the material, color, and finish to ensure it will match or complement your space.
What tile layout ideas work best for kitchen backsplashes?
Classic subway tiles in a brick pattern are always a favorite, but don’t be afraid to try vertical stacks, herringbone, or even hexagons for something different. Mixing in smaller tiles or contrasting grout can add texture and elevate a basic kitchen backsplash into a design highlight.
Owner, Cavastone Group
With years of perseverance and pride in what we do we have become a very well known and positioned company in the Architectural and Design industry. The same perseverance, pride and attention to detail that made us become who we are, are the same qualities we strive to provide to all our customers.
