Tiles have the power to transform any room, bringing elegance to bathroom walls and creating a seamless flow across living room floors. When it comes to interior design, tile size makes all the difference. Here’s how to choose the perfect fit for your home.

Standard Tile Sizes

Small Tiles (up to around 300×300 mm)

Small-format tiles include 300x300mm square tiles, mosaics, subways, fish-scale and kit-kat styles. They’re perfect for compact areas, splashbacks, feature walls, and bathrooms where you want detail and character. Small tiles allow creative layouts but come with more grout lines, which means extra cleaning and potentially higher installation costs.

Medium Tiles (300×300 up to 300×600 mm)

Medium tiles are the most versatile choice, blending seamlessly into kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and living spaces. They offer the perfect balance of practicality and style without overwhelming the design. Easy to work with and adaptable to almost any room, medium tiles are the true “all-rounder” for Australian homes.

Large Tiles (600×600 mm) and Extra Large Tiles (900x900mm up to 1200×2400 mm and beyond)

Large-format tiles create a modern and spacious feel, with fewer grout lines. They’re especially effective in open-plan living areas, making rooms appear bigger and more seamless. While they deliver a luxurious, minimalist look, large tiles can be heavier, more expensive upfront, and require professional installation for the best results.

Choosing tile sizes by room

Tile size affects both the aesthetics and perception of space. Large tiles can make a room feel more expansive and modern, offering fewer grout joints, while smaller tiles often create a sense of intimacy and intricate design. Considering the size and function of your room ensures your tiles enhance both beauty and practicality.

Bathrooms

WALLS: Play with timeless subway tiles, mosaics to add visual interest. Or consider using the same medium-format tile on the floor and wall.

FLOORS: Medium-format tiles (e.g. 600x600mm or 300x600mm) reduce grout lines, making the space appear bigger and cleaner.

Tip: Light-colored tiles reflect more light, amplifying the sense of space.

Kitchens

WALLS (Backsplashes): Smaller tiles, like 100x100mm or subway tiles, work well for intricate patterns and accents.

FLOORS: Medium to large tiles (e.g. 600x600mm or larger) work great, and can offer less grout lines which will reduce cleaning in areas prone to spills and stains.

Living Rooms and Hallways

FLOORS: Large or Extra Large rectangular or square tiles (e.g., 800x800mm, 600x1200mm) elongate the room, giving a contemporary feel.

On-Trend: Timber-look porcelain tiles are a great option to add natural warmth, without the maintenance of real timber.

Outdoor Spaces

FLOOR: Porches, outdoor living areas, and pool copings suit large (600x600mm or larger) tiles with a matte finish are ideal for open spaces, reducing maintenance and enhancing sophistication.

Outdoor Floor Tile: Ceppo Medium 600×600×20mm

Tips for Choosing the Right Tile Size

Measure your space: Always consider room dimensions before deciding on tile size.
Consider grout lines: Fewer grout lines with larger tiles create a clean, modern look.
Mix and match: Combine sizes and textures for feature walls, backsplashes, or statement floors.
Visual illusion: Use large light tiles in small rooms to feel more spacious; small dark tiles in large areas create warmth.
Budget: Start with your floor measurements and multiply by the tile’s cost per square metre. Always add an extra 10–15% to cover spares, breakages, and unexpected costs.
Maintenance: Textured and mosaic tiles can be harder to keep clean, especially with extra grout lines. If cleaning isn’t your thing, choose a finish and size that better fits your lifestyle.

Visit our award-winning Italia Ceramics showroom at 55 Glynburn Road, Glynde, South Australia, call our team on +61 (08) 8336 2366, or click here to submit an enquiry. Let us help you bring your vision to life!

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How to Choose the Right Tile Size for Every Room