Tiles are a versatile and stylish option for small spaces. By choosing the right size, pattern, and material, you can make a small room appear larger and more functional. Additionally, incorporating different tile styles, such as mosaics or geometric patterns, can add interest and personality to your space.
So, are you looking to update the look of a cramped bathroom or make a tiny kitchen feel ample? Then, the right tile can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore how to utilize tiles to maximize the style and function of small spaces. This includes tips on choosing the right tile size, color, and pattern, as well as ideas for using tile in creative ways.
If you’re ready to make the most of your available space, read on!
7 Must-Know Tile Tips to Maximize Style and Function of Small Spaces
When it comes to designing small spaces, tile can be an effective way to add style and function to the room. Here are a few tips to help you maximize the use of tiles in small spaces.
- Go for Light-colored Tiles
First and most importantly, it is vital to go for the right choice of color when tiling a small space. With the availability of various trendy tile designs on the market, you have a wide variety of designs and shades available. Choose one that adds personality to your space.
Light-colored tiles make small spaces feel larger and more open. Furthermore, using light-colored tiles is effective when combined with large format tiles, since it creates a seamless, cohesive look.
So, consider light-colored tiles to help create the illusion of more space. Some examples of light-colored tiles include:
- White marble tiles
- Mosaic tiles
- Beige ceramic tiles
- Cream travertine tiles
- Light gray porcelain tiles
- Ivory glass mosaic tiles, etc.
On the contrary, if you want to create a more cozy and intimate atmosphere, consider using darker tiles in shades of black, dark gray, or even deep jewel tones.
- Get Patterned Tiles
Patterned tiles add visual interest to small spaces, helping to break up an otherwise plain design. Additionally, a patterned tile creates a sense of spaciousness that is less overwhelming than a busy, detailed pattern. For example, if you’re looking to tile a small bathroom, a simple subway tile with a glossy finish is a great choice.
Patterned tiles, such as geometric or floral patterns, add visual interest to a small space, particularly when used with light-colored tiles. So, consider using geometric or floral patterns to add a unique touch to your design and to create a remarkable, interesting look without overwhelming the space.
- Place Tiles in an Unusual Pattern
Using tiles in unusual or unexpected patterns is another idea for creative tile placement. For instance, while choosing tiles for kitchens consider using tile as a backsplash behind a small sink or as a feature wall in a small entryway. This can help create a sense of drama and can also make a small space feel more intriguing and outstanding.
You can place your tiles in the herringbone pattern which is formed by laying tiles at a 45-degree angle, forming a zig-zag pattern. You can also use the basket weave pattern, created by alternating groups of tiles in a horizontal and vertical orientation.
- Use Large and Reflective Tiles
Large format tiles, such as 12×12 or 18×18 inches, help to reduce the number of grout lines in a small space, making the room feel more cohesive and open. Also, it creates the visual feel of more space and makes the room feel less busy.
Reflective tiles, on the other hand, help to bounce light around a small space, making it feel brighter and more open. Use glossy or metallic tiles with large format tiles to add a reflective element to your design. Reflective tiles, such as glossy or metallic tiles are effective when used in combination with light-colored tiles, as they can create a bright, open feeling in the space.
- Use Vertical Tiles
Using vertical tiles, such as the subway, tall skinny tiles, and brick patterns can make a small space feel taller and more open. This can be more effective when used with light-colored or patterned tiles since it creates a sense of height and open space in the room. So, it is suggested that you use a vertical tile pattern to draw the eye upward and make your small space feel larger.
- Use the Same Tiles Throughout
Using the exact tile throughout a small space helps to create a sense of continuity and flow, making the space feel larger. This is more effective when used with a large format and light-colored tiles. Repeating the floor tile design for the walls too can create a cohesive design.
- Use Contrasting Grout
Using contrasting grout, such as a dark grout with light-colored tiles or a light grout with dark-colored tiles, helps to accentuate the pattern of your tile and add visual interest to a small space.
Utilizing contrasting grout is more outstanding when used with patterned tiles, as it can create a unique, interesting look that still feels cohesive and open. So, consider using a dark grout with light-colored tiles or vice versa.
Conclusion
As referred to in the introduction, tiling is a great way to add style and function to small spaces. Regardless, it’s important to consider the size, color, pattern, and creative placement. With this article, you can tell that smaller tiles tend to be more versatile and can help make a space feel larger.
Also, lighter colors tend to make a space feel larger and more open, and a simple, clean pattern can also create a sense of spaciousness. Additionally, using tile in unexpected ways and contrasting grout colors also add visual interest and depth. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can make the most of your small space with the help of tiles.
Now that you understand how to make use of tiles to brighten up your small space, why wait longer? Remember these tips while you visit your tile store and start adding style and function to spaces of all sizes in your home.