Ideas for Transforming Smaller Rooms through
the Creative Use of Tile.
Ideas for Transforming Smaller Rooms through the Creative Use of Tile
Decorators often employ tile to create the illusion of space and depth in small or confined areas. Tile comes in a spectacular variety of shapes, textures, and patterns that can be used to make a space seem larger, lighter, and more open. Some of the best places where tile works magic are foyers and mudrooms, hallways, laundry rooms, pantries, and—two of the most popular spots—small kitchens and bathrooms. Tile is also extremely durable and waterproof, making it an ideal choice for these high traffic areas that see a lot of moisture and debris.
Whether you prefer the elegant beauty of a minimalist space or want to make a bold and brilliant statement, tile has the power to transform. Consider these creative ideas for using tile to make a small space feel bigger and brighter.
Embrace the Light: As a rule, light colors—and light itself—make a room feel larger and more expansive. Light and bright colored tiles are more reflective and maximize any source of light, whether its natural light coming through a window or the beam of a lamp. Depending on your taste, you can choose tile in sophisticated monochrome shades of white, gray, or beige that completely open up a space with lightness and uniformity. Or you can opt for light bright colors that add depth to small areas, like the sea and sky feel of this Biarritz Blue ceramic tile.
One eye-catching way to expand the feeling of space in a room is reflective tile. Just as mirrors reflect light and open a space with brightness, a glossy or mirror-finish tile will do the same. Check out some of the gorgeous reflective tile that’s trending—you can see how glass tiles and mirrored tiles like this Lustre Antique Mirror will shine light throughout confined spaces. Another creative option for lightening small areas is metallic tile. The subtle sheen of tile like Alloy Subway Stainless Steel and Orion Iron will catch the light (and the eye!).
Avoid Breakups: Grout lines criss crossing your floor or wall can break up the space visually, making it appear smaller and too busy. Place larger tiles to reduce grout lines and create a more seamless, uniform space. Also, using grout in the same color as the tile makes it look cohesive and open instead of broken into tight spaces.
Breaking up the walls also makes a room look smaller. Avoid using tile on only half a wall, for example. In places like small bathrooms, consider floor to ceiling tile for a room expanding effect that decorators often employ.
Size Matters: Some people prefer large tile options like long planking tiles for clean lines and an uncluttered feeling, especially on the floor. Others love the look of small tiles, and the way artfully applied mosaic or patterned tile can make a room appear as if it has more depth and space.
If you decide to go with large tile, consider choosing a size larger than the standard 12-inch, as this increases the appearance of square footage. Luxury tiles in sizes larger than 12 inches are available in a variety of materials that can visually expand a room’s area. You can also use larger sized tile to make a bold statement that adds a vibrant distance between spaces, like this stunning bathroom.
For those who love the look of small tile, penny rounds are a sweet modern option. Hexagon shaped tiles are extremely popular, as well as fish-shaped and mini lantern tiles. Small tiles can also be great for areas that have unusually shaped walls or spaces because they can be placed more easily around corners, slopes, and fixtures. Although there are more grout lines, small tiles create a patterned flow that expands a room’s space.
Layout Logistics: Strategic placement of tiles can visually increase your room’s square footage. Designers use creative tile placement and patterns such as installing tile diagonally, or “on point,” to make both the tiles and room look more spacious. Tiles that are laid horizontally and go straight to the ceiling also give a feeling of openness. A clever way to create a visual diagonal is to use tile like this geometric pattern that completely opens up a small foyer. Tile layout can be complex, so this is an area where it helps to consult an expert in tile design and installation.
Another room-expanding trick is to use different sizes, textures, and patterns. Mixing 3 or more sizes or adding patterns adds depth and height. Check out this Textured Paradise Bathroom that feels as open as the outdoors due to a movement filled wave tile combined with stylish wall and floor tiles in two different sizes.
There is a wonderful spectrum of tiles to explore for the small spaces and tiny rooms in your life. For exciting ideas, visit the Merola Tile Inspiration page as well as the trending New Looks area. And be sure to check out the Collections section for designer ideas on how tile can transform your space.