Tile size can have a big impact depending on the square footage of your space. Certain sizes are better suited to different surface areas.
In this blog we will break down how to calculate square footage in different spaces and how to pick which tile size will complement the design.
Measure the Square Footage
The first step is to calculate the square footage for the area you have in mind.
The relative space you plan to have your tile installed in will determine the size and scale that works best for you.
Check out this blog for an in-depth explanation on how to calculate square footage. A quick review is below:
Additionally, here is a visual representation of what different tile sizes will look like within a square foot:
This is our Sawyer (Evergreen) pattern on Carrara Blanco. It is important to select the tile size that fits best with your space and achieves the look that you are going for.
What Tile Size Should I Use?
With all the amazing options available, choosing the right tile size can make a lasting and satisfying addition to your space!
With such a vast array of size options to choose from, it can seem like an overwhelming task! Where do you even start?
Both the design and scale of a tile can greatly impact a space and enhance the overall aesthetics you may have intended, so mindfully planning the area you have makes all the difference.
Here are a few tips to get started!
Using Larger Tiles (12×12 +)
Using larger scale tiles, such as 12x12s or 18x18s, can make a space appear larger, as they visually expand space by showing the size and openness of the repeating pattern design.
Larger scale tiles will also have fewer grout lines overall and are mostly commonly used when covering larger square footage of space or a striking centerpiece feature.
In this lovely example of our mid-century modern Beachcomber pattern in Chocolate shown on 12×12 tiles, a bathroom wall allows the scale of the design to “fill” the space (and our view) with more detail.
It allows the larger tile to make a big statement!
This is the same Beachcomber pattern, reduced to a 6×6 tile size.
What a difference!
While this is still a beautiful installation, the design itself being reduced changes the importance of the design by making it smaller and more textural.
Here is another example of a larger-scale tile applied to a low-traffic flooring area.
The pattern shown is our Aurum Quad pattern tile.
Its simple geometric design not only looks gorgeous in a larger scale, but the spare usage of linework allows the characteristics of natural stone to widen the floorspace, allowing the natural veining and variation to shine by showcasing its intrinsic beauty.
This beautiful vanity wall installation shows our Midsummer pattern in Sage on 12×12 Carrara Blanco.
The larger scale showcases the petals’ soft textures while allowing the pattern to organically fill the space.
Using Medium Size Tiles (6×6)
Medium-sized tiles and patterns can add midtone depth to a space or (in some designs) can create a bold statement.
With our Artisan and StoneImpressions pattern tiles, you can create magnitudes of statement and depth in the design you pick.
The order and style in which you lay them out can make all the difference!
In many ways, the effect of a medium is about creating a more direct focus in instances of backsplashes or vanity walls.
In this example of our Sanza pattern tile, the approach is the opposite of installing larger-sized tiles.
Here, we see how the smaller scale of the design on the smaller tiles guides your eye to focus on the depth being created.
The geometric directions and symmetrical design shown in this scale also allow flow in your space, letting colors and textures guide your view from all directions!
The mid-tones and darker colors make a natural contrast with the rest of the cabinetry and countertop area.
A new addition to the Artisan line, the Emery pattern in Spring Green is installed here as a color-coordinated backsplash.
The 6×6 scale allows the individual tiles to meld together to form a more graphic geometric pattern along the entire backsplash.
Our Oasis pattern tile is another example of texture and flow of a pattern in medium scale.
The tile is elegantly installed behind twin mirrors, allowing the design to flow horizontally, separated by a wainscot (an area of paneling on the lower part of a wall), anchoring and framing the tile design.
Now you have a centerpiece!
Using Small Tiles (4×4 Tiles and under)
Using tiles in sizes 4×4 and under creates an altogether different aesthetic from larger tiles like 6x6s and 12x12s.
The depth and texture created by smaller tiles can create deliberate kinesis or “busy” flow.
They can compact, with accents or Deco Dot Tiles, or expand space like listellos or inserts. Smaller tiles are another way you can express your creativity!
This unique installation uses small selections of our Birds of Eden mural as 4×4 accent tiles in an alcove.
The lines of the field tile narrow your focus to the accent tiles and allow you to appreciate the intricate details of the design fully!
Another example of smaller tiles, this Bristol Deco Dots installation shows how arranging tile handsomely as a trim beneath some well-placed wainscoting provides an ornate point of interest that leads your eyes left-to-right, widening the space of this washroom.
So simple, yet so effective!
What is Right for You
Ultimately, it is up to you which size tile you choose for your space. However, we recommend keeping these tips on tile sizing in mind to ensure your space turns out beautifully!
We hope this guide has been helpful while you are navigating the endless possibilities of your renovation project!
Looking for more helpful how-to information about natural stone tile? Check out our library of in-depth articles and blogs and explore our Artisan and StoneImpressions catalogs to get inspired!