What Size Ceramic Tile for a Small Room Picture

General Information

• Ceramic tiles are made from clay particles and heated at high temperatures to make them resistant to environmental factors and wear and tear. They are available in a range of sizes from 1-inch square tiles to 24-inch square tiles.
  But 12-inch and 18-inch square tiles are two of the most common sizes.

18-inch

• In general, decorators support the notion that larger flooring can make a small space seem larger. The theory behind this thought is that larger tiles require a fewer amount of grout lines that break up the pattern. However, critics of this theory believe that a large flooring material can overwhelm the space and make it appear disproportionate to the other materials in the room. Taking a picture of a small room with 18-inch square tiles will visually expand the space.

12-inch

• Large and small rooms often have 12-inch square tiles. They provide a middle ground between large, oversized tiles and smaller tiles. A 12-inch tile can help you achieve balance in a room and this harmony will be reflected in pictures of the space.

6-inch

• Square tiles that are 6 inches are considered small in the tile world. Smaller tiles tend to create a busier effect since the number of tiles is much greater and the grout lines visually pop against the small tiles. This size tile helps make a room feel more intimate and will draw attention to the space. A picture of a small room with 6-inch tiles will likely appear busy and eye-catching.

Mixed Options

• Rather than using one size of tile, you can opt to use a variety of sizes. You may want to add a decorative border with 1- or 2-inch mosaic tiles to add a decorative trim around the perimeter. However, this can also help contract the space. Another option is to inset a smaller tile amid larger tiles -- this will help make a subtle pattern in the flooring. Take a picture with this type of tile to draw attention to the floor.

Considerations

• Other characteristics of tiling can affect the appearance of the room. For example, using a tile option that is in a similar color as the walls will provide a cohesive look to the design with a seamless transition between the walls and flooring. However, a floor that contrasts greatly with the wall color will make the flooring stand out, but appear smaller. Lighter shades of tiling often make the room feel larger. Laying tiles in a diagonal pattern can make the space appear wider.