Designing with Large Format Tiles: Tips and Tricks
Looking for the latest design trends? Want something new and refreshing as you’re remodeling a room in your home? Maybe large format tiles are the answer.
They’ve been growing in popularity with homeowners these last few years, possibly because of the bold statement they make.
Of course, large format tiles have their own advantages for your renovation project. They create a dramatic statement in your home. Yet because of their sheer size, they do have their own set of installation challenges. You can’t run to the local big box store and buy a box to install yourself. This is something you need to plan for and let the professionals handle for a trouble-free installation.
Wondering if large format tiles are for you? We’ve prepared this guide to help you dive in and learn more about this trend. They may be the perfect addition to your remodel.
What Are Large Format Tiles?
Large format tiles aren’t what you’re used to in home environments. Think big.
Large format tiles are tiles that exceed the standard size typically used for floors and walls. They usually measure at least 12×12 inches, but can be as large as 24×48 inches or even bigger.
Their expansive surface area creates a clean, seamless look with fewer grout lines, making spaces feel larger and more open. These tiles are available in various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, and stone, offering a wide range of design possibilities.
What Rooms Work Well for Large Format Tiles?
Large format tiles are intriguing, aren’t they? Maybe you’ve seen them on your favorite design show. Or maybe you’ve added them more than once to your pinboard.
We get it. Large format tiles offer a striking look and functional benefits that can enhance different rooms in your home. But maybe you just can’t make the connection to each room. Would they look good once they’re installed? Let’s give you a bit to think about.
Living Rooms
Large format tiles are perfect for living rooms if you’re aiming for a spacious and sophisticated feel. The larger the tiles, the fewer grout lines you’ll have, which helps make your room feel bigger and less cluttered. The wide tiles create an uninterrupted visual flow, which is particularly beneficial in open-concept homes or areas where you want to maintain a sense of cohesion between rooms. Plus, their durable surface can handle the wear and tear of high-traffic areas while still maintaining a sleek, modern appearance.
Why does it work? If you like the idea of a minimalist or contemporary look, large tiles can really help to create that clean, seamless aesthetic.
Consider neutral-toned tiles like light grays or beiges to keep the room feeling open and airy, or choose tiles with a subtle pattern for added interest without overwhelming the space.
Kitchens
The kitchen is another area where large format tiles shine, both for their practicality and their style. Kitchens can be messy spaces, with spills and food debris often ending up on the floor. With larger tiles, there are fewer grout lines, which means less cleaning and fewer places for dirt to collect. These tiles are typically stain-resistant and easy to wipe down, making them ideal for a busy kitchen environment. Plus, they provide a great backdrop for bold kitchen decor like colorful cabinets or statement countertops.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance solution that looks great in a contemporary or transitional kitchen, large tiles are perfect. Opt for a matte finish for a modern look, or polished tiles to reflect light and make your kitchen feel brighter.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms often feel cramped, especially in smaller homes, but large format tiles can help create a more open, spa-like ambiance. Used on both the floors and walls, they minimize grout lines and provide a continuous, sleek surface that not only looks luxurious but is also easier to clean. In wet areas like showers, large tiles reduce the number of seams where mold and mildew can develop, making maintenance simpler. Additionally, their water-resistant properties make them ideal for bathrooms, where moisture control is key.
They’re especially useful in small bathrooms, as the large surface area tricks the eye into thinking the space is bigger. Choose light-colored tiles with a subtle texture for a relaxing, serene feel, or consider using large format stone-look tiles for a more natural, high-end appearance.
Entryways
First impressions matter, and your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home. Large format tiles in this area create a dramatic, sophisticated entrance that feels grand and welcoming. Because entryways are high-traffic areas, durability is crucial, and large tiles made from porcelain or stone are perfect for standing up to dirt, water, and heavy foot traffic. Plus, since large tiles reduce the number of grout lines, they can make your entryway easier to clean, which is especially important in areas where people track in dirt from outside.
If you want an entryway that looks polished and can handle heavy use, large format tiles are a solid choice. Go for dark, patterned tiles for a bold, statement-making look, or neutral shades like gray and taupe to keep things versatile and elegant.
Basements
Basements often suffer from a lack of natural light, making them feel dark or cramped. Large format tiles help reflect whatever light is available and give the illusion of more space, making the basement feel more welcoming. Additionally, basements are prone to moisture, and porcelain or ceramic large format tiles are moisture-resistant and more reliable than traditional flooring materials like carpet or wood. They offer a great solution for creating a bright, open feel in an area that often feels closed off.
If your basement tends to feel cold or damp, these tiles provide a sleek and moisture-resistant option that still feels stylish. Use light-colored tiles to brighten up the space, and choose textured or matte finishes to avoid slippery surfaces, especially in areas that might get wet.
Are Large Format Tiles Right For You?
Are you intrigued? Do large format tiles sound like a great addition to your next remodel?
Other homeowners who have selected them agree they add elegance, practicality, and long-lasting durability to your home. Whether you’re going for a modern, minimalist style or simply want the ease of fewer grout lines, large format tiles are a versatile choice for any space.
Can we help you finalize your selection?