Tile Trends That Work: Choosing the Right Size and Shape for Bathrooms, Kitchens, and Backsplashes

Choosing tile for your home isn’t just about color or pattern—the size and shape of your tile can make a big impact on how the space looks and feels. Whether you’re redoing a bathroom, kitchen, or adding a new backsplash, the right tile dimensions can enhance your space, improve visual flow, and even make rooms feel larger.

At West Broad Flooring, we help homeowners across Southeast Georgia choose tile flooring and wall applications that match their vision and the function of each room. Here’s what to consider when selecting tile size and shape for different areas of your home.

Best Tile Sizes for Bathrooms

Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes, and your tile choice should balance aesthetics with practicality. The size and layout of your tile can influence how open—or closed in—your bathroom feels.

• Large-format tiles (12×24 and larger) work well on bathroom floors, especially in modern or minimalist spaces. Fewer grout lines mean easier maintenance and a more seamless look.
• Mosaic tiles (1×1, 2×2, hexagon, or penny rounds) are ideal for shower floors. Their small size allows for better grip and easier slope toward drains.
• Rectangular wall tiles (like 4×12 or 4×16) add a sleek, updated look to shower surrounds and bathroom walls. Installing them in a stacked or vertical pattern can make low ceilings feel taller.

For more ideas on moisture-friendly tile types and finishes, explore our tile flooring page.

Best Tile Sizes and Shapes for Kitchens

Your kitchen is one of the hardest-working rooms in your home, and tile choices should reflect both performance and design appeal.

• 12×12 or 12×24 tiles are great for kitchen floors. They’re large enough to create a clean look but still manageable in tighter layouts.
• Wood-look plank tiles bring warmth to the kitchen with the durability of ceramic or porcelain. These come in sizes like 6×24 or 8×36 and look fantastic in open-concept spaces.
• Chevron or herringbone patterns using rectangular tiles (e.g., 3×12 or 4×16) on kitchen walls or floors can add subtle texture and visual movement.

Keep in mind that proper tile installation and layout planning make a big difference in how your final space looks—especially with busy kitchen traffic.

Top Tile Choices for Backsplashes

Backsplashes are your chance to get creative. Because these areas are smaller, you can go bold with color, finish, and texture—or keep things simple and timeless.

• Subway tile (typically 3×6 or 4×8) is a classic choice. It’s versatile and works well in traditional or modern kitchens.
• Hexagon or picket-shaped tiles add a fun, modern twist to kitchen or bathroom backsplashes. These shapes create visual interest without being overpowering.
• Glass or ceramic mosaics in smaller sizes (1×1 or 2×2) are perfect for adding texture and shine, especially when paired with under-cabinet lighting.

Backsplash areas also allow for mixing tile shapes and finishes, creating a layered look that adds dimension to your kitchen or bathroom walls.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

• Larger tiles make small rooms appear bigger, but require a flat subfloor to avoid lippage.
• Smaller tiles often result in more grout lines—be sure to choose a grout color that complements your tile and resists staining.
• Think about maintenance. Glossy tiles show water spots more easily, while textured surfaces may require more scrubbing.

Still unsure what’s best for your space? That’s where we come in.

Stop by our showroom in Metter, GA or give us a call today to talk with the experts at West Broad Flooring. We proudly serve Metter, Savannah, Statesboro, Vidalia, Bryan County, and surrounding areas, as well as South Carolina and Florida. Let us help you choose tile that fits your space, your vision, and your lifestyle.