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“Small Bathroom? These Tile Layout Ideas Maximise Space”

22 Jul 2025 | BY Matt Matner

Small bathrooms can feel cramped, but with clever design choices, especially in tile layout, you can create the illusion of more space. This guide explores practical tile layout ideas and tips to maximise your small bathroom’s potential.

Layout Design

The way you arrange your tiles significantly impacts the perceived size of the room. Consider these layout patterns:

  • Vertical Rectangles: Elongate the walls and create a sense of height. Install rectangular tiles vertically to draw the eye upwards.
  • Horizontal Rectangles: Make the room appear wider. Running rectangular tiles horizontally can visually expand the space.
  • Large-Format Tiles: Fewer grout lines create a cleaner, less cluttered look, making the room feel more spacious. Opt for the largest tiles that are practical for your bathroom’s dimensions.
  • Diagonal/Diamond Pattern: Adds visual interest and can make a small space feel more dynamic. However, this pattern can result in more tile waste, so factor that into your budget.
  • Subway Tile (Stacked): A modern twist on a classic. Stacking the tiles vertically gives a contemporary feel and enhances the sense of height.

Colour Choices

Colour plays a crucial role in how we perceive space.

  • Light and Neutral Colours: Reflect light and make the room feel brighter and airier. Whites, creams, light greys, and pastels are excellent choices.
  • Monochromatic Schemes: Using variations of a single colour creates a seamless look and minimises visual fragmentation.
  • Avoid Dark Colours: While dark colours can be dramatic, they tend to absorb light and make small spaces feel even smaller. If you love dark colors, use them sparingly as accents.

Grout Choice

Matching your grout colour to your tile colour creates a seamless look, minimising visual clutter and making the space feel larger. Consider using epoxy grout, which is stain-resistant and durable, especially in wet areas.

 

Continuous Flooring

Extend the same flooring from an adjacent hallway or bedroom into the bathroom to create a sense of continuity and flow. This minimises visual barriers and makes the bathroom feel like a natural extension of the surrounding space.

Mirrors

Strategically placed mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of depth. A large mirror above the vanity or a full-length mirror on a wall can significantly expand the perceived size of the room.

With careful planning and strategic tile choices, you can transform your small bathroom into a stylish and spacious retreat. Remember to consider layout patterns, colour choices, and visual tricks to maximise the perceived size of the room. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your space and personal style. Good luck with your bathroom renovation!