Designer advice: Using tiles to create the illusion of space

1 Oct

*One of the most effective tools in our design arsenal is the tile. With the right selection, placement and finish, tiles can make a small bathroom feel much more expansive than it really is.* *Here, Danielle, Showroom Owner and Designer from* *Ripples Lindfield* *explains how to create a sense of openness and luxury without sacrificing style.*

Opt for larger format tiles

It may sound counterintuitive, but larger tiles can actually make a small bathroom look bigger. Large format tiles have fewer grout lines, which reduces the visual "grid" effect that can make a space feel busy and cramped. The continuous surface created by these tiles tricks the eye into perceiving more space than there is. Whether on the floor or walls, oversized tiles in a neutral tone can create an elegant, uncluttered look to your bathroom.

“Tiles, when used thoughtfully, can create a dramatic transformation in even the tiniest of bathrooms. By opting for larger formats, light colours, vertical arrangements and reflective finishes, you can make your small bathroom feel much bigger - and make a big impact on the overall design.”

-Danielle, Showroom Owner and Designer Ripples Lindfield

Go light and bright

Colour plays an enormous role in shaping how we perceive space. Lighter colours reflect more light and naturally make a room feel more open. Soft whites, pale greys and pastels are popular choices for making smaller bathrooms feel airy and fresh. Pairing light-coloured tiles with strategic lighting can further enhance this effect, bouncing natural and artificial light around the room.

But don’t feel restricted to plain tiles—subtle patterns or textured finishes can add depth without overwhelming the space.

Use glossy finishes for reflectivity

The more light a surface reflects, the bigger the space will feel. Glossy or high-shine tiles on walls can create a mirror-like effect, making your bathroom feel light, bright and open. I often recommend placing glossy tiles on a feature wall or in the shower area to catch light and draw the eye upwards, creating the illusion of height.

Lay tiles vertically for height

The orientation of your tiles can greatly impact the way a space is perceived. Vertical placement draws the eye upward, creating an illusion of height. This technique works beautifully with longer, rectangular tiles such as subway tiles, which can elongate the room visually. Vertical tiling paired with a tall mirror or elongated fixtures can help amplify this effect, making your small bathroom feel more grand.

Consider continuous flooring

One clever way to make a small bathroom feel larger is to use the same tile on both the floor and walls. This seamless flow from floor to wall eliminates boundaries and creates the impression of one continuous, expansive space. Large format tiles are great for this technique, helping the room feel unified and coherent.

For an even more dramatic effect, consider extending the floor tile into a walk-in shower or wet room area. This trick not only enhances the sense of space but also adds a chic, modern touch to the design.

Play with patterns, but keep it subtle

While you want to avoid overly busy patterns that can make a small space feel crowded, using a subtle geometric or linear pattern can actually create movement and depth. For instance, herringbone or chevron patterns can draw the eye along the room, giving the illusion of length or width. However, the key is moderation—keep the colour palette simple and cohesive to avoid overwhelming the senses.

Strategic tile placement to maximise space

Sometimes, it's not just about the type of tile but where you place it. For example, tiling only halfway up the walls can help make the ceiling feel taller. Conversely, a feature wall of full-height tiles behind the vanity or in the shower can draw attention to a focal point, creating the impression of a more expansive room.

In a small bathroom, every centimetre counts. By placing tiles in key areas, you can direct attention where you want it and shift focus away from the room’s limited dimensions.

Mirrors and tiles: the perfect partnership

Mirrors are a designer’s best friend when it comes to small bathrooms and when paired with tiles, the effect can be transformative. Placing a large mirror above the basin or vanity and surrounding it with tiles creates a polished, reflective surface that opens up the room. Mirrors also help bounce light around, which is particularly effective when paired with glossy tiles for an even greater sense of openness.