Tile Size & Shape Guide: Find the Perfect Fit for Every Room

Choosing the right tile size and shape can completely transform the way your kitchen, bathroom, or backsplash looks and feels. From making small rooms feel more spacious to adding bold visual interest to a plain wall, tile isn’t just about color and finish—it’s also about scale and layout.

In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular tile sizes for different areas of the home, explore trending shapes and layouts, and help you decide what’s right for your space.

Popular Tile Sizes by Room

Bathroom Floor
Bathrooms tend to be smaller, but that doesn’t mean you have to play it safe with tiny tiles. These formats strike the right balance of form and function:

• 12” x 24” – A large-format choice that gives bathrooms a modern, seamless look
• 6” x 24” – Mimics the look of hardwood planks for a cozy, natural style
• Mosaic (1”–2”) – Perfect for shower floors thanks to added grip and flexibility

Kitchen Floor
The kitchen is a hardworking space, and the right tile size can support your style while making the room feel more open:

• 12” x 12” – A classic size that’s easy to find and often budget-friendly
• 18” x 18” – Great for visually expanding small kitchens with fewer grout lines
• 6” x 36” – Wood-look planks that bring warmth with a low-maintenance surface

Backsplash
This is where you can get creative—tile backsplashes are perfect for mixing up sizes and textures:

• 3” x 6” – Timeless subway tile that works in nearly any kitchen
• 4” x 12” – A sleeker, more contemporary version of the traditional subway
• Mosaic sheets (1”–2”) – Available in hexagon, penny round, square, and more

Popular Tile Shapes & Patterns

Tile Shapes
Shape affects the mood and style of a room—go classic, playful, or elegant with one of these trending options:

• Subway – A versatile choice that’s always in style
• Hexagon – Adds dimension and interest to floors or walls
• Penny Round – Retro and fun, especially in bathrooms or laundry rooms
• Square – Simple and timeless, great for larger tiles
• Arabesque – Curvy and eye-catching, often used as an accent
• Plank – Perfect for wood-look porcelain and longer patterns

Installation Patterns
Pattern plays a major role in how your tile feels visually. Try these layouts to change the mood or stretch the space:

• Herringbone – Great for backsplashes or bathroom accents
• Stacked (straight lay) – Clean, contemporary, and minimal
• Offset (brick pattern) – Traditional, and hides imperfections well
• Basketweave – Elegant and vintage-inspired
• Diagonal – Angled lines help open up small or narrow rooms

How to Choose What’s Best for Your Space

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a few key points can help narrow it down:

• Room size matters – Larger tiles with fewer grout lines create a smooth, open look
• Ease of cleaning – Fewer joints = less scrubbing
• Style match – Choose shapes and patterns that complement your home’s overall design

Not sure where to start? Our team at Empire Flooring & Remodeling is here to help you choose the right tile for your space, lifestyle, and design goals.

Ready to explore tile options for your kitchen, bathroom, or backsplash? Visit our tile flooring page or contact us to speak with one of our friendly experts in Spring, TX.