7 Small Bathroom Tile Ideas to Make Your Space Look Bigger

• 3 weeks ago
• Construction

Modern Bathroom Design Tips to Maximize Style and Space

Is your morning routine starting to feel like a cramped challenge? You're not alone. Small bathrooms can easily feel tight and cluttered—but the right tile choices can completely change that. We’ve rounded up 7 clever tile ideas to help you transform even the tiniest bathroom into a space that feels bigger, brighter, and more inviting.

Let’s explore how smart tiling can add style and space to your bathroom makeover.

1. Go Big with Your Tile Choice

Why it works: Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which visually opens up the space.

Try this: Opt for large rectangular tiles over small squares. The long, clean lines created by larger tiles guide the eye more smoothly across the room, giving the illusion of a larger area.

2. Lay Tiles Vertically for Height

Why it works: Vertical placement draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of a taller room.

Try this: Break the horizontal tradition and stack tiles vertically. This layout makes your ceiling appear higher and adds a contemporary touch to the space—perfect for both form and function.

3. Extend Floor Tile into the Shower

Why it works: Seamless transitions create a continuous visual flow.

Try this: If you're converting from a tub to a walk-in shower, let your floor tiles flow right into the shower area. Use a clear glass door to preserve those clean lines and create a unified, spacious look.

4. Add Shine with Reflective Tiles

Why it works: Reflective surfaces bounce light, instantly making the room feel larger.

Try this: Incorporate glass tiles or glossy finishes on walls. Pair them with a clear shower curtain or glass door to maximize light and openness.

5. Match Wall and Floor Tile Colors

Why it works: A single color palette creates visual harmony and minimizes breakpoints.

Try this: Choose neutral, light-colored tiles and use the same tone on both walls and floors—even continuing into the shower. If you’re not tiling to the ceiling, make sure your paint matches your tile for the best visual flow.

6. Add a Ceiling Accent Tile Strip

Why it works: Drawing attention upward makes the room feel taller.

Try this: Install a decorative tile border or mosaic strip near the ceiling. It adds personality without overwhelming the space and subtly increases the feeling of vertical room.

7. Use Tones to Widen the Room

Why it works: Playing with tones helps visually reshape narrow spaces.

Try this: For long, narrow bathrooms, use a slightly lighter tile on the short walls and a deeper tone on the longer ones. The contrast helps trick the eye into perceiving a wider room.

Bonus Tips to Maximize Your Small Bathroom Remodel

Even the most beautiful tile work benefits from a few extra design upgrades. Here are two more expert tips to stretch your space even further:

✅ Swap in a Sleeker Toilet

Modern toilets are not only more compact but also water-efficient. A low-profile or wall-mounted toilet saves precious space and can cut your utility costs over time.

✅ Upgrade to a Floating Vanity

Traditional vanities can weigh down a small space. A floating vanity or one on elevated legs makes more floor visible, which naturally makes the room feel larger. Bonus: They’re stylish and totally on trend.

Ready to Begin Your Bathroom Makeover?

Clean Up Made Easy

Once you’ve tackled your tile and swapped out those outdated fixtures, don’t let the mess slow you down. Use a local dumpster rental service to quickly clear out old tiles, bathtubs, vanities, and debris—so you can enjoy your fresh new space stress-free.

We’ve rounded up 7 clever tile ideas to help you transform even the tiniest bathroom into a space that feels bigger, brighter, and more inviting.