How to Choose the Best Tile Size and Shape for Your Kitchen, Bathroom, or Backsplash

The tile you choose doesn’t just cover a surface; it shapes the entire look and feel of your room. Size and shape play a major role in how flooring or wall tile affects visual balance, scale, and even how big or small a space appears. The right pattern can elongate a narrow bathroom, create a focal point behind a vanity, or add flow to a kitchen.

At Danmark Floors in DeWitt, MI, we help homeowners and DIYers pick the perfect tile layout for their homes. In this guide, we’re breaking down popular tile sizes and trending shapes by room to help you make a confident, design-savvy decision.

Popular Tile Sizes by Room

Bathroom Floor

These tile sizes are ideal for combining slip resistance with clean design lines.

• 12” x 24” – Offers a modern, large-format look that works well in both small and large bathrooms
• 6” x 24” – Great for creating wood-look patterns with plank-style ceramic or porcelain
• Mosaic (1”–2”) – Commonly used for shower floors thanks to increased grout lines for traction

Kitchen Floor

Function meets visual impact in the kitchen, where the right tile can help a small area feel more open.

• 12” x 12” – A timeless and budget-friendly option that suits traditional kitchens
• 18” x 18” – Larger tiles create fewer grout lines and give small kitchens a more expansive feel
• 6” x 36” – Wood-look planks are gaining popularity for rustic, farmhouse, or transitional kitchen designs

Backsplash

Smaller tiles with bold patterns or sleek lines can turn a backsplash into a design highlight.

• 3” x 6” – Traditional subway tile that never goes out of style
• 4” x 12” – A modern, more elongated version of subway for a clean update
• Mosaic sheets (1”–2”) – Available in hex, penny, square, and more for a custom feel with easier installation

Popular Tile Shapes & Patterns

Tile Shapes

Each shape brings a different energy to the room, from bold to timeless.

• Subway – Clean and classic, works in nearly every setting
• Hexagon – Adds geometric flair; great for backsplashes and floors
• Penny Round – Fun, retro, and perfect for small areas
• Square – Simple and symmetrical, especially in traditional homes
• Arabesque – Intricate and elegant for a high-end look
• Plank – Long and narrow, mimics wood and adds texture

Installation Patterns

Pattern choice influences everything from movement to how light bounces off the surface.

• Herringbone – Perfect for backsplashes and accent walls
• Stacked (straight lay) – Minimalist and modern
• Offset (brick or running bond) – A forgiving layout that hides uneven surfaces
• Basketweave – Great for vintage-style bathrooms
• Diagonal – Makes small rooms feel larger and more dynamic

How to Choose What’s Best for Your Space

Not sure which size or shape is right? Keep these considerations in mind:

• Room Size – Large-format tiles work well in bigger rooms and help minimize grout lines
• Maintenance – Fewer grout lines generally means easier cleaning
• Style Matching – Subway tiles pair well with traditional styles, while plank and hex tiles suit modern or rustic interiors
• Expert Advice – Our team at Danmark Floors can help you explore samples, layouts, and materials that match your design vision and your daily life

For more inspiration and guidance, check out our full range of Tile Flooring Services. Visit Danmark Floors in DeWitt, MI, or contact us to schedule a consultation.