How to Choose Tiles for Your Home: Tips For Selecting the Perfect Tile

BySimon Hours Posted on Hours Updated on Categories Tiles
How to Choose Tiles in Perth

Are you ready to transform your home with the perfect tiles but don’t know where to start? Choosing the right tiles can make a significant difference in the look and feel of your space, but with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what’s best for your home. From staying on top of the latest trends to understanding the benefits of different materials, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the best choice.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we understand the importance of selecting the right tiles to enhance your home’s beauty and functionality. Our wide range of tiles in Perth and expert advice make it easier for you to find the perfect match for any room. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom, updating your kitchen, or revamping your living area, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Let’s dive into expert tips and insights that will help you choose tiles that not only fit your style but also stand the test of time.

Stay Updated on the Latest Tile Trends

bathroom tile trends

One of the best ways to choose the perfect tiles for your home is to stay updated on the latest trends. Whether you’re a fan of timeless classics or lean towards sleek, modern vibes, knowing what’s hot (and what’s not) can seriously streamline your decision-making process. But where do you go for the best inspiration?

Where to Find Inspiration

Renovation Shows

Ever binge-watched The Block and thought, “I need that in my life”? You’re not alone! Renovation shows are goldmines for spotting the latest design trends, including tiles. They give you a sneak peek into how different tiles work in various settings, helping you visualise what might just be perfect for your own home.

Home and Design Magazines

Flipping through glossy pages of design magazines is like taking a mini-vacation into the world of home decor. These publications are brimming with the latest trends in tiles, complete with stunning images and pro tips on bringing those trends into your space. Grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be inspired!

Online Articles and Blogs

And, of course, the internet is your best friend when it comes to staying in the loop. Websites dedicated to home improvement and design are constantly updated with the latest industry trends. Check out our very own articles on Tile Trends, Bathroom Tile Trends, and Tiled Kitchen Splashback Ideas for the freshest styles, shapes, sizes, and finishes. Bookmark those blogs and get scrolling!

Read our article on the do’s and don’ts of shopping for tiles online to ensure you make the best decision for your home renovation project.

Also read out posts:

Incorporate the Latest Colour Trends

latest colour-trends

Staying on top of the latest colour trends can take your tile game from drab to fab in no time. As the head of purchasing at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, I’ve got a little secret weapon up my sleeve: Dulux’s annual Colour Forecast. It’s my go-to for discovering the hottest palettes of the year, and trust me, it’s a goldmine of inspiration for your tile selections.

Using 2025’s Trending Colours in Your Tile Choices

So, what’s trending in the Dulux Colour Forecast 2025? Let’s explore the three standout palettes that are shaping interior design this year, and how they can inspire your feature wall tile selections:

  • Emerge: This uplifting palette is all about joyful, soft, and mid-tone hues. Colours like Lemon Blast, Piglet, and Puhoi Half evoke a sense of cautious optimism. For your tiles, consider pale yellows or soft pinks to create cheerful, light-filled spaces. Imagine using a muted pastel tile for a kitchen splashback or a bathroom accent wall to add a playful yet soothing vibe.
  • Still: Focused on slow design and connecting with nature, this palette embraces calming neutrals with subtle warmth. Shades like Mellow Beige, Clay Pipe, and Night Hawk offer understated luxury. For feature wall tiles, think warm earthy tones or creamy beiges that bring a sense of ease and timeless elegance, perfect for spa-like bathrooms or cosy kitchens.
  • Recollect: For those drawn to a moodier, nostalgic aesthetic, Recollect blends heritage with modern glamour. Colours like Zingiber, Faded Terracotta, and Auburn Flair evoke warmth and sophistication. Rich, deep tones like rust-red or olive-green tiles are ideal for creating dramatic, standout feature walls in kitchens or bathrooms, especially when paired with vintage-inspired décor.

These colour palettes from the Dulux Colour Forecast 2025 provide endless inspiration for selecting tiles that align with your design style while keeping your spaces fresh and on-trend. Whether you prefer uplifting pastels, serene neutrals, or bold heritage tones, there’s a perfect tile waiting to transform your feature wall.

Consider the Space and Functionality

Large Tiles for Living Areas

Let’s talk about the holy grail of tile selection: matching those beauties to the room’s purpose. Because, while I’ve been known to claim that tiles are the ultimate home improvement product, the tiles that work wonders in your bathroom might not be the right fit for your kitchen. So, how do you choose? Let’s break it down.

Match Tiles to the Room’s Purpose

Choosing Tiles for Bathrooms

Bathrooms need tiles that are both chic and practical. Safety first, folks—non-slip, water-resistant tiles are your best friends here. Think textured tiles or those with a matte finish to keep those slip-and-slide moments at bay. Our selection of bathroom tiles is jam-packed with options that blend style and safety, ensuring your bathroom remains a sanctuary of beauty and practicality.

For help choosing bathroom tiles, check out the following resource:

Choosing Tiles for Kitchens

Ah, the kitchen—the heart of the home and the battlefield of meal prep. You’ll want kitchen tiles that can handle the hustle and bustle, so durability and ease of cleaning are key. Enter porcelain and ceramic tiles. These bad boys are resilient, low-maintenance, and can resist stains like a champ. Wipe them clean, and voila! Your kitchen stays as inviting and functional as ever. Check out our comparison article to see which fits your kitchen needs best.

Read our guide on tile cleaning and maintenance for advice on keeping your tiles clean.

For help choosing kitchen tiles, check out the following resource:

Choosing Tiles for Living Areas

For living areas, think big—literally. Larger tiles can make your space look expansive and seamless, reducing those pesky grout lines. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern, minimalist vibe or a cosy, traditional feel, our extensive range of larger tiles can help you nail the look. It’s like magic for your floors!

For help choosing tiles throughout your home, check out the following resource:

Tile Size and Space Perception

The size of the tiles you choose can dramatically influence how a space looks and feels. Whether you’re renovating a small powder room or a large, open-plan living area, understanding how tile size affects space perception is essential for achieving your desired aesthetic. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we often advise customers to carefully consider the dimensions of their rooms and the tile sizes they select to create a balanced and visually pleasing environment.

Best Tile Sizes for Small Spaces

When working with compact areas like small bathrooms or laundry rooms, using smaller tiles can help maintain proportionality. Popular choices for small spaces include 100x100mm, 150x150mm, or 200x200mm tiles, as their compact size works well with tight layouts. Mosaic tiles, often around 50x50mm, are another excellent option, especially for curved surfaces like shower niches or splashbacks, as they add texture and interest without overwhelming the room.

On the other hand, larger tiles, such as 300x600mm, can also be effective in small bathrooms if used strategically. Laid horizontally, they create the illusion of width, while vertically oriented tiles can make the room appear taller. A recent project for a client with a small ensuite bathroom featured white 300x600mm tiles with a matte finish. The tiles were laid in a horizontal offset pattern, which visually widened the space and reduced grout lines, resulting in a sleek and modern look.

Best Tile Sizes for Large Spaces

For larger rooms, such as expansive kitchens, living areas, or outdoor patios, larger-format tiles are the way to go. Sizes like 600x600mm, 450x900mm, or even 1200x600mm are excellent for covering larger areas efficiently. These tiles reduce the number of grout lines, which not only enhances the seamless appearance but also simplifies cleaning and maintenance.

In one of our recent projects, a family wanted to revamp their open-plan kitchen and living room. We recommended 600x600mm porcelain tiles in a polished finish. The result was stunning—a contemporary, cohesive space that felt airy and expansive. The rectified edges allowed for tighter grout lines, adding to the streamlined effect.

Matching Tile Size with Room Purpose

For transitional spaces like hallways, medium-sized tiles such as 300x300mm or 450x450mm offer a balanced aesthetic. Meanwhile, large-format tiles like 1200x200mm plank tiles, designed to mimic timber flooring, are perfect for bringing warmth and continuity to large rooms.

Tile size isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also practical. For instance, larger tiles reduce the number of grout lines, making floors and walls easier to clean, while smaller tiles can offer better slip resistance in wet areas like showers. By carefully choosing tile sizes to match both the room size and its purpose, you can achieve a space that’s not only beautiful but also functional.

Choose the Right Tile Material

tile materials

Selecting the right tile material is crucial for ensuring your home’s durability and aesthetic appeal. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a variety of tile materials, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the pros and cons of different tile materials to find the best fit for your home.

Understand the Pros and Cons of Tile Materials

Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are a versatile and budget-friendly option, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. As you’ll see from our collection, they come in a wide range of colours, styles, and finishes, allowing you to achieve the look you desire without breaking the bank. However, ceramic tiles are slightly less durable than porcelain, so they’re best suited for areas with moderate foot traffic.

Read our blog post, The 101 of Ceramic Tiles, to learn more about these popular tiles.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are known for their durability and low-maintenance qualities, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways. They are highly resistant to stains and water, providing long-lasting beauty and functionality. While they tend to be more expensive than ceramic tiles, their resilience and ease of upkeep often justify the investment.

For more information on these robust tiles, read our blog post, A Beginners Guide to Choosing Porcelain Tiles.

Natural Stone Stone

Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, and travertine, add a touch of luxury and elegance to any space. Each stone tile is unique, offering a distinctive and timeless look. However, natural stone requires more upkeep than ceramic or porcelain, which is why our sone-look tiles are so popular today. They require regular sealing and maintenance to preserve their beauty and prevent staining, making stone tiles a better fit for those who are willing to invest time in their care.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles, usually in the form of glass mosaics, offer a sleek and modern appearance, perfect for creating eye-catching kitchen splashbacks and accent walls. They reflect light beautifully, adding a sense of depth and sophistication to any room. However, glass tiles can be more costly than other materials and may require professional installation to avoid damage. They are best used in areas where their visual impact can be fully appreciated, such as in kitchens and bathrooms.

Select the Appropriate Texture and Finish

tile texture and finish

Alright, you’re one step closer to becoming a tile aficionado! Now let’s talk about the texture and finish of your tiles. Think of it as choosing the right icing for your cake—it not only looks good but also adds that perfect touch of practicality. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we know the texture and finish can make a world of difference in both the style and functionality of your space. Here’s how to navigate the options and find the ideal tile finish for your home.

Balance Aesthetics with Practicality

Gloss-Finish Tiles

Gloss tiles are the epitome of luxury, with their high-shine surface reflecting light beautifully and adding a touch of glamour to any room. However, they can be quite slippery, especially when wet, so they’re best suited for low-traffic areas like feature walls or accent pieces. Think of them as the high heels of the tile world—stunning but not always the most practical for everyday use.

Matte-Finish Tiles

Matte tiles are your go-to if you’re after a more understated and practical option. They offer a subtle, contemporary look and provide better grip, making them ideal for bathrooms and other wet areas. Matte tiles are like your favourite pair of sneakers—stylish, reliable, and perfect for everyday use. Plus, they’re great at hiding smudges and water spots, making maintenance a breeze.

Textured-Finish Tiles

Textured tiles add an element of depth and interest to any space, making them perfect for feature walls or floors. They can range from subtle, barely-there textures to bold, statement-making designs. These tiles are the equivalent of a statement necklace—instantly drawing attention and adding character to your space. Textured tiles also provide excellent grip, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and kids. In our range, you’ll find various textures, including structured, SmoothGrip and anti-slip surfaces, providing a safe and stylish option for any room.

Read our article, The Different Types of Tile Finishes & Their Benefits, to learn about all the various types of tile finishes and discover which is best for your application.

Choose Between Rectified and Unrectified Tiles

When selecting tiles, understanding the difference between rectified and unrectified (or cushioned edge) tiles can help you achieve the desired look and feel for your space.

Rectified tiles are machine-cut after firing, resulting in sharp, precise edges. This allows for minimal grout lines, creating a sleek, seamless appearance that’s ideal for modern, minimalist designs. However, due to the precision required during installation, rectified tiles may take more time to install and can be slightly more expensive.

Unrectified tiles, also known as cushioned edge tiles, retain their natural, slightly rounded edges after firing, which can vary slightly between tiles. These tiles require wider grout lines to accommodate minor size variations, adding depth and character to a space. The wider grout lines make unrectified tiles a popular choice for traditional or rustic designs, where a more organic, less uniform look is preferred.

To make an informed choice, check out our detailed guide on the pros and cons of Rectified vs. Unrectified Tiles, helping you decide which option best suits your design vision and practical needs.

Explore Tile Patterns and Layouts

Tile Patterns and Layouts

We’ve now reached the fun part of your tile journey—exploring patterns and layouts! Think of this as the cherry on top of your tile sundae. The right pattern can completely transform a room, adding personality and pizzazz. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we’re here to help you navigate the wonderful world of tile patterns and find the one that makes your heart sing.

Use Patterns to Enhance Your Space

Herringbone Pattern

Want something dynamic and eye-catching? Herringbone is your go-to. This classic pattern creates a sense of movement and can make any space feel more vibrant. It’s like the jazz hands of tile patterns—always ready to steal the show.

Chevron Pattern

For a touch of elegance with a bit of flair, chevron is a fantastic choice. The V-shaped pattern adds a sense of direction and flow, making it perfect for areas where you want to create a sense of movement. Imagine it as the swishy ball gown at a party—graceful and captivating.

Subway Pattern

You can’t go wrong with a classic subway pattern. It’s versatile, timeless, and works well in virtually any space. Subway tiles are like the little black dress of interior design—always in style and effortlessly chic. Of course, creating a subway pattern starts with the right subway tiles, and we have a wide selection to help you achieve that perfect look!

Grid or Bond Pattern

If you’re a fan of clean lines and modern aesthetics, the grid pattern is for you. It creates a neat, orderly look that’s perfect for minimalistic designs. Think of it as your favourite pair of jeans—comfortable, stylish, and always reliable.

Mix and Match Styles for a Unique Look

Bold Feature Tiles

Now that we’ve tackled the essentials, let’s talk about adding that extra flair. Mixing and matching tile styles is your ticket to a space that’s uniquely yours. By combining different tile styles, colours, and textures, you can transform any room from ho-hum to stunningly fabulous. Here’s how you can get creative without going overboard:

Get Creative with Tile Combinations

Use Bold Feature Tiles for Focal Points

Want to make a statement? Bold feature tiles, such as those you’ll find at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, are your best friend. Think of them as the stars of your show. Use vibrant mosaics in your shower or striking patterns behind your stove to create eye-catching focal points that exude personality and charm. It’s all about drawing the eye and making a memorable impact.

Pair with Neutral Background Tiles to Maintain Balance

While bold feature tiles are the showstoppers, they need a strong supporting cast to keep everything balanced. Enter neutral background tiles. These subtle heroes provide a calming backdrop, letting your feature tiles take centre stage without overpowering the space. It’s like having a rockstar with a killer band—balance is key!

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a treasure trove of tiles perfect for mixing and matching. Our expert team is here to help you find the ideal combinations to bring your vision to life. Swing by our Guildford store, and let’s get those creative juices flowing. Your dream home is just a tile away!

Balance Your Budget with Style

Tile Budget

Now that we’ve explored some creative ways to mix and match your tiles, let’s talk about keeping it stylish without breaking the bank. Choosing tiles for your home doesn’t have to be a budget-buster. Here’s some friendly advice on how to get the most bang for your buck:

Prioritise Where to Spend on Tiles

Invest in High-Impact Areas

Your feature walls, splashbacks, and entryways are like the red carpet of your home—they grab attention and set the scene. Spend a bit more on these high-impact areas to create stunning focal points. Think of it as investing in a statement necklace that instantly elevates your outfit. A little splurge here goes a long way!

Save on Larger, Less Focal Areas

For those bigger spaces that don’t need to grab all the attention, go for more budget-friendly options. This way, you can still maintain a stylish and cohesive look without blowing your budget. It’s all about smart spending and knowing where to splurge and where to save.

And guess what? At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we’ve got fantastic deals that make it easy to stay on budget:

Don’t let budget constraints dull your sparkle. Pop by our Perth store, and let’s find the perfect tiles that suit both your style and your wallet. Your dream home is just a tile away!

Visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre in Guildford

Ross’s Discount Home Centre

While selecting tiles online is super convenient, nothing beats seeing and feeling them in person. Here’s why a visit to Ross’s Discount Home Centre is a must:

See and Feel Your Options in Person (Trust Us, It’s Worth It)

Pictures might be worth a thousand words, but they can’t capture the true essence of a tile. The colour, texture, and overall vibe of a tile can look different in real life compared to online images. By visiting our showroom, you can touch, see, and even imagine how the tiles will look in your home.

Why Ross’s Discount Home Centre Rocks (And We Mean It!)

Our showroom is designed to give you a hands-on experience like no other. You can explore a variety of tile styles, colours, and textures, helping you make a more informed decision. Plus, our friendly staff (some of whom themselves were tilers for decades) will be on hand to answer any questions and offer personalised recommendations. We’re here to ensure you find the perfect match for your space and style.

So, come on down to Ross’s Discount Home Centre and let’s turn those tile dreams into a reality! Your dream home is just a tile away!

Conclusion

Alright, tile seekers, you’ve made it this far—give yourself a pat on the back! Choosing the perfect tiles for your home can seem like a daunting task, but remember, it’s all about balancing style, durability, and a bit of expert advice. We’ve walked you through the essentials, from understanding different materials to considering the right colour and texture for your space.

But here’s the kicker: nothing beats the hands-on experience of seeing and feeling your tile options in person. That’s why we invite you to visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Our Perth showroom at 57 James Street, Guildford, is a treasure trove of styles, colours, and textures, just waiting for you to explore. Plus, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring you find the perfect match for your home.

So, what are you waiting for? Come on down, and let’s make those tile dreams a reality together. Your dream home is just a tile away!