Tile Size Guide: How to Know What Tile Size to Use
Choosing the right tile size is crucial to the success of any home renovation. It affects not only the look of your space but also how you perceive its size and how easy it is to maintain. Whether choosing tiles for a bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor area, the right tile size can completely transform the results. This tile size guide will help you understand everything about selecting tile sizes in Australia—from standard tile dimensions to what works best in each application.
I’ve helped home renovators and property investors across Perth for years, and one thing I’ve learned is how much confidence people gain from knowing their options. Tiles come in various sizes, from intricate small tiles to large formats, and each has its own purpose. Precision plays a big part in tile installation and design choices, with millimetres (mm) metrics leading the way in Australian tile standards.
This guide will walk you through Australian design trends, share practical advice for picking tile dimensions, and outline how to choose tile sizes that suit your renovation plans perfectly. By understanding the impact of tile sizes on aesthetics, grout line appearance, and functionality, you’ll find it easier to create a finished look that balances style, practicality, and easy maintenance. Stick with me, and I’ll explain everything you need to know about Australian tile sizes!
Standard Tile Sizes in Australia
When planning a tile installation, understanding the standard tile sizes in Australia is essential. Tiles come in various sizes, each suited to specific applications, aesthetics, and functional requirements. The four main categories include small tiles, medium tiles, large-format tiles, and subway tiles. Each type brings unique benefits to your design, whether you’re tiling a bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor area.
Knowing the right size to use can affect your renovation’s overall success. It influences not only the look and feel of your space but also how practical and easy your tiles are to install and maintain.
Let’s start with small tile sizes.
Small Tile Sizes
Small tiles are some of the most versatile when it comes to detailed designs. Their compact dimensions make them ideal for intricate areas where precision and creativity shine. Common small tile sizes in Australia include:
These tiles are popular for feature walls, splashbacks, coffee station areas, and commercial spaces like cafes or boutiques. I often recommend the subway tile sizes for adding a focal point in kitchens or bathrooms, especially when paired with bold colours or unique patterns. They also perform brilliantly on island benches, where clean lines and detailed designs make an impact.
Small tiles are perfect for creating detailed tile design elements. They’re unbeatable if you’re looking to add a border or create a striking feature wall. Their smaller size allows for more precise placement, resulting in high-quality finishes.
Whether renovating a traditional kitchen with a classic subway tile pattern or refreshing your bathroom with a modern mosaic look, small format tiles can elevate the style without overwhelming the space. If you want refined and artistic results, small tile sizes are the way to go.
Medium Tile Sizes
Medium tiles are a popular choice for Western Australian homes, thanks to their balance between size and style. They offer versatility and practicality for a wide range of spaces.
Common sizes for medium tiles include:
These standard tile sizes are perfect for creating balanced and timeless designs.
What I love most about medium tiles is their versatility. They’re versatile tile sizes that work equally well for walls and floors. For instance, they can create a clean, balanced look in living areas without making the space feel empty. Meanwhile, in bathrooms or kitchens, their size ensures a design that’s not too busy but still provides plenty of visual interest.
One of the best features of medium tiles is how easy they are to work with. Their size means fewer grout lines than smaller tiles, which improves the overall finish and makes cleaning much simpler—something we all appreciate in high-traffic areas. To add a personalised touch, you can also experiment with different layouts, like a stacked or offset pattern.
If you’re after a practical yet stylish option for your walls or floors, medium tile sizes are hard to beat. They offer the perfect blend of balance, simplicity, and flexibility, making them a favourite choice for Australian homes.
Large Format Tile Sizes
Large format tiles are increasingly popular in Australian homes, especially for modern designs. They’re known for their sleek appearance and ability to make spaces feel more open.
Common large tile sizes include:
These big tile sizes are ideal for creating a clean, seamless look in contemporary interiors. With fewer grout lines, they make spaces feel larger and deliver that uncluttered aesthetic we all love.
The biggest advantage of large format tiles in Australia is how they enhance a room’s sense of space. If you’re working with an open-plan living area, these tiles can make it feel even more expansive. The reduced number of installation joints also contributes to a smoother, more refined finish. They’re perfect for anyone aiming for a modern tile design with a high-end, polished feel.
That said, large tiles do require some special considerations. It’s important to ensure that your subfloor is flat, as any unevenness can cause issues during installation. However, minor inconsistencies and imperfections can be corrected with a leveling agent. Careful cutting and professional handling are also key to achieving a precise result. When these factors are taken into account, the outcome is stunning.
If you’re considering options for living rooms, kitchens, or even outdoor entertaining spaces, large tiles fit right into the latest floor tile trends. Whether it’s a neutral palette or bold modern hues, minimal grout lines make the design cleaner and easier to maintain. Large format tiles are a fantastic choice if you’re after sophistication and a sense of openness.
Subway Tile Sizes
Subway tiles are a timeless choice for Australian homes, adding character to splashbacks, feature walls, and more. Their classic rectangular shape works beautifully in both modern and traditional spaces.
The most popular subway tile sizes in Australia:
- 75x300mm
- 76x152mm
- 100x100mm
- 100x200mm
- 100x300mm
What makes subway tiles stand out is their ability to suit various styles. For a contemporary look, you can opt for clean lines with neutral tones. If you’re after a more traditional feel, go for classic colours like white or cream. No matter the style, rectangular tiles like subway tiles bring elegance and versatility to any room.
When it comes to installation, laying patterns play a big role in the final look. A brick bond is a classic layout that adds depth to your design. For something bold, a herringbone pattern can create striking visual appeal. If you prefer a clean, minimalist look, a stacked pattern is one of the most popular tiled splashback ideas to employ. With so many subway tile patterns to choose from, you can create a unique and personalised design.
Subway tiles are not just stylish—they’re also practical. Their manageable size makes them easy to install and maintain. Whether updating your kitchen splashback or creating a standout feature wall, classic tile layouts with subway tiles are a foolproof way to refresh your home’s look.
Recommended Tile Sizes for Different Areas
Choosing the right tile size for each area of your home is essential. It’s about finding the perfect balance between functionality, maintenance, and design aesthetics. Every recommendation mentioned here is measured in millimetres to ensure accuracy and ease of planning. Whether you’re tiling a high-traffic living area, a compact bathroom, or even an outdoor space, the goal is to help you achieve a practical and visually pleasing result.
Floor Tile Size for Living Areas
Living areas see a lot of foot traffic, so your floor tiles need to be stylish and hard-wearing. The most popular floor tile sizes in Australia include 450x450mm tiles, 600x600mm tiles, and 1200x200mm timber look plank tiles. These sizes are popular because they offer durability while maintaining a clean, modern look. Larger options, like 600x600mm and tile floorboards, also mean fewer grout lines. This contributes to a seamless design that can make your space feel bigger and less cluttered.
Timber-look tiles are an excellent choice if you’re after a natural or rustic aesthetic. They replicate the warmth of real wood with all the practical benefits of tiles—scratch resistance, low maintenance, and water resistance. On the other hand, standard square tiles like 450x450mm or 600x600mm are versatile enough to fit any style, from minimalist to classic.
To get the best results, preparation is key. Ensure your underfloor surface is level and stable before laying larger tiles, as uneven subfloors can lead to cracking or movement. Another tip is to use consistent grout lines throughout the room. This enhances visual continuity and helps create an illusion of space.
With the right tile size and some planning, your living area can transform into a robust yet inviting space you’ll love for years.
Read our Floor Tile Buying Guide for additional advice.
Bathroom Tile Sizes
Bathrooms need tiles that combine style and practicality. With constant exposure to water, selecting the right sizes for bathroom floors, walls, and feature walls is crucial. The perfect tile size can make cleaning easier, improve safety, and elevate the overall aesthetic of your space.
Read our article on How to Choose Bathroom Tiles for advice on other factors besides size.
Bathroom Floor Tile Sizes
Floor tiles in the bathroom need to handle both form and function. They should be water-resistant, easy to maintain, and safe underfoot.
Popular bathroom floor tile sizes include 300x300mm, 400x400mm, and 600x600mm. Larger floor tile size, like 600x600mm, are ideal if you want a modern, spacious look—they come with fewer grout lines, which translates to less cleaning and a sleeker, less cluttered appearance.
If you’re considering larger tiles, opt for ones with a non-slip finish to reduce the risk of slips and trips. Smaller tiles, like 300x300mm, are often better for wet areas like shower floors, as they offer more grout lines for grip. When selecting the size of bathroom floor tiles, think about balancing safety with the desired aesthetic.
Our Bathroom Floor Tile Buyers Guide is also a great resource for choosing bathroom floor tiles.
Bathroom Wall Tile Sizes
Wall tiles in the bathroom serve both practical and decorative purposes. Larger tiles like 300x600mm and 600x600mm are great for covering whole walls, creating a sleek, seamless backdrop. With fewer grout lines, these options give your walls a clean and polished finish—perfect for modern bathroom designs. Plus, they’re easier to maintain, making them a smart, low-maintenance choice.
For a bold statement, smaller tiles like 150x300mm subway tiles are a top pick. Their size and classic rectangular shape allow for versatile layout patterns, including brick bond and herringbone. These “feature wall tiles” can bring a vibrant, designer touch to your bathroom.
When working with larger tiles like 300x600mm for walls, ensure your surface is smooth and level to avoid installation issues. Use smaller tiles, such as 150x300mm subway styles, to draw attention to specific areas, like behind your vanity or shower niche.
Read our guide, How to Choose Bathroom Feature Tiles, for more expert advice.
Shower Tile Sizes
Choosing the right tiles for your shower means balancing practicality and design. Showers face constant water exposure, and tiles must be water-resistant, slip-resistant, and easy to clean. One crucial decision is whether to use the same tile size for the shower walls and floors or choose different sizes to enhance functionality and style.
Shower Wall Tile Sizes
For shower walls, medium to large tiles, such as 300x600mm, are the most common choice in Australian bathrooms. These tile sizes align with standard bathroom wall tiles and are a practical option that delivers a seamless and modern appearance. One significant advantage of larger wall tiles is the reduction in grout lines. Fewer grout lines contribute to a clean, contemporary look and make your shower much easier to maintain. Less grout means less chance for mould, dirt and grime to build up, so cleaning becomes quicker and hassle-free.
While smaller options like mosaic tiles can be beautiful for feature walls or niches, most homeowners prefer larger tiles for day-to-day practicality. Beyond aesthetics, these larger tiles ensure excellent water resistance when properly installed, giving you peace of mind over the long term.
Shower Floor Tile Sizes
When tiling shower floors, safety takes the spotlight. Recommended tile sizes include 300x300mm or 400x400mm. These slightly larger tiles provide better coverage but still ensure sufficient grout lines, which help with grip, making them an essential element of a non-slip shower design.
To enhance safety, consider tiles with textured finishes, such as matte or ‘SmoothGrip,’ a new feature of many of our tiles. These non-slip shower floor tiles offer extra resistance in wet conditions, reducing the risk of slipping. Plus, they’re easy to maintain, which makes them a practical choice for busy households. Choose durable shower tiles that can withstand frequent use and the demands of a wet environment.
Kitchen Tile Sizes
The kitchen is the heart of the home—and often one of the busiest rooms to maintain. That’s why choosing the right tile size is crucial. Kitchen tiles serve a dual purpose. On one hand, they protect surfaces from constant splashes, heat, and grease; conversely, they significantly boost the space’s visual appeal. When selecting kitchen tiles, it’s important to consider the specific needs of both splashbacks and flooring and the best tile sizes to suit each area.
Our expert guide on How to Choose Kitchen Tiles will also be a great resource.
Splashback Tile Size
Splashbacks are your kitchen’s first line of defence against cooking mess. Tiles in this area need to be heat resistant, easy to clean, and perfectly suited for high-use conditions. Popular kitchen splashback tile sizes include 100x100mm and 100x200mm, both of which are versatile for traditional or modern designs. If you want something more dynamic, mosaic patterns featuring smaller tiles like 25x25mm or 50x50mm are a fantastic option.
Subway tiles for kitchen splashbacks are another timeless choice, offering a simple yet elegant look that suits most kitchens. Their rectangular shape and compact sizes make them functional and easier to clean while maintaining that charming tiled appearance. No matter your style preference, splashback tiles are as much about practicality as design.
Read our Kitchen Splashback Tile Guide for more information.
Kitchen Floor Tile Sizes
Kitchen floors endure heavy foot traffic and the occasional dropped pot or splattered sauce, so durability is non-negotiable. Common kitchen floor tile sizes in Australia include 300x300mm, 400x400mm, or 600x600mm. These sizes cater to different design preferences while offering the toughness needed for this high-use area.
Larger tiles, such as 600x600mm, are a smart choice if you’re after lower maintenance and a sleek appearance. Fewer grout lines mean the floors are easier to keep clean and appear seamless and spacious—ideal for busy households. Smaller formats like 300x300mm or 400x400mm remain practical for traditional kitchens, and they also ensure greater grip if you incorporate textured finishes or patterns.
Read our post, Trending Kitchen Floor Tile Ideas, to ensure your chosen tile is on trend.
Outdoor Tile Sizes for Patios, Paths, Entertaining Areas
Outdoor areas like patios, paths, and entertaining spaces need tiles to tackle Australia’s diverse weather conditions while handling heavy foot traffic. Selecting the right tiles means prioritising durability, slip resistance, and easy maintenance, ensuring your outdoor spaces stay both safe and stylish for years to come.
For outdoor applications, larger tile sizes are the go-to choice. Standard sizes like 600x600mm and 800x800mm are popular as they balance functionality with a modern aesthetic. If you’re designing an expansive area, such as a patio or an alfresco dining space, oversized tiles like 1200x600mm can make the space more open and cohesive. These outdoor tile sizes are practical and help reduce the number of grout lines, which simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Don’t miss our guide on What to Look for When Shopping for Outdoor Tiles for more expert advice.
Pairing Wall and Floor Tile Sizes
Pairing the right wall and floor tile sizes can transform a room, creating a design that feels intentional, stylish, and harmonious. By focusing on balance, proportion, and how tiles work together, you can achieve a seamless look from floor to wall.
Balance & Proportion
Striking the right balance between wall and floor tiles is all about proportion. Larger floor tiles, such as 600x600mm or 800x800mm, provide a stable and expansive base for any space. These sizes are perfect for creating a clean, modern foundation. Pair them with smaller wall tiles, like 100x100mm or 150x150mm, to add texture and detail that doesn’t overwhelm the space. This approach is particularly effective in bathrooms and kitchens, where tiled walls provide practicality and aesthetic interest.
For those leaning towards a classic look, subway tiles, like 150x300mm, are popular for walls. Choose complementary floor tiles in sizes such as 300x300mm or 600x600mm to keep the design cohesive. Using these combinations avoids any visual conflicts while allowing each tile to bring its own character to the space.
Contrast vs. Continuity
When pairing wall and floor tiles, you can amplify continuity or create a bold contrast—it depends on your design vision.
For a sleek, modern look, continuity is key. Align wall and floor tile grout lines seamlessly to create a unified finish. This approach works brilliantly in minimalist spaces, where simplicity and symmetry are the main features. Combining 600x600mm floor tiles and matching vertically aligned subway tiles (150x300mm) creates a cohesive and polished design.
On the other hand, contrast delivers an eye-catching and dynamic effect, perfect for spaces that are designed to make a statement. For example, pairing patterned feature wall tiles (200x200mm) with large format floor tiles like 600x600mm can create a stunning focal point. The detailed patterns on the wall catch the eye, while the larger tiles on the floor provide balance without competing for attention.
Visual Examples
Take cues from successful Australian projects where tile pairings achieve incredible results. For instance, a coastal-inspired kitchen might use 100x300mm subway tiles for the splashback and large 600x600mm stone-look porcelain tiles for the floor. This pairing creates tile-size harmony and complements the natural, airy tones of a beachside aesthetic.
Another example is a modern ensuite with sleek 600x600mm matte floor tiles and zellige wall tiles (100x100mm) in the shower recess. This layout balances contrast and continuity, making the shower area stand out while maintaining overall design cohesion.
Final Thoughts
Creating a balanced tile layout isn’t just about size—it’s about how the tiles work together to enhance the space. Whether you’re after complementary tile sizes for subtle harmony or a bolder approach that contrasts textures and formats, careful planning will take your design to the next level. With thoughtful selection and a vision for alignment, your walls and floors will look perfectly in tune, creating a stylish, functional room that’s uniquely yours.
Don’t miss our guide on How to Match Tiles in the Bathroom to elevate your space.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tile Size
Selecting the right tile size is more than just a design decision—it’s about finding the perfect balance between practicality, aesthetics, and the needs of your specific space. For Western Australian homes, where versatility is key, understanding these factors ensures your choice ticks all the boxes.
Room Size & Layout
The size and layout of a room are key drivers when it comes to picking tile dimensions. Larger tiles, like 600x600mm or even 800x800mm, can create the illusion of more space in open or expansive areas. They reduce grout lines, providing a seamless, open-floor look that works beautifully in modern living rooms or expansive kitchens.
On the other hand, smaller spaces, such as ensuites or laundry rooms, can benefit from smaller tiles. Options like 100x100mm offer more detail and are easier to fit into tight areas without sacrificing design integrity. This principle applies to tiled spaces like shower alcoves/recesses or splashbacks, where small tiles can create appealing patterns without feeling overwhelming.
Traffic & Usage
Tile durability is essential in high-traffic or high-use areas like kitchens, entryways, and hallways. Larger tiles excel here, as their reduced grout lines require less upkeep and cleaning. Their robust surfaces can handle the wear and tear of busy households, making them a practical and stylish choice for these zones.
However, for detailed areas such as kitchen splashbacks or decorative borders, smaller tiles or mosaics provide more flexibility and visual interest. These options work well where there’s less foot traffic and a focus on intricate design is preferred. Ensuring that the tile size corresponds with its purpose is key to long-term satisfaction.
Installation Requirements
Bigger tiles may seem like an easier option due to fewer grout lines, but they bring their challenges. The weight of large tiles can make installation more expensive, as they are more difficult for tilers to manage. Straight-edge cuts and uniform grout spacing also require precision, adding to the installation complexities. To achieve professional results, it’s essential to consider these key tile installation factors.
Smaller tiles may be easier to cut, but they can highlight imperfections on uneven surfaces and take longer to install. However, they offer flexibility in tight or irregularly shaped areas, giving them an edge in more challenging layouts. Whether you opt for smaller or larger tiles, set aside a budget for skilled labour or seek expert advice before tackling complex installations.
Design Aesthetics
The impact of tile size on the overall design shouldn’t be underestimated. Larger tiles lend themselves to modern, minimalistic interiors where clean lines and an open feel are paramount. Paired with matching grout, they create an unbroken visual flow that works particularly well in larger rooms or open-plan homes.
Smaller tiles, such as mosaics and subway tiles, bring texture and depth to a space. Their detailed patterns and laying versatility can anchor a focal area, such as a splashback or feature wall, adding personality and charm. Including contrasting textures or formats, like pairing small wall tiles with large-format floor tiles, can further enhance the design impact of the tile size while maintaining visual balance.
Discover how to choose the perfect grout colour to complement your tile design.
Budget & Availability
Cost considerations often play a big role in tile selection. Larger tiles tend to cost more upfront due to their size and higher shipping expenses, but they can save on installation costs by reducing labour time and grout usage. While generally more expensive, smaller tiles might also involve higher installation fees due to the additional time and effort required for detail work. Exploring budget tiles like those available at Ross’s Discount Home Centre will help balance expense, value, and design perfectly.
Additionally, availability matters. Certain tile sizes are more readily stocked than others, and custom orders can take extra time and money. Familiarise yourself with standard tile sizes to streamline your project and avoid unexpected delays.
Final Thoughts
By examining the factors that influence the choice of tile size, you can pinpoint the dimensions that align with your space’s layout, design vision, and practical needs. Whether you’re drawn to large-format tiles for their seamless appeal or smaller tiles for their intricate detail, careful consideration ensures both form and function. Choosing the right size isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that’s as beautiful as it is comfortable to live in.
Tips for Selecting the Perfect Tile Size
Selecting the right tile size can make all the difference in turning your vision into reality. While aesthetics plays a big role, getting your measurements, testing, and planning will ensure success.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect tile size for your space.
Accurate Measurements
Start with precise measurements. Grab a tape measure or, for even more accuracy, a laser level to measure your space in millimetres (mm). Write down the length and width of the area you intend to tile and calculate the total square metre coverage. Don’t forget to account for grout lines—they might seem small, but in large spaces, they add up. Always include a 10–15% buffer for wastage due to cutting or future repairs. This step is crucial and forms the basis of any tile measurement guide.
If you’re buying your tiles from us, we make this easy by adding the option of a 10% wastage allowance to your order to ensure you’re never left short come installation time.
Test Samples
Nothing beats seeing tiles in your actual space. Head into our store, purchase sample tiles, and test them at home. Lay the tiles on your wall or floor to assess how the size works with the room’s dimensions. Want to go big with 600x600mm tiles? Lay down a few and check whether they scale well without overwhelming the room. Prefer a classic look like 200x200mm feature floor tiles? Position them and examine how the grout spacing impacts the overall design. Using sample testing tiles helps you visualise the final outcome before making any commitments.
Expert Consultation
Sometimes, it’s hard to make decisions on your own. Visiting local Australian tile suppliers, like Ross’s Discount Home Centre, can provide expert insight. Whether you’re unsure whether subway tiles will pair well with your chosen floor tiles or if large-format tiles will visually shrink your room, professionals can address your concerns.
Our experienced staff can help you with practical expert tiling advice tailored to your unique needs, saving you time and money.
Layout Planning
If you’re tacking tiling yourself, a detailed plan can reveal how your chosen tiles will transform your space. Use design software or even simple hand sketches to map out your tile layout. Consider how the tiles align with important features, like doorways, windows, or kitchen cabinets. A good tile layout avoids awkward cuts or misplaced patterns. Pay attention to grout alignment as well—it’s a small detail that greatly impacts a room’s overall look and flow.
Also read:
- How To Lay Floor Tiles in 5 Easy Steps
- How to Lay Ceramic Floor Tiles Over Floorboards
- How to Tile a Kitchen Splashback
- How to Install Bathroom Tiles
Balance Functionality & Aesthetics
There’s a sweet spot between beauty and practicality. Larger tiles, like 600x600mm, are easier to clean thanks to fewer grout lines, providing a clean and modern aesthetic. On the other hand, smaller tiles offer that intricate charm and work well in feature areas where detail matters most. Think about where the tiles will be installed. A high-traffic kitchen might demand something larger, robust and low-maintenance, while bathroom walls could handle a smaller, more decorative choice.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect tile size doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these tile selection tips, you’ll ensure the tiles you choose look great and meet practical needs like maintenance and durability. With careful measurements, thorough trial and error, and planning, the tile size you pick will fit seamlessly into your design and lifestyle—making every decision worth it.
