Top 10 Small Bathroom Tiling Ideas to Maximise Your Space & Style
If you’ve ever felt that your bathroom is cramped, cluttered, or just lacking that “WOW” factor, you’re not alone.
Many Sydney homeowners struggle to make the most of their compact bathrooms while maintaining style and functionality.
The good news?
The right choice of tiles can transform your space, making it look bigger, brighter, and more luxurious.
From clever colour schemes to creative layouts, choosing the right tiles is crucial in enhancing the perception of space. The right selection can reflect light, create depth, and introduce a touch of elegance—all without knocking down walls!
In this article, we’ll explore 10 of the best small bathroom tiling ideas that are perfect for Sydney homes. Whether you want a minimalist modern look, a timeless classic style, or a bold statement design, we’ve got inspiration to suit every taste.
|
10 Stunning Small Bathroom Tiling Ideas to Elevate Your Space
#1 – Large Format Tiles – Less Grout, More Space
Large-format tiles are a game changer for small bathrooms. They create the illusion of a bigger space by reducing the number of grout lines, which can otherwise make a room feel busy and confined.
Using light-coloured, glossy large tiles enhances this effect by reflecting light and making the bathroom feel airy. Popular choices include marble-look porcelain, soft neutral tones, or large subway tiles.
Benefits:
- Reduces visual clutter, making the space appear larger
- Fewer grout lines mean easier cleaning and maintenance
- Creates a sleek, contemporary look
RECOMMENDED: How to Choose Bathroom Tiles
#2 – Light-Coloured Tiles – Brighten and Expand Your Space
Lighter shades like white, beige, light grey, or pastels can make small bathrooms feel more open. These colours reflect natural and artificial light, preventing the room from feeling closed in.
To add depth without overwhelming the space, consider a mix of matte and glossy tiles or subtle textures like marble veining or soft geometric prints.
Benefits:
- Maximises natural and artificial light
- Creates an airy, open feel
- Pairs well with any design style
#3 – Vertical Stacking – Heighten the Room
Arranging rectangular tiles in a vertical stack draws the eye upward, making your bathroom feel taller. This is particularly useful for Sydney apartments or terrace homes where ceilings can be low.
To enhance the effect, opt for floor-to-ceiling tiling in the shower or along a feature wall. Glossy finishes or soft-coloured tiles will further amplify the sense of space.
Benefits:
- Makes ceilings appear higher
- Creates a modern, streamlined aesthetic
- Works well with subway or rectangular tiles
#4 – Glossy Tiles – Reflecting Light for an Open Feel
Glossy tiles are a fantastic way to bounce light around a small bathroom, making it feel larger and brighter. They are especially effective when combined with large mirrors and strategic lighting.
White, light grey and pastel hues work best. Just be mindful of slip resistance—use matte or textured tiles for floors while keeping glossy ones for walls.
Benefits:
- Enhances brightness, making the space feel bigger
- Adds a polished, luxurious touch
- Easy to clean and maintain
#5 – Diagonal Tile Layout – A Clever Illusion of Space
Laying tiles diagonally tricks the eye into perceiving a wider and more spacious bathroom. The pattern leads the gaze outward, breaking up harsh lines that might make a space feel cramped.
This technique works particularly well with square tiles, whether in a solid colour or subtle patterns like stone or marble veining.
Benefits:
- Visually expands the floor or walls
- Creates a unique, stylish aesthetic
- Works with both classic and modern designs
#6 – Penny Round or Mosaic Tiles – A Stylish Feature
Penny round and mosaic tiles add personality to small bathrooms without overwhelming the space. These small-scale tiles create texture and visual interest, especially when used for shower niches, splashbacks, or statement walls.
For a cohesive yet bold look, stick to a monochromatic colour palette with subtle contrasts. If you love a touch of glamour, metallic or pearlescent finishes can add a luxe feel.
Benefits:
- Adds character and charm
- Works well for accent areas without overpowering the room
- Provides extra grip when used for flooring
#7 – Herringbone or Chevron Pattern – Timeless Elegance
Herringbone and chevron patterns draw the eye along the length of the tiles, helping to elongate the bathroom. This pattern is especially effective in narrow Sydney bathrooms, making them appear wider.
White, soft greys or pastel-coloured tiles keep the look subtle and refined, while bolder tones can create a striking feature.
Benefits:
- Enhances the perception of space
- Adds sophistication and visual appeal
- Works for both modern and classic interiors
#8 – Half-Tiled Walls – Balance and Contrast
Adding tiles only to the bottom half of the walls while keeping the upper half painted can create a beautiful contrast without overwhelming the space. It’s a great way to blend textures and colours while keeping the bathroom light and airy.
For a modern touch, try soft neutrals like beige or sage green paired with crisp white paint. For a more classic look, go for white subway tiles with a bold-coloured top wall.
Benefits:
- Reduces costs while maintaining style
- Balances texture and colour
- Allows for easy repainting or style changes
#9 – Marble-Look Tiles – Luxury Without the Price Tag
Natural marble can be expensive and high-maintenance, but marble-look porcelain tiles offer the same elegance at a fraction of the cost. These tiles bring in a sense of luxury without making the space feel too busy, especially in white or light grey tones.
Pair them with minimalist fixtures and subtle metallic accents for a high-end, spa-like feel.
Benefits:
- Adds a touch of luxury
- Easier to maintain than real marble
- Works in both contemporary and classic designs
#10 – Terrazzo Tiles – A Trendy Statement with Timeless Appeal
Terrazzo tiles have made a comeback, and they are perfect for small bathrooms wanting a unique yet elegant look. Their speckled patterns provide texture and depth while keeping the space feeling fresh and open.
Opt for lighter terrazzo tones to maintain a spacious look or go bold with darker, dramatic styles for a striking feature wall.
Benefits:
- Offers a stylish, modern aesthetic
- Available in a variety of colour palettes
- Durable and easy to maintain
How to Choose the Best Small Bathroom Tiles – Key Factors to Consider
To help you navigate the selection process, we’ve outlined the most important factors to consider when choosing tiles for your Sydney bathroom.
Tile Size – Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Tile size plays a major role in how spacious your bathroom feels. While large-format tiles can make a room appear bigger by reducing grout lines, they may not always be the best choice for very small or oddly shaped bathrooms.
If your space has a lot of nooks and crannies, oversized tiles may require excessive cutting, which can disrupt the flow of the design.
On the other hand, small-format tiles, like mosaics or penny rounds, can work beautifully as accents, adding texture and visual interest.
The key is to strike a balance—consider using large tiles on walls and medium-sized tiles on floors to maintain a sense of proportion.
Tile Colour – Light or Dark?
Colour is one of the most effective ways to influence how spacious your bathroom feels. Lighter shades such as white, beige, and soft greys reflect more light, making the space feel open and airy.
Glossy light-coloured tiles further enhance this effect by bouncing light around the room. Darker tiles, while stylish and dramatic, can make a small bathroom feel enclosed if used excessively.
However, they can work well as feature tiles or when balanced with lighter shades.
If you love dark tiles, consider using them on the floor while keeping walls light for a sophisticated yet spacious look.
Tile Finish – Glossy vs. Matte
The finish of a tile affects both its appearance and functionality. Glossy tiles reflect light, creating a sense of openness and brightness—perfect for walls and feature areas. They are also easy to clean, making them a practical choice for splash zones.
Matte tiles, on the other hand, offer a more subtle, contemporary look and are excellent for flooring since they provide better slip resistance.
If you want the best of both worlds, consider using matte tiles on the floor for safety and glossy tiles on walls for brightness.
Tile Pattern and Layout – Enhancing the Perception of Space
The way tiles are arranged can significantly impact the overall look of your bathroom. Vertical stacking, for example, can make a ceiling appear higher, while a herringbone or chevron pattern can create a sense of movement and elongation.
Diagonal tile layouts are another clever trick, making floors seem wider than they actually are. For small bathrooms, simplicity is key.
Avoid overly intricate patterns that can make the space feel busy. Instead, opt for a layout that enhances the room’s natural dimensions, such as stacked subway tiles, large horizontal planks, or continuous floor tiles that extend into the shower area.
Grout Colour – A Small Detail That Makes a Big Difference
Grout may seem like an afterthought, but its colour and thickness can impact how spacious your bathroom feels. Matching the grout colour with your tiles creates a seamless, uniform look, making the space feel larger.
For example, white grout with white tiles eliminates harsh lines, enhancing openness.
Conversely, contrasting grout (such as black grout with white tiles) highlights individual tiles, which can create a busier look.
While this can be stylish, it’s best used in moderation for accent walls or splashbacks rather than throughout the entire bathroom.
Slip Resistance – Safety First, Style Second
Bathrooms can be slippery, especially when wet, so choosing tiles with the right slip resistance is essential—especially for the floor. Porcelain and ceramic tiles with a matte or textured finish provide better grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
For added safety, consider smaller tiles with more grout lines, as the extra texture improves traction. If you love glossy tiles, use them for walls and stick to slip-resistant options for flooring to maintain both safety and style.
Water and Stain Resistance – Choosing the Right Material
Since bathrooms are exposed to constant moisture, selecting water-resistant tiles is crucial. Porcelain and glazed ceramic tiles are the best choices as they are non-porous, preventing water absorption and stains.
Natural stone tiles, while beautiful, require regular sealing to protect against water damage and discolouration.
For easy maintenance, opt for porcelain tiles with a high water-resistance rating, especially in areas prone to splashes, such as the shower. If you’re set on stone tiles, be prepared for periodic sealing to keep them looking pristine.
Budget – Finding the Right Balance Between Cost and Quality
Tile prices can vary significantly based on material, size, and finish. While high-end natural stone and designer tiles add luxury, they can be costly and require more maintenance.
Fortunately, porcelain and ceramic tiles offer a more budget-friendly alternative while mimicking the look of premium materials like marble or terrazzo.
When planning your budget, consider not just the tile cost but also installation, sealing (if needed), and long-term maintenance.
Sometimes, investing a little more in durable, high-quality tiles can save money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Maintenance – Keeping Your Bathroom Looking Fresh
Some tiles require more upkeep than others. For low-maintenance bathrooms, choose stain-resistant, easy-to-clean materials like porcelain and glazed ceramic.
These tiles resist mould, mildew, and grime, making them perfect for busy households.
Natural stone tiles, while elegant, need regular sealing and careful cleaning to prevent water damage. If you love the stone look but not the maintenance, opt for stone-look porcelain tiles instead.
Climate Considerations – Adapting to Sydney’s Conditions
Sydney’s climate, with its humidity and temperature fluctuations, can impact tile performance over time. Porcelain tiles are a great choice for withstanding these conditions, as they are moisture-resistant and durable.
If your bathroom has poor ventilation, avoid highly porous materials like limestone, which can absorb moisture and lead to mould growth. Instead, go for tiles that are resistant to humidity and easy to maintain.
Transform Your Small Bathroom with the Perfect Tiles
Key Takeaways:
- Large-format tiles reduce grout lines and create a seamless, spacious feel.
- Light-coloured tiles reflect more light, making small bathrooms appear bigger.
- Vertical stacking and herringbone patterns can enhance height and depth.
- Glossy finishes brighten up the space, while matte tiles offer a better grip for floors.
- Choosing the right grout colour can either create a seamless look or add contrast.
- Slip-resistant and water-resistant materials are essential for safety and durability.
- Budget wisely—investing in high-quality, low-maintenance tiles can save money over time.
Every bathroom is unique, and the best tile choices depend on your space, personal style, and practical needs. Before making a final decision, consider consulting with a tiling expert to ensure you get the best results for your Sydney home.
With the right tiles, even the smallest bathroom can feel open, stylish, and functional.
Enhance Your Bathroom with NHK Tiling – Sydney’s Tiling Experts
At NHK Tiling, we understand that choosing the right tiles for a small bathroom can be overwhelming.
With years of experience and a reputation for excellence, we’ve helped countless Sydney homeowners transform their bathrooms with stylish, high-quality solutions.
Our expert team ensures precision in every detail, helping you avoid costly mistakes while achieving the perfect look for your space.
Whether you need professional advice, a custom design, or expert installation, NHK Tiling is here to bring your vision to life.
Contact us today on 0402 462 570 or claim your FREE quote online to save time and money.