Americo Ricky Migliore Guide to Selecting Oversized Tiles for Small Spaces

Introduction

When it comes to designing small spaces, selecting the right tiles can make a world of difference. Many people shy away from oversized tiles in smaller rooms, fearing that they will overwhelm the space. However, Americo Ricky Migliore, a New York-based expert in tile and stone installation, believes that oversized tiles can actually enhance a small space when used correctly.

In this guide, we will explore how oversized tiles can be an effective design choice for small rooms, offering practical tips and advice on selecting the best tiles for your space.

Understanding the Impact of Oversized Tiles in Small Spaces

At first glance, oversized tiles may seem counterintuitive for smaller rooms, but when chosen and placed thoughtfully, they can help create a more open, seamless look. The key to using oversized tiles in small spaces is understanding their ability to visually expand the area by reducing the number of grout lines and creating a sense of continuity.

This smooth, uninterrupted surface tricks the eye into perceiving the room as larger and more cohesive.

Americo explains that while smaller tiles can be effective in certain designs, oversized tiles can be particularly useful in creating a bold, modern aesthetic while still maintaining a sense of space and openness. By using large tiles, you reduce visual fragmentation, which can make a room feel cramped and cluttered.

Choosing the Right Size of Tile

The size of the tile is crucial when designing small spaces. Oversized tiles typically refer to tiles that are larger than the standard size, such as 12x24 inches, 18x18 inches, or even 24x24 inches or larger.

Americo advises against using tiles that are too large for a space, as they can make the room feel unbalanced or even smaller than it actually is. The general rule is to choose tiles that are at least one-third of the room’s longest dimension.

For example, in a small bathroom or kitchen, you might opt for tiles that measure 12x24 inches to create a sleek, spacious look. In a more compact area, such as a small entryway or hallway, Americo recommends avoiding excessively large tiles, as they might overwhelm the space.

Instead, tiles that are around 18x18 inches can be an ideal compromise between large and small, offering both style and functionality.

The Benefits of Using Oversized Tiles

Oversized tiles offer several benefits when used in small spaces. Americo highlights the following advantages:

Fewer Grout Lines: One of the primary benefits of oversized tiles is the reduction in the number of grout lines. Fewer grout lines create a more continuous surface, enhancing the sense of space and making a room feel larger and less cluttered.

Modern and Sleek Aesthetic: Oversized tiles lend a contemporary, high-end look to any room. Their clean lines and smooth surface give a room a polished, upscale appearance. The larger format allows for more creative layouts, resulting in a custom, unique design.

Easier to Clean: Larger tiles generally have fewer grout lines, making them easier to clean and maintain. This is particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Fewer grout lines also reduce the chances of dirt or stains accumulating in the crevices.

Seamless Flow: Using oversized tiles in a room creates a seamless transition between walls and floors, or between different spaces. When laid correctly, they can visually unify the space, making it feel more cohesive. This continuity gives a room a more open, expansive feel.

Selecting the Right Materials for Oversized Tiles

Americo advises that the material you choose for oversized tiles plays a major role in how they will look and feel in your space. Popular materials for oversized tiles include ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Each material offers its own set of advantages:

Ceramic and Porcelain: These are among the most common materials for oversized tiles. Both are durable, easy to clean, and come in a variety of finishes, from matte to glossy. Porcelain, in particular, is highly resistant to moisture, making it an ideal choice for small bathrooms and kitchens.

Natural Stone: Natural stone tiles such as granite, marble, and slate offer a luxurious, timeless appeal. While they may require more maintenance than ceramic or porcelain, they can add unique character and texture to small spaces. Americo recommends natural stone for areas where a sophisticated, organic look is desired.

Glass and Metal Tiles: These materials can also be used for oversized tiles to create a more distinctive, modern appearance. Glass tiles are great for adding light and reflection, while metal tiles can introduce an industrial or urban touch.

Americo emphasizes the importance of selecting a material that complements the overall design of the room and serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. For small spaces, lighter colors and finishes tend to work best, as they help to brighten the room and reflect more light.

Placement and Layout Considerations

While oversized tiles can be visually stunning, their placement is essential to ensure the best results in small spaces. Americo offers a few layout tips for achieving the most effective look:

Diagonal Layout: One of the most popular and effective ways to lay oversized tiles in a small room is to place them diagonally. This technique creates the illusion of more space by drawing the eye outward, giving the room a sense of depth. Diagonal patterns also reduce the number of cuts needed when laying tiles, making installation easier.

Grid or Straight Lay: If you prefer a more traditional or minimalist look, a grid or straight lay pattern can also be effective with oversized tiles. In smaller rooms, avoid too many breaks or lines in the layout, as this can make the room feel boxed in. A clean, uniform grid pattern will create a sleek, modern look.

Large Format Tiles on the Floor and Walls: Another way to incorporate oversized tiles in small spaces is by extending them from the floor to the walls, especially in bathrooms or kitchens.

This creates a seamless transition from the floor to the vertical surface, giving the illusion of more space. Using the same large format tile for both floor and wall areas helps maintain a cohesive, open feel.

Using Accent Tiles: If you're concerned about using oversized tiles throughout an entire room, consider incorporating accent tiles. These smaller tiles can be used in areas such as backsplashes or borders to create visual interest while maintaining the streamlined effect of large tiles.

Color and Finish Considerations

The color and finish of your oversized tiles play an important role in how they affect the perception of space. Americo advises that lighter-colored tiles work best in small spaces, as they reflect light and make the room feel brighter and more open. Light hues like white, beige, and soft gray create a clean, airy feel.

When choosing the finish of your oversized tiles, consider how the room will be used. Glossy finishes can enhance the brightness of the room, but they may show water spots or dirt more easily, especially in high-traffic areas. Matte finishes are ideal for high-traffic spaces as they are more forgiving and tend to hide smudges and fingerprints.

Conclusion

Americo Ricky Migliore firmly believes that oversized tiles, when chosen and installed properly, can transform a small space into a more open, stylish, and functional area.

By selecting the right tile size, material, and layout, and considering factors like color and finish, homeowners can successfully incorporate oversized tiles into their design. Whether you're renovating a small kitchen, bathroom, or living area, following Americo’s tips for oversized tiles will help you create a modern, cohesive look that maximizes the potential of your space.