Just for reference, we had a similar situation with 18" tiles and used the center of the tile as the center line, with small tiles on either end. I am happy with the way it turned out - it was just our personal preference - we liked the 3 big rows instead of 2. There are pics on this thread below if you want to get an idea of what it might look like. . . . Here is a link that might be useful: link to my other thread with pics

Birchpoint - Larger tile was from; http://www.flooranddecoroutlets.com/calacatta-porcelain-tile-12in-x-24in.html This web picture looks a lot more beige than my tiles which are more white. You can order a sample. The Floor tile is from Arizona tile: http://www.arizonatile.com/Assets/ProductImages/M/Misingi_Suber_464x464.jpg I think the combination of the taupe floor tile and the porcelain marble tile is the most stunning part of the bathroom. Though some might argue that we should have used mosaic in the bottom of the shower floor but I chose "form over function" for this. With the grab bars which I definitely use because I don't have good balance, I haven't fallen. There is a spray you can purchase on Amazon for tile or other possibly slippery surfaces that can be used if you want to be sure it is less slippery. My tile guy recommended it if i needed more traction. Maybe when I get a bit older, I will apply it for more safety. The size of the shower is one of the best parts of the remodel. 5ft X 5ft is the official size that allows one to say their shower fits the ADA standard. We didn't size ours for that reason but it turns out, it really is the perfect size for us. I love how when you are showering, all sides can be reached without moving too far yet there is still a nice feeling of spaciousness. Some of the pictures I posted in another thread may give you a better idea of the bathroom. Here Also, as I have mentioned in several other threads on GW, not having a shower door has turned out to be so wonderful and enhances the shower experience greatly. We had our contractor build the walls so we could add a shower door if we decided we wanted one but as it turns out, that is the VERY LAST THING we would ever want. To anyone who is in doubt, I say "try it, you will probably like it". Here is a link that might be useful: Hall bath

Hi Monica, Thanks for your feedback. Right, recirc hot water results in instant hot water. There are two ways to do it: (1) add a crossover device to the furthest fixture or (2) run a return line from the furthest device back to a pump at the water heater. I had the walls open, so I did #2 (pump: Grundfos). Though it saves on water, the cost of equipment and installation and additional energy usage makes the main benefit convenience rather than cost savings. I would not tile without a laser -- they are not expensive and I like perfection. I use the Craftsman 2-beam, self-leveling laser level, $85 at Sears. For lasering walls, I clamp the laser base to a ZipWall pole and move the laser up and down the pole, as needed -- a good enough system for occasional use. For large format tile, be sure your surface is absolutely f-l-a-t. Good luck with your project!

I think it would be fine. I'm planning to use 12x24" tiles (I think) in mine. Once you have grout, you have grout though so I wouldn't be to worried. I hate the swanstone type product, it just looks like fake tile to me and you still have to caulk it... What about doing a nice cast iron piece for the bottom (where most mold/mildew grows) then tiled walls?