Bath Style: Ready to Try a Larger Tile?
Large-Format Rectangular Tiles GIve a Bathroom a Fresh New Look
Debbie Snider
March 4, 2011
Houzz Contributor.
One of my favorite size tiles to use on floors and walls is large-format rectangular 12"x24" tile. Think really big subway tile. It is an ideal size to try if you are considering going larger but want to ease into it. It may appear large in the tile showroom, but once installed, it looks smaller and is a nice, fresh alternative to the common 12"x12" or 18"x18" tile. 12"x24" has been around for many years, but only recently has it gained popularity with the general public. See how it's being used in bathroom design now:
Here are some beautiful honed slate wall tiles in muted blue grays with touches of rust. They are paired with matching tumbled mosaic for the tub face and surround.
Tip: Combining similar tile in different sizes adds great texture and interest while keeping a cohesive design.
Tip: Combining similar tile in different sizes adds great texture and interest while keeping a cohesive design.
Notice how the warm tone of the vanity is picked up in the tile of this transitional bath.
The tile does not go all the way up the ceiling allowing the walls to reflect the natural light streaming in from above.
Here in a khaki-and-white bath, glass tile is set in a straight pattern on the main shower wall and wainscot. The tub face has 12"x24” tile with a linear fabric-like design, in a khaki and cream color blend. A light version on the side walls coordinates with it all and breaks up the khaki.
A textured rectangular floor tile coordinates so perfectly with the glass wainscot/backsplash and blonde wood vanity. This is one of my all time favorite baths on Houzz.
A vintage style bath is done in traditional cararra marble and the large format of the tile adds a modern twist.
Here is an unusual rectangular tile which looks like woven grass cloth. It adds warmth and visual texture. This Asian inspired bath was created by Jennifer Pfaff of Artistic Tile and Stone in San Carlos, CA.
The other side of the shower. The straight lines are echoed in the decorative tile border and wall sconce.
What a serene bath. The tile is from Porcelanosa and comes in three sizes: 8 x 12, 12 x 23 and 12 x 35.
Large tiles require less grout lines so maintenance is easier. And if they are rectified, which means the edges have been machined to be straight and flat, they can be set with very tight, narrow grout joints.
Large tiles require less grout lines so maintenance is easier. And if they are rectified, which means the edges have been machined to be straight and flat, they can be set with very tight, narrow grout joints.
Large rectangular tile will work in traditional settings...
…And contemporary ones.
Would you try large-format tiles in your next project?
Get started with help from a tile expert
More: Straight From Spain: Amazing New Trends in Tile
Next: Browse more tile in design
Would you try large-format tiles in your next project?
Get started with help from a tile expert
More: Straight From Spain: Amazing New Trends in Tile
Next: Browse more tile in design
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Here are some blue wall tiles that are very suitable for use in the bathroom.