Choosing tile isn’t just about color or material—it’s also about scale, proportion, and impact. The right tile size and shape can visually expand a room, draw attention to key features, and improve how a space functions day to day. Whether you’re upgrading a bathroom floor or designing a bold backsplash, understanding your options helps you make a confident choice. This quick guide breaks down the most popular tile sizes and trending shapes by room to help you find the best fit for your home in Waco and the surrounding areas.
Popular Tile Sizes by Room
Bathroom Floors:
Tile size makes a big difference in smaller rooms like bathrooms. These sizes are top picks for style and function:
- 12” x 24” – A sleek, large-format option that reduces grout lines and feels modern
- 6” x 24” – Great for wood-look planks, especially in rustic or spa-inspired spaces
- Mosaic (1”–2”) – Ideal for shower floors due to added grip and easier slope for drainage
Kitchen Floors:
Kitchens need tile that holds up to traffic but still looks clean and polished. These sizes offer versatility and visual appeal:
- 12” x 12” – Timeless and budget-friendly, easy to work into any design
- 18” x 18” – Creates a sense of openness in smaller kitchens
- 6” x 36” – Long, narrow wood-look tiles are trending for warmth with durability
Backsplashes:
Smaller tiles or sheets add visual interest behind sinks and ranges, helping tie your design together.
- 3” x 6” – Classic subway tile that never goes out of style
- 4” x 12” – A modern take on the subway look with cleaner lines
- Mosaic sheets (1”–2”) – Available in hex, penny round, or mini squares for creative layouts
Popular Tile Shapes & Patterns
Tile Shapes:
Beyond size, the shape of your tile sets the tone for your entire design. H&R Carpet carries ceramic, porcelain, metal, and glass tile in today’s most sought-after shapes:
- Subway – Simple and timeless
- Hexagon – Adds texture and works well on floors or walls
- Penny Round – Playful, especially for backsplashes or accent zones
- Square – Classic and great for checkerboard or grid layouts
- Arabesque – Decorative and ideal for vintage or global styles
- Plank – Mimics hardwood and enhances length in narrow rooms
Installation Patterns:
How your tile is laid can change the entire look of a space:
- Herringbone – Eye-catching for backsplashes or entryway accents
- Stacked (straight lay) – Clean, minimal, and modern
- Offset (brick/running bond) – Hides imperfections and feels familiar
- Basketweave – Elegant, especially for bathroom floors
- Diagonal – Great for making tight spaces appear wider
How to Choose What’s Best for Your Space
Tile isn’t one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to consider:
- Room size: Larger tiles help open up tight rooms by reducing grout lines
- Maintenance needs: Fewer seams = less scrubbing
- Your home’s overall style: Traditional homes may lean toward brick patterns or squares, while modern spaces shine with planks or large-format tiles
- Need help deciding? H&R Carpet’s design experts are here to walk you through your options and help you select the best size, shape, and material for your home.
Let’s Find the Tile That Works for You
From bathroom floors to eye-catching backsplashes, the right tile makes all the difference. We carry high-quality porcelain and ceramic tiles in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles to suit every room in your home.
Explore more on our tile flooring services page or stop by our Waco showroom to see what’s possible. Ready to get started? Request a free estimate today and let’s create something beautiful.
