From Pinterest to Purchase: How to Choose the Perfect Tile for Your Space

We're sure you know this feeling: You're scrolling Pinterest, saving dreamy kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and swoon-worthy backsplashes until your boards are overflowing with inspiration. Once you have your dream design in mind, and it’s time to actually choose tile, excitement turns into overwhelm. After all, the right tile matters for more than just looks, because it helps define the mood, function, and durability of your space. A thoughtfully chosen tile can make your bathroom appear more open, add a personal touch to your kitchen, or create a beautiful focal point in your living room.

In today’s guide to choosing the right tile, we will take you from pin-spiration to purchase with confidence. We’ll help you with understanding your room size and usage, comparing materials, and exploring how tile sizes, hues, and patterns influence design. You’ll also receive room-specific tips, installation advice, and a glimpse into tile trends, so your vision feels as practical as it is stunning. 

By the end of reading this, you’ll have everything you need to turn your saved pins into a space you’ll love living in.

When it comes to tile shopping, the first thing is to review the space you’re designing. Will the tile be used in a bathroom? A mudroom? A kitchen? Knowing this is key to defining the tile material type that will work best for you. Using the wrong tile material can result in a bad installation with easy wear and tear. A bathroom shower wall, for example, demands very different qualities than a kitchen backsplash or a patio floor. So, start by asking yourself: Is this a wet or dry zone? Indoors or outdoors? High-traffic or lightly used? These questions will influence your decision as you will see which tiles will hold up well over time.

Now, let’s go over tile size. The size of a tile also plays a major role in how a room feels. We’re sure that’s not all that shocking, but let us provide a brush-up on the technical reasoning. Large-format tiles, like our 12”x24” Valmarano Gray Textured Terrazzo Tile, can make a compact bathroom appear more open by reducing grout lines. Placing it on the floors or walls give off an expansive feeling, and when a larger tile has a fun design (like the terrazzo-look of this one) the result is artistry. 

Alternatively, smaller-scale tiles, like matte mosaic penny round tiles, can add slip resistance to shower floors or mudrooms.. Why? They have more grout lines, allowing for better durability in high-moisture areas as well as improved traction underfoot. Of course, you’re not stuck in a box by choosing one or the other; you can always mix and match different sizes—say, pairing large floor tiles with a more detailed mosaic or subway tile backsplash. The outcome? You can balance function with design impact!

You should also consider the unique needs of different surfaces. As highlighted earlier, floors require durability and traction; walls offer a chance for creativity without worrying about wear (but don’t forget sauce splashes or drink spills in the kitchen!); and ceilings or niche areas, such as a wetbar, let you add a bold surprise without overwhelming the space. By aligning tile selection with how each surface is experienced, you’ll create a design that looks intentional and feels effortless to live with.

Now that you’re a pro in knowing the ins and outs of your space’s needs,  the next step is knowing what your tile is made of and  how exactly  its material affects both performance and style. The core options you’ll find in your search are ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, metal, and mixed-material mosaic tiles, each with a set of characteristics that influence where and how they should be used.

Ceramic tiles are versatile, typically affordable, and relatively easy to cut and install. These age-old tiles work beautifully for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom feature walls (like above!), and even accent floors. Their wide range of colors, textures, and patterns makes them perfect for creating a space that’s as minimalist or maximalist as you so desire.

Porcelain is denser and less porous than ceramic, which means it is high in durability, moisture resistance, and scratch protection. Pretty neat, right? But where do you sue these? Beyond bathrooms and high-traffic areas, you can use porcelain tiles outdoors – like along the pool line or as a grilling area’s backsplash tile. Plus, porcelain comes in wood-look, stone-look, and even concrete-look designs, making it a practical substitute for real hardwood or stone in living rooms, hallways, or open-plan kitchens. Hello, earth-friendly!

Natural stone, which includes marble, travertine, slate, and limestone, is known for its unparalleled texture and undeniable sophistication. Ideal for statement floors, feature walls, or spa-like bathrooms, stone requires routine sealing and regular maintenance due to its porosity, but delivers timeless elegance. Oh, and did we mention that stone tiles can be found in gorgeous colorways? Yep, the playful kitchen above channels the marble magic of the Geometria Marble Multicolor Stars Mosaic Tile made from a blend of Dolomite, Blue Celeste, Calacatta, Calacatta Macchia Vecchia, Calacatta Bluette, Calacatta Monet, Raja Green, Azul Macauba, Pallisandro marbles. So funky and modern for a material that’s been around for ages, literally.

Glass tiles are primarily decorative, reflecting light and brightening spaces. Perfect for backsplashes, shower walls, or fireplaces. These tiles pair beautifully with ceramic or porcelain floors to tie together a one-of-a-kind look. Don’t think that glass tiles are solely found in bright colors or traditional neutrals – black and white, we’re looking at you. Nowadays, you can find truly unique glass tile options that have a flair for style. Case-in-point? The above fireplace above accented with the Sagrada Recycled Glass Clay Hexagon Mosaic Tile. Imagine having s’mores around this beauty, right? We’re positive you didn’t have magazine chic glass tiles on your bingo card, but now you likely do!

Metal tiles add an industrial or contemporary flair, often used in kitchens, feature walls, or as subtle insets in showers or backsplashes. Their reflective surface can catch light and create a sense of depth, making small spaces feel larger. They also pair beautifully with natural stone or wood-look tiles, providing contrast that highlights textures and shapes.

Mixed-material tiles combine textures for unique, tactile surfaces that can elevate a feature wall or niche area. They offer a world of design options, blending ceramics, glass, stone, or metal to create layered, multidimensional effects. These tiles work especially well in modern or eclectic spaces where you want the wall or backsplash to be a focal point without overwhelming the room. The result can be seen in the contemporary, artistically-driven wetbar in the space above featuring our very own Villa Pyramids White Marble and Glass Mosaic Tile.

Tile size is more than a visual choice, trust us. It has a big impact on how your space looks, feels, and even functions. Should you go with sleek large-format tiles or keep things classic with smaller pieces? The answer often comes down to room size, layout, and where the tile will be installed.

Small tiles (like mosaics or 2x2s) are ideal for detailed areas, shower floors, and curved surfaces where flexibility is key. These tiles naturally give you more grip because of their multiple grout lines. This feature makes them great in wet zones like the shower, bathroom, or mudroom. The trade-off? More grout to clean and a busier look if used over large areas.

Medium tiles (like 3x6 subway tiles or 8x8 encaustic ceramic tiles) are versatile enough to use almost anywhere. On walls, their scale adds rhythm and proportion without overwhelming the room. On floors, they’re easier to handle than some more traditional options and can bring pattern plus charm to smaller spaces.

Large-format tiles (12x24 tiles and beyond) are all about drama and spaciousness. Fewer grout lines create a clean, uninterrupted surface that visually expands floors and walls—a perfect option for open-plan living areas or spa-like bathrooms. They can even be used on backsplashes (like above!) for a striking, seamless statement, though of course,  weight and precision are always required to make for a professional installation!

To further help you decide on the tile size for your project, take a peek at the pros/cons of each below:

Final note: Keep in mind that grout plays a major role in the final effect. More grout joints add visual texture and slip resistance, while fewer joints make for an easy-to-clean, modern look.  

Okay, we know that by now you’re feeling pretty good about this whole tile shopping thing, right? Well, we aren’t done just yet. Of equal importance to size is the finish of your tile. Why’s that, you ask? The finish of your tile sets the tone for both style and safety. Do you want a reflective, high-gloss surface or a soft matte look that feels grounded and practical? Each tile finish has its perks, and knowing them makes all the difference.

• Glossy finishes shine their brightest on walls and backsplashes. They make colors pop, reflect natural light, and are easy to wipe clean. But on floors, gloss can be slippery and shows every footprint. 

• Matte finishes, on the other hand, excel in bathrooms, kitchens, and high-traffic areas where traction matters most. Their subtle texture hides water spots and scuffs, creating a low-maintenance surface with timeless appeal.

• Textured and 3D tiles add depth and tactile interest, transforming plain walls into works of art. They’re especially striking as feature walls or fireplace surrounds, where shadows can play off the raised surfaces. For floors and wet zones, look for tiles with anti-slip technologies and higher Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) ratings to ensure safety.

Wondering what takes tile from functional to transformational? Two words: Pattern and color. The shades and motifs you choose for your home don’t simply fill space, they shape how a room feels every time you walk into it. Do you want calm and timeless, or bold and full of personality? That question can be determined through acknowledging the psychological impact of color and the options available.

Neutrals comprise the soft whites, warm beiges, and gentle greys of the design world. They are known to create a sense of calm, cleanliness, and balance. They offer unmatched versatility, making them a safe foundation for when you want the flexibility to switch up your décor over time. In kitchens and bathrooms, especially, neutrals evoke freshness, allowing lighting and accessories to take center stage.

Bold colors are known for evoking strong emotions and energy. Deep blues, for instance, bring serenity and sophistication, while emerald greens suggest renewal and harmony with nature. Earthy tones, such as terracotta or rust, radiate warmth, grounding a room with a cozy familiarity. These shades shine in smaller doses—think a feature wall behind a freestanding tub, a jewel-toned backsplash, or a dramatic fireplace surround.

Patterns add personality and storytelling. Geometric designs lend modern rooms structure and rhythm, often creating a sense of movement that draws the eye through a space. Vintage motifs—such as encaustic or cement-look porcelains—infuse an old-world charm and character, making an entryway or powder room feel instantly inviting. Meanwhile, stone- and wood-look tiles lean into natural textures, offering timeless elegance and the comfort of organic materials without the upkeep.

Oh, and let’s not forget the importance of grout! It can change everything. Match grout color to your tile for a seamless, subtle look, or contrast it to highlight the tile’s shape and layout. An example: Using white subway tile with dark grout feels bold and graphic, while the same tile with white grout looks clean and understated.

Every room has its own demands, which means the “perfect tile” will look different in a bathroom than on a patio. Knowing what works best for each space helps you create designs that aren’t just beautiful, but built to last.

In bathrooms, it only makes sense that safety and function come first. Mosaic tiles on shower floors give a natural grip underfoot, while matte or textured ceramic tiles can reduce slipping.  Porcelain or ceramic is ideal for vanity walls or bathroom floors thanks to their water resistance and low maintenance. A perfect pairing in our minds? Using our very own Groove Laurel Matte Ceramic Subway Tile on the walls of your shower and pairing it with a penny tile, as seen above. Too cute, right?

Kitchens call for durability and easy cleaning. Porcelain or ceramic tiles handle spills, stains, and high foot traffic with ease. Glossy or glass tiles shine on backsplashes, offering both style and easy-to-clean practicality.

For common spaces, like a family room or a home office, think comfort and durability. Wood-look porcelain tiles are an excellent choice, offering the warmth of hardwood with the durability of tile, perfect for families, pets, or high-traffic areas. Large-format stone-look porcelain tile  also works beautifully in open-plan areas, giving a sleek, expansive feel.

Outdoor areas need frost-rated and slip-resistant tiles to handle weather and moisture. Porcelain pavers, matte porcelain tiles, or tiles with textured finishes can withstand the elements while keeping walkways, patios, and pool surrounds safe throughout the year.

Let’s talk technicals for a minute. After all, even the most beautiful tile can disappoint without smart planning (which we never want!). That’s why choosing your tile’s material type is only the beginning…how it’s installed and maintained determines whether it stands the test of time. 

One thing to consider are the grout joints. Slim grout lines create a modern, seamless effect, while wider ones highlight rustic charm or patterned layouts. Wider grout joints are also great for irregular tiles, like handmade ceramics. Another thing to keep at the forefront of your mind? Your budget! We know, it’s never fun to sweat over numbers; however, tile cost per square foot is only part of the picture. You have to take the time to factor in labour, adhesives, grout, and sealants, and always order 10–15% extra tile for cuts, breakage, or future repairs. Running short mid-project—or years later when the style is discontinued—is a mistake you don’t want to make! Finally, let’s talk maintenance. This should also drive your decision. Are you high maintenance? Low maintenance? This truly will come down to your cleaning and upkeep preferences. Porcelain and ceramic are low-maintenance types, while natural stone often requires sealing.  

Today’s tile trends are less about playing it safe and more about creating spaces that feel alive, tactile, and connected.

One of the most powerful movements right now is the rise of biophilic influences. Think earthy terracotta, floral patterns, muted greens, sandy neutrals, and stone or wood-look designs that echo the natural world. These tiles do more than look pretty—they shape mood, bringing a sense of calm and grounding every time you step into the room.

Equally eye-catching are ribbed and fluted tiles. By adding dimension and sculptural detail, they transform flat walls into dynamic surfaces where light and shadow constantly shift. Want a backsplash or feature wall that makes people stop and stare? This is the way, guaranteed! Meanwhile, large-format tiles are redefining interiors. Their oversized scale minimizes grout lines, making small rooms appear expansive.  On the other end of the spectrum, textured and patterned porcelain tiles bring personality—whether that’s subtle woven linen finishes or bold geometric motifs that demand attention.

Oh, and what about the future? It’s green. Sustainable manufacturing, recycled glass mosaics, and reclaimed stone are moving from niche to mainstream. Why settle for style alone when your tile can also reflect eco-conscious values? The takeaway is clear: today’s trends are about harmony—between beauty, functionality, and responsibility.

Start with your space. Is it a wet bathroom floor, a sunny kitchen backsplash, or a high-traffic entryway? Each setting has its own demands. Think about durability, slip resistance, and maintenance, because the “perfect” tile isn’t just about looks, it’s about how it performs day after day.

Porcelain, ceramic, stone, glass, even metal—the choices can feel endless. The trick? Match material to lifestyle. Love the elegance of marble but not the upkeep? Porcelain look-alikes give you the best of both worlds. Want sparkle? Glass mosaics bring light and brilliance.

Large tiles can make small spaces look larger (fewer grout lines = more visual flow), while small mosaics shine in showers or as intricate accents. Ask yourself: do you want seamless simplicity or detailed charm?

Safety is non-negotiable. Look for tiles with slip-resistant finishes (check the DCOF rating). Matte and textured surfaces are your allies in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry roomsbecause nobody wants a beautiful space that doubles as a slip-and-slide.

Fluted textures, bold patterns, biophilic palettes, sustainable materials—the list goes on. Trends are exciting, but the best design choices balance what’s “now” with what feels timeless for you.

Measure your space, add about 10–15% for cuts and breakage, and always keep extras for future repairs. Nothing’s worse than trying to match a discontinued tile years later.

Grout is the cornerstone of tile design. Match it closely to blend and create a seamless look or contrast it to highlight pattern and shape. It’s a subtle choice with a huge visual impact.