How to Choose the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom (Style, Size & Budget)
Whether you’re renovating a tired ensuite or building a brand-new family bathroom, choosing the right tiles is one of the most important design decisions you’ll make. Tiles affect everything—from how spacious the room feels to how easy it is to clean. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming.
At TopOne Tiling, we help homeowners across Melbourne, Ballarat, Geelong, and Hallam make smart tile choices that fit their style and budget. Here's our professional guide to choosing bathroom tiles with confidence.
🖼️ 1. Start with Your Bathroom Style
The overall look you're aiming for will guide your tile choices:
| Style | Tile Ideas |
|---|---|
| Modern | Large-format porcelain tiles, neutral colours |
| Coastal | White subway tiles, soft blues, light greys |
| Luxury/Hotel | Marble-look tiles, metallic trims, high gloss |
| Industrial | Concrete-look tiles, matte black fittings |
| Heritage | Patterned encaustic tiles, claw-foot tubs |
Pro Tip: Always choose your feature tile first (like a bold wall tile or floor pattern), then match complementary tiles around it.
📏 2. Choose the Right Tile Size for the Space
Small bathrooms (ensuites, powder rooms):
- Use larger tiles to reduce grout lines and create the illusion of space.
- Avoid dark tiles unless you're going for a moody, intimate look.
Medium to large bathrooms:
- You can mix formats—large wall tiles with a mosaic feature niche or a herringbone floor.
- Consider 600x600 or even 1200x600mm tiles for sleek, modern surfaces.
Vertical vs Horizontal Layout:
- Vertical tiles make ceilings look higher.
- Horizontal tiles make narrow rooms feel wider.
🎨 3. Pick a Color Scheme That Works
Think long-term. Will you still love that bright red wall tile in 10 years?
Safe & Stylish Combinations:
- White + soft grey (clean, timeless)
- Sandstone beige + matte black (modern and earthy)
- Navy + brass (elegant contrast)
- Marble look + light timber (luxury meets warmth)
Also, remember lighting—natural or artificial—can affect how colours appear.
🧼 4. Balance Style with Function
- Matt tiles: Safer for floors, especially in wet areas.
- Gloss tiles: Reflect light beautifully but can be slippery.
- Textured or stone-look tiles: Great for character, but require more cleaning.
Slip Rating Tip: For floors, especially in the shower or near a bath, go for R10 or higher (slip resistance rating in Australia).
💰 5. Match the Tiles to Your Budget
Tile prices vary widely—from $25/m² basic ceramic to $150/m²+ for premium stone or designer ranges.
- Budget-conscious: Use affordable tiles in main areas and a small quantity of decorative tiles as a feature (e.g., shower niche or vanity splashback).
- Long-term investment: Spend more on floor tiles and waterproofing—these areas endure the most wear.
Also factor in:
- Tiling labor cost (depends on layout complexity)
- Extra tiles for cuts and future repairs (usually 10% more)
- Waterproofing (mandatory in wet areas)
🛒 6. TopOne's Pro Tips for Shopping Smart
✅ Bring your vanity, tapware, or paint samples with you when shopping for tiles.
✅ Always view tiles under lighting similar to your bathroom.
✅ Ask for tile samples and place them on your bathroom floor or wall.
✅ Don’t forget grout colour—it can make or break the look.
🛁 Ready to Tile Your Dream Bathroom?
Choosing bathroom tiles doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right advice and a trusted team, your bathroom can be both beautiful and practical.
At TopOne Tiling, we help clients select, supply, and professionally install tiles that transform homes across Victoria.
👉 Need help choosing the perfect tile? Book a consultation or get a free quote at top1.au