Can large tile work in a small kitchen?

17 years ago

After an extensive search of kitchen floor tiles I found one that I think is perfect. Naturally, there's a catch. It was designed, according to the product description, specifically for large spaces to give it that modern, clean look with minimal grout lines. I have a galley kitchen and I've been searching for 12x12 or 14x14 tile. The smallest size my chosen tile comes in is 12x24. Other sizes are 18x18 and 30x30. My friend was suggesting I just have the tile guy cut the tiles in half, making them 12x12. My kitchen cabinet lady says this will ruin the tiles, giving them all a sharp edge that will make it hard to lay. I had worried that this would "unrectify" a rectified tile. Kitchen cabinet lady thinks 12x24 will look wonderful in my space laid in a bricklike pattern and the minimal grout will make it a breeze to clean. I don't know what to think. Anyone here have experience in this area?

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Comments (8)

plllog
17 years ago
The theory of small spaces is that a few larger pieces work better than a whole lot of smaller pieces. You haven't said just how small it is, or how even or uneven the floor is.

One thing that could open up a small space is 18"x18" tiles set on the diagonal.

The brick pattern might be very nice depending on how the lines run with the lines of the cabinetry.

And your tile setter might be able to cut down the tile very nicely, depending on his skill and the kind of tile you've chosen.
palimpsest
17 years ago
I think the large format tile in a brick pattern sounds great. Draw in out on the floorplan carefully and see what you think.
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got2findmoretime
17 years ago
The tile I fell in love with for my small bath was 19 x19 square. I was very hesitant to use it, but was urged to by the tile salesman and my contractor. I am so glad I listened! It looks stunning! We had it laid straight rather than on the diagonal. I wanted it the other way first, but glad it's like this, I think it would have looked too busy on the diagonal. Good luck!
malhgold
17 years ago
We did the same as got2findmoretime in our kids bathroom. I think the space is 8X10. Our tile is 18X18 and we laid it straight across. Couldn't be happier. I love the bigger tiles and the tight grout lines.
bill_vincent
17 years ago
I agree with the kitchen cabinet lady, but regardless, what we think doesn't matter. If you think it's perfect, who cares how the manufacturer thinks it'll look? It's not going in HIS house! If you like the look, go for it!
remodelqueen
17 years ago
We installed 18x18 tiles in our small bath. I can't imagine using anything smaller!
blondelle
17 years ago
I'm using a 12" x 24" tile in brick pattern in a 5' x 8' bath. I think it will be fine!
budge1
17 years ago
On one of the larger tile companies websites, you can choose a size of tile, room, and pattern/layout and it will do a mock up for you. I found this really helpful when choosing tile for our bathroom. Sorry I can't remember which company. Daltile maybe?