
6 Considerations for Renovating Small Bathrooms


Renovating a small bathroom can feel overwhelming. With limited space, every decision — from layout to materials — carries extra weight. Among the most crucial choices you'll make are your tiles. Tiles not only define the aesthetic of your bathroom, but they also serve a functional purpose, especially in wet areas. The good news? Tiles automatically meet New Zealand code for wet area compliance — giving you peace of mind and flexibility in your design.
Whether you're refreshing a powder room or upgrading a compact ensuite, the right tile selections can transform your space into one that feels open, stylish, and cohesive. At our showroom, all of our staff are trained in both design principles and technical product knowledge, so we can help you choose finishes that are both beautiful and fit-for-purpose.
In the meantime, here are six expert tips to guide you when selecting tiles for a small bathroom renovation:
1. Choose light-coloured tiles
It might seem counterintuitive, but larger tiles can actually make a small bathroom feel bigger. Why? Fewer grout lines mean less visual clutter, which results in a cleaner, more expansive appearance. Sizes like 1000x1000mm or 600x1200mm are especially effective.
With light-coloured tiles helping to make a small bathroom feel more spacious and airy, pale shades of white, cream, and gray are popular choices because they reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
Avoid dark or bold-coloured tiles, as they can make a small bathroom feel cramped and closed in.


2. Consider large format tiles
Large format tiles, such as 1000x1000 or 600x1200mm, can make a small bathroom feel more spacious because there are fewer grout lines. This creates a clean and seamless look that can visually expand the space. Large format tiles can also make a small bathroom easier to clean because there are fewer grout lines to scrub.
3. Use tiles to create a focal point
Even in a small space, you can make a design statement. Use tiles to draw the eye and introduce personality. This could be a patterned floor, a feature wall in the shower, or a decorative niche.
Just remember: the key to using statement tiles in a small bathroom is balance. Pair bold tiles with neutrals to avoid overwhelming the space. Consider using a decorative tile or a mosaic on the floor or wall paired with neutral tiles to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.



4. Consider the size and layout of the tiles
Tile size and layout can dramatically influence the perception of space. While large tiles open up the room visually, they may not always suit irregularly shaped bathrooms. In such cases, smaller tiles are more adaptable, especially for tricky corners or angled walls as they can be cut to fit around corners and other obstacles.
Subway tiles remain a favourite because of their versatility in layout — whether stacked, herringbone, or brick-bond, the way they're installed can completely change the room’s feel.
These can be laid in so many variations as seen in the above diagram.
5. Use tiles to add texture
Incorporating texture is a subtle way to elevate a small bathroom without sacrificing space. Textured tiles — whether through pattern, glaze, or material — add tactile and visual dimension. They can also serve a functional purpose, offering added grip in wet areas like floors or shower walls.
Consider mixing smooth tiles with a feature texture on one wall or using a textural element within a neutral palette.
Texture can add depth and interest to a small bathroom without taking up additional space.




6. Feature walls still have purpose!
If the above doesn't work for your project, how about a medium or large format tiled feature wall? Bring colour, texture and vitality to a space with on-trend designs. We have lots of options to chose from in our decorative range of tiles.
Choosing tiles for a small bathroom involves more than just picking what looks good — it’s about creating harmony between form and function. From colour and layout to texture and tile size, each element plays a part in enhancing the space.
By keeping these six considerations in mind, you’ll not only maximise your bathroom’s potential but also create a space that’s beautiful, practical, and uniquely yours.
Ready to get started? Visit one of our 33 showrooms — our expert staff are here to help bring your bathroom vision to life with advice tailored to your space, style, and budget.




































If you would like to discuss your project further, we can assist.
Contact one of our 33 Stores or discuss with one of our Commercial Representatives.
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