July 03, 2025 | 3:18 Min

Interior Design Tips: Play with Scale and Style

When it comes to interior design, the right tile can completely transform a space—no matter how big or small your room may be. Whether you're tackling a bathroom refresh or updating your kitchen, these simple tile tips will help you create a space that feels more open, stylish, and totally you.

Go Big and Go Home: Make Small Rooms Feel Bigger

Big tile = fewer grout lines = a more open feel

If you're dealing with a smaller space—think powder room, guest bath, or cozy laundry room—large tiles can work a little design magic. Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which helps the eye move more freely across the room. The result? A cleaner, more open look that instantly makes your space feel airier.

Bonus spa energy

Large tile also brings serious spa vibes to bathrooms. The sleek, uninterrupted surface creates that calm, luxurious feeling you’d expect from a high-end retreat, without the hefty price tag.

Mosaic Magic: Add Texture Where It Counts

Use mosaics for both grip and style

On the flip side, tiny tile has a major role to play too. Mosaics—like 1x1 or 2x2 tiles—are perfect for adding texture and movement where you want a little extra style or functionality.

Shower floors, niches, and feature walls

They shine on shower floors, where the added grout lines provide better grip underfoot. Or use them in a shower niche or feature wall to create a visual focal point that breaks up the space beautifully. Don’t underestimate these small-but-mighty tile—they know how to make a statement.

Mix It Up: Layer Sizes for Depth

Play with proportions for a designer feel

You don’t need wild patterns to create interest—sometimes it’s all about proportions. By mixing different tile sizes within the same color or series, you create subtle dimension that feels high-end and custom. For example, pair a large format tile on the bathroom floor with a smaller rectangular version on the walls for a seamless but elevated look.

Break up long walls or floors

In spaces like long hallways, shower walls, or kitchen backsplashes, alternating sizes can break up the expanse without introducing busy patterns. The shift in scale draws the eye and gives the space intentional movement while staying clean and cohesive.

Frame It: Let Borders and Insets Do the Talking

Border tiles make it feel custom

Sometimes it’s the little details that take your design to the next level. Using smaller tile as borders or insets around larger field tile helps define the space and adds a custom look that feels intentional.

Just like framing artwork

It’s like putting a beautiful piece of art in the perfect frame—everything just looks more finished. Whether you’re outlining a shower wall or adding a border around your bathroom floor, this simple trick adds sophistication without overwhelming your design.

Explore More Interior Design Tips

Ready to put these tips into action? Visit your local American Olean showroom or your local dealer to explore tile collections, get expert advice, and start designing a space you love. Your perfect room is closer than you think.