When it comes to kitchen renovations, people often obsess over countertops or cabinets. But the tiles? They get overlooked. And yet, they set the tone. The wrong choice can make the space feel dated or impractical. The right one transforms it into something timeless, clean, and functional.
So, what should you really think about before choosing kitchen tiles? It’s not just about picking what looks good. There’s more going on beneath the surface. Here’s how to get it right the first time.
Start with the Function, Not the Finish
Before you even think about patterns or colours, ask yourself where the tiles are going. Wall tiles are not the same as floor tiles. What works behind the stove might not hold up under your feet.
For the floor, tiles need to handle foot traffic, spills, heat, and cleaning. Slip resistance matters too, especially in busy households. That glossy, smooth finish might look stunning but could turn into a hazard when wet.
For the splashback, water resistance, heat tolerance, and easy cleaning are priorities. Grease splatters and steam are daily challenges here. A textured surface might hide smudges better, but smooth surfaces are quicker to wipe down.
Size Isn’t Just About Style
Large tiles can open up a space, but they don’t always suit small kitchens. On walls, oversized tiles reduce grout lines and create a clean, modern look. On floors, they offer a sleek, seamless feel — but only if the kitchen has enough space to let them breathe.
Smaller tiles, like mosaics, add texture and detail. They’re ideal for feature areas, but they do mean more grout lines to clean and more visual ‘busyness’ to manage.
The size also affects how the room feels. Long rectangular tiles can elongate the room visually. Square tiles keep things balanced. Just be sure the proportions match the space.
Tile Materials: What to Know Before You Pick
Not all tile materials behave the same. Some look incredible in photos but become a nightmare in real life. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common ones you’ll come across when looking for affordable kitchen tiles for your project:
- Porcelain– Durable, low-porosity, great for floors or walls. It handles moisture and wear well.
- Ceramic– Slightly less durable than porcelain, but still a solid choice for walls and light-traffic floors.
- Natural stone– Adds character, but needs sealing and more care. Not ideal for high-spill zones unless you’re committed to upkeep.
- Glass– Popular for splashbacks. Reflects light and looks polished, but can chip and needs frequent cleaning to stay streak-free.
- Terracotta– Earthy and warm, but porous. Needs sealing and regular maintenance.
Match the material to the location and how much maintenance you’re willing to handle. If you want something that lasts with little effort, porcelain often strikes the right balance.
Colour Is About More Than Looks
Your kitchen tiles will affect how the entire room feels. Neutral colours make spaces feel open and calm. Whites and soft greys are safe, but if the rest of your kitchen is already neutral, consider a bolder tile to add depth.
Dark tiles can add drama, but they’ll also show dust and smudges more easily. On floors, darker shades hide dirt better but can make smaller kitchens feel tighter unless there’s plenty of light.
The key is contrast. If your cabinets and counters are light, darker tiles on the floor can ground the space. If everything is dark, light tiles can lift the room and stop it feeling closed in.
Finishes Change Everything
A matte finish gives a softer, more natural feel. It’s also more forgiving when it comes to water spots and fingerprints. Glossy finishes reflect light, making the space look brighter, but they show every streak and speck of dust.
Textured tiles add grip and character but can be trickier to clean. Reserve these for floors or areas where you want more visual interest without constant upkeep.
For splashbacks, many go for a polished look because it’s easier to wipe clean. On the floor, consider practicality first. If it’s slippery when wet, it’s a risk.
Grout: The Forgotten Detail That Matters
People often choose their tile, then throw in any grout colour as an afterthought. That’s a mistake.
Grout affects the whole look. High contrast creates bold lines and defines each tile. Matching grout blends everything together for a more seamless look.
Darker grout hides stains better, especially on floors. But it can make light tiles look busier. White grout looks clean and crisp, but it’s tough to keep that way, especially behind the stove or underfoot.
Think long-term. If the idea of scrubbing grout lines sounds unappealing, choose a colour that hides wear and tear.
When Style Meets Layout
It’s easy to fall in love with a tile and forget to plan how it will actually be installed. The layout changes the feel of the entire kitchen.
Popular options include:
- Straight lay– Simple and clean. Works with almost any style.
- Brick pattern– Adds a bit of texture and breaks up large surfaces.
- Herringbone– More dynamic, ideal for feature areas like splashbacks.
- Diagonal– Can make narrow kitchens look wider.
Each layout has its own installation needs. Some require more cuts and precision, which means higher labour costs. It’s worth considering how much you’re willing to invest in both time and budget.
Common Mistakes That Are Easy to Avoid
Choosing kitchen tiles isn’t hard, but it’s easy to get it wrong if you skip a few key details. These are the slip-ups people regret most:
- Picking style over practicality– A stunning tile that stains easily or chips fast won’t feel worth it in a year.
- Ignoring scale– Tiny tiles in a large kitchen or huge slabs in a tiny one can throw off the whole look.
- Forgetting lighting– Tiles look different in natural and artificial light. Always check samples in your own kitchen.
- Underestimating grout– The wrong colour or type will age your kitchen fast or make cleaning a chore.
Take your time and think about how the tile will live in your space — not just how it looks in the showroom.
Final Thoughts: Tiles That Last, Choices That Count
Kitchen tiles do more than cover a surface. They shape the mood of your space, affect your daily routine, and speak to your style. While trends will come and go, what really matters is how well your tiles work with the space and the way you live.
Make choices based on function first, then find the look that brings it all together. If you get those two things right, you’ll end up with a kitchen that not only looks great but actually works.
