Traditionally though, the choice of styles available were much more limited, generally offering square tiles for both surfaces - 30cm x 30cm for the floor and a bog standard small square white tile for the wall. Thankfully this is no longer the case and although square tiles are still a popular choice; there is now the option to use larger or rectangular shaped tiles to have a greater impact on interior design, whether you opt for porcelain wall tiles or ceramic floor tiles.

Optical illusions

To start with, one advantage of moving away from square porcelain tiles is the opportunity to create the illusion of a larger space. Often with square tiles, even larger sizes, you will tend to cover less ground with each tile, which will result in more grout lines, which tends to make an area look busier and feel smaller.

However, if you opt for rectangular tiles, you will inevitably have fewer grout lines that can make even the smallest of spaces look much bigger. The key with this is to choose larger tiles; for example, using a 30cm x 60cm porcelain wall tile instead of smaller squares will work towards creating fewer lines that interrupt the flow of the room.

Elongate with rectangles

This can be further achieved with consideration for how the tiles are laid. With a square tile there is only one way to lay them, whereas with rectangular tiles in any size, there is the choice to place them horizontally or vertically. If you’re working with a small space how you lay the tiles can be of great importance.

A landscape design will work to stretch the room, making it feel longer and larger; whereas portrait laid tiles will create the illusion of a higher ceiling. Either way works very well in smaller areas, much of it will come down to personal choice. This approach also applies to floor tiles, if you’re working with a long, narrow room such as a hallway, using rectangular tiles laid lengthways will help to maximise the space.

Adding a little interest

Another fantastic alternative that works well in larger areas, such as a kitchen or dining room is to lay rectangular porcelain floor tiles in a brick effect to add a little interest and character to a vast space. Similarly a popular choice in porcelain wall tiles in kitchens and bathrooms is to opt for a smaller rectangle with a bevelled edge like the metro tiles.

Naturally, the choice of tile colour, texture and size will depend on your tastes, but it’s good to know that there are more to tiles than squares these days that can create different effects.