Large-Format Porcelain Tile Creates Cohesion

In today’s porcelain tile showrooms, you see large-format tiles starting to 
dominate the space. In general, any tile larger than 12”x24’ qualifies as a 
larger format in today’s market. It has become typical to see large racks of 
48”x48” tiles popping up in dealer stores, not to mention requests for the use 
of full slabs in custom installations. Even so, some customers still question 
the advantages of using large format.
It is common to assume that a smaller tile is more appropriate to use in a 
smaller space, like a bathroom. In many ways, using a larger format tile 
instead, comes down to the aesthetics of the space. Larger format tiles give a 
cleaner and uninterrupted line of sight. As the eye travels across the space, it 
gives a calmer and more cohesive feeling. From a design perspective, this 
gives an elevated experience, even in small spaces. For buyers interested in 
achieving a value to their investment, it also gives a timeless appeal and a 
longer return on investment. Today’s porcelain tile achieves realistic stone, 
concrete, marble, and soft matte finishes and these can be appreciated best 
on a larger canvas, especially when joining indoor/outdoor spaces.
As mentioned, larger tiles mean less grout lines and consequently mean less 
maintenance. One of the disadvantages of sanded grout is that it is porous 
and gets dirty and discolors over time. Even with epoxy grout it still attracts 
dirt and makes it hard to stay clean. The benefit of getting less grout lines is 
that you create less maintenance and the space ages better.
Some considerations to keep in mind when you choose larger tiles are that the 
installation cost goes up. Many times, two installers are necessary instead of 
one to lay a level tile, so the cost of installation increases. And there are 
exceptions to using large tiles in spall spaces if your design involves a 
checkerboard pattern or are trying to achieve a vintage or classic design with 
intricate mosaics.
Using large-format tile is not about being ‘bigger for the sake of being bigger. ‘
Fewer cuts creates less visual noise and lets the space and tile speak without 
interruption.