Transforming a small space can be a challenging task, especially when you're working with limited square footage. The key to making a small area appear larger, brighter, and more inviting is the choice of materials and design elements. In our latest project, we decided to use subway porcelain tile, a classic and timeless option, to give a small bathroom a modern and sleek makeover. Here's how we did it, along with tips on how to make the most of your own small spaces with this versatile material.

Why Choose Subway Porcelain Tile?

Subway porcelain tile has been a favorite in the design world for over a century. Originally popularized in New York City's subway stations, the simple, rectangular design has evolved into a modern staple in homes and businesses alike. The reason for its enduring popularity lies in its clean, minimalist aesthetic and versatility. Whether you are working with a contemporary, traditional, or industrial design, subway porcelain tiles seamlessly fit into any space.

For our transformation, we decided on subway porcelain tile because it offers a timeless look that is easy to maintain and resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, porcelain is known for its durability, making it an ideal option for high-traffic areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. As one of the top porcelain tiles manufacturers, subway tiles also have the added benefit of being available in various sizes, from small 150x300 tiles to larger 200x200 mm tiles, providing flexibility in design.

Planning the Layout

Before diving into the installation, it’s essential to plan your tile layout carefully. Subway tiles are traditionally laid in a brick pattern, where each tile is offset by half the length of the one below it. This arrangement creates visual interest and a sense of depth in a space.

However, we chose to break away from the conventional layout and try something a bit more modern. Instead of the classic brick pattern, we decided on a stacked pattern where all tiles align vertically and horizontally. This made the room feel taller, helping to open up the space and create the illusion of more height—perfect for smaller rooms.

Choosing the Right Tile Size

When it comes to tile size, bigger isn’t always better, especially for small spaces. Larger tiles can make a small room feel cramped, so choosing smaller tiles is often a more effective strategy. For this project, we opted for 150x300 tiles, which were not only a great fit for the proportions of the room but also gave the space a neat and polished look.

The 150x300 tiles are the perfect size for a small bathroom because they are not too overwhelming but still allow for the classic subway tile look. These tiles are also easy to cut and fit around corners and fixtures, making them ideal for tight spaces. If you're working with an even smaller space, 200x200 mm tiles could work well too, as they offer a balanced and proportional design.

Light and Color Choices

One of the key aspects of transforming a small space is choosing the right color palette. Light colors, particularly whites and neutral tones, help open up a space and reflect more light, making the room feel airy and larger. For this project, we went with classic white subway porcelain tiles. The bright white hue creates a clean and fresh aesthetic, and it pairs beautifully with modern fixtures.

We also incorporated a few accent tiles in soft grey tones to break up the monochromatic look and add some texture and interest. This subtle variation in color prevented the room from feeling too sterile while still maintaining a calm and serene atmosphere. If you want a bolder transformation, you can also experiment with darker colors or even colored grout for a more dramatic effect.

Installing Subway Porcelain Tiles

The installation process for subway porcelain tiles is relatively straightforward, but it requires precision and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how we tackled the project:

1. Prepare the Surface: Before laying the tiles, we made sure the walls were smooth, clean, and dry. Any imperfections in the wall surface were fixed, as this could impact the final appearance of the tiles.
2. Dry Layout: To ensure that the tiles would fit properly and look aesthetically pleasing, we performed a dry layout first. This allowed us to make any necessary adjustments before starting the installation.
3. Apply the Adhesive: After the dry layout, we spread a thin layer of adhesive on the wall using a notched trowel. We worked in small sections to ensure the adhesive didn’t dry out before we could place the tiles.
4. Place the Tiles: Starting at the center of the wall, we began placing the tiles one by one, making sure they were aligned properly. We used spacers to maintain consistent grout lines between each tile.
5. Cutting Tiles: Around the edges of the walls, we needed to cut some tiles to fit. A tile cutter was used to make precise cuts, ensuring a clean finish.
6. Grouting and Sealing: Once the tiles were in place and the adhesive had dried, we applied grout between the tiles. We chose a light grey grout to complement the white tiles. After the grout had set, we sealed the tiles to protect them from moisture and stains.

Enhancing the Design with Fixtures and Accessories

To complete the transformation, we selected fixtures that complemented the subway tile design. We opted for sleek, modern bathroom hardware in matte black to contrast with the clean white tiles. This contrast helped to draw attention to the beautiful tile work while giving the room a contemporary flair.

In addition to the fixtures, we added a few decorative accessories, such as plants and minimalist shelves, to give the space some personality without cluttering it. The final result was a small bathroom that felt larger, brighter, and more stylish than before.

Benefits of Subway Porcelain Tile in Small Spaces

There are several reasons why subway porcelain tile is an excellent choice for small spaces:

1. Durability: Porcelain is incredibly durable, resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture. It’s the perfect material for areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where tiles are exposed to high humidity.
2. Easy Maintenance: Subway tiles are relatively easy to clean. Their smooth surface makes them resistant to dirt and grime, and any spills or splashes can be wiped away quickly.
3. Timeless Appeal: Subway porcelain tiles have a classic, elegant look that never goes out of style. Whether you’re designing a modern space or a more traditional one, subway tiles always add a touch of sophistication.
4. Space-enhancing: The reflective nature of the tiles, especially in light shades, can make a small room feel much more spacious. The clean lines and simple design of subway tiles can visually expand the room and give it an open, airy feel.

Conclusion

Transforming a small space with subway porcelain tile is a rewarding and relatively easy design decision. Whether you’re working with a bathroom, kitchen, or even a hallway, subway tiles can elevate the overall look of the room while making it feel more expansive. By selecting the right size tiles, layout, and color palette, you can create a space that is both functional and beautiful. As we’ve shown, using a classic material like subway porcelain tile in your design can have a significant impact on how a small space feels and functions. So, if you’re looking to revamp your own small space, consider giving subway porcelain tiles a try—they might just be the perfect solution.