This tile trick creates a more spacious-looking bathroom, say designers

The question of how to make a small space feel larger remains an enduring debate amongst designers. But while many look towards paint colors and others towards lighting effects – there is one factor that is often overlooked – until now. 

Designers have revealed that the easiest but most effective ways of making a small bathroom look bigger, and the good news is that this striking small bathroom idea is right on-trend. Yes, glossy tiles need to go on your remodel shopping list. But what do you need to know before you invest? Here, the experts impart their wisdom. The good news? It works in kitchens, too.

Using glossy tiles to make your bathroom look bigger

'In smaller bathrooms, highly reflective gloss tiles are a great way to create a sense of space,' says Andrew Bendall, Marketing Manager at Craven Dunnill Jackfield. The designer explains that the size-enhancing power comes from the way that the light 'beautifully reflects off the glaze finish' to create 'a wonderful sense of openness' that makes the room appear wider. 

And Andrew is not alone in his appreciation of this clever bathroom idea. C.P Hart's Director of Design, Emma Scott, emphasizes that glossy tiles are a great choice 'for a small space as the finish can help reflect light around the room, making it feel bigger and brighter.'

And while this trick occurs when the light combines with the glazed finish, Andrew adds that tile color ideas also play a part in the trick's success. 

'While light, muted, and natural tones make a space appear bigger, heavily patterned tiles in bold colors can make a room feel more enclosed,' he says. 

Meanwhile, Emma adds that patterns are equally impactful when accentuating the size of your bathroom. She suggests that patterned tile formats such as herringbone or chevron also add interest to smaller areas and give the appearance that they are larger than they are – consequently encouraging your room to feel bigger.

'Crisp, uniform-finished tiles such as a bevelled subway give a very neat, clean look, whilst distressed or mottled gloss tiles create a more relaxed, rustic feel,' she says.

Will you experiment with this bathroom tile idea? If you do, you can rest assured that it's entirely designer-approved and right on-trend this season.