7 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Tiles for Your Project

advice from Lotti Gostic Studio for interior architecture and design.

Choosing the right tiles for your project can make or break a space. Whether you’re designing a kitchen, bathroom, or feature wall, selecting the wrong tiles can lead to costly mistakes, aesthetic mismatches, or maintenance headaches. As an interior architect, I’ve seen clients face these challenges firsthand. In this article, I’ll highlight the 7 most common tile mistakes and share professional tips to help you make confident, informed decisions.

1. Ignoring the Scale of the Tiles

Tile size matters. Large tiles can make a small room feel more spacious, while overly small tiles can make a space look cluttered. Consider the proportion of the tile relative to the room’s size and the pattern you want to create.

Pro Tip: In compact spaces, stick with larger-format tiles for a clean, seamless look.

2. Overlooking Colour and Tone Matching

Tiles that clash with your existing materials or finishes can disrupt the flow of your design. Always test samples in the actual room lighting before committing.

Pro Tip: Natural lighting can alter how colours appear—see samples at different times of day to ensure a cohesive palette.

3. Forgetting Texture and Finish

Glossy tiles may look stunning, but they can be slippery in wet areas. Matte tiles offer grip but can be harder to clean. Consider the function of each space before choosing a finish.

Pro Tip: Mix textures strategically—matte for floors, glossy for walls—to balance aesthetics and practicality.

4. Not Considering Grout Lines

Grout can dramatically affect the final look of your tiling. Narrow grout lines provide a seamless feel, while wider lines can create visual patterns. Colour contrast between grout and tile also influences style and maintenance.

Pro Tip: Choose a grout colour that complements the tile and hides dirt where necessary.

5. Ignoring Durability and Wear

Not all tiles are created equal. Porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, and engineered materials each have different durability, water resistance, and maintenance needs. Failing to consider these can lead to tiles that chip, stain, or wear unevenly.

Pro Tip: Match tile material to the room’s use—high-traffic areas require harder, more durable surfaces.

6. Skipping Professional Layout Planning

Poor layout planning can lead to awkward cuts, uneven patterns, and wasted material. A well-thought-out layout ensures symmetry, balance, and a visually appealing result.

Pro Tip: Consider starting the layout from a focal point or centre of the room, rather than the edges.

7. Choosing Tiles Based on Trends Alone

Trendy tiles can look amazing now but may not age well. Investing in timeless designs and colours ensures your space stays stylish for years to come.

Pro Tip: Combine classic base tiles with trend-forward accents to get a modern look without committing fully to fleeting styles.

Choosing tiles is more than just picking a colour or pattern—it requires planning, scale, and understanding of materials. Avoiding these 7 common mistakes ensures your project looks cohesive, functions well, and stands the test of time.

For professional guidance in selecting the perfect tiles for your project, Lotti Gostic Studio can help. Our interior architects ensure your choices enhance both style and functionality, giving you a space you’ll love for years.