Small Space Solutions: Using Cement Tiles to Make Rooms Look Bigger
What if your tiny bathroom, narrow kitchen, or compact entryway could feel twice as spacious—without knocking down a single wall? The right tile can do exactly that. Specifically, cement tiles have become a secret weapon for interior designers looking to make small spaces feel open, airy, and inspired.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use light-colored and large-format cement tiles to visually expand your space. Whether you’re remodeling a guest bath, upgrading your laundry room, or planning a studio apartment refresh, this article will show you how to use patterns, colors, and layouts to open up even the coziest corners of your home.
Visit Studio Cement Tile to explore hundreds of in-stock options—crafted by hand and ready to ship across the U.S.
What Are Cement Tiles?
Cement tiles, also known as encaustic tiles or decorative tiles, are handcrafted using a blend of cement, marble powder, sand, and natural pigments. Unlike ceramic tiles, which are fired, cement tiles are cured and air-dried. This gives them a matte finish and deep, vibrant color that won’t fade over time.
Benefits for Small Spaces:
- Matte finish reduces glare and reflection, enhancing comfort
- Soft tones and handmade textures add warmth
- Custom patterns and light colors help create a spacious look
- Versatile enough for floors, walls, backsplashes, and more
Why Cement Tiles Are Gaining Popularity in Interior Design
Designers and homeowners alike are turning to cement tiles for their ability to blend function with high-impact style—especially in small homes and urban living spaces.
Why They Work:
- Light-reflective hues open up narrow rooms
- Geometric and linear patterns create visual flow
- Large tiles minimize grout lines, reducing visual clutter
Cement tiles allow you to make smart design choices that feel intentional, stylish, and timeless.
Cement Tiles vs. Other Tile Options in Small Spaces
Let’s compare how different tile types perform in compact rooms:
| Tile Type | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Cement Tiles | Matte finish, handmade look, large sizes | Require sealing and some maintenance |
| Subway Tiles | Clean and simple, affordable | Can make small rooms feel boxy if overused |
| Brick Tiles | Rustic charm, earthy tones | Visually heavy in tight areas |
| Porcelain | Durable and low-maintenance | Lacks character, often too glossy |
Cement tiles win in small spaces for their soft texture, scale flexibility, and style range.
Where to Use Cement Tiles in Small Spaces
Here’s how to use cement tiles strategically in tight rooms to make them feel larger and more open:
1. Small Kitchens
Maximize every inch by choosing tile solutions that add function and personality:
- Backsplash: Use light-colored Moroccan tiles to reflect light
- Flooring: Try large-format patterned tiles to elongate the space
- Walls: Consider tiling an entire wall in a soft neutral pattern for depth
2. Bathrooms
Bathrooms are one of the most popular spaces for tile transformations.
- Shower walls: Use soft gray or cream tiles with minimal grout lines
- Floor: Choose tiles with directional patterns to guide the eye
- Vanity backsplash: Add height by extending tile vertically
3. Entryways & Hallways
Small, often-overlooked spaces like entryways can make a big statement:
- Tiled floors: Use a repeating encaustic pattern to lead guests into the home
- Half-wall tile: Adds visual interest without shrinking the space
- Ceiling-to-floor vertical tile: Elongates walls visually
4. Laundry Rooms, Pantries, and Nooks
Even utility areas deserve good design. Cement tiles elevate these zones with style:
- Stick to one tile pattern in light tones
- Avoid busy patterns in very tight quarters
- Use continuous tiles on floors and walls to avoid contrast breaks
The Best Cement Tile Styles for Small Spaces
When space is tight, smart design choices matter more than ever. Here are top tile styles that help open up a room:
Light-Colored Tiles
Colors like white, sand, ivory, pale gray, and cream visually expand a room. They reflect more light, especially natural daylight.
Large-Format Tiles
Large-format cement tiles (like 12×12″ or 16×16″) reduce grout lines and create a more seamless surface. This trick makes a small floor look more expansive.
Subtle Geometric Patterns
Soft linear or geometric patterns (like diamonds, chevrons, or grids) draw the eye across the room and give a sense of direction.
Monochrome & Tonal Tiles
Stick to a palette of 2-3 related colors to keep the space clean and uninterrupted. For example:
- Warm white + beige + tan
- Gray + charcoal + soft black
Continuous Patterns
Choose tiles that form a continuous pattern across multiple tiles. Avoid harsh borders or tiles that call too much attention to themselves.
Cement Tiles for Every Interior Style
Whether your style leans modern or rustic, you can still use cement tiles to create a light, airy look:
Farmhouse
- Choose floral or patchwork tiles in white, blush, or sage
- Blend with open shelving and whitewashed wood
Ranch House
- Use desert tones and geometric tiles to elongate rooms
- Opt for sandy hues with minimal contrast
Modern House
- Stick to black-and-white minimalist designs
- Try a floor-to-wall vertical tile line for added height
Cozy House
- Use soft patterns and warm light tones like buttermilk or oatmeal
- Layer with textiles and brass accents for comfort
Rustic House
- Try hand-painted tiles with light weathered tones
- Use wide grout spacing in light gray or beige
Cement Tiles for Renovation vs. New Construction
Whether you’re updating a small powder room or building a tiny guest house, cement tiles adapt beautifully.
Renovation
- Overlay old vinyl or wood flooring with cement tile for instant elevation
- Replace bulky ceramic with subtle encaustic tiles
- Use cement tiles on vertical surfaces to reduce furniture needs
New Construction
- Build small but beautiful: plan for light tile patterns throughout
- Choose in-stock tiles for quicker timelines
- Use the same tile in multiple rooms for flow and scale
Handmade vs. Machine-Made Tiles
Every tile from Studio Cement Tile is handcrafted by artisans.
Benefits of Handmade Cement Tiles:
- Subtle variation gives organic texture
- Color is richer and less flat
- Looks and feels more luxurious in tight quarters
- Reflects craftsmanship over mass production
Machine-made tiles lack the warmth and character that help small rooms feel inviting.
How to Choose the Right Tile for Small Rooms
1. Consider Lighting
- Rooms with limited light need brighter tiles
- Natural light? Use warm whites or soft creams
2. Think About Traffic
- Entryways and bathrooms need slip-resistant surfaces
- Cement tiles are naturally matte and safe underfoot
3. Scale to the Room
- Don’t overcrowd with tiny tiles unless using a solid color
- Large-format patterned tiles work best in square rooms
4. Request Samples
Try tiles at home before buying. Studio Cement Tile offers samples you can view in your actual lighting and layout.
Why Shop Online at Studio Cement Tile?
Studio Cement Tile is your go-to cement tile shop for stylish solutions in small or large spaces.
Why Customers Love Us:
- Hundreds of in-stock options, ready to ship
- The best prices in the U.S. for artisan-quality tiles
- Expert design advice to help you choose what works best
- Custom tile designs available on request
Whether you’re a homeowner, designer, or contractor, our team is here to help you create impactful spaces with ease.
Designer + Architect Testimonials
“We used Studio Cement Tile in a 5×8 bathroom remodel. The large white and taupe pattern made the space feel like a spa. Highly recommend.” — Ella S., Interior Designer, New York, NY
“Our tiny guest suite looks twice as big thanks to these tiles. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and the service was excellent.” — Jason P., Architect, Seattle, WA
Final Thoughts: Big Style Starts in Small Spaces
No matter how compact your space is, smart tile choices can help you make the most of it. Cement tiles give you the freedom to create airy, spacious-looking interiors without sacrificing personality.
At Studio Cement Tile, we’ll help you design small rooms that feel anything but small.
👉 Visit www.studiocementtile.com to explore our full collection and order samples today.
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