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Floor tile sizes in Singapore have evolved significantly over the years. A larger floor tile size means less grouting and joints, which makes the flooring look more seamless. Smaller floor tiles “break” the space up further.
Besides that, “larger format tiles are said to have a more luxurious appeal,” says Terry Tan of Rice. With less grouting, a larger floor tile size also means easier maintenance.
If we were to make a direct comparison of say, Italian tiles, “a larger tile of, say, 90cm by 90cm is generally about 20 per cent more expensive than a traditional 60cm by 60cm tile,” states Terry. Consider the size and shape of your surface area as well. Using huge tiles for a small footprint might not be worth the price tag. You’ll need a wide surface area to better appreciate the (more expensive) larger tiles.
So, yes, floor tile size definitely matters when it comes to the perception of spaces. Here’s a breakdown of the different floor tiles’ pros and cons:
Small Format Floor Tiles
In today’s homes, small-format tiles (300mm x 300mm, 400mm x 400mm) are still commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and balconies due to their good slip resistance and ability to accommodate floor gradients for water drainage.
Medium Format Floor Tiles
Meanwhile, medium-format tiles (600mm x 600mm, 800mm x 800mm) have become a standard choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens, offering a balance between practicality and contemporary style.
Large Format Floor Tiles
For a more seamless look, large-format tiles (900mm x 900mm, 1200mm x 600mm, 1200mm x 1200mm) are increasingly favoured in high-end HDB flats, condos, and landed properties, as they reduce grout lines and enhance the perception of space.
Wood-Look Tiles
Additionally, wood-look plank tiles (150mm x 900mm, 200mm x 1200mm) have gained popularity as an alternative to natural wood flooring, providing warmth and elegance while being more durable and moisture-resistant.
Floor Tile Trends in Singapore
Tile size trends have changed notably over the decades. In the 1980s and 1990s, most HDB flats featured small ceramic tiles (300mm x 300mm, 400mm x 400mm), especially in kitchens and bathrooms, due to their affordability and ease of installation.
By the 2000s and early 2010s, homeowners began shifting towards medium-sized homogeneous tiles (600mm x 600mm), particularly in living rooms, as they offered a more modern, polished look while requiring less maintenance than smaller tiles.
From the mid-2010s to the present, large-format tiles (900mm x 900mm and above) have become the preferred choice for many homeowners. The trend towards open-concept living and minimalist interior design has driven the demand for bigger tiles, which create a seamless, spacious feel with fewer grout lines. Luxury developments and premium homes now frequently feature 1200mm x 1200mm tiles, while wood-plank tiles have become a stylish and practical option for bedrooms and feature walls.