Where To Start Tiling? (9 Layout Blunders!)

Have you ever watched a child explore? They’re always down on the floor, building empires, racing toy cars, or just sprawled out reading.

That’s why a well-thought-out tile layout is absolutely crucial, especially in areas like playrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.

A poorly planned layout? It can lead to tripping hazards, uncomfortable play surfaces, and even affect the overall aesthetic appeal of the room.

Think about it: a toddler learning to crawl needs a safe, even surface. A child helping with baking in the kitchen? Spills are inevitable, so easy-to- clean tiles are a must.

I’ve seen firsthand how a little planning can transform a space from a potential hazard zone to a haven of fun and creativity.

But I’ve also seen the frustration that comes from common tiling mistakes. That’s why I’m here to walk you through nine layout blunders that you absolutely must avoid.

Ready to dive in and create beautiful, safe, and functional spaces for your kids? Let’s get started!

Section 1: Understanding the Basics of Tile Layout

Alright, let’s start with the fundamentals.

What is Tile Layout and Why Does It Matter?

Tile layout is simply the arrangement of tiles on a surface. Sounds simple, right? But it’s so much more than just slapping tiles down!

It’s about considering the size and shape of the room, the purpose of the space, and how the tiles will interact with other design elements.

A well-planned layout can make a room feel larger, more inviting, and even safer. A poorly planned one? It can make a space feel cramped, visually unsettling, and even create hazards.

Different Types of Tiles and Their Uses in Children’s Spaces

Choosing the right tile is essential. Here’s a quick rundown of some popular options:

• Ceramic: Affordable, durable, and comes in a wide variety of styles. Great for bathrooms and playrooms, but can be slippery when wet.

• Porcelain: More durable and water-resistant than ceramic, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and bathrooms.

• Vinyl: A softer, warmer option that’s perfect for playrooms. It’s also water-resistant and easy to clean.

• Cork: A natural, eco-friendly option that’s soft and warm underfoot. Great for playrooms, but requires sealing to prevent water damage.

I often recommend porcelain or vinyl for kids’ spaces because of their durability and ease of maintenance. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.

How Children’s Needs Should Inform Tile Selection and Layout Decisions

This is where things get really important. Think about how your children will actually use the space.

• Are they prone to spills? Choose a water-resistant tile with a non-slip surface.

• Do they spend a lot of time playing on the floor? Opt for a softer, warmer tile like vinyl or cork.

• Are they sensitive to noise? Consider a tile that absorbs sound, like cork or carpet tiles.

I always tell my clients to imagine their kids in the space and anticipate their needs. This will help you make informed decisions about tile selection and layout.

Introducing the Concept of a ‘Focal Point’

Every room has a focal point – a natural area of interest that draws the eye. In a living room, it might be a fireplace. In a bedroom, it could be the bed.

In a child’s space, the focal point might be a window with a great view, a built-in bookshelf, or a designated play area.

Understanding the focal point is essential for creating a balanced and visually appealing tile layout. You want your tiles to complement the focal point, not compete with it.

Section 2: Blunder #1 – Ignoring the Room’s Focal Point

Alright, let’s dive into our first major blunder.

The Mistake of Starting Without Considering the Focal Point

Imagine tiling a bathroom without considering the location of the bathtub or vanity. The result? A hodgepodge of tiles that feels disjointed and unplanned.

The same goes for children’s spaces. If you start tiling without considering the focal point, you’re setting yourself up for a visually unbalanced and unappealing result.

Examples of Focal Points in Children’s Spaces

Let’s look at some common examples:

• Play Area: This is often the heart of a child’s room. Consider using a different tile color or pattern to define the play area and make it stand out.

• Bath Tub: In a bathroom, the bathtub is usually the focal point. You can highlight it by using a decorative tile border or creating a feature wall behind it.

• Window: A window with a great view can be a fantastic focal point. Arrange your tiles to draw the eye towards the window and maximize the natural light.

Potential Visual Clutter or Imbalance

By ignoring the focal point, you risk creating visual clutter and imbalance. Imagine a playroom with a brightly colored tile pattern that clashes with the toys and furniture. The result? A chaotic and overwhelming space.

I once worked on a project where the homeowner had tiled an entire playroom with a busy geometric pattern, completely ignoring the large window with a beautiful view of the garden.

The room felt cramped and overwhelming, and the view was completely lost. We ended up removing some of the tiles and replacing them with a simpler, more neutral design that allowed the window to become the focal point.

Section 3: Blunder #2 – Wrong Tile Size for Space

Next up, let’s talk about tile size. This is another area where many people make mistakes.

How Tile Size Affects the Perception of Space

Tile size can have a huge impact on how a room feels. Large tiles can make a small room feel larger, while small tiles can make a large room feel cozier.

However, choosing the wrong size can have the opposite effect. Large tiles in a small room can feel overwhelming, while small tiles in a large room can feel chaotic and busy.

Large Tiles in Small Rooms vs. Small Tiles in Large Rooms

Imagine a tiny bathroom tiled with massive 24×48 inch tiles. The sheer size of the tiles would dominate the space, making it feel even smaller and more cramped.

On the other hand, picture a large playroom tiled with tiny mosaic tiles. The result would be a visually overwhelming and chaotic space that lacks cohesion.

Measuring and Assessing the Right Tile Size

So, how do you choose the right tile size for your space? Here are a few tips:

• Measure the room: Start by measuring the length and width of the room. This will give you a good idea of the overall size of the space.

• Consider the shape: Is the room square, rectangular, or an odd shape? This will affect how the tiles look and feel.

• Think about the scale: Choose a tile size that’s proportional to the size of the room. In general, larger rooms can handle larger tiles, while smaller rooms benefit from smaller tiles.

• Create a mockup: Before you commit to a particular tile size, create a mockup using cardboard or paper. This will give you a better sense of how the tiles will look in the space.

As a rule of thumb, I usually advise against using tiles larger than 12×24 inches in small bathrooms. For larger playrooms, you can go bigger, but be mindful of the overall aesthetic.

Section 4: Blunder #3 – Not Planning for Traffic Flow

Now, let’s talk about traffic flow. This is especially important in spaces where children play and gather.

The Importance of Planning for Foot Traffic

Imagine a playroom with a narrow walkway that’s constantly blocked by toys and furniture. The result? A frustrating and potentially dangerous space where children are constantly bumping into things.

Planning for foot traffic is essential for creating a safe and functional space. You want to ensure that there are clear pathways for children to move around freely without tripping or bumping into obstacles.

Common Layouts That Lead to Bottlenecks or Tripping Hazards

Here are some common layout mistakes that can lead to bottlenecks and tripping hazards:

• Narrow walkways: Avoid creating narrow walkways that are easily blocked by toys or furniture.

• Sharp corners: Sharp corners can be dangerous for children, especially when they’re running around.

• Uneven surfaces: Uneven surfaces can be tripping hazards, especially for young children.

Strategies for Ensuring Smooth Movement

Here are some strategies for ensuring smooth movement within the space:

• Create clear pathways: Designate clear pathways for children to move around the room.

• Round off corners: Round off sharp corners to reduce the risk of injury.

• Use area rugs: Use area rugs to define different zones within the room and provide a softer surface for children to play on.

• Keep the floor clear: Encourage children to put away their toys and belongings to keep the floor clear and prevent tripping hazards.

I always recommend observing how children actually move around the space before finalizing the tile layout. This will help you identify potential bottlenecks and tripping hazards and make necessary adjustments.

Section 5: Blunder #4 – Forgetting About Grout Lines

Grout lines – often overlooked, but they can make or break your tiling project!

How Grout Lines Impact Aesthetics and Safety

Grout lines are the spaces between the tiles that are filled with grout. They serve several important purposes:

• Aesthetics: Grout lines can enhance the overall look of your tile layout. You can choose a grout color that complements the tiles or creates a contrasting effect.

• Safety: Grout lines provide traction, reducing the risk of slipping.

• Functionality: Grout lines help to prevent water from seeping behind the tiles and causing damage.

Aligning Grout Lines with Furniture and Design Elements

One common mistake is not considering how grout lines will align with furniture or other design elements in a child’s room. Imagine a bathroom where the grout lines don’t line up with the edge of the vanity. The result? A visually jarring and unprofessional look.

To avoid this, take the time to plan your grout lines carefully. Consider how they will align with furniture, fixtures, and other design elements in the room.

Cleaning and Maintenance Considerations

Grout lines can be a magnet for dirt and grime, especially in areas prone to spills or messes. That’s why it’s important to choose a grout that’s easy to clean and maintain.

Epoxy grout is a great option for high-traffic areas because it’s stain-resistant and easy to clean. You can also seal your grout lines to protect them from dirt and stains.

I always recommend using a grout cleaner specifically designed for tile and grout. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the grout and tiles.

Section 6: Blunder #5 – Neglecting Texture and Slip Resistance

Let’s talk about something super important: texture and slip resistance.

The Importance of Texture in Tile Selection

Texture refers to the surface feel of the tile. Some tiles are smooth, while others are textured. In children’s spaces, texture is especially important for safety reasons.

Smooth Tiles and Slip Risks

Smooth tiles can become incredibly slippery, especially when wet. This can be a major hazard in bathrooms, kitchens, and playrooms where spills are common.

I’ve seen too many accidents caused by slippery tiles, and I want to help you avoid them.

Safer Tile Options for High-Traffic Areas

Fortunately, there are plenty of safer tile options available. Look for tiles with a textured surface or a slip-resistant finish. These tiles provide better traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Here are a few examples:

• Textured porcelain: Porcelain tiles with a textured surface are a great option for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Stone tiles: Natural stone tiles like slate and travertine have a naturally textured surface that provides excellent traction.

• Slip-resistant vinyl: Vinyl tiles with a slip-resistant finish are a great option for playrooms.

When choosing tiles for children’s spaces, always prioritize safety. Don’t be afraid to sacrifice style for functionality.

Section 7: Blunder #6 – Inadequate Planning for Expansion and Movement

This one’s a bit technical, but it’s crucial for the long-term health of your tile installation.

Accounting for Natural Expansion and Contraction

Tiles, like all materials, expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. If you don’t account for this natural movement, you could end up with cracked tiles and uneven surfaces.

Common Mistakes Leading to Cracked Tiles

One common mistake is not leaving enough space between the tiles for expansion. This can cause the tiles to push against each other, leading to cracks and other damage.

Another mistake is not using the right type of mortar or grout. Flexible mortars and grouts are designed to accommodate movement, while rigid mortars and grouts can crack under pressure.

Planning for Movement Within a Space

To avoid these problems, it’s essential to plan for movement within the space. Here are a few tips:

• Leave expansion joints: Leave small gaps between the tiles, especially around the perimeter of the room. These gaps will allow the tiles to expand and contract without putting pressure on each other.

• Use flexible mortar and grout: Choose a flexible mortar and grout that are designed to accommodate movement.

• Consider temperature: Be mindful of the temperature in the room. If the room is subject to extreme temperature fluctuations, you may need to leave larger expansion joints.

I always recommend consulting with a professional tiler to ensure that you’re using the right materials and techniques for your specific project.

Section 8: Blunder #7 – Overlooking Lighting Effects on Tile Appearance

Lighting can dramatically change the way your tiles look.

How Lighting Conditions Affect Tile Appearance

Different lighting conditions can affect the color, texture, and overall appearance of your tiles. Natural light tends to enhance the colors and textures of tiles, while artificial light can create a different effect.

Considering Natural and Artificial Light

One common mistake is not considering how natural light and artificial light will play on tile colors and textures in spaces where children play. Imagine choosing a beautiful blue tile for a bathroom that has very little natural light. The result? A dull, lifeless space that feels cold and uninviting.

Testing Tile Samples in Different Lighting

To avoid this, it’s important to test tile samples in different lighting conditions before making a final decision. Take the samples home and observe how they look in natural light, artificial light, and at different times of day.

You may be surprised at how much the appearance of the tiles changes depending on the lighting.

I always recommend taking photos of the tile samples in different lighting conditions. This will help you compare the different options and make an informed decision.

Section 9: Blunder #8 – Failing to Account for Future Changes

Kids grow up fast! Their needs change, and so should your design considerations.

Considering Future Needs

It’s tempting to design a space that’s perfect for your children right now, but it’s important to consider their future needs as well. What works for a toddler may not work for a teenager.

Rigid Tile Layouts and Evolving Needs

One common mistake is creating a rigid tile layout that doesn’t accommodate the evolving needs of a family. Imagine tiling a playroom with a babyish theme that your children will quickly outgrow.

Flexible Design Choices

To avoid this, opt for flexible design choices that can adapt over time. Here are a few examples:

• Neutral colors: Choose neutral colors that will work well with different styles and themes.

• Modular furniture: Use modular furniture that can be easily rearranged as your children grow.

• Area rugs: Use area rugs to define different zones within the room. Area rugs can be easily replaced as your children’s needs change.

I always recommend thinking long-term when designing children’s spaces. Choose materials and designs that will stand the test of time.

Section 10: Blunder #9 – Rushing the Planning Process

Last but not least, let’s talk about the importance of planning.

The Mistake of Rushing Into a Tiling Project

Tiling can be a complex and time-consuming process. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is rushing into a project without adequate planning and consideration.

The Need for a Comprehensive Plan

A comprehensive plan should include everything from tile selection and layout to grout color and installation techniques. It should also take into account the specific needs of your children.

Thorough Research and Careful Planning

Before you start tiling, take the time to do your research and create a detailed plan. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a successful outcome.

I always recommend creating a mood board to help visualize the final result. This will give you a better sense of how the different elements will come together.

Conclusion

Wow, we covered a lot! Let’s recap the key takeaways.

We’ve explored nine common layout blunders that can derail your tiling project, especially in spaces designed for children.

From ignoring the focal point to rushing the planning process, these mistakes can lead to frustrating, unsafe, and visually unappealing outcomes.

But don’t worry! By being aware of these blunders and taking the time to plan carefully, you can create beautiful, safe, and functional spaces for your kids.

Remember to consider their needs, choose the right materials, and don’t be afraid to consult with professionals if necessary.

Tiling can be a rewarding experience, and with a little planning, you can create spaces that your children will love for years to come.

So, take your time, be thoughtful, and enjoy the process! Happy tiling!

Learn more