The rise of large format tiles:

Bold, seamless, and here to stay

In the world of interiors, trends come and go. But every so often, something shifts the whole landscape. Large format porcelain tiles are doing exactly that. Once reserved for cutting-edge projects in Europe, these oversized slabs are now becoming the new standard in New Zealand homes especially for floors and bathrooms.

At Naturally Tiles, we’ve watched this evolution unfold, and we’ve curated nearly 100 colours and finishes to help designers, homeowners, and architects create bathrooms, walls, floors and feature spaces that are genuinely unique and bespoke.

Why large format tiles are on the rise

  • Minimal Grout, Maximum Impact
    Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines. The result is a clean, continuous surface that feels modern and refined.
  • Luxury Look, Effortless Flow
    In bathrooms and living spaces, large slabs create a visual flow that makes rooms feel larger, calmer and more elegant.
  • Versatility Across Surfaces
    These tiles aren’t just for floors. They’re used on walls, showers, splashbacks, and even custom furniture like vanities or plinths.
  • European Influence
    The trend started in Italy, where manufacturers pushed the boundaries of porcelain technology. Today, those same factories supply our collections in Christchurch.

Advantages you’ll love

  • Seamless Design: Perfect for creating a spa-like bathroom or sleek open-plan living.
  • Easy Maintenance: Fewer grout lines mean less scrubbing, less mould, and more time enjoying the space.
  • Durability: Porcelain is tough, non-porous, and suitable for both residential and commercial projects.
  • Design Freedom: With close to 100 colours and finishes like stone, concrete, marble-effect and metallic you can design spaces that are genuinely bespoke.

What to watch out for: risks and challenges

Of course, large format tiles aren’t without their considerations. This is where experience matters.

  • Installation Expertise: These slabs demand skilled installers. Incorrect handling can lead to breakages or lippage (uneven edges).
  • Substrate Preparation: The floor or wall must be perfectly level. Any imperfections are magnified with big tiles.
  • Transport and Handling: They’re heavier and more fragile before installation, so logistics need to be carefully planned.
  • Cost of Labour: Large format tiles are a premium product. The slabs themselves usually cost more than standard sizes, and because installation is more technical, labour is also higher. The overall result is absolutely worth it, but it’s not the budget option.

How naturally tiles makes It work

With over two decades of experience in porcelain and Italian manufacturing, we guide our clients through every step from selection to installation support.

Our extensive collection of large format tiles gives you freedom to design unique spaces, while our trusted network of experienced installers ensures the final result is flawless.

A new standard for modern living

Large format tiles are more than just a passing trend, they’re reshaping how we design bathrooms and living spaces. With the right planning and expertise, they offer unmatched elegance, easy maintenance, and design versatility.

Whether you’re dreaming of a seamless spa bathroom or a striking feature wall, Naturally Tiles can help bring that vision to life with Italy’s finest porcelain in almost 100 shades and styles.

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