The Retro Tile Shapes That Are Making 'A Resurgence' (& Where To Use Them)

Smaller tile sizes were once considered passé. Instead, large and oversized ones dominated home spaces like bathrooms because they create a sense of openness favorable to a modern, minimalist style. But thanks to design advancements and shifting preferences, smaller tiling in square and other shapes is one of the retro design trends making a comeback. Interior designer Alena Capra, owner of Alena Capra Designs, noted in an exclusive interview with House Digest that 4-inch-by-4-inch or smaller square tiles, brick, and pill-shaped tiles in mosaic formation are re-emerging in contemporary homes.

Capra, a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer and Coverings Ambassador, has seen these shapes being used more often nowadays — sometimes with a twist that adds extra flair. "I think it's exciting to see this classic tile size/shape make a resurgence," she said. "Some have irregular edges, glazing, surface adornment, and more. These small tiles continue to make a big style statement."

As exciting as it can be to rediscover and re-style a classic tile shape in your home, there are some areas to avoid using 4-inch-by-4-inch or smaller tiles due to the grout that comes with laying them. An often-trod floor or countertop may not be your best choice since the grout can require constant effort to keep clean. "Smaller tiles bring more grout lines, so that is just one consideration if it is a floor in a high traffic area," Capra said. "Give consideration to the area where it will be used and choose accordingly based on that information and personal preference."

There are a few reasons designers are pivoting from big slabs of tile to smaller sizes, which were popular in the 1970s. Personality and storytelling are among today's most important home decor priorities, making large swaths of one color or finish feel sterile. The profusion of new colors and glazes is also enticing people to bring once-outdated tile trends into their kitchens and bathrooms. Companies are adding lighter or darker borders, or even gradients, to their 4-by-4 inch tiles. Today's trends also embrace traditional and vintage elements, so it's natural that small squares, pill shapes, and mosaic designs are re-emerging.

"Retro shapes are classic and in different materials, finishes, and colors, there are so many great design possibilities. It is the perfect way to complement larger format tiles, to add a little visual variety to a space," said Alena Capra, who spoke exclusively with House Digest.

Capra reassured us that these tile shapes "take on an entirely new life for just about any design style," so they'll work equally well whether you're leaning into an antique vibe or not. "A pill shaped mosaic can be used in a modern setting, or something more retro," said Capra. "It all depends on the material it's in, and how you pair it." If you lean toward minimalism, a wall of white 4-by-4 inch tiles is an ideal backdrop for a streamlined bathroom. Choosing colorful, glazed, or textured small square tiles for your kitchen walls lends a hand-crafted look for a more boho style. 

In an exclusive exchange with House Digest, Alena Capra noted that bathrooms, powder rooms, kitchen backsplashes, and accent walls are some of the best places retro tile shapes can shine in your home. Some homeowners also love them near fireplaces or in a mudroom or entryway. "For the mosaics, they are perfect for an accent wall, shower floor, curved surface or even a backsplash," Capra advised.  "The smaller format square tiles with different depths and even textures also make a great accent wall tile, especially when highlighted with great lighting. They can also be used for a statement floor as well," Capra said. 

Fortunately, 4-by-4 inch tiles can be bought at affordable prices, making one or several projects easy on the budget. Their size also makes it easier to work with them in small rooms. You can stack them in straight lines, diamonds, or offsets, depending on your vision. For variation, choose between a high-contrast look and a more blended effect by varying the grout color, or get playful by arranging square tiles in a checkerboard pattern — one of the bathroom tile trends you won't want to skip in 2026.