How high are walls tiled?

If you are renovating your bathroom, kitchen, or another space, you have probably wondered at what height to place the tiles. The answer is not fixed, as it depends on the type of room, the functionality of the tiling, and aesthetic preferences. While some rooms are fully tiled, in others, partial tiling is enough to protect the most exposed areas from moisture and dirt.

Beyond functionality, the height of the tiling influences the perception of space. A half-height covering can make a room feel cozier, while tiling the entire wall provides a sense of spaciousness and continuity. Choosing the right height is key to achieving a balance between aesthetics and practicality.

In this article, we explain the key factors in determining the ideal tiling height, from classic options to modern trends. Keep reading and find the best solution for your project!

Types of tiling

Tiling is a technique for covering walls and floors with tiles or ceramics. There are different types of tiling depending on their style, installation pattern, and the area where they are applied. Below, we detail them:

- According to the covered area. Full tiling covers the entire wall, from floor to ceiling. Meanwhile, half-height tiling reaches approximately 1.20-1.50m in height. It is often combined with paint, wallpaper, or other coverings in the upper part. Finally, partial tiling is used only in strategic areas, such as behind the kitchen countertop or in the shower area.

- According to tile placement. There are different ways to lay tiles: straight or linear tiling, either horizontally or vertically, is a classic and simple option, ideal for any space. Herringbone tiling, where the tiles are placed at a 45º or 90º angle, creates a zigzag pattern. This is a very decorative and modern option, commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens. Diagonal tiling involves installing tiles rotated at a 45º angle to the floor, giving a sense of greater spaciousness and dynamism. Finally, brickwork or woven tiling places each row with a slight offset from the previous one, mimicking the arrangement of bricks to achieve a rustic or industrial style.

Half-height tiling

Half-height tiling is a widely used technique in both bathrooms and kitchens. As mentioned, it refers to placing tiles up to an intermediate height on the wall, typically between 1.20m and 1.50m from the floor. This type of tiling combines aesthetics and functionality, offering several advantages in terms of both design and maintenance.

• Protection and durability. Tiling walls at half-height helps protect the surface from water splashes, grease, or humidity, which is especially useful in areas like kitchens and showers. Additionally, this height prevents dirt and moisture from affecting the upper part of the wall, extending the lifespan of the paint or upper coating.
• Balanced aesthetics. This type of tiling creates an interesting visual transition between the tiles and the rest of the wall. It also allows for a combination of different materials on the upper and lower sections, such as paint, wallpaper, or decorative panels, giving the space a unique touch.
• Easy maintenance. Half-height tiling is easier to clean compared to a fully tiled wall. If a matte or smooth-textured finish is chosen, the tiles can be cleaned effortlessly, without worrying about tough stains on the wall.
• Lower tiling costs. By tiling only the lower part of the wall, the cost of materials and labor is generally lower than covering the entire surface. This makes it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing functionality.

Where is half-height tiling ideal?

• Bathrooms. It is very common to use half-height tiling in the shower area or around the sink to protect walls from humidity. The upper part can be painted with special bathroom paint, creating an interesting contrast.
• Kitchens. This type of tiling is perfect for protecting walls near the countertop or sink, while the upper part of the wall can be kept in a neutral color or with a different covering.

In this sense, half-height tiling is an excellent choice for those looking for both functionality and aesthetics in their home renovation, achieving a practical, durable, and visually appealing design.

Full tiling

Full tiling is a type of covering where all the walls of a room are covered with tiles, from floor to ceiling. Below, we highlight the main features of full tiling:

• Maximum protection. Tiles create a strong barrier against moisture, preventing leaks and damage to the walls.
• Easy maintenance. The ceramic surface is easy to clean and disinfect, making it ideal for areas where hygiene is a priority.
• Greater durability. Unlike paint or wallpaper, full tiling better withstands the passage of time without deteriorating.
• Uniform visual effect. It provides a sense of continuity and spaciousness in the room, especially with light colors and glossy finishes.
• Requires a higher initial investment. Tiling a full wall requires more materials and labor than partial tiling, although its durability can offset this cost in the long run.

Where is full tiling best?

• Bathrooms. This is the most common option in showers and bathtubs to prevent moisture buildup and mold. In modern bathrooms, it extends to all walls for an elegant finish.
• Industrial and professional kitchens. The ease of cleaning and stain resistance make this type of tiling ideal for high-demand environments.
• Spas and wellness areas. In spaces where moisture is constant, such as saunas and spas, full tiling protects the walls and makes maintenance easier.
• Commercial and sanitary spaces. Clinics, hospitals, laboratories, and restaurants often choose this type of covering to ensure hygiene and resistance.

Full tiling is not only a functional choice but also an aesthetic one. Depending on the style and materials chosen, it can transform a space into a modern, sophisticated, and easy-to-maintain place.

At what height should tiles be placed?

The height at which tiles are placed depends on the type of space, use, and style you want to achieve. However, there are some general guidelines to determine the height of tiles in different areas:

Tile height in bathrooms

• Full tiling. In bathrooms with high humidity, such as in the shower area or around the bathtub, tiles are generally placed up to the ceiling (reaching 2.40m to 2.60m in height, depending on the wall height).
• Partial tiling. If the entire wall is not covered, tiles usually reach a height of 1.20m to 1.50m. This is common in sinks or areas with less exposure to water.

Wall tiles in kitchens

• Full tiling. In kitchens with a lot of water use (especially in cooking or sink areas), it is common to tile up to the ceiling, at least up to 2.40m.
• Partial tiling. In the backsplash area, tiles usually reach between 60 cm and 1.20m above the countertop, depending on the style. This is common in kitchens where only the work area wall is protected.

In other types of spaces

• Baseboard or low tiling. In hallways or areas where only partial protection is needed, tiles are usually placed as a baseboard or frieze at about 90 cm to 1 meter high.
• Decorative designs. If you want to create a decorative look, you can choose to place the tiles in a central strip, halfway up the wall, or at the bottom and combine with paint or wallpaper on the upper part.

Tile height combinations: find the best one for your spaces

Interior design allows for playing with different materials to achieve attractive and functional wall combinations. Pairing tiles with other coverings like wood, stone, or microcement is a growing trend that adds dynamism and personality to any space. Below, we explore some of the most common options to achieve the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.

1.- Tiles and wood: warmth and contrast

Combining tiles with wood is an ideal option for those looking for a cozy and natural environment. While tiles provide resistance and ease of cleaning in humid areas, wood adds a sense of warmth and comfort.

Main combination options:

• Use tiles on the lower part of the wall and cover the upper part with wooden panels or decorative moldings.
• Create a half-wall effect with neutral-toned tiles and complement with natural wood on top.
• Alternate strips of tiles and wooden slats for a dynamic and modern design.

This combination is recommended for rustic or modern kitchens, Scandinavian-style bathrooms, and living rooms where a cozy atmosphere is desired.

2.- Tiles and stone: a touch of nature

Combining tiles with natural or artificial stone creates spaces with a sophisticated and elegant air. Stone adds texture and depth, while tiles ensure ease of maintenance.

Combination options:

• Apply tiles in areas most exposed to water and cover a feature wall with stone to highlight the space.
• Combine glossy-finished tiles with neutral-toned stone to create contrast and balance.
• Use stone on the upper part of the wall and tiles on the lower section, ideal for rustic or industrial-style bathrooms.

This combination is perfect for bathrooms with a natural design, kitchens with an industrial touch, and living rooms with accent walls.

3. Tiles and microcement: modernity and continuity

Microcement is a material that creates a sense of continuity thanks to its smooth, joint-free finish. When combined with tiles, it achieves a balance between industrial texture and ceramic durability.

Combination options:

• Use microcement on main walls and tile only functional areas like the shower or kitchen backsplash.
• Integrate matte-finish tiles to visually blend with microcement and achieve a minimalist style.
• Alternate microcement surfaces with large-format tiles to avoid visual interruptions and enhance the feeling of spaciousness.

This combination is recommended for contemporary-style bathrooms and kitchens, industrial lofts, and open spaces with a refined design.

4. Tiles and paint: contrast and creativity

For those looking for an economical and versatile solution, the combination of tiles and paint is an excellent alternative. It allows for experimenting with colors and finishes while maintaining the protective benefits of ceramic coverings in the most exposed areas.

Combination options:

• Use tiles up to mid-wall height and paint the rest in contrasting tones to add depth.
• Combine white tiles with vibrant-colored paint for a fresh and dynamic effect.
• Opt for satin or washable paint to facilitate maintenance in spaces like the kitchen.

This combination works well in small bathrooms, modern kitchens, laundry areas, or terraces.

Ultimately, the height at which tiles are placed depends on both the functionality of the space and the desired decorative style. From a low tile base for minimal protection to full tiling for maximum moisture resistance, each option has its advantages and disadvantages. In the end, the choice will depend on how the space is used and its aesthetic vision. At what height would you place the tiles in your home?