Should You Tile to the Ceiling? What Melbourne Designers Are Doing in 2025
Tiling to the ceiling: it sounds like a small decision, but it’s one that Melbourne renovators obsess over — and for good reason.
This one design detail has a major impact on how polished, modern, and premium your space feels. So is it worth the extra cost? Or is it just aesthetic overkill?
Let’s break it down.
Why People Are Asking in 2025
In 2025, clean lines and uninterrupted surfaces are dominating bathroom and kitchen design — and full-height tiling supports both. Melbourne homeowners are looking to:
Maximise luxury in compact spaces
Add value through higher-end finishes
Avoid grime on painted surfaces in wet areas
And they’re turning to Google asking, “Should I tile all the way up?”
When Tiling to the Ceiling Is Worth It
1. Small Bathrooms & Ensuites
Tiling to the ceiling makes tight rooms feel taller. It removes the visual break between tile and plaster and bounces light across the walls — especially when paired with large-format, light-toned tiles.
2. Walk-In Showers
No brainer. Steam rises, and paint peels. Tiling all the way up keeps the whole space sealed and visually seamless.
3. Designer Kitchens
If you’ve got a feature splashback — marble, finger tiles, or herringbone — taking it to the underside of your overheads or even to the ceiling makes it look deliberate, not like a leftover detail.
4. Resale Value
Buyers notice the difference. It’s a subtle cue that the reno wasn’t cheaped out on — and it gives your space that magazine look.
When You Don’t Need to Tile to the Ceiling
1. Budget Constraints
It adds more labour, more tile, and more detail work (especially around cornices or window reveals). If you’re choosing between full height and a nicer tile overall — prioritise the quality of tile, not the height.
2. Feature Walls
Sometimes stopping tile at mid-height and painting above (with waterproof paint) allows more flexibility with design — especially if you want to bring in colour or wall lighting.
What Melbourne Designers Are Doing
2025’s trend is clear: if budget allows, tile to the ceiling — at least in showers and splash zones. For powder rooms or secondary bathrooms, many still opt for half-height tiling to keep costs lean.
Most of Bluestone’s clients ask for full-height in:
Ensuites
Main bathrooms
Luxury kitchen splashbacks
And partial tiling in:
Laundries
Guest bathrooms
Powder rooms
What We Recommend at Bluestone Build Co
We always work backward from your budget, lighting, ceiling height, and tile choice.
Our rule of thumb?
If you’re using a statement tile, take it all the way. If it’s basic, consider capping it and using colour or texture above.
Need help making that call?
👉 Book your free renovation consult with Bluestone Build Co
