We had decided that we needed to update and upgrade the flooring over 2 years ago.

This is what prompted the kitchen renovation.

We have a small 2 peice bathroom off the kitchen, and completed this upgrade first.  We opted to go with a 12 inch square ceramic tile for both areas.  Because they are adjacent and because it is a small space we opted to use the same tile in both areas.

Given the budget, we shopped for the tiles at discount places and the big box stores until we found the colour we wanted.  This means that the tile is not very thick, 3/8 to 1/4 inch.  This means the base, preparation and drying time is even more important to avoid cracks.

We purchased enough to complete both rooms, completed the bathroom and waited 18 months before we started the kitchen.  We stored the tiles.  It was better to have a match, than to try to create a match later.

Ceramic tile did mean an upgrade to the subfloor, this is a lot of work.  Do not under estimate the time, effort and cost when setting your project plans.

As well, make sure you plan ahead of time for the transitions between tile and tile, tile and other floor.  There will be a vertical gap with tile and subfloor, and you will want to layout your tile knowing what will be covered by the transition piece.