A Guide to Using Laminam Large Format Slabs
Credits
Author
Michelle Thompson
Laminam large format porcelain slabs are a beautiful choice for projects where you want a refined, streamlined look with minimal grout lines. Their generous slab sizes allow for fewer joints and a sophisticated architectural result across walls, floors, bathrooms, kitchens, fireplaces, facades, and other interior or exterior applications.
However, selecting a large format porcelain slab involves far more than simply choosing a colour. The size of the slab, its thickness, the intended application, installation requirements and even site access can all influence the success of a project.
Understanding these considerations early in the design process can help ensure the final result not only looks exceptional but performs beautifully for years to come.
Why Large Format Porcelain Continues to Grow in Popularity
One of the defining characteristics of large format porcelain is its ability to reduce visual interruption. Traditional tiles rely on multiple grout joints to cover a surface, while large format slabs can span significant areas with very few joints. This creates a cleaner and more architectural appearance that allows the material itself to become the hero of the space.
The effect is particularly striking in bathrooms, where full-height wall panels can replace dozens of individual tiles, creating a sense of openness and visual simplicity. The same principle applies to kitchen splashbacks, fireplaces and feature walls, where uninterrupted surfaces help create a more refined and contemporary aesthetic.
Beyond aesthetics, large format porcelain also offers practical advantages. Its durability, stain resistance and low maintenance requirements make it equally suitable for residential and commercial environments, while its versatility allows designers to carry the same surface across multiple applications to create a cohesive design language throughout a project.
Step 1.
Decide the look you want to achieve
Before selecting a finish or colour, it’s worth considering the overall design outcome you want to achieve. One of the defining characteristics of Laminam large format porcelain is its ability to create expansive, uninterrupted surfaces with minimal grout lines, giving interiors and exteriors a clean, contemporary feel.
This makes Laminam an ideal choice for everything from bathroom walls and shower panels to kitchen splashbacks, fireplaces, interior and exterior wall cladding, flooring, porcelain benchtops, pool surrounds and a range of other architectural applications. The versatility of the material allows the same surface to flow seamlessly throughout a project, creating a refined and cohesive aesthetic.
For projects where full slabs aren’t required, Laminam can also be precision cut into custom tile formats. This approach maximises the use of each slab, reduces material waste, and gives you the flexibility to achieve the same premium look in a scale that better suits your design. To learn more about this option, read our article on porcelain tiles.
Read Porcelain Floor and Wall Tiles for more information.
Step 2.
Choose the best slab size for your project
Laminam is available in a range of large format slab sizes, including 1620 × 3240 mm, 1200 × 3000 mm and 1000 × 3000 mm. However, not every surface is manufactured in every format, so it’s important to check the available sizes for your chosen colour before finalising your design. Each product page on the Studio Porcelain website lists the formats available for that particular finish.
Choosing the right slab size is about more than simply selecting the largest option. The dimensions of the space, the desired number of joints, installation access, transport requirements and the complexity of fabrication all play an important role. If the slab will be cut into smaller panels or custom tiles, this can also influence the most efficient format to specify.
While larger slabs are often chosen for their seamless appearance and minimal grout lines, they require careful planning throughout the entire project. From delivery and handling through to cutting and installation, ensuring the selected format is practical for both the space and the installation team will help achieve the best possible result.
Step 3.
Consider whether ready-made tiles are a better option
While Laminam is best known for its large format slabs, there are many projects where a tile format is the more practical choice. Studio Porcelain offers Laminam tiles in both 1200 × 1200 mm and 1000 × 1000 mm formats, providing the same premium porcelain surface in a size that is easier to transport, handle and install.
These formats are available across selected collections, including the Rare Collection and the Architectural / Retail Range, making it easier to specify Laminam for projects where a full slab isn’t required or where installation constraints need to be considered.
One of the greatest advantages of the Laminam range is the ability to combine slabs and tiles within the same project. Because the tile formats are proportionally matched to the slab sizes, 1000 × 1000 mm tiles align seamlessly with 1000 × 3000 mm slabs, while 1200 × 1200 mm tiles pair perfectly with 1200 × 3000 mm slabs. This allows grout lines to continue naturally from the floor onto adjoining walls, creating a cohesive architectural finish that feels intentional and refined. The effect is particularly striking in bathrooms, wet areas, feature walls and other spaces where continuous surfaces are a key part of the design.
Achieving this seamless appearance also relies on selecting the right grout colour. Studio Porcelain recommends Mapei grouts, which are available in an extensive range of colours to closely complement Laminam surfaces. Where an exact match isn’t available, experienced installers can create a custom epoxy grout colour, allowing the grout lines to blend more naturally with the porcelain. The result is a cleaner, more uninterrupted aesthetic that enhances the scale and beauty of the finished space.
Step 4.
Choose the right thickness for the application
Choosing the right slab thickness is one of the most important decisions when specifying Laminam, as it influences both the application and installation process.
For vertical surfaces such as wall cladding, 2 mm and 3 mm slabs provide a lightweight solution. The 5 mm range is the most versatile option, making it ideal for both floor and wall applications. Where greater structural performance is required, Laminam is also available in 12 mm and 20 mm thicknesses, which are typically used for selected benchtops and specialist applications. These thicker slabs require specialised fabrication, additional handling and a higher level of installation expertise.
Slab thickness also determines how the material is cut. While 2 mm, 3 mm and 5 mm slabs can often be cut on site by an experienced tiler, the 12 mm and 20 mm products are generally fabricated by a stonemason using specialised equipment to achieve the highest level of precision.
See our Slab thickness guide here.
Step 5.
Check the slip rating
If Laminam is being used on a floor, wet area, pool area, exterior surface, or any area where safety underfoot is important, you need to consider the slip rating.
Slip ratings help determine whether a tile or slab finish is suitable for the intended environment. A bathroom floor, outdoor terrace, pool surround, or commercial space may need a different finish from a dry internal wall or feature surface.
Before selecting your product, check the slip rating and make sure it is appropriate for the application.
Understanding slip ratings here.
Step 6.
Check site access before ordering
Large format slabs require careful planning long before installation begins. One of the most important considerations is whether the slab can be safely transported and manoeuvred into the space.
Before placing an order, assess factors such as doorway and hallway widths, stair or lift access, ceiling heights, tight corners, loading zones and whether the slab needs to pass through finished areas. While a slab may be the perfect size for the design, it also needs to be practical to deliver and install.
This is particularly important when specifying larger formats such as 1620 × 3240 mm and 1200 × 3000 mm slabs, where site access can have a significant impact on installation.
Step 7.
Decide whether you need a stonemason or a tiler
Choosing the right installer is just as important as selecting the right slab. The best option will depend on the application, slab thickness, fabrication requirements and the complexity of the installation.
For projects involving benchtops, vanities, detailed cut-outs or heavier 12 mm and 20 mm slabs, a stonemason is typically the preferred choice. They can fabricate the material in a controlled workshop before delivering and installing it on site. Some clients also choose this approach for thinner slabs when they want factory precision rather than on-site cutting.
For wall and floor applications using 2 mm, 3 mm or 5 mm slabs, an experienced tiler is often the most suitable installer. Large format porcelain requires specialised tools, handling equipment and installation techniques, so it’s important to choose a tradesperson with proven experience working with Laminam. If you’re unsure who to engage, Studio Porcelain can recommend qualified installers for your project.
Step 8.
Plan cutting and fabrication
Cutting requirements should be discussed early in the planning process.
For 12mm and 20mm slabs, Studio Porcelain does not recommend cutting on site. These thicknesses are best cut by a stonemason using the correct equipment in a factory environment.
For 2mm, 3mm, and 5mm slabs, cutting can be done on site by a skilled and experienced tiler, provided they have the correct tools and equipment. These slabs can also be cut and prepared by a stonemason, particularly when the project requires precise fabrication, multiple cut-outs, detailed edge work, or a factory-controlled cutting process.
If the project requires cut-outs for tapware, niches, power points, sinks, drains, cooktops, or other detailed work, these details should be planned before installation begins. A stonemason may be the preferred option when these cut-outs are complex or when factory cutting will deliver the best result.
Step 9.
Understand delivery requirements
Planning for delivery is an important part of any Laminam project, particularly when working with large format slabs. Ensuring the correct unloading equipment and sufficient site access is available will help avoid delays and unnecessary handling.
Smaller formats, including 1000 × 1000 mm and 1200 × 1200 mm tiles, are generally delivered in protective crates. The 1000 × 3000 mm and 1200 × 3000 mm slab sizes are also supplied in crates when a full crate quantity is ordered. However, where only part of a crate is purchased, for example, five slabs, the material will instead need to be collected and transported on an A-frame. In these situations, an A-frame is also required on site so the slabs can be unloaded safely.
The larger 1620 × 3240 mm slabs are always transported on a truck fitted with an A-frame due to their size. An A-frame is also required on site so the slabs can be transferred safely from the delivery vehicle and stored ready for installation. If one isn’t available, Studio Porcelain can arrange an A-frame as part of the delivery process for an additional cost.
Delivery is arranged separately from the purchase of the slabs and can be coordinated by Studio Porcelain for an additional cost. Where a stonemason is supplying and fabricating the material, delivery is often organised as part of their installation service.
Step 10.
Speak with Studio Porcelain before finalising your selection
Every Laminam project is unique, and the ideal solution will depend on the design, application, site conditions, access and budget. Taking the time to confirm the right slab size, thickness, finish and installation method before ordering will help ensure the best possible outcome.
Studio Porcelain can provide guidance on everything from product selection and slip ratings to delivery requirements and whether a tiler or stonemason is the most suitable installer. They can also recommend experienced professionals who specialise in working with Laminam large format porcelain.
With thoughtful planning and the right team, Laminam offers a timeless, low-maintenance surface that delivers a refined, minimal grout line finish across both residential and commercial projects.
Planning your next project?
Whether you need fast solutions or fully custom designs, Studio Porcelain has the Laminam surface solution to match your project’s requirements.
