Dreamy dark kitchens will beckon you in better than you expect! We know classic white ceramic subway tile will never go out of style, but that doesn't mean we can't look for ways to jazz it up! One of the current trends to give this timeless tile a fresh new look is adding contrasting grout!
“Subway tiles are classic and timeless, yet versatile, which is why they are so great. They aren't going anywhere in 2021 or beyond,” shares Erin Davis, lead designer at Mosaik Design & Remodeling in Portland, OR.
Those rectangular shaped tiles are a timeless classic shape with the versatility and variety to fit any style. It's safe to say, based on Toni's point of view, that subway tiles will continue to grace homes in 2020 and beyond.
As mentioned above, blues are going to continue to be on-trend in 2021 but green is an overlooked colour that works great against white. Polished Marble like the Layla Verde with their geometric patterns are sophisticated and are guaranteed to look impressive across any kitchen wall or floor.
Subway Tile is Classic
Although subway tile seems synonymous with farmhouse trends, it is actually a classic that has been in use for more than 100 years. The shape of subway tile is clean and very easy to incorporate into different styles.
There are many timeless options for a kitchen backsplash such as hexagon tiles, picket tile, penny tile, and square format tile (just to name a few). Timeless Backsplash Tip: Opt for a natural stone like marble or slate for a more traditional and timeless look. For example, marble or slate mosaic tile!
White subway tile pairs well with almost any decor and allows plenty of freedom to play around with other materials and textures.
Skinny backsplashes are out of style, we are happy to report. A ceramic tile or glass backsplash that stretches from counter to cabinets is much easier to keep clean, and is more likely to catch spills and splatters.
You might be wondering, why are subway tiles called subway tiles? The answer: They were first used in New York subway stations. When designers were tasked with designing a surface that was both low-maintenance and bright for the first subway station in 1904, subway tile was born.
One of the biggest cons of a 4-inch backsplash over a full-tile backsplash is that the design is a little outdated. Though still a popular design, many kitchen designers tout the more modern and trendier full-tile design.
Subway tile is a practical choice for the kitchen because it's easy to clean. Use it as a backsplash behind the stove, as in this stainless kitchen, and you'll have an easier time wiping up splatters and spills. Plus, if you choose a darker grout, the porous material won't show spots or stains.
The one place you shouldn't use subway tile? On floors. Because subway tiles are relatively thin, they won't stand up to the wear and tear.
Well, square tiles are kind of on their way out. I mean, they'll never be totally out, but the trend is moving toward wood-look planks. The exception to this is the bathroom, where large format tile is still super trendy and probably will be for a good, long time.
Ceramic tile is the most popular option for a kitchen backsplash. Ceramic tiles are incredibly versatile—they come in many shapes, sizes and colors and can be installed in numerous patterns.
Don't be afraid to mix two different materials together to create your perfect backsplash. Tiles and natural materials combined display different patterns, and because there are so many options for size, color and texture, there's bound to be a combination that fits with your style.
Black and white tiles are timeless. From classic tiling patterns to ornate and retro designs, there are many ways to adopt this tile trend. Black and white are colours that have been paired together for centuries.
Cost to Install Subway Tile. The cost to install this tile averages between $7 and $13 per square foot, excluding your sealant and grout. Contractors could charge a minimum fee of $4 per square foot for labor.
No, bullnose tile isn't necessarily outdated. In many home designs, it could be the best choice for achieving a finished tile look. However, it's not the only option for tile projects these days, so you'll want to think about whether bullnose really fits your style.
Subway tiles can be either porcelain or ceramic. Because subway tile is typically installed on walls, it is usually a wall-rated product which is typically ceramic.
Concrete-look Backsplash
Concrete-look tile is minimalist, contemporary, and chic. The latest trend with concrete-look tile is to use modern geometric shapes, like triangles. This creates a neutral yet visually interesting backdrop for color accents and decor.
The design should be used to balance out the light and dark shades of the other elements, so if you have light cabinets and countertops, you may want to choose a dark backsplash to bring more depth to the kitchen. If you have very dark cabinets or countertops, a light backsplash will help the kitchen feel fresh.
Natural materials, like wood and stone, are always in style. Have your contractor install maple, birch, or cherry cabinets. Look for stone options such as granite, limestone, or slate. Your kitchen will be stylish and trendy both now and in the future.
Finished grout lines will vary from 1/16" to 3/16". Note that using the smallest grout possible will increase installation time. 3/16": We recommend a 3/16" grout size for our Ceramic Tile line. This thickness leaves room for the natural variation in size, and the perfectly imperfect edges of handmade tile.
If you want your kitchen to remain timeless in design, we suggest sticking with a classic field tile size such as a 3 x 6 subway tile or a 4 x 4 in a straight-set pattern. Or add some design detail with a herringbone pattern. Field tile will transcend trends, making your tile backsplash a sustainable design feature.
Is hexagon tile trendy? Hexagon tile is definitely trending right now, but retailers are just now getting a large selection and variety of tiles in stock. This means that hexagon tile will remain stylish and popular for years. And because hexagons are a natural shape, they'll always be in style.