Sometimes the popular choice isn't the best choice for your space. Here are some things to consider when deciding how to incorporate color into your backsplash: Do you have a specific color repeated throughout your house (whether on the walls or in artwork) that doesn't make a big appearance in your kitchen? Ceramic tile in Bright Snow White, $1.76 per square foot; homedepot.com. The rest of the kitchen is understated, but the chevron pattern adds another focal point to the space and creates a bit of dimension. The result is clean, crisp lines that work well in a contemporarykitchen. Charcoal subway tile creates a moody ambience in this posh kitchen from CK Interior Design. Roller shades, woven chairs, and several textured area rugs round out the space. Made-to-order tile, especially pricey lines, can take weeks to arrive. Here, interior designers from around the South share their predictions for what's trending in kitchen design for 2022 and beyond. The subway tile in this kitchen from Dunn Designs, Inc. livens up the farmhouse chic aesthetic. Still, tiling is a messy job that takes practice and patience. Do you have a lot of china or other servingware on display with a dominant color to it? The designer used a soft black grout to make the tiles stand out, which lends itself well to the deeper-colored cabinets. When it comes to backsplashes, subway tile is the holy grail of kitchen decor. Varying the kilns temperature creates a natural, stone-like finish. While we love the colorful backsplash tile look, this kitchen fromJenna Burger Designproves that classic subway tile is the ideal blank canvas for pops of colorful accessories. BloggerDuchess of Yorkmay not have a lot of space to work with, but this kitchen packs a big punch. This kitchen byJenna Sue Designhas a few trendy elements (reclaimed wood beams, gray cabinets, shiplap ceiling) so the classic subway tile provides a great, neutral way to bring them all together. Existing Customer All rights reserved. But before you assume a white backsplash is the only choiceor even the best choicefor your kitchen just because it's a great choice for so many others, there's one thing you should consider. Though the subway tile takes a background role in this look, it is the perfect canvas for the rest of the space, and the whimsicalstring of cafe lights gives the kitchen a Parisian patio look. The rest of the kitchen is classic and modern, but the beveled subway tile adds a welcome dose of surprise. Ann Sacks Collection tile in Tropic Gloss and Ice Cube, $24.96 per square foot; annsacks.com. TheIBIZAcollection brings a Mediterranean freshness inspired by the island of Ibiza. Email 70 Cute and Funny Nicknames For Your Best Friends. Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. A bright white kitchen from Gilmore Design Studio features black stools and a metal light fixture that feel ultra-contemporary. This kitchen spotted onPinterestuses a chevron-style pattern for its subway tile, creating a feminine and whimsical feel. Many factory-made tiles have integral lug spacers that help DIYers keep grout lines consistent. . By now, it's pretty clear that subway tile is incredibly versatile. Soft blues and romantic details come together in a kitchen from Celia Welch Interiors. It takes only a little courage to step outside your usual OPI Lincoln Park After Dark or Essie Bordeaux, which is all you need to kick 2022 off on a fanciful foot. (required) This look is one of the most eye-catching ways to lay subway tile. This classic kitchen fromThe Lily Pad Cottageuses a traditional offset pattern. Activate any of the buttons to disable rotation. Natural materials and two different tile styles elevate the look of this unconventional kitchen from Stefani Stein Inc. A crisp style with contemporary touches dominates in this kitchen from J. Patryce Design. Use corner trim or tile with bullnose edges to avoid exposed edges at the ends of runs. Green marble and glass subway tile get along perfectly in this kitchen from Alison Whittaker Design. This kitchen frommyinterioris even smaller than the one before, but it is one of the most stylish and personality-filled kitchens we've seen. In bathrooms, its a popular option to finish a design of brightly colored or glossy white subway tiles with a contrasting black base and a chair rail or bullnose cap. As a staple of kitchen and bath design, the ubiquitous ceramic subway tile has been around since it was introduced in New York City's subway stations in the early 1900s. Others will refer you to kitchen and bath showrooms or third-party online sites, such as southcypress.com. The shaker cabinets andhewed barn beamlend this kitchen a modern farmhouse feel that's definitelyJoanna Gaines approved. 50 Thoughtful Messages for a Meaningful Thank You Note. Add visual interest in your bathroom or kitchen with this versatile household staple. All of those are ideal ways to tie your kitchen into an existing color theme throughout your home. Inevitably, the popularity of subway tile has expanded its working definition. With the right design cues, the design staple can be the perfect finishing touch to any space. This particular tile looks best when stacked vertically. It creates a clean look that's versatile, timeless, and cost-effective. This kitchen spotted onDecorpadfeatures a straight herringbone pattern in its backsplash. Black grout with white tile adds drama to a floor-to-ceiling installation. In this black-and-white kitchen from Eva Quateman, the tile pattern adds an interesting detail while allowing the contrasting floors and furniture to shine. A Mediterranean kitchen from Everage Design, Inc. features cool green tones and a shiny backsplash. Contractor No matter the material, it must be flat and solid; any warps, bumps, or springiness can cause tiles to crack. Then there are the tile finishes that evoke a distinct mood. Magazine Cove base tile provides an easy-to-clean transition between a tiled wall and floor. Added bonus: Staggered joints are forgiving of slightly out-of-square walls. Even if you shy away from saturated colors, there are plenty of tiles in neutral tones (greys, tans, and even blacks) that make beautiful backsplash accents without being the predictable white. It gives the kitchen its modern feel, and looks purposeful and spotless. Have a look at the awe-inspiring kitchens below. From rustic rooms to modern marvels, these spaces prove just how versatile subway tiles can be. This open concept kitchen fromkatemarkerinteriorsis proof of thatand it's big on space and style. To make sure you have enough tile to cover your entire project, measure your project space, round that number to the next highest square foot, then add 10 to 15 percent to cover waste, cuts, and breakage. No individual tiles or corners should protrude from the surface. And we totally get why. Hand-applied glaze produces subtle tonal variations that can animate a finished wall. This Maren Baker-designed space offers a fresh take on this beloved kitchen trend by pairing soft green tiles with white cabinets. Herringbone is a stylish pattern in which tiles are laid in zigzagging angles. Available in two different finishes, matte and gloss, and 6 different colors, this line offers options for everyone.SNOW, a pure white finish, and White, a light grey finish, are the lines lightest colors, The midtones comes inGREY, in bothCONCRETEandSTEELtones, and the darkest color,IBIZA DARK,is noticeable for the deepness of its line its a beautiful intense grey color. If you love color and appreciate a punch of personality in your home design, why not incorporate that into your kitchen design? In a New England farmhouse kitchen from Kathy Marshall Design, sea green paneling, marble counters, and subway tile complete a look that mixes contemporary and traditional influences. The reclaimedwood breakfast bar pulls the whole look together and reminds us of a hip coffee shop. This deep blue kitchen fromHome Bunchproves subway tile can work with any kitchen palette. In this 1890s Southampton home, the black subway tiles give this contrasted kitchen an elevated edge. Other. Here are 6 ways to do create a modern finish: In the kitchen, for example, you can create a framed focal point above the sink or cooktop by using border pieces to set off a smaller field of different tiles. Olive green cabinetry is the perfect match for this glossy subway tile in a design by Michele Plachter Design. The field should be finished with mold-inhibiting caulk wherever tile meets adjacent surfaces, such as walls, tubs, counters, or cabinets. A peel-and-stick backsplash can be installed in an afternoon, and is a great choice for quick renovations or house flips. Most glazed ceramic tile needs little more than cleaning with a mild, nonabrasive soap. TV Similar to shown: Rittenhouse Square tile in Matte Black, $1.70 per square foot; daltile.com. The brass accessoriesgive the space an uber-modern touch, while the black grout makes the subway tile stand out and take center stage. A new soft and pretty green-and-blue palette immediately created a calming mood for everyone who enters this high-traffic area. An overall trend toward celebrating the history and originality of our homes is displacing ultramodern aesthetics and sharp lines as we all look to create cozier, colorful, more personalized spaces that better suit our lifestyles. Similar to shown: Classica tile in White Gloss, $5.40 per square foot; emser.com. Please choose your profile (required) Website Studio McGeefeatured this modern black and white kitchen with a simple, classic subway tile backsplash we love. A design by PepperJack Interiors features glossy wood cabinets that blend well with gray subway tile. In contrast to the bond style, a stacked presentation lines up tiles horizontally, in parallel columns, to create a neat, polished look. Signature Tile:Cream Glossy, Cream Matt. Prices for ceramic subway tile start around $2 per square foot for budget field tile and soar to $50 (or more) per square foot for handmade artisan tile. Here's how to show your gratitude with a handwritten note. Looking for the best window washing solutions? Youll also want to consider how grout will impact the final look and feel of your subway tile. Here are four main patterns and styles. | Credit: Photo by: Laurey W. Glenn, Styling by: Natasha Louise King, The One Thing to Know Before Choosing a White Backsplash. This kitchen fromStudio McGeefeatures subway tile with a twist: It has a beveled edge. Place a few favorites within a wall of neutral subways to give it texture and color without breaking the bank. Glaze can be mixed with factory leftovers to create a recycled look. These Black History Sites Could Be Lost Forever, These are the Best Creative Bathroom Tile Ideas, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. Here, a row of subways is sandwiched between shoe-molding trim below and a knife-edge liner above. The easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, light-reflective, 3-by-6-inch glazed white rectangles captured the public's imagination back then and quickly moved into the bathrooms and kitchens of prewar houses for practical and aesthetic reasons. Mark D. Sikes infused a California cool aesthetic into this Portola Valley kitchen by juxtaposing a soft gray backsplash with crisp white cabinets. If your mind immediately thought of subway tile, you know exactly what we're talking about. One kitchen element that definitely has a clear MVP at the moment is the backsplash. Looking for a way to make a statement in a simple black and white kitchen? But some crackle finishes and most unglazed ceramic tile, such as terra-cotta, need sealing to keep out water and dirt, as do cement-based grouts. And while all-white kitchens are certainly beautiful to look at, they can have a higher-end, traditional feel that might not fit in with the rest of your house. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, How to Decorate Your Kitchen with Subway Tiles. An unexpected, luster-free glaze makes black tile feel up to date. --- Ceramic subway tiles are admired for their simple beauty, and this clean, neutral appearance can be highlighted by incorporating a finishing touch. In this space from Alan Design Studio, white glass subway tile allows the mesquite butcher block counters to pop. Instead of choosing a single type of base tile, use a few. This bright and airy kitchen fromFresh Mommy Blogfeels fresh and modern. For this all-white subway-tile backsplash, a floral border surrounds square tile laid in a diamond pattern, helping draw the eye to the sinks period-style fixtures. Social Media If You Keep Finding Ladybugs in Your House, Here's What You Need to Know, Plus a few strategies for keeping them out-of-doors, Southern Living is part of the Meredith Home Group. In this modern Washington, D.C. home, interior designer Zoe Feldman gives the classic subway tile backsplash an updated twist with Farrow & Ball's Card Room Green. The herringbone style is eye-catching, and when paired with dark grout the tile becomes the focal point of the whole room. White backsplashes have gained popularity in tandem with the rise of the all-white kitchen. This is a great look to pair with a neutral kitchen to keep the space from feeling overwhelming. The Riverside collection features two colors, Gold and White, that give spaciousness and warmth to the space it is installed in. Another trick is to pop in the occasional piece of ornamental tile to give the room texture and color. A crisp white hood and geometric floor tiles complete the look. The subway shown here is laid in a stack bond style, with each tile placed directly on top of the next. Ashley Knierim is a home decor expert and product reviewer of home products for The Spruce. The beginning of a new year often has us all feeling like starting off fresh by taking on better habits, getting rid of old ones, andmost commonlychanging up our look. 16 Kitchen Design Trends Southern Designers Predict Will Be Everywhere in 2022. Ceramic subway tiles traditionally come with a square edge, but other options present a different look. Add energy and intrigue to your decor by picking a color that contrasts with the surrounding elements, including the wall paint and flooring shade. As this New Jersey kitchen proves, subway tile shouldn't be restricted to behind your stovetop. The kitchen is placed in an alcove, but the bright subway tile backsplash and penny tile flooring make it feel open and airy. The Signature collection represents the character of traditional handmade ceramics. An unexpected application of ceramic subway tiles involves laying them in a running bond style, but vertically. The pieces of this collection have an irregular format and a surface that is not completely flat, so when light reflects on them it creates various streaks. In a Brooklyn townhouse, Hendricks Churchill created an eclectic atmosphere that's complemented by standout lighting and art. Cream subway tile is glamorous in a kitchen with warm details from Terri Ricci Interiors. While others are hitting the squats and going into the salon for a pixie cut, why not start slow and steady with a cozy winter manicure in a color that feels new to you? We're turning away from big-box stores and toward vintage itemsfirst, out of necessity due to supply-chain issues, and now, for design reasonsto add charm and character to every room in the house, including the kitchen. The tile shown here is slim and narrow, which adds to the zig-zag look. In the classic running bond style, the tiles are laid end to end, with joints that land in the middle of the tiles in adjacent rows. Nannette Brown added American Olean tiles to the ceiling, stove's backsplash, and a curved wall. Or keep the ambience tranquil with a tile color that matches its setting. Nestled on Bainbridge Island, designer Taylor Ogle gives this subway tile-clad kitchen a modern spin with open shelves, marble countertops, and sleek, wooden cabinets. Some tile makers sell directly to consumers via their websites or dedicated showrooms. Then, pantry cabinets, a soaker tub, and kitchen lighting are installed at the house. Neutrals reign in this kitchen from Matthew Yee Interiors. Some stores let you borrow samples overnight for free, or you can buy them online for a nominal fee. The Mediterranea collectionsimulates the calm waves of the sea by creating a sense of water movement with theirregular surface of the tile. Brass fixtures, a marble countertop, and steel farmhouse sink bridge the gap between old and new. That being said, subway tiles are far from boring. Create contrast with your tile grout. For this classic kitchen, Laura Stein Interiors included cornflower subway tile for a creative vibe. Lay tiles using a horizontal level line and a vertical plumb line as guides. Replace caulk when it starts looking moldy or grubby. These homeowners wanted their great room kitchen to be pretty and sophisticated, and their remodeled space is just that. When you're taking on a kitchen renovation, there are so many decisions to make, and so many options to consider that it can be easy to just go with the popular choice. --- Light-blue grout matches the wall color for a monochromatic look. Rounded edges (or shoulders) feature sides that are slightly softened, while beveled edges, where the sides slope away from the face, give each tile a sculptural quality. Ornamental tile can be pricey, and with so many styles to choose from, who can pick just one? Add multiple accent strips to make an installation distinctive. And tile ends can be subtly contoured to create a unique grout line. Theyre tough enough to take a beating for decadesin fact, the adhesive, grout, and caulk used to install them will likely need replacing long before the tiles do. ELLE Decor participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The crew discusses pocket doors and advises on painting. Prop samples against the wall you plan to cover to see how the tile looks with your decor and lighting. If you think subway tile is boring and overly traditional, think again. Follow our DIY window cleaning tips. The backing, or substrate, might be concrete, plywood, drywall, or cementitious backer board. After all, it's popular for a reason, right? This kitchen fromNeptuneproves that grout doesn't have to be boring. For this kitchen by KMID | Kate Maloney Interior Design, high-contrast details provide a touch of contemporary elegance to a sophisticated, rustic kitchen. Similar to shown: Horus Art tile in Broadway Pistachio, $10.32 per square foot. Not only does the pop of subway tile surrounding the vintage farmhouse stove lend a bit of surprise to the space, it's also incredibly useful (splashed spaghetti sauce is no match for this tile). Copyright 2022 This Old House Ventures, LLC. Southern Living is a registered trademark of. The surface must be free of oil, grease, dirt, paint, and old grout or adhesives. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate, or jump to a slide with the slide dots. The edges are beveled in the typical style found in subway tiles. The 5 Best Solar Generators (2022 Review). Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox. We're in awe of this kitchen fromBicker Designthat utilizes a vertical lay pattern for its subway tile backsplash. Though subway tile works amazingly well withall colors of cabinetry, it's also a beautiful way to complete an all-white kitchen look. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. And they're worth acknowledging in the context of your kitchen design plan, as well as the style of the rest of your house overall before narrowing your search. The backsplash in this Hollywood Hills home breaks up the custom-made cabinetry painted in Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue and Granada Tile's patterned flooring. It doesn't matter what your design aesthetic is or how much space you have, one thing's for sure: Subway tiles are a failsafe addition to virtually every kitchen. Manufacturers often use the term now to describe any rectangular tile with a length twice its height, from 4-by-8-inch planks to 1-by-2 mosaics, and even some tiles (such as contemporary 2-by-8 strips) that don't share the original's proportions at all. The subway tile looks clean and orderly, which works incredibly well with an open shelving look in the kitchen. Over a century later, subway tiles have become a staple in interior design, showing up inkitchensandbathroomsacross the country. PhotographerAlice Gaocaptured this rustic kitchen from a New York City restaurant, and it's everything we love about subway tile. Similar to shown: Festiva tile in Aquarius, $2.14 per square foot; daltile.com. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Every item on this page was curated by an ELLE Decor editor. More than a century later, ceramic subway tile still endures as a perennial favorite for homeowners. Half-round trim pieces form wainscot-like wall frames for a subtle decorative effect; tiles within the frames are laid in a slightly different pattern to help them stand out. This presentation accentuates the versatility, turning even a simple, white backsplash into a handsome focal point. Stay up to date on all the latest happenings at PORCELANOSA by subscribing to our newsletter! The Coziest Winter Nail Colors for January 2022. If your personal style leans more to the maximalist end of the spectrum, a crisp set of subway tiles is a clever way to add some decorum to your kitchen. The collection comes with a polished finish in up to six shades. In this Hamptons home, the juxtaposition between the crisp white subway tiles and black grout make a statement in all the right ways. If you want a faster and easier job than laying individual subway tiles, this cozy kitchen fromWorthington Courtproves a faux look can be just as beautiful. Glazing can be applied to highlight beveled edges. With a little creativity, it can easily become a show-stopping element of your kitchen, or it can be laid in a way that is subtle and highlights the rest of the space's beauty. In small spaces, such as powder rooms, tiles stacked on end draw the eye upward to make the ceiling appear higher. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. White subway tile, and white tile in general, has become the backsplash of choice for so many people. Its minimalist nature makes it a peaceful and sophisticated option for your wall. An eased bevel and a crackle finish make basic tile appear distinctive. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Architect Billboard Designer, How did you hear about us? The wraparound installation ties the tub to the rest of the bath and matches the floor tile. In Boston, a contemporary kitchen from JN Interior Spaces features blue glass subway tile and a wine refrigerator. U.S. Using colored trim and tile here would have a bolder impact. Consumer In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best solar generators on Amazon to help you find the product thats right for you and your home. Contrary to popular belief, white isn't the only hue for subway tiles. Novices should start with a small area, such as a simple backsplash. Her design education began at a young age. We're obsessed with this black-and-white look that creates a hip, dramatic, restaurant-like feel. A solar generator gives you backup energy from the sun should your electricity fail. If you're one to mix up your kitchen look every once in a while, a clean subway tile backsplash is a great choice. The color choices for ceramic subway tile is as limitless as the rainbow. It's obvious that subway tile works well as a narrow backsplash or covering a full wall, but we also adore this alcove stove fromRemodelista. 38 Kitchen Tile Ideas To Make Your Kitchen More Exciting, 36 Modern White Kitchens Brimming With Enduring Style, 20 Trendy Ways to Ditch White and Embrace Gray Kitchen Cabinets, 14 Kitchens With Herringbone Tile Backsplashes, Colorful Backsplash Ideas for Taking Your Kitchen to the Next Level, 70 Kitchen Ideas So Good You'll Want To Cook Every Meal At Home, Try These 35 Colorful Kitchen Ideas to Brighten Your Cooking Space, 18 Great Ideas for Backsplashes in a White Kitchen, Solid Kitchen Backsplashes Are an Alternative to Tiles, 53 Small Kitchen Ideas That Prove That Less Is More, Midcentury Modern Kitchen Design Ideas Worth Stealing, 39 Minimalist Kitchens With Maximum Style, 21 Chic and Stylish White Kitchen Cabinet Ideas. Learn how to season this Southern kitchen staple. A modern twist on the traditional white subway tile,RETRO BLANCOis a ceramic tile available in a long rectangular shape with a high gloss finish. Helpful instructions to let your patriotic spirit fly from your front lawn with this DIY weekend project. Classic tile in Mess Hall Gloss, $18.50 per square foot; missiontilewest.com. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, 15 Most Beautiful Kitchens With A White Subway Tile Backsplash, 30+ Beautiful and inspiring light-filled kitchens with white countertops, 24 Sensational white dream kitchens you must see, A mountain modern home with marvelous views of Big Sky, Montana, A fabulous Japandi style loft with modern yet warm interiors in Chicago, Amazing concrete mountain retreat in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Step into this modern farmhouse dream home in Northern California, See this breathtaking nature-inspired house in Montana: Fat Deer Lodge. The backsplash is a subtle way to add in color, pattern, and textureand even if it's a small area, it will make a big impact in your space overall. Similar to shown: Metro wall tile in Bone, $3.50 per square foot; nemotile.com. Additionally, a monochromatic space can sometimes lack visual interest and seem a little flat. Here are the haircuts you'll be seeing everywhere this year. Its not all in the senses, but they sure can help. Follow the manufacturers directions for recommended sealers and frequency of application. In this kitchen by Studio Brunstrum, neutral colors, marble countertops, and glossy countertops are a perfect combination. Here, a linera thin border piece traditionally used with subwayssits level with the sink top to continue this visual reference point around the room.