Beyond Subway Tile: How to Choose Tile You'll Actually Love
Subway tiles are totally fine. They're classic, clean, and go with basically everything. But if you're mid-renovation and every bathroom you've looked at for inspiration is starting to blur together - same white tile, same thin grout lines, same vibe - you're probably ready for something a little more you. The good news is that there are so many great options out there once you know what to look for. No design degree required.
First: There’s No Wrong Answer (Really)
A lot of first-time renovators freeze up when it comes to tile because it feels so permanent. Yes, you're not going to swap it out next season like a throw pillow, but here's the thing - tile trends move slowly, and if you choose something you genuinely love over something you think you should love, you'll be happy with it for years. So before you start comparing grout colors and tile profiles, ask yourself: what do I actually like walking into? What rooms make me stop and think "wow"? Start there.
Get To Know Your Finishes
Before you stress about shape or pattern, think about how you want the tile to feel. Matte tiles have a soft, understated look - great for bathrooms, great for hiding water spots. Glossy tiles bounce light around, which can make a small kitchen feel more open and airy. Then there are textured tiles - handmade-style ones like zellige have this beautiful, slightly imperfect quality that instantly makes a space feel warmer and more personal. No two tiles look exactly the same, which is kind of the whole point. If you've ever walked into a room and thought "I don't know what it is, but I love this", there's a good chance the tile finish had something to do with it.
Size Matters More Than You Think
Here's a tip we give almost everyone: go bigger than your first instinct. Smaller mosaic tiles can look busy in a large space, and they come with a lot of grout lines to clean (more on grout in a second). Larger format tiles feel more modern and are genuinely easier to maintain day-to-day. That said, a small bold-patterned tile in a powder room or laundry room? That can be a total wow moment. Small spaces are actually great places to take a design risk, because you're not committing to it across an entire open-plan kitchen.
Don't Be Scared of Pattern
We know, we know…pattern feels like a commitment, but don't have to go full maximalist to make an impact. Even small changes can totally transform a room: try a herringbone layout instead of straight rows, or stack rectangular tiles vertically for a taller, more dramatic feel. Geometric cement tiles on a kitchen floor, a soft scallop shape in a shower niche, a bold checkerboard in an entryway, these things add personality without being overwhelming. Start small if you're nervous, and work up from there. You might surprise yourself.
Grout Is Kind Of A Big Deal
Something a lot of people don't think about until it's too late: grout color changes everything. Match your grout to your tile for a clean, seamless look that feels almost architectural. Go contrasting, like charcoal grout with white tile, for something more graphic and bold. If you pick a textured or handmade tile, a softer grout color will let the tile itself shine instead of competing with a busy grid. Practically speaking: darker grout hides staining way better than bright white. Just something to keep in mind if you have kids or a busy kitchen.
Zoom Out Before You Decide
Before you fall in love with a tile in the showroom, think about what it'll actually live next to at home. Warm-toned tiles, like creams, terracottas, blush, look gorgeous with wood cabinets and brass hardware. Cool tones, sage, navy, deep green, pair beautifully with matte black fixtures and lighter countertops. Getting a sample home and looking at it in your actual lighting, next to your actual cabinets and countertops, is one of the best things you can do before committing. Showroom lighting lies. Natural light tells the truth.
You’ve Got This (Or We Can Help!)
Choosing tiles doesn’t have to be stressful - it's actually one of the most fun parts of a renovation once you give yourself permission to explore. Grab some samples, play around, and don't be afraid to pick something that makes you genuinely smile every time you walk into the room. That's the whole point.
If you are still feeling stuck, our design team would love to help. Reach out anytime to set up a consultation call.