Tired of Subway Tile? Here's a Fresh Alternative
Posted by Kirsten Sharp on Jan 14th 2021
When I talk with clients, the conversation often leads to subway tile: Is it trendy? Is it dated?
Shown above: 3x6" Handmade Subway Tile in Julep Crackle
And many times, clients feel like they should use subway tile, even if they think it's a little boring.
I have a few things to say about this - One is, you can't go wrong with subway tile. It's been a classic, timeless choice for many years now, and will continue to be classic and timeless for many years to come. Some think it's "trendy", but I would argue that's because subway tile is a timeless choice that happens to be quite popular right now.
Shown above: 3x6" Handmade Subway Tile in Julep Crackle
And for those who feel they should use subway tile (even if they don't love it) I'd say is this: If subway tile doesn't fill you with joy, don't use it! There are so many other options for backsplash tile - many of which are equally timeless and classic (if that's the look you're going for), so don't feel like you have to pick subway tile.
If, however, you love subway tile but you just wanted something a liiiiittle different, I've got some ideas for you.
A few years back, we introduced this trim called Pearl Liner. Designed to go in between two tiles, once everything is grouted only the "pearls" show.
Shown Above: Pearl Liner Trim pieces before glazing
The most popular way to use it is in between every row of subway tiles like this photo below. I love how the Glossy White Pearl Liners contrast with the satin finish of the subway tiles.
Shown Above: 3x6" Subway Tile (in New Satin White) with Pearl Liner Trim (in Glossy White)
But this is just one way to use Pearl Liners - you, our lovely readers, have gotten really creative about how to use them.
This client used one row of Pearl Liners every second row of subway tiles.
Shown Above: Pearl Liners in Glossy White & 3x6" Handmade Subway Tile in New Satin White | Photo Credit: The Black Goose Design
And some of you spotted this concept photo below and replicated it in your own kitchens - This shows our Pearl Liner in Glossy White mixed with a square field tile.
Shown Above: Pearl Liner trim in Glossy White
You can also purchase Pearl Liners on their own and mix them with subway/field tile from another manufacturer. The world's your oyster!
Interested in Pearl Liners and/or Subway Tile for your own renovation?
You can check out all our samples here:
