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?
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.
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.
While Julep Tile is no longer producing subway tile, you can mix the Pearl Liners with a white satin subway tile from another manufacturer to achieve a similar look.
Shown Above: Pearl Liner Trim in Glossy White with 3x6" subway tile
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" subway tile | 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