I woke up this morning missing my buddy Chino the Handyman dearly and just for a moment wished we were back in Washington state so I could ask him WHAT GROUT COLOR we should choose for our subway tile. It seems the HH and I are at a bit of an impasse and I may just have to go away for the weekend because I want to scream.
The answer to me is REALLY easy. Charcoal grout.
I like it.
Yes, it is striking.
Yes, it is age appropriate for this house.
But maybe charcoal grout isn’t for everyone. I get that. I really do. But then I go back to the fact that a little strip of backsplash isn’t going to turn someone off from buying a house. We don’t have a big elaborate kitchen. And all I’m going for in the end is a light, bright, clean and simple home.
Yada yada yada… The HH mixed up the charcoal grout yesterday and FLIPPED OUT. And when I say flipped out I mean nearly had a heart attack.
Basically I had to listen to him say what a mess it was going to make while he paced back and forth around the kitchen and out to the garage and back with his hands in the air ranting like a total nutter for about 2 hours.
And so… back to The Home Depot he went.
We tried bright white {which let me tell you is the OPPOSITE of CHARCOAL on the grout spectrum}.
And well, it was white.
So white that I told him is looked like someone smeared white frosting on the backsplash. Blech.
Next up was Snow White. Better, because it wasn’t white white and although you can’t tell from this photo it did give the spaces between the tiles a wee bit of depth. The HH liked this one.
Someone, mentioned they had used Delorean grey with their white backsplash in their kitchen and loved it. But I couldn’t even get him to try it yesterday {maybe he will give it a go today?}.
So as of last night, here are the three choices so far:
- Bright White
- Snow White
- Charcoal
What I need from YOU: Your honest opinion based on the following facts:
This isn’t our dream home {but we do LOVE the area}. {Remember, we bought this house because our last house sold unexpectedly and it was a better option than renting given that we only had 3 weeks to find a house. And truly, in a nutshell, I need MORE room for my wool. So this isn’t the last stop.}
We wanted to keep this mini kitchen update just that, MINI. We wanted to get rid of the clunky yellow tile, yellow walls and really just refresh the house without going overboard.
White subway tile {however you may feel about it} in a 1920’s house is keeping with the original feel/style of the house. I like that.
What I am looking for is a safe bet. If you had to choose {and I am asking you to choose} bright white, snow white or charcoal grout, {or maybe even the Delorean grey which we didn’t do a sample of} WHICH grout color do you think would look best with white walls and the tile we have up now.
Because I would really, REALLY like to wrap this project up and move on the the next one.
Wishing you the best of Thursdays,
~Mavis
Cathy Bates says
I would go with the grey
Tammy says
I totally agree … with dark countertops that are shown in the pictures white would loose the pattern. Gray is a compromise … even if it were a medium – light gray color. It keeps the old world charm of the 1920’s home but brings it up just a notch to the 21 century.
So, What color did they choose? (I see these are older posts)
Rox says
I like charcoal
Laura says
I just made this very decision with my new (vintage-style) bathroom. I did charcoal grout on the white weave-pattern floor, and Snow White on the green subway tile. (They initially mistakenly used the bright white on the walls and it screamed WHITE, and Snow White on the floor and it lost the pattern.)
Gina says
Can I ask.how they fixed the misplaced grout colors?
Deborah says
I vote for charcoal. It looks better than the other two to me. I like it. With white, you have to worry about stains and such. Yes, I know it’s on the backsplash, but it can still get stained. I’ve had white grout. Ugh. Please let us know the decision.
linda says
based on your countertops and hardware, I would go with charcoal. the white looks way washed out.
Chris Hull says
I AGREE
GOOD CONTRAST
Maria says
I vote charcoal, too. The contrast is beautiful in my opinion.
Julie Astry says
The charcoal looks great with the countertops. That’s my vote…charcoal.
Kathy Fortner says
Charcoal…we are about to do the same in our tub surround
Sarah Hamilton says
Charcoal!!
Karen says
I agree. Black (or Delorean Grey) won’t show stains and ties in with the counter top color.
(Nothing worse than grout stains that you cannot remove!)
Mel says
I think charcoal or Delorean. The charcoal looked very dark until you showed the sample behind the sink–I think it sets off everything nicely.
For what it’s worth, we have a white marble herringbone back splash with white grout. Despite sealing the grout the weekend we moved in, it stains–from oil, from spills, from who knows what. So I periodically have to PAINT our grout (yes, it’s a thing, and it works, but it’s probably the most tedious task ever) to make it look white again. In fact, he people who built our house used white grout in the bathroom flooring as well, so I periodically have to paint in there, too. So, even if darker grout isn’t your first choice, it might be better than painting the white grout to keep it white.
Clara says
Snow White. Far less polarizing..
Carol says
I agree with you. The charcoal looks old and not in a good way to me.
Sandy says
Agreed x2. Charcoal looks dirty to me, like it is old and has been washed a bunch. Snow White just looks clean, clean, clean.
Tracy says
Definitely the charcoal, the contrast will work well with your counters and cabinet hardware.
Kari says
The white and off-white are definitely out, but the charcoal is a bit much for me. Although you didn’t do a sample of it, I’d probably be on Team DeLorean Gray.
Mary says
Charcoal or grey.
Megan C. says
Delorean grey- safe, still neutral, clean, and goes with just about any paint colors. the white, and off white- won’t last long……….keeping grout clean so it is true to its color just won’t happen, no matter how hard you try.
Since the HH is afraid of Charcoal- go with the grey…………
Jamie B. says
My vote is for the charcoal.It looks great in your kitchen with the hardware. White on white makes me think of bathroom tile.
Jeanine says
Charcoal! I used grey in a bathroom and hated it. GO CHARCOAL !!
LIssa says
Gray. Or the darker white
Lisa says
Delorean Gray. Definitely not charcoal.
Nancy says
I agree with light gray
Holly says
Charcoal. I think you need the contrast. The white is just too much white.
Kathy Peterson says
charcoal! We recently had a dog washing station built. We used white subway tile and charcoal grout. It is a mess when you are applying it and you think you are never going to get it cleaned off the tile but it looks great when done. White will show stains.
Kay Bowles says
The Charcoal is too dark but I think dialing charcoal back a shade or two would be great. I like the contrast with your drawer handles and knobs. It’s complimentary! The whites are too sterile and boring!
Sara says
Grey or Charcoal, the White makes the tile appear to be plastic
Glenda says
Snow White, for resale value. There is too much grey being used in housing today and it is a color that many people dislike.
Barbie says
The contrast of the Charcoal is perfect. White looks too blah….
Melanie says
I vote for the charcoal. It pulls together the look of the new dark knobs and drawer pulls you put in and looks like it is appropriate for the age of the house. Can’t wait to see the finished kitchen…
carole collins says
charcoal, goes with the new hardware.
Lisa Campbell says
I am far from a interior decorator but I would go with the white. My daughter just had a bathroom put in in her basement and they used the charcoal grout. Because of the stark contrast with the white tile it looks messy. Every little imperfection stands out. Every little dab that isn’t smooth or perfect is obvious. That REALLY bothers me every time I go there and have to use that bathroom. If you aren’t one that is bothered by things being “not perfect” then the charcoal would give you the good contrast.
Good luck 🙂
Em says
I second this, from ongoing experience!
Shari says
Team #somethinggrey which totally fits with your countertop.
Michele says
The White is very generic and looks spec house to me. The Delorean Gray looks more custom and won’t show stains. The charcoal looks nice but maybe if your thinking resale gray would be best. It will play off the kitchen hardware as well.
Andrea at Opulent Cottage says
For resale, stick with white. If the future owners want more color they can always use grout paint. But it would be tough to paint over that charcoal! No, the backsplash probably wouldn’t keep someone from buying the house, but it might get you a lower offer. Personally, I would do the one I like and not worry about resale! And whoever is doing the most cooking should be able to choose 😉
Karin says
Charcoal or grey. the contrast makes the tile look so much better and it goes with the black and white theme you have going on in there. The white just makes it look like nothing…might as well have just painted the backsplash white.
Michele Ross says
I have the Delorean grey and I like it. White is hard to keep clean and looks washed out.
nancy grimsley says
Without a doubt Delorean Grey. The charcoal is way too dark. The white and off white are blah. Grey is HUGE right now in decorating. Go with the grey.
Roz says
What a tough decision! While I do not care for the starkness of the charcoal, the bigger problem with the white tones are the inevitable stains. But if you aren’t staying there forever, maybe that isn’t something to worry, because the buyer might not consider that especially if they like the rest of the house. Please, please can we see the gray? It might look great!
Sue says
Snow White is my vote!
Jen F says
Charcoal, love it!
Kelly-Jo says
This seems like a no brainer. You love the charcoal and he loves the white. What do you get when you mix the two? GREY! Try grey today and I think you’ll both be pleased!
Lanie says
Charcoal.
Jan says
I love the charcoal!
Cindi says
Snow white. It’s too easy for gray to look dirty.
Laura says
Agree. I had a tile guy put gray grout by mistake on part of a black and while bathroom floor (which was otherwise grouted white) and it just looked like dirt caked between the tiles.) That white grout does always get dirty in spots so eventually I’m going to go charcoal there.
Anita says
Delorean gray…it looks like it’ll pick up gray tones from your countertop. The charcoal is way too dark and the whites are not a good choice. If you splash something on the whites (spaghetti sauce), it’ll be really hard to get white again and it’ll drive you crazy. Ask me how I know.
Ln says
I think I would prefer the grey. The charcoal would be my second choice if your husband won’t do grey. I don’t care for the whites. They are impossible to keep clean.
Mary says
LOVE the charcoal!!
Jenn says
I would personally choose charcoal or grey… see if they have your colors ( whatever you choose ) in a pre-sealed stained grout. We invested in in four years ago and love it!! ( our grout is grey) It is more expensive however the grout does not get dirty and you do not have to re seal it if say you are there for more than a couple of years.
Diana says
I’m in the clear minority, but I say an emphatic ‘no’ to the dark grey and charcoal. The dark grout creates prominent lines and grids that don’t mesh well with the other dark lines in the view (cabinet edges, etc.). I basically can’t stand looking at it. White or off white works fine.
Yma P says
I totally agree — all those LINES everywhere from the cabinets already. Snow white is my vote.
Kimberly says
Charcoal or grey. White grout is a nightmare to clean.
Jilly says
Anythning other then white looks dirty to me. But since you might sell some day just ask a realtor. A good one will give you a straight answer. For what its worth I am not a realtor, but love the help we received from ours.
Laura says
I think grey would look the best.
Jilly says
Me again. I think it would have been interesting to have each commenter state where they are from. It may have a big impact on color choice. I am in Southern California.
Sandi Fleury says
Grey or charcoal would make a wonderful contrast!! Ask your former handyman. Maybe your HH will listen to a guy! Lol
Kristen says
White is out. I vote for spending quite a bit of political capital in trying the delorean grey. But honestly, charcoal ties all your dark accents together. Fight it out, sister. Plant your feet and insist. #teamcharcoal!!
Becky says
Charcoal. It won’t show stains!
Barbara from Oregon says
I vote for the charcoal. It blends well with counter and hardware.
Patty P says
The grey!
Pam T says
The charcoal ties the whole kitchen together. Grey just adds another color and white is lovely for a bathroom. Go team charcoal!
Laura Z says
I put some porcelain tiles that looks like marble into our old bathroom and decided on medium gray grout. I hated it. The color wasn’t as uniform as you’d expect and I found those shade inconsistencies annoying — and it just looked kind of dirty. Also, is the dark grout going to be effected by cleaning products? I totally would go for the white.
amy in oregon says
1. Grey
2. charcoal
3. not white!!!!
Katie says
Charcoal ALL THE WAY. It’s easier to keep looking nice and goes great with all that new hardware you just installed. I agree, the white looks like someone smeared frosting on the tile.
Tammy T. says
Charcoal!!
Tristen says
Delorean grey! It provides contrast, but is much softer than charcoal. I think it would be a nice middle ground for the two of you that falls between between charcoal and white.
Suzy says
Love the charcoal
Karin C says
Charcoal- easier to not show dirt and adds a pop but that said will the colour stand up to time and wear n tear of the cleaning one has with a backsplash- I would look at reviews and seal the grout . Will coloured grout need special cleaning products or care – there is something said for being able to bleach your grout .
At the end of the day it’s You that has to live with and like the colours .
Angela D. says
Another vote for the charcoal!
Deb says
I vote for charcoal color. Either white will show every speck of food, grease etc. kitchen grime.
I think the charcoal accents the white cabinets also. Good luck!
Virginia says
https://images.app.goo.gl/5ZbA57kDFdkueMtR9
Here’s a charcoal grout image that might help. My thoughts on the charcoal for your kitchen: Your tiles are on the smaller end so your grout will play a larger role in the final outcome. The end result might be a very “busy” versus restful kitchen, similar to the photo in the link. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, the dark grout will highlight all the imperfections in the tile installation (inconsistent grout spacing, chips in the tile, tiles sticking out from the wall farther than others). Lighter grout is much more forgiving. I would stick with the safe bet and use white. (I’ve never had an issue keeping white grout clean, but maybe I’m not a messy cook.). I think you have enough black with your dark counter, cabinet hardware, and ceiling fixtures. Add some fun color elsewhere in your kitchen to add interest and brighten the space.
Lisa R says
That is the exact picture that I found that made me not like the charcoal way too busy. Also I agree that I have never had a problem cleaning my white grout either.
NCJill says
Thanks for the visual. I was going to say charcoal before, but seeing the picture makes me say gray.
Christine says
Either grey. Ive had both light and dark grout and i would NEVER do light grout again. Tbh, cleaning asaide, i think it shows off the tiles to greater effect.
deb k says
I have the DeLorean gray in my house and it works great. Not too dark and not too light. Good luck.
Lisa R says
I know I am in the minority but I hate the charcoal. From a distance it doesn’t even look any different than having no grout. It looks too old and not in a good way. The bright white is too bright but the snow white is very neutral. Grey is nice but too trendy. Yes if you were going for a great individual expression you could use the charcoal but for resale purposes stick with the snow white. Also with the charcoal any imperfections with show like crazy and look like a DIY job.
As for staining I don’t have a problem with white grout currently on my kitchen backsplash so I am not sure what everyone is talking about with having to paint it or take care of it so religiously. Yes my grout it sealed so not sure if that makes a huge difference.
Virginia says
Here’s another take on this issue. Your husband obviously had a very *strong* reaction to the idea of using charcoal grout. He not only dislikes the color, but thinks it’s going to be a total mess to use. I sympathize with him. Both of you want this project to come to an end — I’m guessing him even more than you — so choose something that you both can be satisfied with. You’re selling the house at some point anyway, so take the “safe” route, both in terms of grout color and your sanity 🙂
Teri says
I like them all (maybe the charcoal best) but I think you should let the HH choose.
Michelle Wright says
DEFINITELY Grey or Charcoal. I just did grey subway tiles and went with charcoal. The contrast is sharp. The white looks super washed out, it needs some contrast.
Leslie H says
NOT white. You should try the Delorean Gray. I think that’s what you need. The charcoal is too much contrast.
At least try the gray…otherwise you may pass up the perfect compromise!
Cindy C says
Snow white. The charcoal is too much contrast.
Susan Bloomer says
I like the charcoal.
Sue
Kelli says
Easy. Go to HD and ask what the most popular grout color is. It’s a gray but the exact one escapes me. We just did ours last winter and LOVE it.
The white grout REALLY makes it look like those cheap, stick-on plastic tiles.
The charcoal looks like filthy grout. Like it hasn’t been cleaned in decades dirty. Sorry!
KAte says
Going with the most frequently purchased colour seems like a pretty good plan.
I would echo the not white options though. It would be interesting to see how the grey differs from the charcoal.
Also if the HH HATES the charcoal and he’ll be doing all the cooking, it might be diplomatic to let him veto that colour inse he’ll spend the most time in the kitchen.
Diana says
I love the charcoal, but for resale purposes, make the HH do a sample of the DeLorean Gray and see what he thinks. I think it may be a good compromise. It isn’t the bland, glaring white, but has some color (to go along with the style of the house) and isn’t quite so ‘hey! look at me!’ as the charcoal. It also won’t show up any grout discoloration as much as the white does.
Good luck!
Linda Practical Parsimony says
I love how the charcoal emphasizes the subway tiles. After investing in the tiles, show them off and don’t ever have to fret about keeping them clean. Do not decorate for the next owner. True, you should not paint the whole house in lavender even if it is your favorite color. White will not set well with the next person most likely since it will get dirty even if you clean it for them.
Carol @ Lake Tapps says
Charcoal
Your cabinets are CREAM and the subway tile is WHITE… something needs to “marry” those two, IMO.
The charcoal would also enhance the countertop and hardware colors.
The overall feeling of the entire kitchen would then be more balanced and cohesive. And still retain its classic look.
Good luck!! 🙂
Dee says
grey;it is less sensitive to dirt but does not have as much a contrast to the white tile
Julie says
DeLorean for sure. It’s what I have with my subway tile and it’s perfect.
Linda Practical Parsimony says
Here is a male opinion. My friend thinks the black looks much better. He thought it would be hard to clean the white or any of the light colors. He has tile and white grout. It gets dirty easily.
Janet says
Definitely the charcoal
Jenn C. says
Delorean grey
Great compromise between the other two options.
And I am going to use the same combo in my bathroom remodel
Jennifer G says
Really like the contrast of the charcoal with white tiles. Would have to see the grey but you need more contrast than the two whites.
Anne says
I vote grey -but hey call chino -send him the pics -and get his opinion-bet he says grey -nice job thus far
Jeri Ganser says
Delorean Gray. It will tie in the countertops with the backsplash and is softer than the charcoal,
Kay L Bonikowsky says
We do delorean gray everywhere, but I bet you could mix the white and charcoal together?
Erin says
As someone who has migraines, the charcoal is tough to live with. It’s effectively like strobe lights to my brain. And for resale, I’d stick with pale grey or a white shade. Something that translates much easier to all decor styles, not just 1920s style.
Heidi Barrett says
Charcoal
HollyG says
I recently spent the better part of two days scrubbing and sealing the cream colored grout in my kitchen and bathrooms – yuck! I’d go grey or charcoal.
Lori B says
My thought is this. The white does nothing to define the tiles. I feel they really need a contrast. The charcoal makes it feel a bit institutional to me, so I would like the softer, but still defined gray. It will accentuate/define the tiles, without being too harsh, which really I think the charcoal is just too harsh in my opinion.
G says
I’m team snow white. It’s not too bright. I think grey or dark looks dirty and industrial, but that’s just one gal’s opinion!
Stacey says
I just used Delorean grey and loved it. My tile wasn’t white, it was green… but I plan on using it with white tile in the shower which is my next project.
Suzanne Shaw says
Charcoal Gray, hands down.
Karen says
CHarcoal, hands down. Sorry HH.
Mrs. C. says
1. DeLorean
2. Charcoal.
Jaime Ayala says
Delorean Gray – I have elongated matte subway tiles with a gray between Charcoal and your Delorean and we love it – and get so many compliments. Happy to DM you a picture on IG.
Jaime says
Actually, sent via email. 🙂
debra says
snow white
DeeCee says
Charcoal or the lighter grey, but definitely charcoal. Plus as a backsplash you’ll stain the white grout unless you seal it if something like tomato sauce splashes. Definitely charcoal but the grey could be the compromise.
Cathi says
I love the charcoal, hate the whites, and figure HH would compromise on the grey?
The charcoal is striking in my opinion and much more there. The whites are just BORING, not even safe, just boring. That is beautiful subway tile, show it off!
Sharon Brotherton says
Gray
Susan says
Charcoal for sure. I have it, love it, would do it again in a heartbeat.
John says
No brainer Charcoal. We just did ours and love it and everybody who sees it loves it!!!!
Jen says
charcoal
Joyce says
I vote charcoal, matches the counters.
Georgie says
Delorean grey… it will expand your wall paint options, versus the black that will limit. White is so blah.
VB says
Since you are planning on selling the house, why not contact a local realtor for their opinion? They deal with decorating issues all the time. I personally can’t imagine anyone not buying a house just because of a disagreeable grout color- unless it looked extremely tacky. No matter what color you choose, I’m sure it will look very nice.
Katy says
I vote delorian grey. And if you don’t really want delorian grey than charcoal.
Teresa says
Gray.
Joyce in Indiana says
I would use the white. But I need to qualify my answer by saying I have never had tile so no idea about the stains and such.
I just think it would be better for resale, and if someone else wants to change the color, can’t they re grout it?
Tina A. says
Charcoal-you are right.
Jason says
I think the CHARCOAL looks really sharp and sets off the white tile while tying in with the dark hardware. However, if you want to go with a safer choice, I would go with the Delorean Grey. I think either of the two white options are bland and boring while also being a nightmare to keep looking clean.
Audra from Ohio says
We have something closest to the Delorian grey with white tile in our bathroom and I like that it is softer than the charcoal but easier to keep clean than white. It also helps the shape of the tile stand out more, which I like. My top choice would be grey, then charcoal, then the off white. Good luck, grout choice is tricky!
mariah breitel hembree says
Charcoal!
mariah says
Charcoal!
Krissy Miller says
A light gray would look best, The closest you have to light gray amongst your three choices is the Snow White. Or try out a sample of the Delorean, but definitely not the bright white or charcoal. Both of those are too extreme on the spectrum.
Rebeka says
Charcoal goes with the counter top, and then sets off all the white from the tile.
Kitty Sondern Snyder says
I like the Charcoal with your countertops and I think it gives some definition to the tiles.
A grey would work, too, but adds another color ( though super minimally). I just think it would be muddy and the Charcoal is definitely C R I S P !
Libby Parsons says
I have a light gray grout on my floors in my new bathroom with white glossy tiles and it looks great, I love it!!
Jenny Smith says
Definitely Charcoal!! It looks clean and classier. White looks like bathroom tile to me. And frankly, if you were going to do white on white, may as well of just painted the whole wall white. But, everyone likes something different.. so no wrong answers..
Camie says
The charcoal. It’s the best choice given the hardware and countertop. It provides the best definition and showcases the pattern/texture of the tile.
deb says
Anything but the charcoal…..it always looks to me like black mold on the grout and is definitely nothing I want to see in a kitchen. I have white grout in both my bathrooms (built in 1978 and this is the original grout) and it looks pristine and clean.
Molly says
Love the Charcoal
Houston TX
Pam Ingalls says
Charcoal or grey.
Katherine says
I would use a gray that is about 50% lighter than the Delorean gray.
Nancy E. says
I’m at my daughter’s piano teacher ‘s house now; they have the subway tile with light grey and it looks really good! The charcoal is too dark; it calls attention to itself. And the white is isn’t kind of blah. I took photos but wasn’t sure how to send them.
Penny says
Delorean gray or Charcoal. Need a contrast and so much easier to keep clean. Good luck! Can’t wait to see the finished backsplash.
Linda says
Charcoal or Delorean gray! It really makes the tiles look great!!
Marie says
NOT the charcoal, if you are going to resell. The snow white is your best choice, something you won’t tire of in years to come. The tile is suppose to be the focal point–not the grout.
Shirley says
Charcoal! It looks great!
Mimi says
No to both whites. You might be overthinking this one since it sounds like you’ll be moving again. Charcoal is fine – I don’t love or hate it and I doubt it would be a deal breaker to the next buyer. Husbands! 😀
Dolores says
Delorean Gray, soft and pleasant to the eye
Charcoal, too harsh
White, too blah
Jenn says
No doubt, 100% the charcoal. It looks great with those counters. The “whites” do not add any depth and don’t tie the white subway tile in with the cabinets or counters the way the charcoal does. The grey would work as well.
Jane says
Something a little darker than Delores gray but definitely not as dark as charcoal. It is too harsh and the whites are not working at all. Jane
Tanya says
The white grouts would be pretty if you were selling the house tomorrow and keeping it clean would become someone else’s problem! The charcoal or grey both look nice, and more practical for people who actually cook in their kitchen.
Amy says
AGREED, Tanya.
I’ll be blunt: White grout is from the DEVIL! Impossible to keep it like it starts out.
Just my nickel’s worth!
Lori King says
I like Snow White, the gray looks like its old and dirty. I haven’t cleaned my white grout in my white subway tile in the 4 1/2 years Ive had this house and it never looks dirty.
Jenny says
I vote charcoal. In kitchens, I always imagine everything white eventually looking so, so dirty
Granny B says
If your tiles are not exactly straight or the spaces not even, then using a darker grout will make them stand out like a sore thumb. I would use the soft white or a light grey. My son’s house has the pale grey and it is very nice and just a hint of contrast but not overwhelming. I could send a picture if you wanted to see it.
Lynda says
Charcoal.. white would be a major pain to keep white in a kitchen
SUZANNE says
If you want a really gorgeous, but dramatic look, you need to go with the charcoal.
The white is pretty, but very pedestrian.
Good Luck. Let us all know what your final choice is.
Amy says
Snow White
Linda Sand says
I like the charcoal but I would go with the snow white because hubby has to live there, too, and you love him.
Jacqui Gauld says
Charcoal, as it matches the hardware.
Becky S Williams says
Charcoal is the traditional choice and also because somebody, at sometime is going to splash tomato sauce/wine/grease on the backsplash.
Jen M says
Charcoal is a bit to close to black, but fine as nd classic. I’d probably go with the Delorean gray if its a good medium-dark. Not white, not light gray.
Nancy says
Hands down charcoal!
Rachel C says
I like the darker colors, I agree that the light is too stark. It seems like the gray is a good compromise!
Jennifer P. says
I would go with the Delorean grey. The white looks too white with your ivory cabinets. The grey will tie in nicely with the counter tops.
Teckla says
O boy! I’m on the light/bright//off white side of this fence. I’ll plump for light and bright every time. Do not care for the dark/light contrast at all. But that’s me. You are you, and if you and DH can come to some agreement, go for it–it’s your home and you both need to be reasonably happy with it. Best of luck!
Julia Park Tracey says
I don’t care for the white or the charcoal. Delorian Gray would be my choice. I used it myself in our house and it looks wonderful.
Joan says
I love the charcoal.
Candice says
I vote for the charcoal. Your counter tops look like they have specks of light grey, too, so Delorean grey would be a compromise between the white and charcoal if your hubby really hates the charcoal. I always check out pictures on Pinterest and Houzz when I have to make a decision like yours and it helps me figure it out. You could go with the white and then paint it darker if you hate it, too. I’m sure it will look great no matter what you decide!
DENISE says
We did the charcoal with white tile. I love it! Gives it definition and always looks clean. The tile washes well but white or light grout does not. I have white grout with cornflower blue tile in my bathroom. Big regret! Its yellowed and stained over the years. I vote charcoal.
DENISE says
I forgot to mention, it is a pain while doing it because it’s so dark so cleanup was not fun but I do love how it looks.
Shelley Briley says
Snow white. The charcoal looks dirty.
Kimberly O'Donoghue says
Maybe the lighter grey? Lol my hubby does that little rant with me sometimes too when it comes to house stuff and then he starts saying whatever you want whatever you want but it’s really NOT what he wants this too shall pass good luck
Pam says
Charcoal!
Lori says
Definitely go with the charcoal. The whites make it look to much like a hospital. I know because I’ve worked in one for years! The gray adds depth, hides stains too. You dont want to be scrubbing grout with a toothbrush trying to get it clean. Been there done that! Go with the gray you will be happy you did!
Marcia Zimmermann says
That was me the other day- I have used Delorean many times with white subway tile- we have done several kitchen and bathroom renovations, and that shade of grey just works so well!
White grout will get dirty and discolored, the off white grout will look like its already dirty.
I like the charcoal too 🙂
We just helped my daughter and son in law with a quick kitchen reno and they used Home Depot white subway tile and Delrean Grey grout- I would send a photo but I don’t know how to attach it here.
Kathy says
Charcoal!
Pam says
I like the charcoal.
Christina says
snow white
ML says
Charcoal pops the hardware on the cabinets, but your choice is what matters.
Molly Jo says
charcoal or gray with those counter tops. Need the contrast.
I also asked my SIL who is a pro decorator and she agreed.
Shirley Funk says
I with your HH no, no , and no on the charcoal. I would try the gray or snow white
Cass says
I do not like the dark contrast. However it would not stop me from buying the house if I were looking for a house of that size in that area. I prefer a much paler color that is not white. (The one you didn’t show us might be just the compromise you need)
Rebecca Anne says
I would vote for the
#1 Charcoal!
#2 Delorean Gray
I LOVE the Charcoal!!!!!!!
(And I’m from Alabama.)
Mary says
Delorean grey. The charcoal is too dark and looks institutional. The whites will be a pain to keep white.
Amy R Burton says
100% charcoal…not only does it make the tile “pop”, but is a way cleaner look long term. White never stays white and often yellows over time.
Emily says
No white grout. It will be a nightmare to maintain. I like the charcoal, but would love to see the delorean grey.
Laura L. says
Why not meet the HH halfway and pick the Delorean Grey.
Kate says
Snow white. It ties the look together and is unifying. The dark grout breaks everything up and is distracting: Oh look! There are chunks of white tile in betwen all that dark grout!! Add color with your linens and counter accessories and cooking utensils.
Kathleen says
Deloreon grey ! Won’t show stains like white or light grout
Marianne Lewis says
Charcoal!
Beth says
I really like the black! Think it ties in wonderfully w/the dark counters…not so fond of the white grouts at all…
Vicki in Birmingham says
I like the charcoal with your counter tops, but if you are looking for something that may be more sell able to your next buyers, the white may be your best bet.
If your plans are to be there a while, long enough to enjoy your choices, definitely charcoal!
Suzan says
I always lean to white on white but I can see the sense in a grey and the less stained appearance that will result. Instead of buying more grout are you able to mix the colours you have?
Susan says
Charcoal
Thelma says
White either one. Charcoal is too busy !
Michelle says
We did a dark grout with white tile in a quick kitchen reno before resale and my husband (who is very handy and does almost all our home projects) had a very hard time working with it. Every tiny imperfection stood out. We almost took it all down and started over. Our realtor recommended the dark grout as the popular option for the type of buyer (age and demographic) we were looking to market to, but I personally could not have lived in the house with it. The contrast just was too much and like I said, despite my hubby’s very best try, those imperfections shined. The realtor convinced us to leave it and the home did sell within a few days on the market (near Seattle) but I would shy away from ever attempting it again. I think the white on white looks off with the cream cabinets. I would be on team grey in this case. Someone mentioned chatting with a realtor… great idea! Also, I am not only curious about where your responding readers live but also if there seems to be a color preference in certain age groups. I have noticed in recent houae hunting certain trends for different ages of sellers. White grout seems to be popular among my moms generation. I am in my late 30’s and reside in Central WA but am from Seattle.
Linda Practical Parsimony says
I chose charcoal. I am 73 and live in the South. My male friend is 67 and chose charcoal, too. I think probably socioeconomic groups choose differently.
Nancy says
The charcoal is beautiful with the countertop and new handles but it makes a distinct pattern for your backsplash. The edging on your cabinets makes distinct lines. From wider shots of your kitchen in previous posts, you have some beadboard that makes a vertical stripe. Though neutral colors, that makes for a lot of pattern in a small amount of space. The Delorean gray would make for a more subtle pattern with the backsplash. Is there an online app you could use with a wide shot of your kitchen to play with the grout colors to see what each looks like in the larger picture?
Thank you for encouraging all of us with your projects! You are much better at painting than I am but you encourage me to take on those tired, ugly spaces!
Denise W. says
Sorry Mavis……I gotta go with the white. The charcoal, in my own humble opinion, looks like mildewed grout to me. That’s just what my eye sees. White is the current trend with builders in my area right now. My daughter has white subway tile with white grout and I think it’s really pretty. You would have to be a really big “splatterer” to stain grout on the walls……right?
MEM says
I have white subway tile as my kitchen backsplash – the grout is not brilliant white but still in the white family. After three years, it still looks clean – no stains, yellowing, graying, etc. While the charcoal does look sharp at first glance, I think it is taste-specific and you might get tired of it. Since HH is doing most of the cooking now, I would let him select what he will be looking at – as well as working with.
Connie says
I would stay away fro the white grout. I think a medium gray, possibly DeLorean Gray would look nice. A charcoal gray would look too harsh with white subway tile.
LoLo R. says
I wasn’t too sure about a dark color but now that I see it, I like the way it makes the counter and cabinet hardware stand out. It gives it just enough of a pop. Maybe the lighter gray would work too but I think I like the charcoal now that I’ve seen it. : )
Tracy says
I would go with the grey. Why? The white washes out like you said looks like frosting smeared on the backsplash, the dark is such a contrast that every imperfection shows. I’ve been watching home improvement shows and you can see every imperfection in the grout lines with such a contrast. It does look good when done right but if it’s not perfect will always look not perfect and as a buyer I would notice this.
Jim says
The charcoal looks awesome! Go with it.
Cecilia says
Charcoal
Leslie says
Unless you are a fanatical cleaner, the white grout will end up gray. period. I’d go with the charcoal. i think it goes with counter and looks fabulous. More modern. But I don’t know how the gray looks.
I’d never go with white grout unless it’s someplace that isn’t exposed to dirt.
Dawn Newark says
Definitely Charcoal! The white is so 1985! Keep your kitchen current and classic, I say! 🙂
PattiCinCO says
Delorean grey
Lolly says
The light grey. I prefer the look of white, but I also know how hard it is to keep wht grout clean. The charcoal (used with lighter tiles) makes me think of grout so dirty that it can’t be kept clean…ie, fast food or gas station bathroom floors! Ick! The grey would be easier to keep clean than white, but not so stark as the dark + white…and not so reminiscent of gas station bathroom floors. Ha!
Now, we have slate colored floor tiles in our house, and I went with a dark dark grey grout. The guy who laid our addition’s tile was fussing about us not going with white. But I have 2 kids running around a yard full of red clay and mud and chicken poop….and I have been there and done that with light colored grout and/or white tile on the floor before, and no way do I care to keep a houseful of white grout super clean for the rest of my days!
Jam says
I would do one of the whites and maybe the gray. But not charcoal. Keep it light. It’s looking great
Melissa says
I love the charcoal. 2nd choice would be gray. NOT white!!
Philip says
I like the charcoal one. At least for me, it gives the look more character because of the contrasting color (against the white). Although, I would guess that either of the whites would look “cleaner”.
Brynn says
I did dolorean gray with my white subway tile in the shower and its great. It’s a middle of the road, won’t ever look dirty and shouldn’t be a huge conversation piece to buyers during their walk through.
KRISTIN CIRCELLI says
I’m sure you picked a grout color already , I used Dorelean gray on white subway tile in kitchen 4 years ago and it looks great – perfect contrast and looks brand new still – no stains