Yesterday the HH and I bundled up and headed to The Home Depot to buy nails and look at tile for the kitchen. It snowed pretty good in the morning {about 4 inches?} but that didn’t stop anyone. It’s funny what you get used too isn’t it? If we were still in Western Washington, cities would pretty much would have come to a halt. But here, it’s just business as usual.
Plain, white subway tile. It’s a classic and my husband thinks this is what we need for the back splash in the kitchen.
I really liked the white herringbone pattern. But then we quickly moved on because the HH thought cutting all those pieces would be a nightmare, especially since he’s never laid tile before.
And then there was the penny tile. I love it but the HH said penny tile belongs in the bathroom, not the kitchen. I told him he was wrong and that I’d ask YOU.
The honeycomb tile was pretty cool too. But not with white grout. I think the grout needs to be a charcoal grey color. White would be too sterile. Plus a total pain in the keister to keep clean.
I really liked the look of this pattern as well, but felt like the tile was a little too much on the creamy side and had sort of a drab feel to it. But maybe for a bathroom?
We did agree on some knobs and slightly wider cup pulls that we think will help update the kitchen while still keeping with the feel of our classic 1920’s home.
Combine the tile and the kitchen hardware with this schoolhouse light fixture from Pottery Barn, and I think you can see the direction we’re headed with the kitchen update. While we both like the old creamy milk glass shades on the schoolhouse fixtures, I think using clear glass will give off more light during the winter months here in Maine. Plus, we’ll be able to use the Edison style light bulbs we both like.
We’ve narrowed the back splash tile options down to three. Subway, honeycomb and penny. Out of the three choices above, which one do you prefer? The above picture shows the cabinets with the current brushed nickle knobs and cup pull.
And here’s a picture with the updated bronze knobs and cup pull {the hinges would be swapped out to bronze as well}. The cabinet hardware makes a big difference, don’t you think?
With a little luck, the mini kitchen makeover will be done by Valentine’s Day. But out of the three tile choices above, which one do you think we should go with; subway, honeycomb or penny?
Have a great weekend everyone, and be sure and bundle up. Tonight it’s supposed to get down to 1 below. Yikes!
~Mavis
Lissa says
Subway is my vote
Jen M says
Subway or honeycomb.
Alison says
I agree – subway or honeycomb!
Joyce says
I like the honeycomb.
Gwenn Ferguson says
Subway for sure. I love the other two. The 1915 farmhouse we had in SE MI had the penny tile on the bathroom floor (black ones mixed in) and I loved it. We now have a 1924 Craftsman Bungalow that desperately needs a kitchen make over. Other than paint over the ORANGE walls the rest is still as we bought it 18 months ago. I LOVE the hardware, I’m totally stealing that look for our kitchen and we will go with the subway tile as well.
Sarah S says
I love the subway tile-it’s a classic that won’t go out of style. The penny tile looks very busy. I love the style you are going for
Kathy Peterson says
I like the subway tile.
Trava J Olivier says
I love the updated hardware! If it were me, I’d go with the subway tile. It is a classic look. The penny tile is too busy for my taste and while I do like the honeycomb tile I feel the timelessness of subway would be a plus if you were to ever resell without a full makeover for the kitchen.
Linda says
I like the subway Mavis.
Lindsey says
I agree with the hh. I’ve installed lots of tile , backsplash and floor. The subway is by far the easiest. Herringbone is a nightmare and penny is for the bathroom!!!
Holly says
I am so over subway tile. I love the penny!
Chrissy says
the subway style is overdone. I’m leaning towards honey comb.
HollyG says
I agree with Chrissy – It seems like the subway gets used in so many flipped houses. The hex tile seems a little fresher while still being classic.
CD says
Honeycomb,then subway tile, then penny tile. Loving the hardware update.
Lynne says
Funny, but I like the subway with the original handles but the penny with the new. I’m a bit surprised.
Amelia Scherer says
I agree. The penny tile is different.
DotRot says
I agree. The subway tile is so boring and needs to be retired as a fashion. That being said, I’d actually do a combination of the subway and the hexagon. I’d border the backsplash with the subway tile and use the hexagon tile between the borders.
Jamie B. says
I like the honeycomb.
Kirsten G says
Subway tile. The other 2 are too busy looking for a backsplash.
Susan says
The subway is so nice. Seems as though the other two could be dated pretty soon.
Maria Zannini says
For what it’s worth, the penny tile might be too busy against the wainscotting. But I do like the honeycomb. Subway tile is so overused nowadays.
Rynda Gregory says
I thought the same thing. The lines of the cabinets and the wainscoting go well with the subway lines. It could work with the honeycomb, but the penny tile is too busy with those lines.
Can’t wait to see what you choose.
colee crisanti says
Good morning! Can’t go wrong with the subway tile…..the honeycomb is a bit too busy for the look/style you’re shooting for and the penny tile belongs on the floor.
Shari Harniss says
Honeycomb evokes a cozy feeling. You automatically think of bees, then flowers, then warm days, etc. I would love to have it in my kitchen!
Ayesha says
I am also trying to figure out which one of the two subway or honeycomb for my kitchen. Your warm explanation of the honeycomb decided for me Shari!
Thank you
Ayesha
Barbara says
SUBWAY,
jj says
Love Love the penny tile
Erin says
Subway tile is timeless. Honeycomb looks ok too but wonder if it will just be a trend and go out of style. Penny tile is too busy and belongs on a floor of a bathroom. I have white grout in my subway tile in the kitchen and haven’t had any problems keeping it clean…even with two kids and a messy hh.
Melanie says
The honeycomb is my vote, for what it’s worth:)
Teresa says
Subway. Classic.
Megan C. says
Honeycomb- a gardener must have style!!
Lj says
Subway appears to be the one. Penny I agree with your HH is for the bathroom.
And the black knobs are it with the dark countertop
Windy says
Honeycomb! It adds a pinch of panache!
Ayesha says
so well said !
Julie says
I vote for subway. I have subway in my kitchen with the same new hardware you chose and I love the look. I have gray grout in my kitchen and love the way it makes the tile pop.
Dawn says
Subway is my vote. Simple and classic.
Deborah says
My favorite is a tie between the penny tiles and the subway tiles. Love the white with gray grout. Great idea.
Erica says
A note on gray grout and diy-ing: gray grout will stand out from the white tile. You will need to make sure your lines are straight. White grout will blend in and hide any imperfections. Just my two cents.
PS. I vote for honeycomb or subway.
Daisy says
completely agree. only use differently coloured grout if you know what you are doing. and i think, that the pennytile has too much grout compared to the surface area, i’d prefer the subway tile
Kim says
Penny tile seems bathroom -ish. Subway is my first response, but I am starting to like that honeycomb……
Cynthia Frances Daviy says
Subway
Dawn says
Honeycomb!
Jill A says
I like the subway or the honeycomb. The penny tile is too much.
Sara says
If those are the only choices then the honeycomb with non-white grout. The penny is too small for your particular kitchen. The subway is seriously overused these days. So much so, that it has become cookie-cutter rather than classic/stylish. In 3-5 years the kitchen will look very dated due to them.
Personally I would skip HD or any big box store and go to some tile stores for more options before settling.
Lynne says
I definitely don’t think the penny tile works – too busy. I prefer the subway over the honeycomb as it’s so classic, but I do think either would look nice. I love the new hardware!
Michele Ross says
Subway tile. There’s a reason why the classics are classic. Penny and honeycomb for the bathroom, although that’s a lot of grout to keep meat looking and hard to deal without ultra fine brushes. Love the new hardware
JD says
Honeycomb or penny to offset all the square shapes
Charlotte P Mcclure says
Subway. Its great with your cabinets and is such a classic it wont be “out” in a few years!
Mary Campbell says
Subway has my vote!
Jenn says
Definitely subway!
Carole says
Definitely Subway.
Meg C says
I vote subway tile with charcoal grout! It’s classic but not boring. 🙂
Kristen says
I have so many thoughts, please take them as my own!
Subway with grey grout is my fave idea. The HH is right, penny tile for bathrooms, I can’t believe I have been agreeing so much with Mr. Leglamp! Hex tile is really neat, but I prefer it for floors.
Hardware update is perfect!
Light fixture is perfect, and I agree clear shade is better.
This is going to be great!
Linda says
Ditto everything Kristen said!! Agree wholeheartedly. Subway tile is a classic, not too busy, and great for resale. Fits the 1920’s house in my opinion. Some say it’s overdone…I get it, but I also like it!! Ha!! That’s what’s I’d do if I were remodeling.
Mary says
Subway tile.
Cathriin says
honeycomb would be my pick
Deb says
How fun to be in the process of making design choices. I love all of your options. The dark knobs and pulls make a huge difference, who would have thought?! A few years back we updated our bathroom and kitchen and worked with a local kitchen\bath design company. We ended up using subway tile in the kitchen as the backsplash and we used white grout. I debated about that choice because I love the look of darker grout, but in the end we chose white. That was 4 years ago and we have had zero issues with keeping it clean, and I do cook and back on a daily basis. Just wanted to throw that out there. We worked on the bathroom about 2 years ago, I wanted penny tiles. Did I mention we cut and laid all of the tile ourselves? The only thing we didn’t do was grout the bathroom because we wanted epoxy grout and the tile folks advised us that it’s rather difficult to work with. Back to penny tile – they told us that penny tile is rather tough to line up correctly and that you can really see the lines that are off. They suggested that if we wanted that look to go with a small hexagon tile because it would give us the look without maybe the disappointment of the penny tiles. Now we were laying the small tiles on the floor so there was quite a bit of area to work with and that would probably make a difference. But we did end up using small hexagon tiles and it looks great, but maybe we could have managed the penny tiles. We will never know. Looking forward to seeing your finished redo and have fun.
Holley says
Subway!
Leanna says
I like the honeycomb. We’re looking to put backsplash in our kitchen. Might use that.
Glenda says
Subway tile without a doubt. Resale is a consideration and many people, myself included, factor in the color and busyness of the backsplash tile when looking at houses to purchase.
Jill says
Our realtor said not to consider this. Move in and make it your own home. Many people make changes to a ‘perfectly’ flipped home anyways. But we are in crazy Southern CA. My husband got so sick of looking at another gray walls/gray carpet…or worse, white or gray marble like tile throughout the house. Our house was not like that and a big reason we bought it.
Jill
Kari says
I vote subway, as the other two look a bit busy.
Cathy says
I like the honeycomb, the subway tile is nice but everyone has it.
Michelle says
Subway!
Cindy C says
Subway tile. Love the classic look. I really love your choice of hardware and the light fixture.
Jen says
I love subway tile but it’s kinda trendy anymore. I’ve used a large format subway tile (shower stall) before and loved it. For your backsplash I like the honeycomb best. Consider though, how any cut edges will look—if the ends of your backsplash (usually the right and left sides of your kitchen) are finished with trim (like if the wall ends at a trimmed doorway), then the cut edges of the tile will seem to disappear along the side of the door trim. Alternatively, if your tile area will end at a point that has no trim, the tile will simply end with cut edges (unless you buy some sort of tile trim or wood trim to finish the edge). If cut edges are a concern, best go with subway tile since you can get edge pieces with bull nosing.
Lunch lady says
Subway. Penny=bathroom. The honeycomb screams: “Look at me, look at me!”
Katie says
I’m with your husband, the penny looks like a bathroom tile. I love the herringbone, but understand the hesitancy there! I think subway or honeycomb would both look great. To be a little different – I’d probably choose the honeycomb with a dark grout like you mentioned.
Jeanie says
I love the honeycomb.
Carol says
I like what you have now. And as a former kitchen designer, I strongly like the new hardware. Oval knobs don’t stay straight.
Cecile says
Subway all the way! The other two date the kitchen, even though what is old is new again the subway tiles translate into any era! The black matte finished knobs and pulls are awesome!
chickengrandma says
Subway
Jill says
The existing yellow tile isn’t an option? I like it the best. Maybe without yellow walls.
Marge says
It is hard to keep the spacing on the Penny tile if the backing isn’t very rigid. My vote is the honeycomb.
Pam H says
Honeycomb!
Sue says
I’m not a decorator or expert, just love white subway tile.
Jill says
I prefer the honeycomb…be different. Just abpout EVERYONE uses subway tiles. Thankfully the previous owners of our home put in a beautiful, rustic blue/brown/grayish tile in the kitchen. So different from the other 20+ homes we looked at with gray walls, white kitchen/baths and white subway tile.
By the way, it is 6:54 am here in Southern CA and I could not believe you already had 46 comments. Lots of commenters from the east I guess.
Have a great day. We had rain overnight and now the sun is just starting to show its face. Lots of yardwork to do.
Jill
Tristen says
Honeycomb (looks gorgeous) or subway (classic). Penny is too busy
Stephanie in Utah says
Subway or honeycomb.
Pam E-P says
Subway seems like it will stand the test of time better than the others. LOVE the light fixture!
Lori King says
Wish I could send you a pic of my kitchen here, I have those cabinets in white with nickel pulls and white subway tile..I love it, clean and classic. East to maintain as well. Anyway email me if you want a pic to see what it would look like!
Barbara says
I’m another subway tile vote!
suzanne says
Can’t go wrong with a white tile. Penny tile is very difficult to install. Every edge penny has to be adjusted just so or it will be very obvious where the sheet begins and ends. Do they not have the slightly larger individual subway Daltile. It’s super easy to install and has all the trim pieces you may need.
Trudy says
Remodeled my kitchen in a 1950’s house last fall. Have white cabinets, black knobs and pulls, black granite countertops and light gray subway tile. I definitely vote for subway tiles! They look great. I really enjoy your blog!
Lucy says
Black, white, grey are my favorite basic colors. I used that in my main bathroom with pink accents. It’s also beautiful with dark or bright red and navy blue. Eerything goes with those 3
Laura says
I like the honeycomb, it’s different than every Joanna Gaines house you see everywhere. Love the new knobs and light fixtures.
L Bryant says
Considering the age of your home and the bead board that’s in the picture I would go with Subway tile to maintain the vintage look you’re going for
Lana says
Subway!
Michelle Yoxsimer says
Subway! When we brought our bathroom out of the ’70’s and back into the ’40’s, we used the hex tile, so that will always remind me of a bathroom. There is a reason the Subway is classic – it never goes out of style. And it is period correct for you house!
Kelly says
Subway!
Lanie says
I like the honeycomb and the penny the best. I think it’s bathroom tile if you put it in the bathroom, and it’s kitchen tile if you put it in the kitchen. LOL
Jennifer says
Subway! The penny tile just looks too busy for a smaller space. The pulls are gorgeous!
Pam Favorite says
Subway tile says I’m safe, honeycomb says I’m willing to take a risk and penny says I’m off my rocker!
Randini says
Subway, all the way, all day.
Daybyday says
Subway. We just redid our kitchen and used a colored arabesque and should have gone with p,win subway. Then you can accessorize forever without ever changing it.
Rita says
Subway! I do like what you have though (yellow), not so much white. Love the hardware!
Ruth says
I don’t like any of them!
This is a fantastic opportunity to add something really special and beautiful for a small-ish amount of money/time/effort. Don’t limit yourself. Go to a tile shop and pick out whatever really speaks to you.
When you do that, you won’t need to conduct a poll…you’ll KNOW! Go ahead and express some personality/style/taste. A backsplash is easily changed out. The big box store stuff is just too bland, generic and cheap-looking.
Michelle Counter says
I like your suggestion best!! This is a missed opportunity. It appears in all their (Mavis and Hubby) previous remodels they have stuck to simple changes that any home buyer would easily move into.
My hubby and I buy and sell homes almost as often as Mavis. We tend to make the same choices in updates. Interestingly though, when I buy a home I lean toward homes that have more personality and previous owners have taken more risk. We have a dark backsplash currently with light colored cabinets… not something I would ever pick for a remodel, but I fell in love with it the first time we looked at the house.
Richelle says
I agree!
Meg C says
I did vote for subway, because that’s what you asked our opinions on … that said, I wholly agree with Ruth. We are not only on this planet once (that we remember, anyway) & if you do sell/move, the next owners can put in any backsplash they want.
Audra says
When we remodeled recently we found a white subway tile with a slight wave. With white grout, it fit the bill beautifully by being classic but not cookie cutter. We got it at Lowe’s but I see Home Depot has something very similar:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Daltile-Restore-Bright-White-4-in-x-16-in-Ceramic-Wavy-Wall-Tile-13-20-sq-ft-case-RE15416WAVHD1P2/302570935?mtc=Shopping-VF-F_Vendor-G-D23-23_6_FLOOR_AND_WALL_TILE-Multi-NA-Feed-PLA-NA-NA-NA&cm_mmc=Shopping-VF-F_Vendor-G-D23-23_6_FLOOR_AND_WALL_TILE-Multi-NA-Feed-PLA-NA-NA-NA-71700000054964474-58700005193678076-92700045832425974&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwo3Yl4OL5wIVktlkCh2StQELEAQYASABEgKdb_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Rosaleen says
I like the c honeycomb the best, on its own, but the rectangular subway tiles may be easier on the eyes as a pattern wth the squared angles of the cabinets, counters, walls, appliances, etc.
Deborah Herman says
Be daring, go with the honey comb and a soft grey grout. We just bought a house straight out of the 70’s. Going to pottery barn for those lights. Ours are brown and you can’t see a thing.
Can’t wait to see the finished photo.
Good luck.
Debby T says
Subway – BUT, I would consider, rather than white, one variegated with some grey, or either shadowed with grey or even different shades of white to Lt grey.@
Bonnie says
Subway because it is classic and the clean lines mirror the shape of the cabinets. Timeless.
Cathi says
I’m loving the honeycomb. It is by far my favorite. Makes me wish I was doing a kitchen makeover.
Tracy T says
Honeycomb
Diana says
I agree with Sara, go to a tile store and get more selections.
I was a kitchen designer with HD for 14 years and have designed a lot of kitchens. Personally, I don’t like the white tile with the off white cabinet color. I’ve always thought that was just too jarring and clashed. I’d go with something that is softer and closer in color to the cabinets or some other complimentary color.
I do love the change in the hardware, though.
As for shape of tile, subway is appropriate for the age of your house and would reflect the style of the time. Penny tile would have been in the bathroom – as would have honeycomb and the other ‘Christmas ornament’ shaped tile you showed. I found many of the ‘Christmas ornament’ ones under my house (which was built in 1920) which were removed in a previous remodel and see them in other houses around here that are still original – in the bathroom.
I’d love to see other choices. 🙂
Diana says
You might consider a warm gray for the tile color – not a cool/blue gray. That would go along with your countertops and the cabinets and not clash.
Tracey says
I’d go with Honeycomb. I think the scale is right for the size of the kitchen and is a classic shape. I think the penny is too busy and the subway tile just seems too big. The honeycomb has a classy understated feel that pairs nicely with the dark hardware, vintage style light and lighter cabinets. In the white you’re choosing, it will last a long time. (trendy color would not work).
Mechelle says
I vote for honeycomb!!
leslie moss says
The hardware is spot on. However, it might help if you paint the walls the color you have chosen first before choosing your tile. At the moment, the white tiles don’t go with the color of the cabinets and I think you’ll be disappointed.
Paint first, then choose the tile. You may need to find a specific tile color since your cabinets aren’t a true white, or even have them made to match your color. Your area for the backsplash isn’t that large to have custom color tiles made, price wise, especially if you go with a simple custom subway tile.
I am not a designer by trade, just a hobby that drives my family nuts because I always have a design project. Just my two cents on your lovely project.
look at websites schoolhouse electric and tilebar and vintagerevival for ideas and products
Richelle says
Definitely paint the walls first. If you’re painting the cabinets, do that before tile, as well. Backlash is jewelry and added after you are “dressed.”
Connie says
i like the uniqueness of the honeycomb design.
KC says
I am a bit perplexed by all the people saying that subway tile is “classic” and “timeless” given that I never saw subway tile being used in a home until maybe the last decade, and maybe even less?
In other words, I’m pretty sure it is to some degree a fad, and will likely be a bit “oh, yeah, subway tile *again*” in a short time (or, for some people who are more drenched in the design world, already). That said, 1. you don’t have to make this a “timeless” kitchen – you just want to make it something you enjoy, 2. it has the least grout area and maybe the easiest layout of the three options, and 3. I personally like the honeycomb best.
With the edison bulbs and clear fixtures and black-bronze cabinet hardware, you may end up overshooting classic and hitting steampunk, but that is *also* fine! I guess: having seen lots of people update their kitchens right before selling their houses, and regret not getting to actually *live* in them… and then having the next homeowners swap the just-installed, just-painted kitchen stuff out… by all means, go for what the two of you personally like and can accomplish! And then enjoy living in the result! 🙂
Lucy says
My first choiice is tte subway tile. Also, is your counter top and edge of dishwasher black? If so, IMO, I’d choose black hardware. I LOVE black and white. I’m sure it will all be beautiful!
Traci says
What caught my attention seeing the three choices and the new hardware is how the shape and lines of the subway tile match everything so well – straight edges & 90 degree corners, etc. – that gets my recommendation.
Linda says
I love the penny tile! It’s so fun!
Martine says
Subway. I think the others will soon date. Couldn’t you make some tiles yourself in your kiln? Then you can paint them however you want and make more in a few years if you get fed up of them!! x
Thelma says
Subway tile , the others are too busy .
Terri says
You know the grout that would be “a total pain in the keister to keep clean”? Subway tile has less of it.
Pauline in Upstate NY says
Subway, definitely. As someone above already said, classic is classic for a reason. The other two are too “busy” and I think those patterns would distract from everything else. Please do tell us the final vote, Mavis!
Lisa R says
I like the honeycomb but not white. I feel it doesn’t look right with the off white/cream cabinet. The cabinets can look really rich and lovely with the right color backsplash but not white. Choosing white seems like it was just an easy fix. I would not limit myself by choosing something at the big box stores. You have a chance to make your cabinets and counter(I love the hardware update) look great without redoing them. Pick something that looks more custom and then you will save money in the long run by saving the counters and the cabinets.
Also penny tile belongs on the floor in a bathroom gotta side with the HH on that one.
Susan Backus says
I like subway tile. I think it’s a classic look. If you decide to go that route save time and beaucoup bucks and have it reglazed or painted. You can Google it to do it yourself.
Deborah McGeary says
I like the penny tile the best.
Heather says
Definitely Subway!
Laura says
I like the subway tiles.
We have a similar light fixture in our kitchen. We got clear glass (with Edison light bulbs). I wish we would’ve gone with milk glass though. The clear glass always looks dusty/dirty. Just something to consider…
Virginia says
I totally agree about the clear glass. I personally don’t like looking at the glare of exposed bulbs, but that’s another issue. If dust bothers you, clear glass is a no. Although maybe your HH won’t mind dragging out a chair or step ladder every week to shine up that ceiling fixture. I’ve seen some really lovely twenties era fixtures with white glass available on Etsy.
Amy says
Subway is first choice, then honeycomb. Penny tile is too busy
STACIE says
Subway tile all the way. I love you hardware choices too!
Carolyn says
I just completed remodeling my kitchen. I also installed tile for the first time and my vote is the subway tile. All of the cuts and knotching around outlets and corners was really easy with the straight tile. The others are really pretty and would be great, but not for my first tile job.
Karin says
Love the new knobs/pulls. Are you sure you want to eliminate the herringbone? That’s my favorite. Subway would be my second choice but everyone seems to have it now and I personally prefer something a little more unique.
CherylV says
I like the honeycomb with black grout, it screams look at me. Otherwise, I’d go with subway for classic.
Lori B says
I vote subway – clean and classic. I love the new knobs/pulls. My kitchen has none and the wood is dark so I’m saving up to put brushed nickel knobs and the cup pulls on the drawers. Been in my Amazon wish list forever and someday I’ll pull the trigger. I would prefer the bronze like you have if my cabinets weren’t so dark.
Can’t wait to see it! It will be beautiful!
PattiCinCO says
Subway
Alicce says
Maybe you should try painting the cabinet hardware, since the style is similar.
Rustoleum has a Rubbed Bronze that is beautiful.
Not the penny tile
I’d go with the subway tile.
Linda Practical Parsimony says
For my old house, I went with classic unless I just like something better. I like the subway tiles in another color. As for the chosen tiles, I would go with honeycomb. There is a sealer for the grout to avoid stain/nastiness/grease.
Linda Practical Parsimony says
I meant I like the size of the tiles you have now.
debbie in alaska says
Honeycomb … it adds a little something something without being crazy. Subway feels too basic for the space — but if that was the only option I saw I’m sure I’d like it.
Julie says
I love the subway tile.
mary mcmahon says
Given those choices, subway would be my vote. I have some original white subway in my 1912 bathroom. mary in Cincinnati
Shannon says
I totally thought those sponges were shrink-wrapped blocks of cheese and was like, “Why is Mavis laying out tile on an entire case of cheddar?”
Carol Hager says
OMG, I thought the same thing
Emily says
I wonder if you might end up loving the existing tile when you’re done with your painting. If not, I’d lean toward the classic subway tile. It looks the easiest to install and maintain.
Mavis Butterfield says
Keeping the yellow tile is not an option. I’m not a yellow person.
Rebecca Anne says
Handsome Husband wins again! Subway tile …it’s just so IN!
And if you guys are keeping notes,
there’s a reason why SUBWAY has the most votes!
As far as the other two,
they both belong in the loo!
The Butterfield kitchen is gonna rock it’s new style!
Thanks for asking us about your new tile!
You guys are fun, without a doubt!
Thanks for showing us how to work things out!
Shelley Briley says
Subway tile. Very classic.
Nancy D says
I was listening to a radio program in Seattle and it features a call in program on the weekend for building and remodeling. She advises to only use a minimal gap between the subway tiles for grout to make it easier to maintain. Wish we would have done that with ours. I love our white subway tile in kitchen and bathroom
victoria says
I like the current tile best — or new white subway. As Nancy points out, sealing the grout is super important but usually overlooked until its too late. Good luck and keep warm.
Lace Faerie says
Keep it classic with white subway tile AND white grout. Use a sealer if worried about stains. I think colored grout looks dirty. Penny tile is for bathroom floors. I could live with the honeycomb. I like the arabesque IF it was all white, I don’t think the shaded edges.
Mimi says
Honeycomb + gray grout. 🙂
Subway is OK but it is everywhere these days.
Penny tile is definitely for bathrooms.
Fun project and I like the direction you’re headed in.
Stephanie says
I know this will be an EXTREMELY unpopular comment, but I am SO tired of this sterile, white trend and will be glad when it is gone. Everyone seems to want to do the same thing. I miss individuality and uniqueness.
Shirley says
I think subway is a nice choice!
Jim R. says
For the kitchen I would go with natural brick. To me, the others (in white) are more suitable for a bathroom. Natural brick is pleasing to the eye and adds a sense of warmth. The sterile white gives a sense of cold. Just my 2-cents. Now, as for the weather…welcome to New England. As you have found, if you can get out of your driveway you can go most anywhere. Unlike a lot of places we are geared up to handling these things. Heck, even an 18″ Nor’easter is just a minor inconvenience. 🙂
Cindy says
Why not just paint the existing tile? It looks like subway tile just not the color you want.
judy says
Hi Mavis, I vote for the subway!!! The other tiles are just waaaay tooo busy.
Frances F Lengenfelder says
The reason we don’t travel much in snow here in western Washington, is because of the hilly terrain.
Judy says
I say subway. I had ‘my guy’ put the honeycomb in my small bath (with a medium gray grout) and it’s beautiful but there was a LOT of cutting.
🙂
Rebecca Briscoe says
I like the subway tile.
Dale Ann says
Subway tiles would be my choice. To me they have cleaner, more simple lines. And they pair beautifully with the Edison bulbs you have chosen. Both remind me of the gorgeous old mansions we have toured. The two other tile styles I feel would eventually be outdated. Only my opinion though, as I gravitate toward older classic Scandinavian design.
Cheryl says
We have white subway tile with a 2″ strip of grays, black, and white between them. Think three rows of subway, 2″ gray/black and three rows of subway tile. Picks up the countertop colors.
Dolores Tormey says
Subway, by far. I love the idea of grey grout. The bronze cup pulls and knobs look amazing. Also, the School House Light Fixture is beautiful. Mavis, youh ave such great taste…you could make a living on decorating peoples homes.
Bar G says
Subway is now considered out of style – very yesterday, and I always thought it was truly boring, cheap, and industrial. Very hospital operating room, too, by the way. I like the look of the penny tile. It has a pice pop to it.
Holly says
Subway…..Subway…..Subway!
Tracy says
Of the options presented, only honeycomb, and ONLY with white grout. Dark grout always looks dirty-ish. I always prefer grout to take an ‘invisible’ role. And, I think I’m the only person alive who hates subway tile. ALL subway tile, regardless of how it’s laid. Subway tile is just that…the tile that is actually used in New York subways. I’m a New Yorker, and trust me, every time I see subway tile, I think of the subways and the lovely vomit and urine smells of the subway”. Ick, ick, ick! Personally, I think you can do better than any of the options you presented here….yesterday ur husband is right about the little penny rounds. Dated, and not in a good way, and for old need-to-be-renovated bathrooms. A natural stacked stone maybe? Pebble? Something with a quiet interest! (Hey, you asked!)
Cindy Machristie says
Honeycomb
Penny says
Subway all the way and throw in a dark gray grout.
Pam says
Well…you have subway already 🙂 if it was my house I’d go with the honeycomb and use a navy or gray grout. Have fun with it!
Katherine White says
I like the size of your current tile. Since you are looking a white tile why not consider painting your tile. I found this video from This Old House where they paint a tiled kitchen backsplash.
https://youtu.be/rTRWdIVQ-bU
Christa H. says
SUBWAY!!! Can’t go wrong with it and most people like it if you plan to resell. I have it with pale grey grout and it’s lovely.
Lori says
Well Mavis. I have to agree with the HH. Subway tile all the way. Herringbone is way to busy and the penny is for the bathroom. Love the look of the light fixture. The clear shade will give more light like you said. Which is especially important here in north new England. As far as those Edison light bulbs are
Concerned you should pass on those. The are out of style already. They should have stayed in the Edison era. Can’t wait t see the after pictures when your kitchen is complete.
Kimberly O'Donoghue says
There’s a little of square going on in there I didn’t think I’d like the penny but that’s my vote now! Good luck
Carolyn says
You and I have very very similar kitchen styles. I just added a backsplash in grey subway tile with white grout. Looks beautiful, clean, classy and timeless. If I can figure out how to add a photo to my comment, I will. We have white upper cabinets and black lowers, with the same hardware you just bought for your kitchen.
SandyF says
SUBWAY. The house appears to be vintage-40’s maybe. Screams for subway. The house is telling you! Classic, never goes out of style, is not trendy, and stands the test of time. Penny tile in the bathroom. Love the black hardware.
I love subway.
Wendy m says
Honeycomb now that you have changed out the hardware. Subway is in second place but definitely not the penny tile.
Kiley says
I think the penny tile really brings out the look you’re going for! And it can totally work in a kitchen. Subway tile seems way overdone these days; it’s nice, but it’s everywhere and personally I think it can feel a bit cold and institutional
Michele from Oregon says
Sorry Mavis, Subway! The others way too busy. I also liked your original hardware as it matches your stainless appliances.
Angelia Johnson says
I like the honeycomb option. While I like subway tile if that is what you want just paint the ones you have already..You can sand and paint them white with special paint. Otherwise if new is what you want go for the honeycomb.
Amanda S. says
Definitely the subway tile. It’s going to look great!!
Jacki says
Subway for me too!! It’s hot here in Mississippi!!! Stay warm!
Diane says
I don’t care what’s “trendy” or not – gotta use what YOU like and want to live with. At first I thought I liked the honeycomb tile best, but seeing them set up against the wall changed my mind. Now I think subway is the best/cleanest look. The honeycomb and penny tile look too busy.
April Dahl says
Penny tile. I am still grieving the other house.
Linda says
Agree with the HH subway tile!
Elle says
Subway. However, did you know you can paint the subway that’s already there and save a bundle?
Lisa C says
I like the honeycomb. I think it’s a good tile size in proportion to the space to cover, more dainty and a change to the existing subway tiles. Of course like others have mentioned, be sure to seal the grout.
Laura says
I like the honeycomb. Everybody has subway tile.
I think it would look awesome!
Min says
The tile can be refinished/repainted by the people that refinish bathtubs, Miracle Method. I would cost out both ways and factor in time, inconvenience and mess. However, since you don’t like subway………..
Gina says
I agree, easier to glaze over existing tile in white. Will seal the grout, also.
Mary says
I love the subway. The others seem to be busier and more distracting. Have fun! m.
Pj says
Honeycomb with charcoal grout. Subway tile is too sterile looking and overused these days
Laura Z says
I bought a light fixture for my house (from 1925)that’s similar but only about $40. I agree that hex and penny belong on the floor. Thanks for your blog!
https://www.lowes.com/pd/allen-roth-8-62-in-Dark-Oil-Rubbed-Bronze-Traditional-incandescent-Semi-Flush-Mount-Light/50244837
Linda Sand says
I surprised myself by preferring the subway tile. I didn’t think I would.
Dana says
Honeycomb for sure!!
Marianne says
Honeycomb!
Sara says
Penny tile belongs in a bathroom. Subway tile is classic but on trend too.
Lola says
Honey, subway a close second. No to the penny. ♀️
Margaret Hudgins says
Mavis,
I think, after reading all the responses, that I am going to be all alone on this.
1. You said “bronze” in your photo showing the old and new hardware, but the new looks very black to me; screen resolution maybe?
2. My choice would be subway tile with black grout, both for ease of cleaning and to match your counter tops, with black knobs and the gorgeous cup pulls.
I know that what ever you choose will look great. Your other home make overs are proof of that.
That being said, I have wanted to live in Maine ever since my late childhood, but since I am a window now and just turned 75 this past Saturday, and since the cost of living is way above my means, I am fairly certain it will never happen for me. So, I live vicariously through you and your wonderful blog postings. Keep ’em coming Mavis, keep ’em coming.
Virginia says
Well, you sure have received a LOT of opinions! Not sure you’ll notice my two cents way down here, but here goes anyway. I’ve learned a bit about tile after decorating an entire house with it, so I wanted to provide a few words of warning and things to consider.
My choice would be the subway tile for several reasons. It’s not only classic to the time period of your house, but it will by far be the easiest to work with, easiest to cut, etc. It will also be the largest tile, which means grout will play a smaller role, although still an important one. The hex and penny tiles will be much more difficult to work with, particularly penny tiles. However, I would definitely recommend penny tiles for your bathroom floor remodel; you’ll still need some knowledge and skill, but there are generally fewer angles and cuts needed for a floor.
The next thing to be very mindful of is ensuring that your white tile is truly a bright white. Assuming you’re painting your kitchen walls the same bright white as your dining area, take the tile samples to your dining wall during the day and compare the colors. If the tile looks off-white or dingy at all, choose a brighter white tile. I put white subway tile in a previous kitchen and only realized later that it had a grey tinge to it; it could have looked better had I known what I know now.
Did you notice that the subway tile on your sample is smaller than your current yellow tile? Again, smaller tile looks busier, and grout will play a larger role in the final look. Yup, another mistake I made with my previous kitchen. I strongly recommend you stick with the same size as your yellow tile. The scale is just right.
Grout can be a major game changer, no matter which tile you choose. My recommendation is a white sanded grout. I’ve never had an issue with my (unsealed) white grout getting dirty, but you can certainly seal yours if it makes you feel better. I cannot recommend enough that you take your final tile selection and top grout choice(s) and make a mock up of the final product. Buy a piece of 1/4″ lauan plywood, cut it into a few reasonably sized pieces, and make your samples (at least 2’x2′) by actually mudding the tile and grouting, just as you will on the wall. Wait until the grout dries thoroughly to see the final result; it will lighten when it dries. This will give you a true vision of what your walls will look like.
Lastly, I have to say that your hardware choice is spot on. Classic look, black goes great with your counters and appliances, round knobs never need to be adjusted like oval ones, and a totally easy switch with no drilling required.
Good luck with whatever you choose. There’s really no right or wrong. As long as you’re happy with it, that’s all that matters.
Judy says
Love the subway.
Erin says
The problem with the penny tile is that unless it’s laid by someone who really knows what they’re doing, you’ll see each & every square of tile. The seams are almost always visible, even in professional photos. Just food for thought.
Linda says
Just a caution about the glass globed lights. Please check how much light and the color of the light you are going to be getting by using those Edison bulbs in your kitchen, esp in the dark winter months where you are living. They may not give off enough light and the color might be amber in color. You might want to have some LED bulbs in the kitchen ,esp since you have black countertops that do not give off light. And if you don’t use edlison bulbs in the glass globes, you may not like how some other bulb will look.
Mrs. C. says
Subway. The others look too busy for the space.
Christy L says
The peeny seems like a lot of grout and I think it would be hard to keep clean. I like tile with fewer grout lines for that reason. Whatever you pick, it will be a fun advanture.
Mary Willis says
Definitely the subway tile for the kitchen.
Erica says
I love the subway! It is classic and goes with so many kinds of decor!
Jamie says
I vote for the subway tile. I think it mirrors your cabinets, and would be a more cohesive look.
Plus, it’s easier to install!
Lissa from Boise says
The volume of comments is cracking me up. I agree with a commenter above: paint (or resurface) your existing tile and see how you like it. It’s so close in look to the subway tile already. Paint the wall a color you like. If you are just doing this for resale the next owner will probably rip it out anyway (I agree with several people above that subway tile is going to scream “last decade” in a few short years). I’m still mourning your greenhouse from three moves ago…
Catherine Dalton says
I like the honeycomb. Look the Morrocan looking one too.
The penny tile can go anywhere!!! Silly man.
I’m looking to makeover a house in Maine too.
Thinking aqua blue glass in the kitchen, hoping for something that looks wavy, like water. Would love something that looks like seaglass actually, but, whatever I can find….
Good luck!
Kendra Puzzo says
Honeycomb please. That would be best.
Helen says
I vote for the subway, it’s timeless and the less grout the better! I agree with HH about the penny tile.
Michelle says
I am a subway fan as well
Spiritmama says
I vote for the subway tile.
Staci says
I love the honeycomb – looks classy without looking like what everyone else has done. 🙂
Jessie says
First choice -definitely Subway!
Tammy says
I’m going to echo a bit of what Virginia pointed out. i would not choose any of the tile samples you have shown. Your cabinets are a creamy color and if you put white next to them they will instantly make your cream cabinets look dingy. It’s all in the undertone!! Those tones do not go together from what I can tell in your photo. You need something more off-white. I like the herringbone also, like you, and I’m probably THE ONLY PERSON in the whole world who LOATHES white subway tile. it does nothing for me. Keep looking…