Subway tile has been the reigning queen of showers and kitchen backsplashes for decades, but square tile is, once again, having a moment. If you are intrigued by the trending tile and want to try it in a new way, read on for our tips for using this timeless material.
Design by Alison Giese Interiors | Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Choose Handcrafted
To freshen up the look of square tile, choose a textural handcrafted version. The irregular edges have a softer look than their more square counterparts, giving a more casual, lived-in feel. Our Handcrafted line is offered in many colors and in both square and subway styles, with something certain to suit your project.
Shop our similar style: 5x5 Handcraft White
Design by Haus Love Interiors | Photo by Ash and Co Creative
Go Dark
In the mood for something...moodier? Consider going dark. The reflective quality of our Magma collection means that not even the black shade is totally dark. The high-gloss glaze layered over plaster gives the tile depth and dimension and is ideal for a glamorous backsplash. Laid in a straight stack as seen here, the tile has the perfect tension between old and new that we adore.
Shop our similar style: 4x4 Magma Black
Design by reDesign Home | Photo by Ryan McDonald
Lay a Graphic Pattern
We can't say for sure that the renewed interest in square tile and in checkerboard-patterned floors (they're back too, see our thoughts here) are linked but it's hard to deny the nostalgic appeal of both. For the ultimate in classic flooring, choose two marble tiles in high contrast black and white. For a softer look, try two materials closer together in color. If you aren't sure which look is for you, select our sample option to try them out in your space.
Shop our similar styles: White Antiqued Marble, Black Antiqued Marble
Design by Marianne Simon Design | Photo by Haris Kenjar
Stick with the Classic
It's hard to go wrong with the classics, and a white square tile fits the bill. When paired with traditional lighting and plumbing fixtures, the material takes on an Old-World feel. As always with a basic material choice, the grout color will change the look drastically, so choose carefully. A white or light grout will help the tile fade into the background, while darker shades will emphasize the graphic nature of the repeated square shapes. We love the way this designer took a note from color of the cabinets and went with a darker grout, giving the room a modern edge.
Shop our similar style: Classic White 6x6
Design by Sherwood-Kypreos | Photo by Virtually Here Studios
Try Two Colors
If one square tile is great, then two much be spectacular! We love to pair multiple shades of the same material, and the offerings of our Country tile (in both square and subway shapes, with plenty of trim pieces to match) offer abundant options for pairing. Here, the designers used two shades in a 50% offset pattern to create a wainscot effect, and continued she shower tile into the room and behind the vanity.
Shop our similar styles: Country Black, Country White