Taste Interior Design
Kitchens: Subway Tile & Two-Toned Cabinets
I love subway tile. It’s timeless, effortlessly stylish, and can be affordable. I especially adore subway tile that runs from counter to ceiling or even floor to ceiling — a full subway tile wall creates a striking focal point and adds texture and polish to a kitchen.
White subway tile is particularly lovely when paired with warm wood tones, colored cabinetry, or textured accents. While many homeowners prefer white grout for a crisp, modern look, a narrow grout line in a soft gray or taupe can add subtle contrast and depth without distracting from the tiles’ clean lines.
If you follow my blog, you might have expected this: subway tile will be part of my kitchen makeover. I considered many backsplash options, but classic white subway tile won out. It complements my highly grained, multi-toned casual hickory floors and balances the natural texture with a clean, enduring backdrop.
Adding subway tile will not only introduce texture and personality to the space, it will also help brighten and lighten the kitchen. The result is a fresh, inviting feel that still reads classic rather than trendy.
You may also notice another recurring element in these kitchens: two-toned cabinets. Using two cabinet colors is popular right now, but it’s a look I’ve long appreciated. When done thoughtfully and sparingly, mixing finishes — for example a natural wood base with painted upper cabinets — creates a layered, collected-over-time aesthetic that feels intentional and lived-in.
I plan to include a two-tone element in my updated kitchen as well. This time my primary cabinetry won’t be white; I’m exploring richer tones and wood finishes to pair with the subway tile. I’ll share a full inspiration board and details on my choices soon.
Happy Monday everyone!
Need more kitchen ideas? Here are some related posts you might enjoy:
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