Tile Countertops Are Making a Comeback

When you think of tile countertops, you probably picture a classic 1990s kitchen. The tiles are small, maybe even chipped, and the grout is impossible to keep clean. Given its impracticality, you may think this kitchen feature is best left in the past.

And yet, tile countertops are making a resurgence. With more than 341 million views on TikTok and dozens of designers weighing in on the trend, many home remodelers are wondering: Should I install tile countertops in my kitchen?

If you’re on the fence, consider this your guide to the modern tile countertop.

Features of Modern Tile Countertops

Today’s kitchen tile countertops differ from their predecessors in several key ways, from size to shape to material. Let’s investigate each one.

Tile size

The tiles used in modern countertops tend to be a lot bigger than their ’90s counterparts. One proud tile countertop owner, TikToker Eden of @bottegavendetta, shows off her large tiles in the video below.

She says each tile is 24- by 48-in., leaving her with far fewer seams than a traditional small-tile countertop. This lines up the tile “super nicely” for visual simplicity and makes the countertop much easier to clean.

@bottegavendetta Reply to @_misspandme ♬ original sound – 𝖊𝖉𝖊𝖓

Tile shapes

If a modern homeowner wants to stick with smaller tiles, they often opt for unique shapes. The TikTok below from Remodel School (@remodelschool) shows countertops with hexagonal and diamond-shaped tiles. This is a modern departure from the rectangular subway-type tiles of kitchens past.

@remodelschool Replying to @thejeangrey The tile counter trend is a little bit different this time around. Take a look to see what’s changed since the last time tile counters were in style. #tilecountertop #diycountertop #countertopmakeover #diytileproject #interiordesigntrends #interiordesigntiktok #remodelschool @Remodel School @Remodel School @Remodel School ♬ original sound – Remodel School

Tile materials

Today’s tiles may feature different materials than yesteryear’s. As Remodel School explains above, many homeowners are turning to porcelain tiles as a budget-friendly alternative to granite tiles or big slabs of stone. These porcelain tiles also differ from more dated glass mosaic versions.

Tile colors and texture

When choosing a tile, homeowners look to update countertop textures. In a nod to another 2023 interior design trend, bold veining in stone, Eden uses a pale blue veined porcelain to add extra intrigue to her kitchen.

Considerations Before Adding Tile Countertops

There are two main factors to think about before installing tile countertops. First, the countertop edges must be mitered, as Remodel School explains. This isn’t the case with stone slab countertops, which are much thicker but also more expensive.

Second, consider your tolerance for cleaning. Tile countertops inherently feature grout that requires regular scrubbing. Also, bear in mind the smaller the tile, the more grout you’ll have to clean. If you feel up for the task, brush up on these grout cleaning tips before installing your new tile countertop.