When it comes to installing subway tile in your kitchen, there are various grout options. While many opt for white, experts suggest considering gray. Below, experts discuss the merits of gray grout and key considerations.
Meet the Experts: Alana Marie is the founder of Alana Marie Interiors. Melissa Sakell is a kitchen and bath designer with Anthony Wilder Design/Build. Becky Shea is the founder and creative director of Becky Shea Design. Why You Should Choose Gray Grout for Subway Tile: Easy to Maintain: Experts like pairing subway tile with gray grout as it’s more practical than lighter hues for withstanding wear and tear. Alana Marie says light grout in a kitchen, especially in high-traffic areas like a backsplash, is hard to keep clean and shows stains faster. Gray, on the other hand, hides dirt better, requires less maintenance, and maintains a fresh look longer. Gray also warms up the space and gives a more dimensional look, Melissa Sakell adds. It Won’t Go Out of Style: When choosing a tile and grout combination, opt for a timeless look as kitchen renovations are time-consuming and costly. Sakell says gray is an excellent color as it’s timeless and complements any interior color scheme. Gray comes in several shades and pairs nicely with different kitchen design styles. Becky Shea used a stunning blue subway tile in a bathroom and incorporated gray grout. She says the soft gray tones brought out the blues and grays, creating a cohesive look. Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more! Disadvantages of Gray Grout on Subway Tile: Grays can be difficult to read.Homeowners and designers alike are embracing a new trend in home decor: gray grout for subway tiles. Unlike white grout, gray grout pulls colors from its surroundings, creating a unique aesthetic that doesn’t always translate well from one space to another.
As Sakell, a leading designer, points out, it’s crucial to consider the grout in the context of the entire space and the materials being used. This is not a decision to be made lightly, as it significantly impacts the overall look of your home.
Professional installation is highly recommended when it comes to adding gray grout to your kitchen. It’s not a simple DIY project; it requires expertise to ensure that the grout is applied correctly and seamlessly.
If you’re considering a darker shade of gray, Sakell emphasizes the importance of having a confident installer. Errors in installation will be more noticeable with high-contrast combinations, making it even more critical to get it right the first time.
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