Picture this: You just picked the perfect tile. Your next design decision is critical to bringing your vision to life: Picking a perfect grout color. Grout, the cement that fills the space between tiles, might be an easy decision to overlook but the color you chose can affect the overall feel of your tile design; it can determine how pronounced the tile shape is, the look of the glaze, and even how big a room appears. Not sure where to start? Here are a few considerations and ideas you should take into account as you determine a grout color.
1. Determine the Goal for your Space
First and foremost you’ll want to determine your goal for that specific space. What is the vibe or look you’re trying to create? You’ll also want to take into consideration the location, size and design of the room as this can affect the grout color, too. Another consideration: How high-traffic is this area? Is this floor tile that might be prone to getting dirty? If so, you might want a grout that’s easy to clean – think neutrals like gray or beige.
For more grout suggestions, visit our blog "5 Ways to Pick Grout Color"
2. Monochromatic Magic
You might find yourself gravitating towards a monochromatic color palette, matching the tile to the grout color. The ever-growing list of grout colors to choose from makes this easier than ever before. Matching the grout and tile color can pull together an installation, creating a more subtle design and adding in texture. This statement wall that uses our handmade “bubble” tile is the perfect example of how a monochromatic palette can be both fun and low-key. As an added bonus, leaning towards a monochromatic color palette can help make a room look bigger – a seamless pattern creates the illusion of openness.
See and learn more about this project with our blog "Cocoon Salon's Bubbly Statement Backsplash"
Bubbles - 11 Deco White. 3"x8" Subway Tile with Organic Edge - 11 Deco White.
3. Complementary Grout
If you’re craving to do something a little more different or unique, maybe you want to pick a complementary grout color – a color that’s not quite identical to the tile, but will accentuate the tile glaze. At Mercury Mosaics, we’re happy to make a recommendation including sending a tile sample so that you can mix-and-match it with grout colors in your own space.
Large Diamonds - 366 Satin Black
Photography and Design - Workroom C
4. Go Low Contrast
A more classic and simple option is to pick a low-contrast grout. This is the lowest risk and the easiest to execute. A low-contrast grout is one that is similar in hue and lightness to your tile; it’s not a one-to-one match like you might see with a monochromatic palette. Picking a low contrast grout allows you to more clearly see the tile shape without it looking too harsh. The end result is something that’s timeless and sophisticated.
For more tiled laundry room ideas, visit our blog "6 Tile Ideas for your Laundry Room"
2"x6" Subway Tile in Herringbone - 28 Everglades.
Photography - Joinery and Design Co.
5. Modern and Bold
On the flip side, if you want something that’s more modern and bold you might want to pick a high-contrast grout. This is when you pair light tile with a dark grout or vice versa. Picking a high-contrast grout will make the pattern of your tile pop, so it’s best for tile designs that you want to accentuate. We love this geometric kitchen shines with a high contrast grout.
For more on this kitchen, visit our blog "Modern White Kitchen with Geometric Tile"
Geo-Star Pattern - 130 White
Photography by Sage E Imagery
Styling by Creekwood Hill
6. Bright White Grout
White grout is kind of like the little black dress for tile in that it goes with everything. You really can’t go wrong with it. Case in point, this kitchen backsplash with a subway tiled backsplash. The white grout lets the cobalt blue tile shine, creating a kitchen that’s welcoming and calm.
For more colorful Subway Tile examples, visit our blog "Go Bold with Colored Subway Tile"
3"x6" Subway Tile - 21W Cobalt
Between tile and grout, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by options, but that’s where we can help. Get in touch with us and order tile samples so you can better see, touch and discover our handmade tile. We’d love to help you bring your dream space to life.
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