Tile countertops are back! Or are they? They aren’t becoming popular again because they’re the best investment you can make in your kitchen, but because they’re bold, nostalgic, and a little different.
If you’ve seen them popping up in design magazines or emerging in online trends, you might be wondering: is this worth trying in my own space? Let’s walk through where tile countertops came from, why they disappeared, and what you should know before jumping into this trend.
The Rise of Tile Countertops
Back in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, tile countertops were everywhere. They were affordable, customizable, and heat resistant. Homeowners loved that they could choose almost any color or pattern and even coordinate their backsplash and counters. For a while, that flexibility felt like a no-brainer.
Why They Faded Away form Trend
Over time, the downsides caught up with the benefits:
Grout lines stained and were tough to clean
The uneven surface wasn’t great for rolling dough or prepping food
Newer options like granite and quartz looked sleeker and needed less upkeep
By the early 2000s, tile countertops were seen as dated. Many homeowners ripped them out during their first big remodel and continue to do so to this day. It seems like a tile countertop is a big red flag for an “outdated kitchen”.
Why Tiled Counters Are Trending Again
Fast forward to now, and tile countertops are quietly making a comeback. However, they aren’t showing up in the same way they did before. Today’s tile counters look different:
Large-format tiles are more budget friendly and reduce grout lines, creating a cleaner and more modern look that does not automatically feel vintage
Handmade and artisanal tiles bring texture and charm
Bold patterns allow for a one-of-a-kind design statement
Eco-friendly options like recycled tile appeal to sustainability-minded homeowners
It is less about recreating a 90s kitchen and more about creating a personal design choice that feels unique and intentional.
With maximalism, dopamine decor, and eclectic styles trending, tile countertops seem to fit right into these niche design styles.
Do People Really Like Tile Countertops?
This is where things get interesting.
The short answer: most people don’t love them. For many, the memory of stained grout and cracked tiles is enough to say no right away. In fact, a lot of buyers and homeowners still see tile countertops as dated or too much work.
But here’s the flip side. Tile countertops are starting to carve out a place as a bold, fashion-forward design choice. Think of them less like a safe sweater everyone owns and more like a statement piece you wear because you love it, not because it is universally flattering.
Some people will be drawn to the artistry and uniqueness. Others will probably steer clear because it feels too bold for everyday living.
And that’s the key: this isn’t a trend everyone will embrace. It’s for people who want their kitchen to feel different, a little experimental, and unapologetically personal.
Don't Forget Resale Value Before You Reno
One of the biggest debates around tile countertops is how they affect a home’s value.
Real estate research shows that homes with tile countertops may sell for about 1% less than similar homes with quartz or stone
Many buyers still see tile as a sign of an older kitchen that will need updating
On forums like Reddit, homeowners often call tile a deal-breaker, citing grout maintenance and a dated look as turnoffs not worth the affordability
That does not mean every tile countertop lowers value. In fact, well-installed tile in a current, stylish design may not hurt resale at all.
But if you are renovating with future buyers in mind, it is worth considering market expectations in your area. Do you live in a trendy neighbourhood with a strong connection to style or the arts? Or, is your market more traditional?
How to Try Tile Countertops Without Going All In
If you love the idea of tile but aren’t sure about committing across your whole kitchen, start small.
Tile just the island to create a statement piece without overwhelming the room
Choose one section of countertop, like a bar area or beside a stovetop
Pair it with other materials for a layered look that feels intentional
Consider large-format tiles with fewer grout lines for easier cleaning and a modern edge that does not look vintage
This approach lets you experiment with color, pattern, and texture while keeping the rest of your kitchen more timeless. If you end up loving it, you can always expand the look later.
Should You Try Tile Countertops?
Ask yourself: do you want your kitchen to feel sleek and timeless, or do you want something a little playful and different?
Tile can deliver personality and texture in a super unique way. But it also comes with quirks like grout maintenance, uneven surfaces, and mixed resale perceptions.
If you love the look, go for it. Just know you are creating a kitchen that reflects your taste, not chasing a safe investment.
