When it comes to décor, some choices can divide opinions and even cause regret. Recently, we asked interior experts which design choice homeowners regret the most, and the answer turned out to be surprisingly common: rectangular tiles installed vertically.
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According to a report published by The Spruce, this type of design, which has been gaining popularity in bathrooms and kitchens, is replacing traditional subway tiles. But are vertical tiles just a passing trend or a new design classic?
The impact of vertical tiles on a space
According to designer Jamie Gernert, installing vertical tiles can deliver incredible results:
- They visually elongate the space.
- They make the ceiling appear higher.
- They create a modern and unexpected effect.
However, this type of application can lead to regret for some homeowners, especially when it doesn’t match the architecture of the space or the chosen materials palette.
Designer Lara Apelian emphasizes that the secret lies in execution: “The best tile pattern is the one that enhances the space’s aesthetic, highlights the materials, and integrates naturally into the environment.”
Trend or passing fad?
Designer Thea Bloch-Neal believes that vertical tiles have indeed established themselves as a trend: “The problem with trends is that they end up defining an era of design — and there’s something perfect about that.”
In other words, even if they are eventually replaced by another style, vertical tiles still hold value as a hallmark of their time.
How to decide if vertical tiles work for you
If you’re unsure about following this trend, experts suggest a few steps before making the final decision:
- Test patterns on the floor: lay tiles vertically and horizontally to visualize the effect.
- Use painter’s tape on the walls: helps simulate dimensions and scale.
- Try adhesive samples: stick samples to observe how the color reacts to lighting.
- Request a rendering: designers can create digital simulations to predict the outcome.
This way, you avoid investing in a permanent installation that doesn’t suit the space.
How to fix tiles you don’t like
If the choice has already been made and regret sets in, professionals from The Spruce remind us that the options are limited:
- Remove and reinstall: the most expensive but permanent solution.
- Use removable tiles: a temporary option to cover the surface without renovations.
Other tile patterns that never go out of style
If vertical tiles don’t convince you, designers recommend other timeless styles:
- Horizontal subway tile: a classic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Stacked pattern: clean and modern lines, perfect for minimalists.
- Grid layout with square tiles: artisanal and elegant, especially with handmade pieces.
- Checkerboard: a mix of colors that adds personality.
Additionally, you can get creative with colored grout, boldly painted walls, or even combinations of textures.
The choice to use vertical tiles can be both a bold decision and a potential regret, depending on the context. As the experts interviewed by The Spruce highlight, the key is to evaluate whether this pattern truly enhances your space and matches your design vision. After all, more important than following trends is creating a home that reflects your identity.
Source: The Spruce. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
