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Kitchens Design Dilemma

which grout color?

last month

Which grout color would you choose and why?
This backsplash is in the kitchen. I don’t love the tile but it’s too late it’s on. And I want it to be elegant and bright.

Featured Answer

Kendrah

last month

You have a spacious beautiful new kitchen. Give it a year. If the tile still bothers you then, redo it.

What is really killing the bright and elegant factor is the shelf of nicknacks above the sink. See how much natural light is on the underside of that shelf? Without the shelf there, that light would be shining up on the ceiling and out towards the center of the room. The shelf is also casting downward dark shadows on the wall, sink, and counter area. And the items on the shelf look like they are in a dark recessed hole.

I'd remove the shelf in a heartbeat. You'll find your kitchen instantly brighter! Your kitchen is interesting and elegant enough without the doodads. Hang the bless this kitchen picture on the wall above the sink after you remove the shelf. Place the silver vase on the counter where it will brighten up your backsplash and glimmer from your under cabinet lighting.

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Comments (11)

thinkdesignlive
last month
It’s easier to remove it now than after it’s grouted. If you post photos farther back showing the cabinets counter and floor that would help.
0
kazzh
last month
Going with the shade that blends with the edge of the tile looks good. Too dark or too light may only serve to highlight each tile. A blending shade might leave the white centre to shine. No, it’s not going to be a glowing bright white splashback but actually it will still be white enough to be bright, but not blinding.
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PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
last month
Sorry but if you hate it now it will not be loved later . If no way to change then I agree a grout that matches the edge of the tiles to keep it as plain as possible . How did you end up with these at all? Yes a photo from further back would be ahuge help .
0
Patricia
Original Author
last month
I ended up going with the lighter I felt it would be too dark with the darker grout.
It’s too late now.
Patricia
Original Author
last month
Here it is. Is it uncommon for people to want to change it down the road after a major renovation like this? I need to learn to love it and move on.
lisaam
last month
The lighter grout was a good choice. The tile is pretty in the larger views. Agree with removing the shelf over the window. Or at least remove more objects, especially books (as they are unreachable anyway).
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Sandy Lynn
last month
Your window view is fabulous. It looks like you hung artwork above your sink, it’s so beautiful. The backsplash looks very nice, a clean and warm aesthetic.
jackowskib
last month
I'm too busy looking at the beautiful window view to notice any grout. I like the shelf; it gives you more decor options throughout the year to add some whimsy. It's a very nice space you've created, enjoy!!
chicagoans
last month
I'm like @jackowskib - I notice your view more than anything! IMO (not a designer) I think either grout works. It seems like the lighter grout would highlight the shapes of individual tiles more, and the first / matching grout blends a bit better. I think I'd stay with the first color. Your kitchen is lovely! Enjoy!
0
PRO
Debbi Washburn
last month
The tile looks great - so much better than plain old white subway tile with white cabinets. At least this has some personality!

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