The $3 Tile That Looks Expensive in Every Kitchen and Bathroom

"A perennial favorite of designers, small rounded tiles, aka penny tiles, have maintained consistent popularity since first hitting the design scene around the turn of the 20th century. These inexpensive tiles can be used in simple, monochromatic applications or turned into ornate mosaic designs. They feel right at home in a tiny New York City apartment bathroom or a bustling restaurant bar, and they tend to be fairly sturdy and long-lasting underfoot."

"Often punctuated with darker grout in a way that feels both nostalgic and timeless (and practical for hiding dirt), pennies are often paired with reliable and equally inexpensive subway tiles. Typically, they're exactly what comes to mind when you think 'charming pre-war apartment.'"

"Morrow says penny tile feels nostalgic for most homeowners, whether it's because it's something they saw in their own homes when they were growing up or they recognize from places they've traveled and stayed."

Penny tiles are small, rounded tiles that have been a design staple since the early 20th century and remain relevant today. These budget-friendly tiles offer versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal suitable for various applications from bathrooms to restaurant bars. They can be used in simple monochromatic designs or elaborate mosaic patterns. Typically paired with darker grout for a nostalgic yet practical appearance, penny tiles often complement subway tiles in classic pre-war apartment aesthetics. Designers favor them for their ability to bridge multiple styles while maintaining affordability and longevity. Their enduring popularity stems from the nostalgic feelings they evoke, whether from childhood homes or traveled destinations.

Read at Apartment Therapy