The Kitchen Counter Design Trend That's Straight Out Of The 1980s

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When we covered what kitchens looked like in the 1980s, we were dumbstruck by how cool some of these old-school cooking spaces actually were. What's more, we were arrested by the thought that the Reagan Era was loaded with design ideas that merit a comeback. Old-school wood paneling in the kitchen? Honestly, why not? And don't get us started on vintage-inspired neon lighting, because it's just too cool to describe in only a few lines. Today, we're dishing on yet another '80s-tastic design trend that's got us eyeing the reno plans: tiled countertops.

Too often, counters are a sticking point in kitchen upgrades, largely because so many options have extensive lists of cons to go with their pros. Marble is gorgeous but is porous and expensive. Engineered stone and laminate are cost-effective but can look cheap. Stainless steel has an undeniable cool factor, but oh, the fingerprints! Tile, on the other hand, has a lot to recommend it. There are nearly limitless options in size, color, and pattern, for one. It's also much more budget-friendly than some higher-end counter options and is very forgiving when it comes to cleaning up stains. 

While some white, square tiles can evoke an unfavorable wave of late 20th-century nostalgia, today's tile counters are much more subdued and aesthetically pleasing. According to designers, tile can have a laid-back look that complements vintage touches overall and can make your space look lived-in and approachable, crafting the perfect vibe for a homey family gathering spot. Depending on what tile you pick, you can engineer an upscale or more casual vibe that works with your aesthetic.

It's impossible, of course, to mention tile counters without discussing the elephant in the room. Like other counter options, tile has at least one major downside, and that's keeping the grout from looking grubby. While tiles themselves are seriously easy to wash and remove stains from, the grout between them loves to attract discoloration. If you are installing a tile countertop for the first time, you can practice good cleaning habits from the get-go, avoiding the hassle of scrubbing years of gunk from your counters to make them look nice. 

Luckily, the tools you need to stay on top of the matter are inexpensive and readily available. A handy-dandy grout brush has stiff, narrow bristles that will work a treat at rubbing out ick from between your countertop tiles (much better than going through several old toothbrushes). While a baking soda paste is the most natural and plentiful cleaning medium for the job, we recommend a degreaser like Zep Heavy-Duty, which is meant for kitchens. Once you've gotten your tile countertops as clean as new, all you need is a bit of cleaner and some light buffing, and all the complaints about tile countertops being hard to clean will go in one ear and out the other! Knowing that it's not impossible to keep tile clean eliminates the biggest bone to pick with this countertop choice, putting it right back in the running for homeowners who like standing out.