We’re elbow deep in our latest kitchen renovation and everything has been chosen, except the backsplash tile. What am I waiting for, you ask? I want to love it. The last backsplash I chose was absolutely love at first sight. I haven’t felt that same pitter patter yet and I’m holding out. If you’re whispering “subway tile” at the screen, sorry friends, I’ve already ruled it out. Here are some contenders:

Herringbone. This pattern is so pretty. Do I love that it’s the newest go-to trend? No, not really. But when I look at it, it makes me happy, and that’s why I get that people are still allll about subway tile even though it’s in 896,664,228 houses now (yes, I conducted a study). Plus, it has tiny touches of all the colors in the kitchen and could be a great, calming, fit.

How sweet is this Chevron with a bit of a twist? I haven’t seen this one before and I am loving the blue-grey and white combo. Classic, yet unique in its own way. I’m leaning in your direction, Alerion.

Here’s our luxury option. Attention: if you see the other half of the Nixon Pack at Home Depot later, pleaseeee don’t show him the price tag on this fancy lady below. This is why it’s still on the ticket, even though it’s more than we budgeted for. We’ve gone with champagne bronze (gold-tone) hardware, copper stools, and still have some stainless appliances in the mix (surprise coming soon). So to get that look to come together will not be an easy feat. This pattern though, may be just what the glam-doctor ordered (don’t have a cow, Jon, it’s not “ordered” yet).

Back to the herringbone, but this one is a real pearl. Speaking of pearls, they hold a special significance to our little family and I can’t help but think that’d be a nice reminder every day while we gather round the island. I’ve talked about our struggle to add light to our home before and this may be exactly what we need to do that in the kitchen. Imagine how much reflection and brightness it would add to the space? I’m clamdigging it.

Now to our wildcard. I’ve dubbed this one blue steel, and he may give you a hint at what’s coming in the kitchen. This is what I’m talking about with adding something unexpected and something you. It’s scary, right? What if people don’t like it? What if it’s not how you pictured it? That’s what samples are for. #NixonPack nugget: Always buy the samples, not just one, but a few so you can get a better feel for the full picture. A lot of times, tile shops will apply the cost of the samples to your order. If it’s not their policy, just ask. Trust me, it’s worth the extra time, and extra few bucks to not make a several thousand dollar mistake.

Have a favorite? Help the Pack out below by commenting with your pick!