Bold, oversized patterns pack a punch and homeowners just don't want plain anymore. Even subway tiles, the formerly all-white 3 X 6 rectangles now come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. With the advent of modern technology like Inkjet, intricate patterns, like wood, chevron, herringbone, Moroccan fish scale, and more, are available.
Just be sure whatever you choose isn't overly patterned and doesn't clutter the kitchen. Also, nothing needs to be a perfect match, but it does all need to coordinate. Textures are big this year and, thanks to Inkjet technology, we can get tiles that appear sculpted, stenciled, striated, shadowed, polished, and more.