“Chunky Grout” Is the Controversial New Tile Trend Taking Over (It’s So Dramatic!)

Written by

Olivia Harvey
Olivia Harvey
Olivia Harvey is a freelance writer and award-winning scriptwriter from outside Boston, Massachusetts. She’s a big fan of scented candles, getting dressed up, and the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley. You can make sure she’s doing okay via…read more
published Jul 13, 2024
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There are hundreds of ways to make a tiling project totally unique, whether you’re looking to make a long-term change in your space or just to cover up the tile in your rental. You can change the tiles themselves, change the layout, or change the grout color for a refreshed vibe in your space. (Or you can clean your grout for a like-new look without the added work.) But there’s a brand-new tiling trend popping up all over TikTok that’s giving homeowners yet another option when it comes to grouting in their bathrooms and showers. It’s affectionately called “chunky grout,” and you might just be convinced to add this trend to your 2024 mood board. 

The controversial new trend has fans on both sides, with some people all for it, and others who are not so sure they’re on board.

About six months ago, Emma from the TikTok account Shoe Makes New shared a few process videos of creating chunky grout lines between the tiles in her shower to mixed reviews. She noted that her design was inspired by a few inspiration photos she’d collected that met her vision for the space, and from there, she researched how to use a specialized grout that could withstand larger gaps.

Emma also immediately sealed the grout as soon as it was safe to do so to cut back on the amount of mildew buildup she worried might come later on in the project.

Six months later, Emma shared an updated video to show off that the risk paid off! There’s no grime to speak of in the video that she posted, and the DIY tilework looks like it’s holding up super well. And people are now loving the results.

“No cracks or mold!” Emma captioned the video. “This grout is 3/4-inch thick [and] we used a special type for a thicker joint and sealed it really well. I’ll check in again at a year!”

“Oh my, it’s so gorgeous wow,” one person commented. Another said, “I didn’t know this was an option. Love it!”

Experimenting with the thickness of your grout lines can really take your tiling project to the next level and make your space feel a bit more custom. 

Just make sure you do the research and buy the right supplies to ensure that your work will hold up over time.