The Design House CEO Jennifer Homeyer Featured in The Spruce: Why Designers Say Penny Tile Is Overrated

We have some exciting news to share.

Our very own Jennifer Homeyer, CEO and Designer at The Design House, was recently featured as an expert source in The Spruce, one of the most widely read home design publications in the country. 

The article dives into why many professional designers are moving away from penny tile and what they recommend instead. 

If you have been wondering about tile choices for your next bathroom remodel or new home build in Denton or North DFW, Jennifer’s insights are a great place to start. 

Reach out to our team at The Design House and we would be happy to walk you through the best tile and flooring options for your space.

What The Spruce Article Is About

The Spruce reached out to Jennifer to weigh in on a tile debate that many homeowners and designers face: is penny tile actually worth it? 

The article, titled “Why Designers Think Penny Tile Is Overrated,” explores the practical downsides of this classic small-format round tile that has been used in homes for over 150 years.

Penny tile has long been a staple in bathroom floors, mudrooms, and kitchen backsplashes, and it still has its fans. 

As Jennifer explains in the article, the reality of living with penny tile day to day is a different story for many homeowners.

Jennifer Homeyer’s Expert Take on Penny Tile

In the article, Jennifer points out one of the biggest issues with penny tile: the sheer number of grout lines. Because the tiles are small and round, a standard field of penny tile can have roughly three times as many grout lines as a large-format tile. That translates to more time during installation and significantly more maintenance to keep your tile looking fresh and clean.

All of those grout joints are porous, which means they absorb moisture, trap dirt and soap residue, and can begin to look worn and cluttered much faster than homeowners expect. The grout is often what ages the look prematurely, not the tile itself.

“A large-format porcelain helps to both reduce grout lines and maintenance, not to mention creating a seamless, clean, monolithic look, which, in my opinion, is a timeless choice that feels more intentional and less trendy.”

— Jennifer Homeyer, CEO and Designer, The Design House

What Designers Recommend Instead

Jennifer recommends large-format porcelain tile as the smarter long-term investment for most homeowners.

A 12-inch by 24-inch format, for example, dramatically reduces the number of grout joints on the floor, giving your bathroom or entryway a cleaner, more contemporary look that is also far easier to maintain.

When installed with tight grout lines, large-format tile resists dirt and moisture buildup and continues to look polished for years. It also creates a sense of spaciousness, making rooms feel larger and more open, a huge advantage in bathrooms and entryways.

17+ Years of Design Expertise in Denton and North DFW

This feature in The Spruce is a reflection of the depth of expertise our team brings to every project. Jennifer and the team at The Design House have been helping homeowners across Denton, Argyle, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, and Celina make smart, lasting design choices for over 17 years.

Our 10,000 sq. ft. showroom, the largest design resource in Denton County, gives homeowners and builders a hands-on environment to explore flooring, tile, countertops, cabinets, and more in one place. 

Whether you are planning a full kitchen and bath remodel or selecting materials for a new build, our team provides the kind of guidance that national publications come to us for.

Not Sure Which Tile Is Right for Your Project?

The honest answer is: it depends on your space, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals. 

Penny tile is not wrong for every situation, but it does require a realistic understanding of the maintenance commitment involved. If you want a low-maintenance, high-impact floor or wall tile that will hold up beautifully for decades, large-format porcelain tile is almost always the smarter choice.

Our showroom carries a wide selection of flooring and tile options, including large-format porcelain that can achieve everything from sleek and modern to warm and classic. 

Come visit us at 2303 Colorado Boulevard in Denton, or contact our team to schedule a consultation.

We are here to help you make the decision that is right for your home, not just the one that looks good in a trend roundup.

Read the full feature on The Spruce: Why Designers Think Penny Tile Is Overrated

Frequently Asked Questions

Is penny tile a bad choice for bathroom floors?

Not necessarily, but it does come with a higher maintenance commitment than most homeowners expect. The high number of grout joints means more cleaning and upkeep over time. For homeowners who want a lower-maintenance option, large-format porcelain tile is usually a better fit. Want help choosing the right tile for your bathroom? 

What tile does Jennifer Homeyer recommend instead of penny tile?

Jennifer recommends large-format porcelain tile, such as a 12-inch by 24-inch format. It reduces grout lines, requires less maintenance, and creates a clean, seamless look that is both modern and timeless. Talk to our design team to explore options for your space.

Does The Design House carry large-format porcelain tile?

Yes. Our 10,000 sq. ft. showroom in Denton carries a wide range of flooring and tile options, including large-format porcelain tile in a variety of styles and finishes. Stop by or contact us to schedule an appointment.

Can I use penny tile anywhere in my home, or are some areas better than others?

Penny tile can work well in smaller accent areas or as a design feature — but it tends to struggle in high-traffic or moisture-heavy zones like bathroom floors, mudrooms, or entryways due to the grout maintenance involved. For large surfaces, large-format tile is generally a smarter long-term choice. Reach out to us for personalized design advice.

How do I book a design consultation at The Design House in Denton?

It is easy. Visit us at 2303 Colorado Boulevard, Denton, TX 76205, or schedule time with one of our designers. We serve homeowners throughout Denton, Argyle, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, and Celina. Book your consultation here.