Working on a New Shower

We love our large tub/shower, however, it was built 35 years ago, and wasn't adequately waterproofed. So now that we've lived here over 3 years, and since roots from the back yard have started to creep their way towards the drain, we figure it was time to get it fixed. But since they are going to have to deconstruct the existing tile and structure anyway, we might as well pick out something that fits our aesthetic's a little better and re-do the room. Right now it is a nice, neutral beige tile, but we're thinking of going with glossy, white subway tile for the walls, and white penny rounds for the base of the tub, and in the shampoo niche they will be building into the wall, and painting over the chocolate brown paint with a creamy grey, and leaving the sealed, concrete floors as-is. Some people would go with a white grout, but we want to give a nod to the authentic NY City subway walls, and go with a light grey grout. Besides, it won't show soap scum as bad either...