The tile goes right to the edge of, or slightly over, the cement board. He is emphasizing the need to protect the drywall, so it must be right at the tiles' edge. I can imagine that those 2" offer a little extra protection, but to throw the entire design of the bathroom for it? If protection is the concern, than why only 3-4" of tile from the tub's edge and not 6" or 8"? I'm trying to understand his logic and if I am being unreasonable to ask him to remove the column of 2" rectangles.

Attach a picture of the finished product and the design. It is hard to say with just reading what you posted.

This should have been discussed before the job was even started. I gave my tile guy detailed scale drawings for the tile layout. When there were any decisions/changes to be made along the way, I was consulted and we laid out the different options and I then picked which layout/cuts I preferred.

Yes, we exchanged pictures and talked at length about how to finish the edges. In the future I would obviously underscore these details. The cut tile caught me totally by surprise.

Honestly, it looks like he did a great job from the picture, and I've heard more than 1 pro say to extend the tile at least 2 inches from the end of the tub.

dawna, photo shown in first post is not the actual bathroom.

Here is the actual tile I am talking about. As you can see, without those extra cut pieces the tile already extends 2" past the tub. We did talk about the trim and I sent pictures of the tile design before the job started, so the added column of small rectangles caught me completely by surprise.

I think 2" is the bare minimum for a tub leg. I'd rather have just that 2" than the cut tile. Can you get a matching edge tile, instead? Even a soldier course of uncut tiles would look better, IMO.

Sorry, that does not look good. I agree with Errant a row of your tiles running vertical would look better than that. I think it would have been fine just ending it with the full subway and the Schluter edge too.

Since it is not what you discussed with your tiler, I think it's on him to make it the way you want it. You are the one that's paying him.

As far as the argument about the wall getting wet just make sure the shower curtain stays inside all the way to the end of the tub. Some vinyl liners have little suction cups near the bottom edge to stick to the tub and keep water from escaping.

Thanks for your comments, they have been very helpful. I think 2" of tile beyond the tub's edge is fine and I've asked him to remove the cut pieces and end with the full size tile. :)