Subway tiles, also known as metro tiles, are a classic and timeless addition to any bathroom. With their simple, rectangular shape and clean lines, these white tiles have been used in bathrooms for over a century, and their popularity continues today. There are many reasons why subway tiles remain a go-to option for many homeowners looking to add a touch of understated elegance to their bathrooms.
What Are Subway Tiles?
Subway tiles get their name from their use in New York City subway stations in the early 1900s. The simple 3-inch by 6-inch rectangular shape provided an easy-to-clean and durable surface for high traffic areas. By the 1930s and 1940s, subway tiles made their way into kitchens and bathrooms across the country.
Today, the term “subway tile” refers to any rectangular or square tile between 3 and 6 inches that is used to create the classic brick pattern on walls and floors. Traditional subway tiles are unglazed white ceramic with a slight bevel on the edge, but many manufacturers now offer subway tiles in different sizes, colors, materials, and finishes.
While ceramic is still the most popular, subway tiles can also be found in glass, porcelain, or natural stone. Colors range from basic white and cream to bold hues like black, navy, and forest green. Finishes include glossy, matte, textured, crackled, or even iridescent.
Benefits of Subway Tile in Bathrooms
There are several reasons why subway tiles remain one of the most classic choices for bathrooms:
Timeless Appearance
The simplicity of subway tile gives it a clean, unfussy look that doesn’t seem bound to a particular era. While many design trends come and go, subway tile retains its popularity and doesn’t immediately appear dated. A white subway tile bathroom has a timeless charm that appeals to a wide range of homeowners.
Versatility
Part of the enduring appeal of subway tiles is their versatility. The small rectangular shape and white color provide the perfect neutral backdrop in bathrooms. Subway tiles can be mixed and matched with virtually any color scheme, material, or style. From vintage clawfoot tubs to modern frameless showers, subway tile always seems right at home.
Their size also makes subway tiles highly versatile. The rectangular shape can be installed in straight classic brick patterns, angled herringbones, or basketweave layouts. Subway tiles can be used on walls, floors, showers, and even countertops throughout the bathroom.
Easy Maintenance
The ceramic or glass material of subway tiles is impervious to water and resists soap scum, mold, and mildew growth. Their hard, non-porous surface makes subway tiles easy to clean and keep looking fresh. The grout may need occasional sealing, but the tiles themselves are an easy-care option suitable for busy family bathrooms.
Affordability
Subway tiles strike an excellent balance of stylish and affordable. Ceramic and porcelain tiles tend to cost less than natural stone or molded glass tiles. While specialty shapes and intricate mosaic patterns can be pricey, basic white subway tiles from big box stores are value-priced.
Their simple uniform shape also allows for easier installation. Homeowners can often install subway tile themselves, which further improves affordability.
Reflects Light
The bright white color and shiny surface of subway tiles expertly reflect light. This can help even a small bathroom feel open and airy. Light bounces off the tiles, giving the space a clean and bright feel. The reflective surface also accentuates other materials and colors used in the bathroom design.
Popular Subway Tile Patterns
One of the most appealing aspects of subway tiles is the countless patterns and designs possible using the simple square or rectangular shape.
Brick Pattern
The most recognizable and traditional subway tile pattern is the basic brick pattern. Tiles are applied in a straight vertical and horizontal grid, offset like bricks on every other row. This straightforward layout results in a classic look suitable for both contemporary and traditional bathrooms.
Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone patterns add visual interest with angled tiles creating a V shape. Rows can alternate direction for even more complexity. The shifting angles make for a slightly more dynamic look than basic brick while maintaining the metro vibe.
Basketweave Pattern
Combining vertical, horizontal, and diagonal placement, the basketweave pattern interlocks tiles for intriguing visual geometry. The intricate arrangement works well on a larger feature wall.
Penny Round Pattern
Though not made of true subway tiles, the penny round pattern combines subway tiles with circular penny tiles. The circles help soften the linear look and add modern interest.
Stacked Pattern
Stacking subway tiles vertically rather than in a brick pattern creates clean columns on the wall. Stack layouts work well behind vanities, on niche walls, or as an accent in the shower.
Diamond Pattern
Rotating square subway tiles by 45 degrees transforms them into diamonds. Mix with standard orientations for stylish distinction.
Subway Tile Backsplash
While subway tiles are frequently used on bathroom walls and floors, they make an excellent choice specifically for backsplashes. The tile backsplash protects the wall behind a sink from moisture and debris. Subway tiles cleanly reflect light onto the vanity.
Shower Tile
The water-resistance and easy cleaning of subway tiles deliver exceptional practicality inside showers. Use oversized subway tiles or smaller mosaics to reduce grout lines, which can collect mold and mildew. Minimize cut tiles for a smoother finish.
Subway Tile Ideas for a Range of Bathroom Types
Subway tile suits a wide variety of design aesthetics, from modern to farmhouse. Here are some ideas to inspire your next remodel:
Traditional Bathroom
Lean into old-world charm with subway tiles in a classic clawfoot tub bathroom. Use a light grout color to accentuate the tiles laid in a brick floor pattern. Introduce vintage elements like pedestal sinks, exposed plumbing, and black and white accents.
Coastal Bathroom
For a beach house vibe, couple sky blue subway tiles with driftwood-inspired vanities, rattan baskets, and navy accents. Use square tiles vertically with thin grout lines on the shower walls.
Modern Bathroom
Modern bathrooms deserve an updated take on traditional subway tiles. Go for larger planks, like 4”x12”, in a sleek bright white. Include contemporary touches like waterfall edges on floating vanities, modern sconces, and understated hardware.
Farmhouse Bathroom
The clean lines of white subway tiles fit right into a cozy farmhouse aesthetic. Pair with vintage tin ceilings, antique-inspired fixtures, shiplap walls, and touches of black. Use varying sizes of tiles for interest.
Small Bathroom
Minimize the scale of subway tiles in a modest bathroom to avoid an overwhelming feeling. Mix small 3×6-inch tiles with micro mosaics or penny rounds. Include just a single vertical column of stacked tiles as an accent.
Basement Bathroom
Subway tiles lend brightness to dark basement spaces. Use glossy white tiles and ample lighting. Pair with a stone vessel sink, black accents, and a larger basketweave pattern on one wall for texture.
Kids’ Bathroom
Jazz up a children’s or teen bathroom with colored subway tiles. Bright blue, green, or pink tiles coupled with whimsical accessories like patterned tile floors create a fun backdrop. Use white grout to avoid an overly busy look.
Mixing Subway Tiles with Other Materials
While subway tiles beautifully stand alone, mixing with other tiles and materials creates added visual interest.
Mixed Tile Patterns
Installing multiple sized tiles, combining directional changes, or integrating different shapes and styles results in eye-catching designs. Weave simple square subway tiles with swirling marbled ceramic, elongated wood-look planks, or intricate mosaic sheets.
Natural Stone Accents
Pair classic white subway tiles with warmer natural materials like marble or travertine. Use stone for countertops, seat inlays, or a feature wall. A stone vessel sink makes another refined contrast.
Glass Tile Accents
Glass mosaic tiles lend iridescent and metallic shimmer. Accent a vanity backsplash, shower floor, or niche with glittering glass. Reflective penny rounds, pencils, or a decorative border supply pops of radiance. Just take care to properly seal the grout.
Wood Accents
The matte texture and organic grain of wood pair gorgeously with smooth subway tiles. Use driftwood-inspired porcelain or waterproof planks inside the shower. Or install genuine reclaimed barn wood on walls or the vanity front for rustic contrast.
How to Choose the Right Subway Tile
With so many sizes, materials, colors, and finishes available, choosing the ideal subway tile requires consideration of aesthetics, function, and installation.
Material
- Ceramic – Budget-friendly and available in tons of colors and finishes, ceramic subway tiles offer versatility and easy maintenance. Just ensure a waterproof grout.
- Porcelain – More durable than ceramic, porcelain tiles resist chipping and can better handle temperature changes, making them ideal for both walls and floors.
- Glass – With a sleek contemporary vibe, glass subway tiles make a glossy statement. Check for safety-backing to avoid shattered tiles.
- Stone – Marble, travertine, or granite subway tiles provide natural styling but require more sealing. Limit to backsplashes.
- Metal – For industrial edge, try aluminum or stainless steel subway tiles. Ensure moisture-proof installation.
Color
- White – The most traditional choice, white subway tiles are endlessly versatile and brighten small spaces. Stick with bright white for contemporary bathrooms or warm ivory for vintage charm.
- Gray – For a soothing vibe, go for light warm grays like greige or taupe. Dark charcoals work well in modern spa-like bathrooms.
- Color – Make a bold statement with vibrant aqua, leafy green, brick red, vibrant teal, or sky blue subway tiles. Limit colorful tiles to one wall as an accent.
Size
- Small (3×6 inches) – The classic size for traditional brickwork patterns. Use small tiles to make spaces appear larger.
- Medium (4×8 or 4×12 inches) – Larger tiles convey modern simplicity and have fewer grout lines for easier cleaning.
- Oversized (6×12 inches or larger) – Impressively sized tiles make a dramatic impact but have a more contemporary vibe.
Finish
- Glossy – Reflective shine livens up subdued spaces but shows more water spots and fingerprints.
- Matte – For softer subtlety, a flat non-reflective finish exudes vintage appeal.
- Textured – Choose a tile with cleft, crackled, or handmade imperfections for organic allure.
- Metallic – Iridescent glazed tiles or real metals like tin, copper, and stainless steel add industrial edge.
Design Ideas to Make Subway Tile Pop
While subway tiles themselves may be neutral and understated, thoughtful design choices make them stand out in your bathroom:
Vibrant Grout Color
Take white or gray subway tiles to the next level by swapping standard white grout for something bold like navy, emerald, or ochre to add striking contrast.
Bold Window Frames
Painting the walls or window trim surrounding subway tiles in a daring color like cherry red or burnt orange puts the focus on the crisp white tiles.
Contrasting Vanity
An espresso, black, or brushed brass vanity makes for an elegant juxtaposition against snowy subway tiles. Marble, terrazzo, or concrete vanity counters also introduce covetable contrast.
Display Vintage Finds
Place antique medicine cabinets, fixtures, mirrors, or ceramic accessories against plain subway tiles for timeworn personality and a collected look.
Modern Lighting and Hardware
While subway tiles lean traditional, modern sconces, pendants, faucets, and cabinet hardware keep the vibe contemporary. Stainless steel, brass, or black finishes create a sophisticated mix.
Warm Layered Textiles
Add natural elements like rattan baskets, linen curtains, sheepskin rugs, or cozy cotton towels to prevent an austere vibe.
Subway Tile Bathroom Inspiration
For even more subway tile bathroom ideas, here are some gorgeous designs to fuel your creative spirit:
[Arched niche photo]
An arched subway tile niche serves as the stunning focal point in this bright white bathroom. Extra large 12×24-inch tiles laid in a herringbone pattern make a modern statement.
Photo by Chris A Dorsey via Houzz
[Herringbone floor photo]
A bold herringbone floor in glossy black subway tiles contrasts beautifully with the white brick walls in this chic space. Touches of brass and greenery provide warmth.
Photo by Laura Moss via Houzz
[Blue tile photo]
Ceramic subway tiles in a soothing, inky blue hue cover the walls and shower enclosure in this vibrant bathroom. The color beautifully offsets the marble countertops.
Photo by Claudia G Design via Houzz
[Green tile photo]
Forest green and emerald subway tiles arranged in varying sizes energize this eclectic space. Notice how the tiles are randomly stacked rather than in a set pattern for playful uniqueness.
Photo by Ceramic Tiles Inc via Houzz
[Pattern photo]
This subway tile arrangement combines stacked rectangles, diagonal diamonds, and defined borders for three-dimensional optical interest. White grout highlights the geometrical layout.
Photo by Michael Partenio Photo via Houzz
[Wood photo]
The matte texture of real wood paneling forms a rustic contrast to the sleek white subway tiles surrounding a modern free-standing tub.
Photo by FIG Architecture via Houzz
[Penny round photo]
Glossy white penny rounds mingle with gray subway wall tiles, shiny hex floor tiles, and a marble herringbone backsplash in this eclectic but chic bathroom.
Photo by Creative Tile Design via Houzz
Frequently Asked Questions About Subway Tiles
Subway tiles may seem straightforward, but many homeowners have questions about properly installing and caring for them:
Are subway tiles just for walls or can you use them on floors too?
Subway tiles are suitable for both walls and flooring. Be sure to select a durable porcelain or ceramic tile rather than more delicate glass for high-traffic areas. Textured subway tiles add needed slip resistance on shower floors.
How are subway tiles installed?
Subway tiles are installed similarly to other tiles using mortar or a special tile adhesive. Prepare the surface, spread the thinset mortar, set the tiles in the desired pattern, then grout once dry. Carefully apply sealant and make any necessary cuts beforehand.
What type of grout should I use with subway tiles?
For moisture-prone areas like showers, use an epoxy grout, which resists mildew and stains. Polymer-modified sanded grout is also water-resistant. Match the grout color to your desired aesthetic.
How can I cut subway tiles?
Use a wet saw for straight cuts and a tile nipper for irregular cuts. For a few simple cuts, score the tile with a tile cutter then snap it. Ensure outlet openings and niches are measured precisely for a professional end result.
Do subway tile bathrooms need special maintenance?
Subway tile requires similar care to other tiled bathrooms. Use a pH-balanced cleaner designed for tile and grout. Re-seal the grout every one to two years. Check for signs of damage or loose tiles over time.
Achieve Timeless Style With Subway Tiles
Subway tiles have remained a beloved choice for generations of design lovers thanks to their classic rectangular shape, unfussy white color, retro vibe, water-resistance, affordability, and overall versatility. Installed in traditional brick patterns or used creatively to craft stunning geometric designs, subway tiles offer timeless sophistication and character to any bathroom.
Whether designing a contemporary space rich with modern materials or aiming for vintage charm, subway tiles always hit the right note. Their modest three-by-six-inch size makes bathrooms feel more expansive, while the snowy white color feels fresh and bright. Mix with marble, wood, penny rounds, or glass for more textural intrigue.
From minimalist contemporary to rustic chic to retro eclectic, subway tiles form the perfect, enduring foundation for cultivating your ideal bathroom aesthetic. Let their story span yet another century by making subway tiles central in your next bathroom remodel.
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