Choosing the right size subway tile for your kitchen or bathroom backsplash is one of the most important decisions when designing your space. The scale of the tile can dramatically affect the overall look and feel of the room. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all the factors to consider when selecting subway tile size, provide general guidelines for pairing tile size with your goals, and share plenty of inspiring examples to spark your creativity!
How Big Should Subway Tiles Be?
Subway tiles come in a range of sizes, typically ranging from 2×4 inches up to 4×12 inches. The most common sizes are 3×6 and 4×12. Here are some general guidelines for choosing subway tile size:
- Smaller tiles (2×4 inches or 3×6 inches) create a classic, timeless backsplash look. The smaller scale tiles lend a refined, orderly appearance and make the space feel larger.
- Medium tiles (4×8 inches) offer flexibility – they can create either a traditional or more contemporary feeling. Medium subway tiles are a popular default size.
- Larger tiles (4×12 inches or 6×12 inches) make more of a statement and dramatic impact. Oversized subway tiles can create a modern, sleek look or industrial vibe. However, they tend to make spaces feel smaller.
- Mosaic tiles (1 inch or smaller) create a busy, intricate backsplash pattern. Tons of grout lines break up the space. Best for secondary backsplash accent areas instead of a full backsplash.
- Mini subway tiles (2×8 inches or 2×10 inches) are a nice compromise between mosaic and standard subway sizes. They offer more detail than large tiles but aren’t overwhelming.
Consider Your Design Goals
The scale of your subway tile can help reinforce your overall design goals:
- Smaller tile sizes promote traditional, classic style. They are reminiscent of early 20th century subway stations.
- Medium tile sizes offer versatility – fitting both traditional and contemporary spaces. They are a flexible default choice.
- Larger tile sizes make a bold, modern statement. Oversized subway tiles create drama and a sleek contemporary vibe.
- Mosaic tiles bring intricate detail and visual interest. The tiny scale results in a busy, eclectic mosaic pattern.
- Mini subway tiles add some extra personality without going full mosaic. They strike a balance between detail and order.
So before selecting your subway tile size, consider the overall design style you want to create. Do you want a traditional, timeless look or a more modern, statement-making backsplash? Let your goals guide tile size selection.
What Size Should Subway Tile Be for a Small Kitchen?
For a small kitchen, conventional wisdom recommends installing smaller sized subway tiles to make the space feel larger and more expansive. The smaller grout lines that result from tiny tiles create the perception of increased area.
Some perfect small subway tile sizes for compact kitchens include:
- 2×4 inch – These diminutive tiles make any kitchen feel airier and spacious. The tiny scale adds plenty of grout lines for visual interest.
- 2×8 inch – Slightly longer than traditional square “subway bricks,” these mini elongated tiles add a bit more dimension while still keeping scale petite. Their rectangular shape gives the illusion of length in a small kitchen.
- 3×6 inch – The most common small subway tile size, 3×6″ tiles strike an ideal balance between delicacy and too much busyness. They are an excellent default choice for small kitchens looking for a classic backsplash.
In general, any subway tiles under 4 inches in height will suit a compact kitchen well. Mini and micro tiles prevent the backsplash from overwhelming the limited area but still allow you to enjoy the benefits of timeless ceramic tile.
Choosing Subway Tile Size for a Large Kitchen
For a spacious kitchen, larger subway tile sizes can be installed to make an impact without looking out of proportion. Some good options include:
- 6×12 inch – These extra long rectangular subway tiles command attention. The contemporary elongated shape and oversized scale make a dramatic statement in a big kitchen.
- 4×16 inch – Even longer and larger, these horizontally oriented tiles take oversized scale to the max. They create ultra-modern flair and draw the eye to the backsplash.
- 4×12 inch – The most common large subway size has become popular for a reason – the slim bricks provide just the right amount of exaggeration and bold style without going overboard.
- 4×8 inch – These “regular” sized subway tiles nicely balance utility and personality. The versatile medium scale suits most large kitchens for a classic backsplash look.
The general rule of thumb is to not be afraid to bump up tile size if working with a capacious kitchen. Just take care that the tile size relates well to the overall kitchen proportions for the most cohesive aesthetic.
What Size Subway Tile for Backsplash Looks Best with Granite?
Granite countertops offer a timeless, natural elegance that pairs equally well with subway tiles of any size for the backsplash. However, medium scale subway tiles tend to complement the speckles and movement of granite best. Some perfect options include:
- 3×6 inch – This petite tile allows the granites pattern and textures to shine while adding just enough complementary color and geometry.
- 4×12 inch – Slightly bolder than the 3×6″ tile, the 4×12″ size adds more visual interest and works nicely with busier granites.
- 4×8 inch – A flexible standard size that suits most granite types, from boldly patterned to solid colored slabs.
- 4×16 inch – The elongated shape adds modern flair that contrasts beautifully with traditional granite.
The most important consideration is choosing subway tile colors and finishes that highlight the granite’s veining and patterns. Neutrals like white, gray, and tan are safe bets that let the countertop beauty shine.
Complementing White Subway Tiles with Grout Color
White subway tiles are a versatile backsplash tile that can look completely different depending on the grout color chosen. Here are some recommended grout shades for white subway tiles:
- White grout – Matching white grout creates a clean, minimalist look. The grout lines fade into the background for a seamless feel.
- Light grey grout – For a subtle contrast that adds depth but remains neutral, light grey grout pairs beautifully with white tile.
- Dark grey grout – More of a statement, dark grey grout provides serious contrast that makes the white pop and adds bold interest.
- Black grout – The sharpest contrast comes from using black grout with bright white subway tiles. This dramatic combo evokes a trendy industrial style.
- Beige grout – For a softer, earthier contrast, try beige or tan grout with white tile. This is a common pairing for more rustic designs.
Always consider the overall kitchen or bathroom style you wish to achieve. Coordinating grout color properly with white subway tile can take the backsplash to the next level.
What Grout Color Goes with Dark Subway Tiles?
Just like white subway tile, dark colored subway tile backsplashes can look entirely unique depending on the grout color used. Here are some top grout shades for dark subway tiles:
- White grout – White grout provides striking contrast against dark tiles, making the tile color pop. The look is bold and modern.
- Light grey grout – With less contrast than white but more than dark grout, light grey nicely highlights dark tile hues.
- Dark grey or black grout – Matching dark tile with dark grout like black, dark grey or even charcoal allows the tile color to seamlessly dominate.
- Natural grout – Beige and tan grout colors often complement darker tile shades, offering warmer, softer contrast.
Always hold up full tile samples to the intended grout color. Viewing them together will give you the best sense of how the finished backsplash will ultimately look.
Subway Tile Patterns and Layouts
Beyond just size, subway tiles can be installed in a wide variety of creative layout patterns. Here are some top options:
Brick Pattern
The standard for subway tile is the basic brick or “running bond” pattern. Tiles are offset half a tile length each row, creating interlocking rows for continuous flow. This straightforward layout works with any size subway tile.
Stacked Pattern
For a non-traditional look, installing subway tiles in a stacked or grid pattern creates blocky patches of color instead of staggered rows. The aligned grout lines offer a more contemporary feel.
Herringbone Pattern
Angling the tiles into a herringbone pattern brings dynamic energy and movement to a backsplash. It requires more tile cuts and is best achieved with smaller tile sizes like 3×6 inches.
Pinwheel Pattern
Four tiles meet in a pinwheel shape which can create a fun swirling motif for the backsplash. Colorful tile choices make the most impactful pinwheel designs.
Basketweave Pattern
Just like it sounds, this pattern mimics the woven structure of basket reeds. Tiles point in perpendicular directions for a distinctive geometric look.
Decorative Accent Bands
Accent strips of mosaic tiles, glass tiles, or other unique shapes can be incorporated to add flavor. For example, an inset band halfway up the backsplash breaks up the tile pattern.
With so many exciting design options, don’t be afraid to get creative with laying out subway tiles!
What Size Subway Tile is Best for Showers?
The constant exposure to water and moisture in a shower environment makes the scale of subway shower tile an important consideration. Here are recommended subway tile sizes for showers:
- 2×2 inch – Tiny mosaic tiles leave the least amount of grout lines exposed to potential water damage and mold growth. A busy mosaic pattern also obscures more of the wall.
- 3×6 inch – The most common shower tile size, 3×6″ offers a balance of practicality and style. Fewer grout lines than mosaics but more than large tiles.
- 4×12 inch – Larger tiles mean more grout lines vulnerable to moisture issues. However, this popular size can work well sealed properly and paired with mosaic accents.
- Mini subway – Compromise sizes like 2×8 inches or 2×10 inches add intricate detail while limiting grout lines.
The smaller the subway tile, the less problematic shower grout will be. For larger tiles, extra sealing and maintenance is required. Limit big tiles to accent bands versus full coverage.
Subway Tile Ideas for Small Bathrooms
Just like with small kitchens, opting for smaller sized subway tiles will make a petite bathroom look and feel more spacious. Here are some small subway tile ideas perfect for powder rooms and modest baths:
- Run 3×6 inch white subway tiles from floor to ceiling in a classic stacked layout. Crisp and clean.
- Install muted green 2×8 inch mini subway tiles in a herringbone pattern for vintage charm.
- Add a bold contrasting inset band of blue mosaics halfway up the wall to break up all-white tiles.
- Pair marble mosaic penny tiles below the shower rod and along the floor with 3×6 white ceramic subway tiles everywhere else.
- Choose glossy black 2×4 inch mini subway tiles for contemporary sophistication and sharp contrast.
Let creativity run wild! Tiny bathrooms offer the chance to make big design statements if you dare.
Large Subway Tile Ideas for Spacious Bathrooms
Bigger bathrooms can handle larger scaled subway tiles to really wow. Some oversized subway tile ideas include:
- Run enormous 6×12 inch glossy white tiles from floor to ceiling for stunning brightness and height.
- Use 4×16 inch matte black tiles laid in a unique herringbone pattern for bold contemporary drama.
- Install wood-look 4×12 inch planks horizontally along one full accent wall or just under the showerhead wall.
- Mix 4×12 white, grey, and blue patterned tiles in a playful patchwork design for quirky retro style.
- Inset mini penny mosaic tiles sparingly as a border along the floor and ceiling to frame massive 4×12 subway tiles.
For maximum design impact, take advantage of the space large bathrooms allow with the biggest and boldest subway tiles your imagination can fathom!
What Size Subway Tile Backsplash for 9 Foot Ceilings?
For kitchens or bathrooms with standard 8 or 9 foot ceilings, medium sized subway tiles in the range of 3×6 to 4×12 inches will best suit the scale of the space. Some examples:
- 3×6 inch tiles create a classic backsplash that doesn’t overwhelm the room’s dimensions.
- 4×8 inch tiles offer a nice compromise between contemporary and traditional. They bring order without starkness.
- 4×12 inch tiles push the boundaries of bold scale in standard ceiling rooms. Anything larger may start to overpower.
Stick to the medium subway tile zone for average ceiling heights. Mosaics and mini tiles veer towards busy, while going too large can overtake compact rooms. Find balance with the size options in the middle.
Choosing Subway Tile Size for High Ceilings
Rooms with lofty or double height ceilings offer the opportunity to select larger sized subway tiles while maintaining excellent proportions. Some good oversized tile options for high ceilings include:
- 6×12 inch elongate tiles draw the eyes skyward, complementing the dramatic vaulted space.
- 4×16 inch horizontal tiles guide the eye along the height instead of width, syncing with the room’s dimensions.
- 8×24 inch super slender tiles installed vertically create an oversized stripe effect befitting tall walls.
- Combine 4×12 tiles on bottom with long 2×12 mosaics on top for stacked elongated lines.
Bigger is often better when dealing with substantial ceiling height. Let the tall setting inspire your inner maximalist to create a bold, modern backsplash with exaggerated oversized subway tiles.
Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas for 12 Foot Ceilings
Rooms with unusually dramatic 12 foot ceilings demand subway tiles with extra oversized presence. Some striking ideas include:
- Run enormous 6×12 glossy white tiles from counter to ceiling for stunning brightness.
- Use massive 8×24 inch wood-look tiles stacked vertically for a dynamic textural statement.
- Inset a bold band of multicolored 1×1 inch mosaic tiles halfway up the wall to energize all-white backsplash tiles.
- Flank the range hood with matching 4×16 black tiles laid horizontally in a herringbone pattern for inky drama.
- Install shiny penny mosaic tiles along ceiling and floor to frame 6×12 gray marble tiles in between.
When dealing with an exceptionally generous 12 foot ceiling, don’t be shy about scaling up subway tiles for maximum impact. Giant tiles prevent the backsplash from getting lost while adding sharp modern style.
Subway Tile Backsplash Size for a 10×10 Kitchen
A 10×10 foot kitchen is on the smaller side of average. For a room with limited square footage like this, opt for smaller sized subway tiles to give the illusion of expanded space. Recommended sizes for a 10×10 kitchen backsplash include:
- 2×4 inch mini tiles to maximize grout lines that create the perception of more area.
- 3×6 inch tiles for the ideal balance between dainty and overpowering.
- 2×8 inch mini subway bricks lend a sense of length in the confines of a narrow room.
- 1×1 inch mosaic penny tiles to bring intricate visual texture without overwhelming.
Stick to subway tiles under 4 inches tall for a 10×10 kitchen. The smaller the grout lines and tiles, the bigger this petite room will seem. Staying under 3 or 4 inches keeps the backsplash delicate and proportional.
What Size Subway Tile is Best for 12×12 Kitchen?
A 12×12 foot kitchen provides just a bit more breathing room than the 10×10 model. The marginally more generous space allows you to bump up subway tile size slightly while maintaining ideal proportions. Some perfect sizes for a 12×12 kitchen include:
- 3×6 inch tile for a classic look with slight contemporary edge in a bigger setting.
- 4×8 inch tile to embrace the versatility of this medium scale tile for transitional style.
- 4×12 inch tile to make a bolder statement tailored to the room’s larger footprint.
- 2×10 inch mini subway tile to add aesthetic details with slim stacked bricks.
The Goldilocks zone for a 12×12 kitchen backsplash is the medium subway tile spectrum of 3×6 to 4×12 inches. Take advantage of the bigger room to gain versatility.
Subway Tile Backsplash Size for Large 15×15 Kitchens
Once you reach an especially spacious kitchen like 15×15 feet, the substantial square footage enables you to explore larger subway tile sizes. Some good options include:
- 4×16 inch horizontally oriented tiles for a contemporary twist on the traditional subway style.
- 6×12 inch tiles for dramatically oversized scale that stands up to the generous room size.
- 4×4 inch mosaic tiles to counterbalance the room’s size with intricate dainty details.
- Pair 4×12 tiles on the bottom with 1×4 inch mosaics on top to mix big and small.
For a big 15×15 foot kitchen, subway tiles in the 4×12 inch and up category help the backsplash hold its own without looking underscaled. Tap into the flexibility a large kitchen offers.
What Size Subway Tile for Kitchen Island?
Kitchen islands offer the chance to install an eye-catching backsplash that diverges from the wall backsplashes. Feel free to get creative with island subway tile sizes!
- Opt for longer and skinnier proportions like 4×16 inch planks to accentuate the island’s length.
- Tiny penny mosaic tiles bring intricate detail you can admire up close to the island.
- Maximize the island’s presence by scaling