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Classic Subway Tiles Go Uptown
Get a polished, high-end look from subway tiles old and new
Classic subway tiles became common in the early 20th century. Their durability and easy-to-clean status made them perfect for use in public spaces (subways!), but their classic simplicity established them as attractive and practical for use in the home, as well. Traditional ceramic subway tiles, usually white, have flat, smooth, highly glazed surfaces and are most commonly applied horizontally with pencil-thin grout lines. But reproductions and new takes on the original designs have introduced countless styles and colors, allowing for striking pattern-making opportunities!
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| This classic bathroom features a traditional horizontal, floor-to-ceiling application of 3" x 6" white subway tile. Light reflects off the bright white, high gloss finish. When applied in straight, tight lines, the generally inexpensive tile looks rich, polished and very high-end. |
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| This gorgeous kitchen uses white walls as a base with light blue-gray subway tiles. The grout lines are thicker, drawing more attention to the tiles. |
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Like the horizontal application but want to do something special? Use a dark grout. Even easier to keep clean looking than white grout, some people love it, some people hate it. The dark grout lends an Old World air to any subway tile motif, making it pop and giving it extra dimension.
by Filmore Clark
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The 3" x 6" size is most commonly associated with subway tile in residential use, but other sizes and shapes are fair game, too. Try mixing two different styles of subway tiles, as the designer did in this tasteful bathroom.
by Sylvia Martin
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Carrera marble subway tiles are an elegant alternative to traditional white. All the elements – wall tiles with chair rail, console sink, marble basketweave tiles on the floor and the snazzy Venetian mirror – give this bathroom an enchanting antique feel.
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Don't want tile all over? Patterned wallpapers are an outstanding complement to subway tiles!
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Create interest on a fully-tiled wall with contrasting (but well-coordinated) accents. The inset rectangle of 1" x 1" tiles bordered by black pencil tiles works beautifully in this stunning bathroom.
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Don't be afraid to experiment with the orientation of your tile. The vertical application of the backsplash is fresh and unexpected.
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| Marble subway tiles work well in a vertical application, as well. Because these tiles vary a bit in width and length, the verticality gives the illusion of higher ceilings. |
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Glass subway tiles bring a dimensional element to a traditional look. The light blue glass paired with teak finishes results in a warm modern bathroom I would never want to leave!
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| You can never go wrong with herringbone, in my book. The pattern on the backsplash behind the stove gives the kitchen a focal point while introducing a texture without overwhelming the space. |
Create your own pattern with contrasting tiles of different sizes and shapes. Stripes, squares, bands of color — the sky's the limit.
by Amoroso Design
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Break up a sea of white with dark subway tiles as a functional feature wall. This is also a great way to use tiles that might be a little out of your budget without breaking the bank. Using them in a small area not only saves money, but makes the most out of them by giving them special attention.
More:
Design With Vertical Tile
Ready to Try a Larger Bath Tile?
From Spain: New Trends in Tile
More:
Design With Vertical Tile
Ready to Try a Larger Bath Tile?
From Spain: New Trends in Tile
Ideabook updated on April 10, 2013.
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Stacyneil: I agree! The bathroom looks great. I love the accented niches!
Hennef7: Gorgeous!! I especially love the marble, but the putty-colored penny rounds are awesome.