From Classic To Contemporary: Subway Tile Designs That Will Elevate Your Walls

If you're planning a kitchen or bath remodel, consider subway tile for your project. But why are subway tiles so popular? They have a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Originally installed in New York subway stations, these tiles have stood the test of time and still look fantastic! 
 
Designers love subway tiles because they're style-neutral and come in a wide variety. You can find options that are colorful and modern or refined and traditional. Get ready to explore some of our favorite subway tiles and pick up a few designer tips along the way!

Tried & True

White 3-by-6 inch subway tiles are popular for a great reason. They are affordable and easy to find! You’ll see them in beautiful restaurant walls, stylish loft kitchens, and cozy bungalow showers. When installed from floor to ceiling, white subway tiles look stunning. 

Antique White Glazed Tile

 They are a versatile neutral, blending perfectly with floor tiles and countertops. Plus, they’ll stay in style for years! For a fun twist, you can arrange the tiles in different patterns to amp up the style. One exciting option is using white subway tiles with gray grout. It’s a great way to elevate your kitchen backsplash! While white grout offers a seamless look, contrasting grout colors add a bold, graphic touch. 

Dreamy & Steamy

Floor-to-ceiling wall tile can transform a shower! It upgrades the look and feel of the space while creating tough, durable walls. The effect is stunning, but it's a big commitment. Subway tiles are an excellent choice for this style. Many of them come in solid colors, allowing other materials in the room to shine. Look for a tile that fits your design scheme perfectly! For a sleek look, consider the Arctic Ice Glass Subway Tile. It adds a touch of shimmer and has a modern flair. You'll love how it complements other materials in your space!

Arctic Ice Glass Subway Tile 4x12

Super-Sized

Forget the rule that subway tiles must be 3-by-6 inches! We’re seeing a fantastic trend with larger subway tiles. Now, sizes like 4-by-12 inches like Athena Gold Tile shown below, 4-by-16 inches, and even 3-by-18 inches are making waves. The saying "bigger is better" definitely applies here! Large format tiles look amazing in spacious areas, like wide bathroom walls or long backsplashes. Pairing them with a granite or quartz countertop that features a lot of movement creates a stunning contrast. Subway tiles can really balance out the visual pattern of the countertop, bringing together color and style in a cohesive way. How exciting is that?

Athena Gold Tile 4x12

Mother Nature

Designers are increasingly turning to nature for inspiration. Materials like wood, brick, and natural stone bring charm and authenticity to any space. Want to break away from the ordinary? Try subway tiles made from marble, travertine, or limestone! These natural stone tiles come in the classic 2-by-6 inch size, but you can also go bold with larger options. Just check out that stunning kitchen with 12-by-24 inch marble tiles as a full backsplash. It’s unexpected and absolutely gorgeous!

Arabescato Venato White Tile 2x6

A touch of texture brings personality and depth to any space. It outshines plain paint on drywall every time! No matter your tile style, you can design your backsplash and beyond with confidence. There are countless options available to make your space uniquely yours. Plus, architectural details like tile boost your home's value and durability. Get ready to impress with major wow factor!

Need some inspiration for your tile style? Check out our Lookbook! It's a fun and curated storybook filled with designer tips and trends for hard surfaces. You'll find plenty of great ideas to spark your creativity!

Do you need help finding the perfect subway tile for your upcoming remodel? Chat online with an experienced and creative MSI representative now or locate an authorized MSI retailer near you to plan your next showroom visit.

Read More About Subway Tile:

Innovative Subway Tile Patterns for a Fresh Look
Modern Walls with Urbano's Patterned and Solid Subway Tile
Is Subway Tile Just For Looks, or Are There Benefits?