Beyond The Basics: Innovative Subway Tile Patterns For A Fresh Look

First used in New York City subways at the turn of the 20th century, subway tile has become popular for home interiors thanks to its sleek style, versatility, and easy maintenance. Whether you’re drawn to a streamlined, stacked configuration or a sophisticated and elegant herringbone pattern, subway tile easily conforms to your tastes.

Available in ceramic, porcelain, and marble — and with a variety of colors and finishes to choose from — MSI subway tile is a great way to elevate the ambiance of a kitchen, bathroom, mudroom, or multifunctional living space.

How can you use this timeless tile shape to refresh your interior design? There are many ways to make classic floor and wall tile patterns feel modern and chic.

Classic Running Bond

Bay Blue 4” x 12” Tile

Sometimes referred to as a brick pattern because it follows the horizontal offset layout of rectangular bricks, the classic running bond defies the short expiration dates of many design trends. Somehow, this traditional pattern always looks modern, and you can make it even more on-trend by selecting the right tile.

Instead of standard white, opt for a rich color, like the muted royal blue shade of Bay Blue 4” x 12” Tile. The attractive watercolor-like finish of this ceramic tile contributes to a sense of movement that complements the dynamic appeal of the offset brick pattern. Paired with white countertops and dark cabinets, Bay Blue makes for a standout backsplash tile in a modern kitchen setting.

Vertical Running Bond

Metro White 4" x 12" Glossy Tile

Do you love the pristine appeal of glossy white tile but want to create unexpected visual interest? The vertical running bond pattern, which rotates the classic running bond offset pattern by 90 degrees, is a subtle change that offers a surprising impact.

The large size of our Metro White 4" x 12" Glossy Tile in pure white ceramic with a glossy finish feels luxurious when installed as an expansive shower and tub surround. Gray countertops and white cabinets tie in perfectly, while mosaic tile flooring in white with a black floral pattern offers a grounding influence in the airy space.

Horizontal Stacked Bond

Village Tildes Ceramic Tile

Simplicity is a tenet of the modern minimalist style, and there are ways to make the simplest of patterns fresh and eye-catching. If you appreciate the structure and uniformity of a horizontal stacked bond pattern, where tiles are laid one atop another in neat, horizontal rows, add a touch of whimsy with Village Tildes Ceramic Tile.

This matte ceramic tile's cool blue-gray hues and variable textures deliver casual, contemporary appeal and dimensionality to a full-height tub surround. When paired with a sleek, modern soaker tub, large-format floor tiles in gleaming white, and some well-placed greenery, this tile contributes to a spa-like atmosphere that puts you at ease.

Vertical Stacked Bond

Arabescato Venato White Tile

It’s hard to argue with the beauty of natural stone, and our genuine marble Arabescato Venato White Tile shows up with a swirl of creamy white and smoky gray hues marked by darker veining. A honed finish allows the organic flow of this striking stone to be the centerpiece of your design, especially when arranged in a vertically stacked bond layout, where tiles are placed in uniform columns.

Use this tile for a floor-to-ceiling accent wall for maximum impact in a spacious, multifunctional room like a living/dining combo. Paired with pale wood flooring and warmer wood accents, this wall tile lends laid-back luxury to any living space.

Herringbone Pattern

Urbano Warm Concrete 3D Mix Tile

The luxe vibes of the elegant herringbone pattern can create a statement style in your primary bath even when you select an understated, neutral color palette. This is especially true when you choose a tile like Urbano Warm Concrete 3D Mix Tile that features the added visual interest of a textured, three-dimensional design.

The warm concrete hue can be a lovely transition between a white sink and a darker counter surface. However, it becomes a stunning statement piece when laid out in an interlocking V-shaped herringbone pattern. Polished ceramic tile featuring plaid, chevron, or grid patterns takes your statement style to a whole new level.

Basket Weave Pattern

Flamenco Racing Green 2” x 18” Glossy Tile

Racing green isn’t just for British cars, as evidenced by our breathtaking porcelain Flamenco Racing Green 2” x 18” Glossy. This elongated tile is enough of a departure from classic subway tile dimensions to be notable in and of itself. However, the rich, varied greens and high-gloss finish make it hard to tear your eyes away.

Tiles laid out to appear interwoven create an intricate effect that’s perfect for an entryway or mudroom floor tile. The deep, woodsy hues and dynamic patterning lend themselves well to both the modern vibes of shaker cabinets in white and open shelving in nude wood.

Transform Your Interior with Classic Subway Tile

There’s no end of MSI tile options to explore when you’re ready to update your living spaces. By choosing subway tile in traditional or contemporary colors and patterns, you can complement existing architecture, refresh interior ambiance, and add timeless appeal to your home.

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.