10 Styles of Subway Tile

Let’s talk subway tile

Subway tile comes in a variety of sizes, textures, colors, and materials that will work great in any style kitchen or bathroom. Scroll through the all things subway tile to choose the best option for your design and project needs.

Timeless Classic

If you want to keep it simple then white subway tile with a white grout is a very minimal classic look and option for a kitchen backsplash.

Size and Texture

Subway tile sizes can range from 1in x 2in tiny rectangles to the average 3×6 even to an oversized 12×24.
A popular size other than the 3×6 subway tile are the following, 3×12, 4×10, or slightly larger with a 4×16.

Subway comes in different textures as well. If you are looking for a little extra dimension but want to keep that traditional style, a beveled edge subway tile is a great option. You can also go for a rustic or eclectic but simple looks with a textured rough edge choice.

Color

Not a fan of white? No problem! You can get subway tile in just about any color you can imagine (some are special order). Many readily available colors include grays, beiges, blues, and creams. This is a great way to add color to your bathroom or kitchen.

Grout Color

The color of your grout really defines the look and outcome of your tile. If you want a bold contrast, we suggest using a black grout. If you are feeling even more adventurous you can kick it up a notch and go with a colored grout.

Material

Ceramic
When people think of subway tile they are mainly thinking of the ceramic white tile. Ceramic is great for backsplashes and shower walls. Many ceramic subway tiles are not always floor approved, so this is something you want to check before purchasing it for the floor.

Glass
Glass Subway Tile is another great option to add a little extra shine to your bathroom or kitchen walls. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, and glass is very easy to wipe clean. Be sure to have an expert installer. If it is not done correctly, you will be able to see all the mistakes.

Stone
If you love the look of subway but want natural stone you are in luck! You can get subway shaped tile in a variety of natural stones such as marble, dolomite, travertine, and limestone. The color within each type of natural stone. It is very important to seal your natural stone tile. This is a very easy painless process that can be done once a year.

*Note: If you are on well water, I advise against putting marble/natural stone on your shower floor and possible even shower walls. The sediments in the water will stain and damage your beautiful tile. It would be fine for a backsplash in a kitchen on well water though!

Layout/Pattern

One of the great things about subway tile is its versatility. You can lay subway in a variety of different patterns to achieve different looks. Most people picture subway tile horizonal and offset. Although this is a great and very classic pattern, if you are looking to mix things up a bit you can try a laying it vertically, stacked (horizontal or vertical), basketweave, or one of our personal favorites a herringbone pattern. No matter which way you choose you can’t go wrong!

Stacked