Subway tiles are a classic and versatile choice that can elevate the style of any bathroom. Whether you’re going for a traditional look or experimenting with bold designs, subway tiles offer endless possibilities. In this blog, we’ll explore the beauty of subway tiles and 10 creative ideas to incorporate them into your bathroom.
What is Subway Tile? Why Are Subway Tiles Good in the Bathroom?
Subway tiles are rectangular, typically 3×6-inch tiles, often associated with their original use in New York City subway stations. Their clean lines, glossy finish, and minimalist look have made them a popular choice for bathroom designs worldwide. Subway tiles are durable, easy to maintain, and versatile enough to work in both traditional and modern spaces, making them perfect for bathrooms where both functionality and aesthetics are key.
Find out more: Cost-Effective Bathroom Renovations: Why Subway Tile is a Great Option?
10 Subway Tile Bathroom Ideas
Keep It Traditional
For a timeless bathroom look, opt for classic white subway tiles. Install them in a simple brick pattern for a clean, elegant style that never goes out of fashion. This design works well in both small and large bathrooms and can be paired with a variety of fixtures to match any taste.
Choose the Classic with Clean Lines
If you’re after something sleek and modern, install subway tiles in a straight pattern with crisp, clean grout lines. This approach offers a streamlined look that’s both fresh and sophisticated, giving your bathroom a contemporary vibe without overwhelming the space.
Find out more: Cleaning and Maintaining Ceramic Subway Tiles
Go Bold with Blue
Add a pop of color to your bathroom by choosing blue subway tiles. From soft pastels to deeper navy shades, blue tiles can create a calming and serene atmosphere. Try pairing them with white or light-colored grout to enhance the contrast and make the tiles stand out even more.
Focus on the Floor
While subway tiles are often seen on the walls, they can also be a striking flooring option. Use a darker grout to add depth and make the floor stand out. Whether in a herringbone or checkerboard pattern, subway tile flooring adds a unique touch to your bathroom.
Be Daring with Darks
For a more dramatic look, choose darker subway tiles like charcoal, black, or deep green. Dark tiles add sophistication and create a luxurious feel in your bathroom. Pair with bright fixtures to avoid making the space feel too closed in.
Consider Contrast
Create a striking visual contrast by combining light subway tiles with darker grout or contrasting tile colors. For example, white subway tiles with black grout give your bathroom a bold, graphic look, while maintaining the timeless appeal of subway tiles.
Try Two-Toned with Wainscoting
A two-toned approach can add depth and visual interest. Consider using subway tiles for the lower half of your walls in one color, like white or light gray, and another color for the upper portion. Wainscoting can complement this design, creating a more layered and dynamic look.
Blend In
If you prefer a subtler look, choose subway tiles in muted shades, such as soft grays, beige, or even pastel hues. These colors will blend seamlessly with other elements in your bathroom while still providing texture and dimension to the space.
Support a Specialty Shape
While rectangular subway tiles are most common, there are plenty of variations in shape and size. Try using elongated or even hexagonal subway tiles to add a unique twist to your design. This twist on the classic shape will bring extra character and charm to your bathroom.
Make a Showstopping Shower
Subway tiles can create a gorgeous, eye-catching feature in your shower. Whether you’re using them for the entire shower enclosure or as an accent, the clean lines of subway tiles make them perfect for showcasing unique patterns, colors, or finishes in your shower area.
Find out more: A Complete Guide to Installing Ceramic Subway Tile in Bathroom
FAQs
How can I make my subway tile more interesting?
To make your subway tile more interesting, try mixing different colors or finishes. Use contrasting grout, experiment with patterns like herringbone or vertical stacks, or combine subway tiles with other materials like wood or stone for a textured look.
Are subway tiles good for bathrooms?
Yes! Subway tiles are an excellent choice for bathrooms. They’re durable, easy to clean, and can be used in various design styles, from modern to vintage. Their water-resistant properties make them perfect for high-moisture environments like bathrooms.
What tile to pair with subway tile?
Pair subway tiles with natural stone tiles, marble, or even bold patterned tiles for contrast. You can also combine subway tiles with wood-like tiles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Just make sure the tiles complement each other in color and texture for a cohesive look.
Why were subway tiles tiled?
Subway tiles were originally designed for use in the New York City subway system in the early 20th century. Their rectangular shape, easy-to-clean surface, and durability made them ideal for the high-traffic and high-moisture areas of subway stations. Over time, their clean, simple design became popular in homes and commercial spaces as well.
Conclusion
Subway tiles are a fantastic way to bring both style and functionality to your bathroom. From traditional designs to bold, modern patterns, there are endless ways to incorporate subway tiles into your bathroom decor. Whether you’re installing them on the floor, in the shower, or as an accent feature, subway tiles are sure to enhance the look of your space while remaining easy to maintain. Use these 20 ideas to inspire your next bathroom remodel and create a space that’s both stylish and timeless.