history of subway tile

Created more than a century ago by architects Heins and LaFarge, the original subway tiles were used for, you guessed it, a subway—specifically the New York City subway in 1904. These tiles were perfect for subways because they were simple, clean and economical. They were so efficient that other major cities adapted subway tiles, from London’s Underground to Paris’ Metro. Soon, subway tiles became popular above ground as well, adorning Victorian kitchens and bathrooms because of their sanitary qualities.

Today, subway tiles are much more of a style statement, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t still functional and durable. Many people love them for this exact combination. However, there are more choices than ever to consider so knowing what is right for you can be tricky. That brings us to our top three things to consider when you pick out your tile.

Top 3 Things to Consider

Subway Tile Design Tips

Once you know what you want as far as size, finish and shape, it’s time to explore different subway tile designs and what makes them work.

Try using a patterned, wallpaper-look tile above a wainscot and subway tile in a complementary color on the bottom. This will add color and interest to a powder room, and you can still keep the palette neutral.

The vertical straight set pattern in the charming space below adds height to the small shower in a contemporary way. We love how this pattern continues right through the nook and brings mid-century modern style to this soothing room.

With subway tile, pattern is everything. In the frame below, a herringbone pattern defines a focal point without straying from a soft, neutral color palette. There are so many interesting details here to attract the eye.

Subway tile is wonderful as a blank canvas to support other points of interest. A dazzling waterjet mosaic (first photo) or an artistic piece of Laura Ashley art glass (second photo) stand out on a subway tile background. Grout in a complementary color helps the true centerpiece shine. To transition between your subway tile and focal point (and to show it off!), incorporate layering pieces that do double duty.

The character of brick and the versatility of subway tile come together in this beautiful space. An elongated tile in a herringbone pattern gives this cozy nook a unique, textured design.

One of the best things about subway tile is the variety of patterns possible. Here, a mix of vertical and horizontal straight stack on the wall lend a modern appearance and a bold, colorful pattern on the floor is a jolt of energy.

Ask Kirsty

You asked, she answered! Kirsty offers her advice on some of your most common subway tile questions.

How do I decide on a gloss or matte finish for my subway tile? Is gloss more timeless? What’s easier to keep clean?

Glossy finishes typically present a more traditional and elegant look. Their reflective quality can also make your space appear brighter. Matte finishes offer a more casual, relaxed appearance. They don’t reflect as much light and will give the space a softer look. As far as cleaning, both matte and glossy tiles have their benefits. Matte tile does not show smudges or splashes as easily as a glossy tile, but glossy tile is very easy to wipe down and clean.

What color grout should I use with white subway tile?

Grout has an incredible impact on your tile and the space around it. You have three options: matching, complementary or contrasting grout. The best option for you depends on your goals for the final look. Matching grout to the tile color gives a classic, clean, monochromatic and seamless appearance. A neutral and complementary grout color adds subtle contrast without being a focal point. Opt for a color that accents the tile and overall design. Contrasting your grout color to your tile adds character, creates a bold, dramatic look and shows off the tile pattern. The grout becomes a part of the design rather than the backdrop.

How do I match subway tile with my cabinets?

There is no one formula for matching tile and cabinetry. It’s about what appeals to you. One tip I recommend is to look at your closet. What color clothing do you have? To which colors do you tend to gravitate? Just like your clothing style, you want your home to reflect you and your individuality. It’s also important to think about contrasts. Do you want a monochromatic look or do you want your tile and cabinets to contrast one another? Deciding this will also help guide your tile choice.

What subway tile pattern should I use?

(Tip: Refer to our blog post on subway tile patterns and layouts for examples of these looks!)

The most popular layout is a traditional horizontal brick. To make that appear more modern, use a larger size tile. Vertical and horizontal straight stacks are more contemporary layouts. Any vertical pattern will add height to your space—an offset brick pattern is more traditional and a straight stack is more contemporary. More unique layouts, like crosshatch and herringbone, add dynamic patterns, whether in a monochromatic or multicolored palette. The beauty and glamour of a herringbone pattern are unbeatable.

Between all the shapes, sizes, finishes and patterns available for subway tile, there are countless designs to be discovered. However you decide to use subway tile, just make sure to follow The Tile Shop golden rule, and make it your own!

The post Subway Tile Design Ideas & Tips appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Featured: Rosa Cha, Industrial Garage, Santorini and Iceland.

From beginning to end, every step of tile design is important. Picking out the right color, shape and material is just as important as its installation. The layout of your tile can make it a stunning supporting piece or an eye-catching center of attention. Learn how to change the perception of your room and take your design to the next level.

Horizontal Straight Stack

If you want a more contemporary look, installing your tile horizontally is the style for you. Horizontal straight stack guides viewers’ eyes from the top of your design to the bottom. This layout showcases your tile the most and is perfect for boldly printed tiles.

Featured: Fabola Blu.

Vertical Straight Stack

Just like the guards at Buckingham Palace, these “soldier stacks” stand firm and tall. Installing tile vertically is a great way to make petite rooms appear taller. This layout also adds balance to your design when working with daring 3-D tiles.

Featured: Memphis Bianco Di Elba Ret.

“Horizontal and vertical straight stacks are my favorite tile patterns for bathrooms because they present a clean and fresh look. It’s important to have a polished design in your bathroom.” — Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

Brick Patterns

1/2 Offset

There’s a reason why one half offset brick is one of the most traditional looks. The simple enhancement of offsetting stacked tiles by 50% gives your design a more appealing look and can hide any imperfections in the installation. This pattern is the perfect way to add flair without taking away attention from a focal point.

Featured: Laura Ashley Oriental Garden Charcoal and Imperial Grey Bevel.

1/3 Offset

The stair-step effect in this pattern is created by offsetting each tile by one third its length. We suggest using one third offset when designing with tile that is 8″ x 16″ or larger.

Featured: Cottage Grey Straight.

Herringbone

Install large or small rectangles at a 45-degree angle to form the lively herringbone pattern. Intensify the verticle and horizontal zigzag movements by incorporating different colors.

Featured: Victoria Grey Dark Brushed.

Double Herringbone

Double herringbone is created by connecting two rectangular shaped tiles with each other. This pattern is not commonly installed because it can be a difficult layout to perfect.

Featured: Color Mind Light BR. Design by Friedman General Contracting and Modern Barton Hills Oasis.

Chevron

The chevron pattern is often confused with the herringbone pattern. But don’t be mistaken—chevron is created by connecting the ends of tile that are specifically cut at an angle. This added touch gives your design a chic, stylish finish.

Featured: Tinos Black Chevron and Tinos White Chevron. Design by West Bay Homes.

Chevron is another great opportunity to use multiple colors of tile. West Bay Homes emphasized this stunning movement with Tinos Black Chevron.

Grid

The grid pattern is the easiest way to lay out tile. This timeless design is created by stacking square-shaped tiles in a grid pattern. Instead of using a rug at the entrance of your home, display a tile pattern on the floor for more beauty and durability.

Featured: London Camden.

Diagonal

The diagonal layout, also known as the diamond pattern, is very similar to the grid pattern. Installing tiles in a 45-degree angle makes your floor appear wider.

Featured: Imperio Marfil Matte.

Versailles

The Versailles pattern stands out as one of the most complicated and exquisite tile layouts. This puzzle-like design is made up of different sized rectangles and squares. While Versailles is commonly designated for floor designs, don’t be afraid to display it across the walls of your home.

Featured: Adoni Black Small Versailles. Design by Bria Hammel Interiors. Photo by Spacecrafting.

In the image above, Bria Hammel Interiors displayed Adoni Black Small slate tile in a Versailles pattern. Not only does the black slate provide a beautiful contrast with white cubbies, but the light grout accentuates it. View the full-size image on House Beautiful’s Instagram.

Hex

It’s no surprise that tile comes in all shapes and sizes. Liven your design with hexagon-shaped tiles and mosaics. These geometric shapes are excellent for modern layouts because of their ability to support both bold and timeless creations.

Featured: Black Hex and White Hex. Design by Cypress Design Co. Photo by Denise Bass.

Unsure of which tile pattern is right for your style? Schedule a design consultation with our experts to create the perfect look for your dream home.

The post Tile Patterns and Layouts appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.