Subway Tile for 2025, Inspiration & Ways to Install

Why Subway Tile is Still a Solid Choice

When it comes to versatility, affordability, and timeless style, subway tiles truly steal the show. While they may be enjoying a trendy moment right now, there’s a reason they’ve remained a favorite for generations. With endless options—from classic white to beveled edges and eye-catching patterns—subway tiles offer a unique twist for any design. They’re a fantastic way to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank. We’ve gathered our favorite subway tile styles and installation ideas to spark inspiration for your next remodel. Scroll down and get ready to fall in love with these fresh and creative trends!

If there’s a tile that takes the cake for versatility, cost effectiveness, and timelessness, it’s subway tile. As trendy as it is at the moment, there’s a reason we come back to it time and again. The variety of options available – from classic white to beveled and patterned – gives it plenty of individuality. It’s a great way to get a high-quality design for an affordable price. We’ve rounded up our subway tile ideas and inspiration to get you dreaming about your remodel. Scroll below to see some of our favorite trends today.

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Traditional Subway Tile Styles

Your typical subway tile look is about as classic as it gets – flat, white, and simple. It’s perfect for giving a room a streamlined look. Whether you’re adding it to a kitchen or bar backsplash or using it on your shower and bathroom walls. With a clean white tile, you’ve got the flexibility to shift the overall style of the room. As the years pass it pairs perfectly with contrasting tile patterns, wall colors, and a wide variety of design trends. And as a bonus, subway tiles are typically easier to install (and clean!) than more complex patterns.

RELATED: Are White Kitchens Timeless or Trendy?

Non-Traditional Subway Tile Styles

Subway tiles don’t have to stick to only traditional white and flat looks. Branch out from the crowd and add a splash of personality to your design. Go for a larger-sized subway tile, or one that’s glass. For more non-traditional subway tile ideas, play with different color schemes. With everything from green and blue to marbled white and gray, there are endless options to choose from. Mixing and matching is always a good bet, too. If you want to try a couple of complementary tile designs for different areas of the room (think an accent tile wall in the shower or behind the kitchen sink).

Grout Colors

While your tile color and size makes an impact, your grout is just as important (and a detail many people forget to focus on). There’s a wide range of grout colors available, and the shade you choose can completely shift the look of your subway tile within the room. Typically darker grouts are going to make your white tiles pop, but they can also make for a busier look overall, so the key with these is to keep the rest of the room simple. On the other hand, lighter grouts will make for a more streamlined and clean look, though they are more prone to stains and discoloration. Whichever way you go, be sure to put some thought into your color choice and determine which design option is the best for you, and which one will pair best with your ideal subway tile.

Textured Tile (Beveled / Catalina)

Beveled and Catalina styles are great options if you want a bit of texture added to your tiles without going in a completely different color direction. With beveled tile, you get extra depth and each tile is defined individually while still working together as a whole – these are particularly beautiful in kitchens as backsplashes. Catalina styles give the subway tile trend a purposefully imperfect vibe – the uneven surface makes the space feel natural and weathered. It’s a softer look that looks gorgeous in any space.

Shine vs. Matte Subway Tile

One other consideration for your tiles is whether you want to opt for a high shine or a more matte version. Both are beautiful, and there are versions between the two that strike a nice balance. But the thing to keep in mind when making your decision is the overall feeling you want your room to evoke. High shine tiles are a bit more showy and reflect light quite strongly, meaning that if you want to make a statement, that’s the perfect match. Matte or low shine tiles, conversely, will make things feel more subtle and sophisticated.

Unique Subway Tile Patterns to Elevate Your Space

Tired of the usual subway tile layout? Change it up! Sometimes a little tweak can give a classic style a whole new look.

Subway tiles have been a staple in interior design since the early 1900s when they were first used in—you guessed it—subway stations. Their classic look and durability made them a go-to choice for high-traffic areas, and they’ve since found a permanent place in kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. While classic subway tile installations are always stylish, there are many creative ways to arrange these rectangular tiles for a more modern look or to add a unique pattern that becomes a striking focal point in your home.

Let’s explore the many ways you can lay subway tile to give your next project a distinctive edge.

1. Classic Brick Pattern

The brick pattern is the quintessential subway tile layout, offering that timeless classic look. In this pattern, each row of tile is staggered by half a tile width, creating a layout reminiscent of traditional brickwork. It’s a great way to add subtle texture and visual interest to bathroom backsplashes or kitchen walls. For a modern twist, consider using black grout with white tiles to emphasize the grout lines.

2. Vertical Stack for a Modern Twist

Want a more modern look? Try the vertical stack pattern. Instead of laying tiles horizontally, stack them vertically in straight lines. This method creates sleek vertical lines that draw the eye upward, making your walls appear taller. It’s especially effective in small bathrooms or as a contemporary accent wall in a kitchen design. To ensure a cohesive look, use a grout float to smooth out those grout lines evenly.

3. Basket Weave for a Playful Design

The basket weave pattern takes subway tiles to a whole new level. This layout arranges the tiles in pairs or groups to mimic the look of woven fabric. It’s a unique pattern that works beautifully in bathroom backsplashes or smaller living spaces, offering both texture and charm. For this layout, using a wet saw to cut the tiles precisely is crucial for maintaining clean edges.

4. 45-Degree Angle Herringbone

For a dynamic design, try laying your tiles in a 45-degree angle herringbone pattern. The tiles are placed in a zigzag arrangement, with each tile meeting at a 45-degree angle. This pattern is perfect for creating a striking focal point on a kitchen backsplash or an accent wall in the bathroom. A straight edge can help you maintain precision, and pairing this pattern with contrasting grout can further emphasize the design.

5. Offset Pattern for Added Interest

The offset pattern takes the classic brick layout but shifts the tiles slightly off-center, such as by one-third instead of half. This subtle change gives a more modern look while keeping the overall aesthetic familiar. It’s a great way to achieve a design that’s a step up from the traditional brick pattern without going too bold.

6. Vertical Lines with Second Row Offset

Try varied combinations in your shower to break up the design and do something custom. The vertical stack with an offset twist. The tiles are installed in vertical lines, but each second row is shifted slightly to the side. This technique adds just the right amount of complexity, giving your space a contemporary edge while maintaining a clean design. It’s a stylish choice for metro tiles or kitchen design elements where you want a bit of flair.

7. Diagonal Layout for Bold Impact

If you’re aiming for a design that really stands out, consider a diagonal layout where tiles are installed at a 45-degree angle. This bold design choice works exceptionally well on accent walls or large backsplashes. It adds a sense of movement and breaks away from traditional horizontal or vertical lines. Just remember to use a wet saw for precise cuts, and a grout float to ensure your grout lines are flawless.

Subway tiles are more than just a practical choice—they’re a canvas for creativity. From classic subway tile patterns to modern layouts, there are countless ways to infuse your space with personality and style. Whether you’re refreshing your kitchen, bathroom, or any living space, these versatile rectangular tiles offer endless possibilities for a cohesive look and a focal point that you’ll love for years to come.