7 Ways to Style your Subway Tiles
Subway tile is a timeless and versatile material that meshes well with all sorts of decorating styles. Named for the white tiles covering New York subway stations, subway tile is a go-to choice for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls, shower surrounds, and more.
In general, this type of tile creates a clean, classic look that blends well with a wide range of decorating styles, including modern, traditional, farmhouse, and cottage aesthetics. The overall effect can hinge on how you arrange and install the subway tile. Learn the different variations of subway tile patterns to find the best layout to suit your personality.
Classic Running Bond
Tile treatments rendered in a classic running bond pattern, which takes its cue from conventional brickwork, add floor-to-ceiling appeal in kitchens and bathrooms alike. With a running bond subway tile, the joints are offset and centered in the middle of all adjoining tiles. This symmetrical layout presents a crisp, cohesive look that sets a serene stage for busy areas like kitchens.
Vertical Running Bond
Subway tiles installed vertically create the illusion of taller walls and higher ceilings. When they're installed in a running bond pattern (rows offset by half of a tile) and accented with dark gray or black grout, subway tiles make a dramatic and unexpected statement.
45-Degree Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone subway tile consists of tiles set on 45-degree angles with their joints offset, hitting the centers of adjoining tiles. Thanks to the pattern's prominent peaks and valleys, the tile treatment draws the eye up, down, and around a room's perimeter.
Basket Weaved
The Basket-weave layout offers a modern take on an old favorite when it's crafted from white subway tile and forgoes the colored tiles that are often included to emphasize the look. Composed vertical tiles framed by horizontal tiles, this subway tile pattern is easy to plan and install.
90-Degree Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone subway tile patterns offer the perfect backdrop for traditional-style or vintage-inspired kitchens and bathrooms. Striking in its simplicity, this 90-degree herringbone pattern can mirror a bathroom or kitchen's straight lines, while bringing a sense of movement that softens a room's hard surfaces.
Horizontal Stacked Bond
The stacked bond pattern showcases same-size tiles that are aligned in evenly stacked rows. The minimalist pattern gives rooms an unexpectedly contemporary edge and an orderly look that perfectly suits transitional and modern designs.
Vertical Stacked Bond
Turn subway tiles vertically to construct an unconventional composition. Here, smaller rectangular tiles marshaled in tidy rows align in a vertical stacked bond pattern for a fresh and modern bathroom backsplash.
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