Considering using subway tiles in your bathroom shower? Subway tiles are stylish, sleek and minimalist, making them a fantastic choice for the bathroom. They are also easy to care for and create a stunning modern look.
Here are some suggestions on how to use subway tiles in your bathroom. From simple and minimalist designs to bold, creative looks, read on!
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What is a subway tile?
Subway tiles are nothing new - they've been around since 1904. These tiles were first used on New York City's subway system and have been used ever since. But they're a hot trend in interior design right now, and they work particularly well in the bathroom.
That's because tiles are waterproof, easy to maintain, and effortlessly stylish. Here's how you can refresh your bathroom with these regular 3" x 6" tiles.
They are rectangular in shape with a simple design and have traditionally only been available in white. But now you can find a much larger selection of tiles of different colors and sizes.
12 ideas for subway tiles in your bathroom shower
There are many ways you can use subway tiles to refresh your bathroom. From simple and minimalist to bold and creative, here are some ideas to inspire you! Browse the suggestions and pick the one that catches your eye.
Minimalist white subway tiles in your bathroom shower
The easiest way to use subway tile in your bathroom is the traditional white subway tile. This look is elegant, minimalist and attractive. It is ideal for a modern bathroom with clean lines and is suitable for small spaces.
If you prefer oneminimalist style in the bathroom, you can never go wrong with white subway tiles. Tile the entire bathroom or just the shower stall - either way it will look fabulous.
Back to the black subway tiles
On the other end of the spectrum, you could go for black subway tiles for a dramatic look. Whether you want a modern, moody or chic look, you can't go wrong with black subway tiles. But balance it out with lighter elements to avoid making it look dark and claustrophobic.
Spice it up with a different grout color
This simple hack can transform your bathroom. First, choose your choice of subway tiles - you can opt for white or any other shade you like. Then choose a contrasting grout color that contrasts with your tiles. And it's that simple!
White tile against black grout is a classic and sophisticated monochrome look. This high-contrast style makes the white tiles stand out even more.
But you can also play with color if you like a lighter style of furnishing. For example, why not combine yellow tiles with dark blue joints – or vice versa?
Make a statement with a bold tile colour
You don't have to stick with boring white tiles if you prefer a more colorful approach. It's your home, so you can customize it to match your style! Subway tiles now come in all the colors of the rainbow, so you're spoiled for choice.
Blue, green and teal are popular colors for bathrooms. But you could opt for bright yellow to add a pop of color. Or a soft pink could add a relaxed, feminine vibe to your bathroom. Almost any color can look amazing in a bathroom if you choose a complementary color palette!
Stay natural with a neutral color palette
Since subway tiles come in all sorts of colors, you can make any style work with these tiles. While many think subway tiles best suit a modern look, you're not bound. For example, you could create oneGorgeous boho bathroomwith a neutral color palette.
Opt for natural colored subway tiles in a beige, gray or light green hue. You can also choose a neutral grout shade to match the color palette. Then add natural elements like wicker baskets and plants to complete the look.
Contrast subway tiles with wall paint
One idea for using subway tiles is to only tile one or two walls in your bathroom. Then create a simple but striking contrast to the other painted walls.
You could opt for white subway tiles against a bright jewel tone like teal or purple. Or create even more contrast with white tiles against a dark charcoal wall.
But another idea is to go against colored tilesneutral wall color.There are so many options and the choice is yours. Have fun deciding what you choose!
Play around with the tile alignment
You may think that there are only limited ways to decorate your bathroom with subway tiles. But think again! Have you considered flipping the tiles vertically? Although it's an unusual way to tile your walls, it can look unique and interesting. So why not try it?
Create a herringbone pattern with your subway tiles
Another option is to create a herringbone pattern with your subway tiles. Smart yet subtle, this change draws attention and creates more visual interest. It's a fantastic way to spice up your bathroom without resorting to bright colors.
The result is a sleek, minimalist yet attractive look. You can even DIY the tiles yourself - just make sure they all line up carefully!
Go all out with subway tiles
You may have considered subway tile for your bathroom stall—but what if you went all out? A bathroom covered wall to wall in subway tile is quite a statement.
Keep it simple with the other elements in the bathroom so your tiles take center stage. They will become the key element in your elegant and minimalist bathroom.
Contrasting floor and wall tiles
An exciting way to decorate with tiles is to use one tile on the wall and a different design on the floor. So if you are tiling your shower with subway tiles, choose a contrasting tile for the floor.
For example, natural stone tiles stand out from a more ordinary subway tile. Or you could opt for a different pattern or color to contrast your wall tiles. mosaic orArt DecoPatterns stand out against your subway wall tiles.
This look is simple and sophisticated if you opt for similar tiles. For example, you could choose a tile in the same color scheme but a different shape or size. But if you're bolder, juxtapose contrasting colors or tile designs for a bold look.
Enlarge your tiles
Traditionally, subway tiles measure 3 inches by 6 inches by default. But nowadays you can find them in all sizes, from tiny versions to extra large tiles.
If you want to create an illusion of space, opt for extra-wide tiles. They make the room appear larger and more spacious, which is ideal for a tiny bathroom. Plus, if you're laying the tiles yourself, the larger size speeds up the process!
Blend the textures
Subway tiles now come in all sorts of designs. You can even buy subway tiles that look just like marble - but a lot cheaper. These tiles are fantastic if you like the marble look but can't break the bank.
They look super authentic and create a stylish, sophisticated style for your bathroom. Pair it with metallic fittings and pink accessories for a luxe finish.
The abstract
As you can see, there are many ways to decorate your bathroom shower with subway tiles. You can choose plain white tiles, a light color or contrasting grout. Whatever your choice, subway tiles are an effective way to update your bathroom.
Let me know which of these looks is your favorite in the comments below! And continue to follow Quiet MinimalPinterestfor more furnishing tips and ideas.
FAQs
Is subway tile in bathroom outdated? ›
In the world of kitchen backsplash and bathroom tile trends, subway tile invariably makes the lineup. Yes, it's been in vogue (and perhaps overused) of late, but if you think it's dated, think again–this tile has been around since the early 1900s, and homeowners are still clamoring for it.
Is subway tile a good choice for shower? ›Subway tile is a popular choice for showers as well, and traditional white subway tile showers are a particular favorite for those who want to create a Victorian-inspired design. All-white bathrooms were common during the Victorian era, since they reserved plain tiles for the less visible areas of the home.
What is the best pattern for subway tile? ›Off-set is the most traditional style for subway tile. It mimics the classic brick lay pattern. It is linear, but off-center, giving it a bit of edge.
Is subway tile out of style 2023? ›This is one trend that's never going out of style. Subway tile might commonly be found in other areas of the house, but you can never go wrong with using as your backsplash too.
Is Subway tile out of style 2022? ›Are subway tiles in style for bathrooms in 2022? Subway tiles, placed in the traditional way, are out of style for 2022. Designers are now more drawn to square tiles, slim finger-width tiles, or turning subway tiles on their sides so they run vertically instead.
What is the best size subway tile for a shower? ›3 x 6. The 3 x 6 subway tile size is one of the typical sizes for a backsplash, shower wall, or shower floor, since its larger, wider tiles add a neutral pattern to your space that takes a plain wall up a notch. This size fits beautifully on any kitchen or bathroom wall.
What tiles should not be used in a shower? ›Stone and porcelain tiles are the best for the shower floor. Avoid glazed ceramic tiles in this spot, as they tend to be slippery. Also, remember that non-vitreous tiles are not suitable for the shower floor. Only impervious or vitreous tiles should be used in the shower area, as they are relatively more waterproof.
Is glass subway tile too trendy? ›Not only will it never go out of style, but it may also even start new trends or re-introduce old designing styles that are long forgotten. Aside from its classic visual appeal, the glass subway tile will never go out of style due to its durability and practicality.
How can I make subway tile more interesting? ›One of the easiest ways to mix up your kitchen's subway tile backsplash design is by laying tile in a fun, unexpected pattern, such as this herringbone design featured in HGTV Magazine. By pairing the design with simple shelves and black-and-white art, the charming tilework remains the star of the space.
How do you make subway tile look classic? ›CREATE A UNIQUE NICHE
Whether it's behind the range or cooktop in the kitchen on the backsplash, or a shower niche in the bathtub, a little classy contrast goes a long way! You could trim it out with a different color, switch up the tile completely, run a different pattern, or play with scale.
What size subway tile makes a room look bigger? ›
A 16″ or 18″ tile will generally give a room a larger feeling than a 12″ tile. One of the main reasons for this is the lack of grout lines. The less grout lines, the less busy your floor is and the more expansive it appears. This expansiveness naturally will make your room appear larger.
What tile goes first in a shower? ›Always tile the back wall first in a shower/tub so that you can hide the grout joints on the sides. We're going to dive into the details.
What is the most popular backsplash for 2023? ›In 2023, shiny backsplashes with glossy tiles will be all the rage in homes everywhere. This will make your backsplash even more beautiful, since design trends have nearby surfaces and fixtures remaining matte.
What backsplash does not go out of style? ›Subway tile is the most enduring choice for a backsplash. Avoid bold, trendy colors, and instead look for white or neutrals. Keep it simple, and bring in color elsewhere in the kitchen, with more easily replaced items, such as dish towels, art, bowls of fruit and rugs.
What tile is trending right now? ›Unique shapes and styles, such as hexagons and mosaics, are the newest trend in wood-look tiles. Natural stone remains a popular look that will never go out of style. Marble, travertine and slate add luxurious sophistication to your kitchen, bathroom and any flooring surface in your home.
What Colours are on trend for bathrooms 2022? ›Expect to see a lot more of green hues in 2022. Pastels, tinted shades, emerald, green, sage greens and more. Green is a brilliant way to refresh a bathroom without overpowering, additionally it's really nice hue to introduce that can encourage positive wellbeing. Bringing you back to nature with pops of colour.
What is trending in bathroom tiles in 2022? ›Terracotta & Earth tones
Ranging from the lightest shades of apricot and clay, through to burnt orange and deep brick, all shades of terracotta are becoming popular in bathroom spaces. With variations in paint, tiles and accessories, touches of terracotta will continue to develop into 2022.
Jewel tones that can be found in nature, including amber, brick, emerald, and aquamarine hues, are popular palettes for tile in 2022. Leafy greens and rich clay colors give us a grounded connection to the outdoors.
What type of tile is best for shower walls? ›Porcelain tile is our number-1 choice for showers because of its diversity, durability, and water-resistance. Unlike some other tile materials, porcelain doesn't have any pores, which prevents the buildup of mildew and soap scum.
What tile makes a small shower look bigger? ›While ceramic or stone tile is certainly lovely for a shower surround, you may be better off using glass tile if you have a smaller shower. Glass tile is highly reflective, so the light in your bathroom will bounce off it and give the shower area a brighter, more open feel that makes it seem larger.
Is Subway tile dated? ›
Subway tiles fell out of style until the new millennium
Tile trends shifted throughout the second half of the century, though the square tile shape and colored finish continually trumped the 3×6 white subway tile.
Make the Bathroom Feel Smaller: The dark bathroom tiles anchor the floor, making the space appear smaller. To avoid this feeling, we recommend using light-coloured tiles for the floor with dark-coloured tiles for the walls or vice-versa. This contrast will create a horizon that will make the room appear larger.
Is there Groutless shower tiles? ›Material and Color Options
At Verona Showers we offer several options of groutless shower walls and floors stone. Each option offers distinctive colors and designs for every taste, decor, and budget. All of our groutless shower walls and floors are beautiful, luxurious, durable and easy to maintain.
Traditionally, ceramic tiles have been the material of choice for waterproofing shower walls and cubicles, but these days, shower panels are an increasingly popular choice for these areas in our homes. This is because they offer all of the waterproofing and aesthetic properties of tiles, but without the disadvantages.
What is the coolest tile? ›- Porcelain. Porcelain tile is made from feldspar (or crystal powders) and non-porous clay materials. ...
- Travertine. Travertine is another naturally cooling tile that is known for its unique old-world look, as this stone was used in Ancient Rome. ...
- Marble. ...
- Slate. ...
- Ceramic.
There are many timeless options for a kitchen backsplash such as hexagon tiles, picket tile, penny tile, and square format tile (just to name a few). Timeless Backsplash Tip: Opt for a natural stone like marble or slate for a more traditional and timeless look. For example, marble or slate mosaic tile!
Is matte or glossy subway tile better? ›They both are good for the kitchen. But they divide when we talk about being durable and stain-resistant. If you want to have a strong backsplash, matte tile is a better option than glossy. To achieve a clean kitchen look, a glossy tile backsplash is ideal because it is stain-resistant.
What are the most popular subway tiles? ›3×6 inches is the most classic and popular size for subway tiles. It's not too small,not too large, and just perfect. It offers a timeless appeal that elevates the overall look of the kitchens. Besides this standard size, 2×4, 2×8, 3×12, 4×8, 4×12, 6×12 are the other most popular subway tile sizes.
How do I make my subway tile less boring? ›Stack Bond
Instead of offsetting each row of horizontal tiles to look like a traditional brick pattern ("running bond"), consider stacking them straight in a grid. This pattern is still super clean and spare, a little less expected than traditional offset horizontal tiles, and open to many variations.
Because subway tiles are relatively thin, they won't stand up to the wear and tear.
How do you keep subway tiles shiny? ›
You'll need one ounce of vinegar, a few drops of dish soap and water. When it's ready, spray your tiles and leave the cleaning solution on there for a couple of minutes. The vinegar and soap will work on breaking down grime.
What tile pattern makes a bathroom look bigger? ›Finally, our advice is to use a horizontal floor tile pattern to widen your floor space. Horizontal floor tiles are successful in making the room look less cramped, and making your small bathroom appear that much larger.
What tiles make the bathroom feel bigger? ›Choose Large-Format Tiles
Large format tiles (tiles that are larger than 60cm x 60cm) will make your bathroom feel bigger than it really is. Firstly, there will be fewer grout lines, so your walls & floors will look more seamless & less cluttered & restrictive. Secondly, the scale will make your space feel larger.
While some bathrooms can look great with large and small tiles, your best bet to enlarge a small bathroom is to opt for a medium-sized tile, no larger than 1' x 1'.
Is subway tile out of date? ›Today, the subway tile is still in style, with its simple sophistication almost guaranteeing the trend's longevity. “Subway tiles are classic and timeless, yet versatile, which is why they are so great.
Will subway tile backsplash go out of style? ›We know classic white ceramic subway tile will never go out of style, but that doesn't mean we can't look for ways to jazz it up! One of the current trends to give this timeless tile a fresh new look is adding contrasting grout!
What bathroom tiles are on trend? ›And according to experts, rectangular tiles laid vertically are set to be a big hit in 2023. Forget about traditional horizontal subway tiles – the new look is all about long, vertical wall tiles. This sleek and stylish tile trend is perfect for creating a modern look in your bathroom and is also very practical.
What size subway tile is best for shower? ›3 x 6. The 3 x 6 subway tile size is one of the typical sizes for a backsplash, shower wall, or shower floor, since its larger, wider tiles add a neutral pattern to your space that takes a plain wall up a notch. This size fits beautifully on any kitchen or bathroom wall.
What size is timeless subway tile? ›Traditional subway tile is sized at 3×6 inches.
Is Subway tile classic or trendy? ›Subway Tile is Classic
Although subway tile seems synonymous with farmhouse trends, it is actually a classic that has been in use for more than 100 years. The shape of subway tile is clean and very easy to incorporate into different styles.
How do you make inexpensive tile look expensive? ›
- Use More of a Less Expensive Tile. ...
- Install the Tile in an Unusual Pattern. ...
- Pair Cheap Tile With a More Luxurious Tile. ...
- Use Tile Colors Effectively and Harmoniously. ...
- Make sure Your Edges Are Finished. ...
- Professional Installation Is the Key to Achieving a High-End Look.