When you’re on the hunt for tile, visiting your local tile shop can be an overwhelming experience. There are sooo many pretty options out there and you may not be sure where to start. If you are looking for something classic, why not start your search in the subway tile section? It’s one of my favorites!

Subway tile is the white T-shirt of tile. It’s timeless, versatile and never goes out of style! It originally made its debut in a New York subway station over a hundred years ago and (lucky for us) made its way into our kitchens and bathrooms today. While it is on trend, it’s a classic so it will be sure to still look and feel great for decades to come.

When you first think of subway tile, you probably picture a white ceramic 3×6 rectangular tile, but in fact there are many variations on this. You can find hundreds of different colors, textures, sizes, and finishes — so many possibilities! Once you’ve narrowed down the color and style you would like, it’s time to decide what pattern you want to use to install your tile.

 

 

– One of most familiar patterns is a 50-50 offset (also known as brick-set). This is the most traditional way that subway tile is installed. Check out this gorgeous offset green subway.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– A simple twist on that classic layout would be to take that offset pattern and install it verticallylike in this image. Installing the tile this way can make a room feel taller, and notice how the pattern is accentuated by dark grout.

 

 

 

 

 

 

– If you want a more contemporary or even Japanese-inspired, design, consider a straight-set installation (where all the lines align). Here, the straight set, along with a rich black finish, take this room designed by Kim Lewis to a stunning, unexpected level, mixing contemporary and classic elements for a beautiful, eclectic look.

 

 

 

 

– One of my personal favorites is a herringbone layout. You can install this in a traditional herringbone pattern like on this fantastic fireplace by Chelsea of Farm Fresh Therapy (again, notice how she used dark grout to accentuate the pattern).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– Or you can turn the herringbone on its side like Paige and Todd Hooper did when they renovated their kitchen (yes, the homeowner learned to cut and installed the tile himself! WTG!).

 

 

 

 

 

– You can install it with horizontal and vertical lines in a straight herringbone as Sarah Sherman Samuel and her husband Rupert Samuel did here!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– And if that isn’t enough, how about one final option? A crosshatch pattern as used by designer Caitlin Wilson to create a beautiful backdrop for the bathroom vanity and mirror.

 

 

 

Whatever your personal style, subway tile is a great option with nearly endless looks and possibilities!

 

May your home (and tile choices) always be happy!

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