50+ Subway Tile Ideas + Free Tile Pattern Template
I'd venture to guess that most of us don't have huge renovation budgets. Even if we are able to set aside a decent budget, most of us still research affordable alternatives and money-saving options within that budget.
For example, when we started tackling our bathroom renovation, we purposely set aside certain projects as DIY and "cost-savers." This freed up other portions of the budget for where we needed to invest more {like having our floor leveled and tile layed}. Can you relate?
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by PlumbTile, but the opinions expressed are 100% my own.
When PlumbTile asked if I'd be interested in sharing a little about bathroom or kitchen design, this dilemma -- saving money yet achieving an updated look -- is what came to mind. Bathroom and kitchen renovations can be costly, but there are still ways to save money and choose affordable options. Looking forward to our eventual kitchen renovation, one of the products I've had in mind is Subway Tile.
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Classic Subway Tile is a versatile option that can be traditional or modern -- and everywhere in between. In it's most common white finish, it can be an incredibly affordable and easy to source design option. Yet, with all the options -- size, color, pattern, finish, etc. -- even this basic staple could create an overwhelming decision. So, let's break it down...
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Subway Tile Ideas: Size
It might surprise you that Subway Tile can be purchased in a wide array of sizes. We'll begin with what I'll refer to as the standard size Subway Tile; these tiles range from approximately 2"x4" to 3"x6" in size and create the look with which we are most familiar.
Standard Subway Tile // Daniella Witte
However, you can buy both larger, and smaller tiles which will change that traditional look, and give the room a little something that is unexpected. Each of these backsplashes
For example, a kitchen backsplash with a mini version of subway tile creates an intricate and detailed design feature.
Mini Subway Tile // via Home Bunch
Mini Subway Tile // via The Kitchn
In contrast, a large Subway Tile can create a casual, open style due to fewer grout lines.
Large Subway Tile // Vintage Scout Interiors
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Large Subway Tile // Etica Studio
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Wow, this is awesome! I have never considered that there were so many patterns for subway tiles. Thank you for all the beautiful examples of ways it is used. And what is better than having a free guide? We are not doing any kind of tiling soon but this would be good to have.
I didn't realize quite how many patterns there were, either, until I started researching. It is such a versatile tile!
Love, love, love subway tile. There are so many great options to choose from here! We have white subway tiles with white grout in our basement shower. They are laid in the traditional running bond pattern ( #2 in your guide, where seams line up to the center of the tile below it). It's probably the most basic and classic subway tile look there is - and totally boring compared to some of the above examples! But, I was going for a timeless feel (that, and I really don't want to have to change it out again anytime soon), so hopefully achieved that - AND it was very cost efficient compared to some other materials out there.
I completely understand that! I think there is always a balance between trendy and timeless. I love that Subway Tile can actually offer both; but I'd be inclined to consider the timeless look in a lot of cases for my own home.
I love the subway tile with the dark grout! Very urban chic.
Great round up!
Yes, it definitely gives it an industrial/urban feel.
Wow, this is a great post. I love the Black subway tiles with the white grout. That looks amazing!
Thanks, Chrissie! I really like that combo, too, and would never have considered it before!
I like the mini subway tile by Home Bunch. Pics are great. Definitely gives me inspiration for kitchen ideas.
That would be a great choice! It has a luxurious feel, I think.
I am drooling over all of these ideas! We had classic subway tile installed in our new house for the showers and backsplash in the kitchen and I absolutely love it!
It's timeless!
I am absolutely obsessed with subway tiles, especially the more vintage inspired clean white ones. I particularly love them as backsplashes!
Same here, classicly beautiful!
Wow I love the subway tile. Really changes the look of a room!
It is an affordable way to make a big impact, kind of like what a gallon of fresh paint can do for a room.
I wish wish wish that our landlord would let us put in some subway tile as it is one of my favorite things these days. I was gushing over the beautiful photos you chose. Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks, Emma! Good luck convincing your landlord 🙂
Love the ideas! Very creative. My aunt is so into this I'm gonna share your post to her and to her friends too 🙂
Thanks so much for sharing, Ayesha!
Love this idea!! I am hoping to be able to do something like this in our kitchen soon!
It's a great backsplash option!
Wow! This is super detailed. I recently bought a house and had no idea there were so many types of tile. Every time I walk in to a store like Home Depot I am so overwhelmed by the choices.
Thanks! Hopefully, this made a little simpler!
Omgosh I love all of these! That gray tile is gorgeous and how cool is that blue grout against the white tile. Thanks for the awesome ideas!
The blue grout on white tile would be really fun in a kid's bathroom.
I LOVE the all white looks, It's totally my style, but then I see the iridescence of some of the color tiles and they look stunning! Carlen | http://www.realmomswingingit.com
I lean towards the white, too -- but, yes, some of the glass is so beautiful!
I am ALL over the subway tile trend!!!! Love it!
XO Amanda | http://www.glitterandspice.com
A classic and affordable trend is the best kind of trend 🙂