Top 22 Ways To Use Subway Tiles In A Bathroom [Updated]

Designer bathrooms continue to be a popular place to use subway tiles. And there's a valid reason why they're so adored in the design community. In particular, compared to other bathroom surface materials, they are unbelievably economical, traditional, and resilient.

The most remarkable aspect about the subway tile bathroom is that they never go out of style. It is available in various hues and complements classic and modern styles. The finest option for a bathroom that will look beautiful and maintain its aesthetic value over time is subway tile.

The options are endless, whether you want to use an intense color, grout that contrasts, dabble with patterns, or keep things simple. So here, we're emphasizing the 10 uses of the subway tile bathroom that can feature in both classic and modern settings.

22 Stunning Subway Tile Bathroom Ideas

The best ways to utilize subway tile to make your bathroom more vibrant are as follows:

1. Select a Herringbone Layout

In terms of subway tile bathroom designs, herringbone is one of the most classic patterns. This pattern in subway bathroom tile provides another level of aesthetic sophistication and makes a focal point in your bathroom. When combined with neutrals, subway tile could be as timeless and simple as a repetitive bond design. A typical herringbone pattern can also be set in a straight line, giving your creation a more geometrical appearance.

2. Use a Dark or Neutral Grout

Using grout with a darker or neutral colour helps hide filth and is less likely to discolour as quickly as grout with a lighter colour, which is another excellent method to use a subway tile bathroom. Grout that is dark or neutral and emphasizes the earth tones found throughout the space. Even though it is as bold and graphic, it substantially changes the piece's look and feel.

Additionally, The light grout can make the bathroom seem better by making the light-coloured tiles appear even lighter. But even after sealing, light grout might eventually turn black, change colour or stain. So, stains can be hidden by dark grout, keeping your area looking cleaner. Darker grout usually looks nicer and requires less care.

3. Mix Tile With Wallpaper

A combination of conventional shapes, like the subway, marble hexagon, and pennies round mosaic tile, can all function together and yet appear on-trend. Surprisingly, the vibrant hues and fanciful patterns of the subway bathroom tiles are not as overpowering as you might anticipate. The contemporary design is completed with contrasting grout on the vanity backsplash, three double-bulb sconces, and a flat front cabinet with integrated knobs. This mashup pattern gives a more natural appearance.

4. Go Vertical

A vertical configuration creates the illusion of a higher shower than the traditional horizontal one. Additionally, subway tile for a shower that is vertically inclined naturally attracts the eye upward, optically widening a tiny bathroom and giving it a contemporary vibe. A vertical subway tile bathroom might appear to be higher, which elongates the room overall. A bathroom with a low ceiling may appear larger as a result.

5. Contrast With the Floors

A subway bathroom tile and a floor that contrasts with it just make the area feel more opulent. While the unconventional floor tile adds an unusual and futuristic touch, the dark blue-grey door and gold accessories give off a more classic vibe. A bathroom with subway tile is a great choice for creating the impression of more space. The room will be improved with its new magnificence by making contrast matching of various tiles.

6. Keep it Simple and Subtle

The subway tile bathroom design includes stunning features that add depth while keeping it simple. Without going beyond in terms of visual craziness, it generates on the wall. Your bathroom may seem more appealing and interesting installing it simply. Such tile designs are more durable than other elegant and designable tiles. Additionally, those who want something plain and are struggling with their finances may easily adopt this tiling style.

7. Contrast With Flooring

Make your kitchen more interesting by mixing up the flooring with your subway tiles. Try using a different material or colour for the floor tiles to make the space feel richer. For instance, you match white subway tiles with dark hardwood floors for a strong contrast or go for lighter tiles to blend in with the white tiles.

This mix-and-match approach adds excitement to your kitchen's design, making it look more dynamic and appealing overall.

8. Think Like an Artist

When planning your kitchen backsplash or wall with subway tiles, unleash your inner artist. Think creatively and experiment by mixing two patterns like herringbone or basket weave to bring depth and texture to the area.

Don't shy away from mixing different tile sizes or colours to craft a design that's uniquely yours. By embracing your artistic side, you'll craft a subway tile layout that's unlike any other, turning your kitchen into a personalized masterpiece.

9. Go Halfsies With Half-Tiled Walls

To give your kitchen a modern update using subway tiles, try a half-tiled wall approach. Instead of tiling the entire wall, just tile the lower half or a section of it.

This design adds a fresh touch to your kitchen while keeping the classic appeal of subway tiles. Combine half-tiled walls with matching paint colours or wallpaper to finish off the look and make your kitchen more visually appealing.

10. Indulge With Metallic Accents

Enhance your kitchen's style by adding a bit of luxury with metallic touches alongside subway tiles. Use tiles with a metallic finish or add brass or copper trim to your subway tile setup.

These shiny details reflect light and bring a touch of elegance to the room, making the overall design look more upscale. Whether you want a subtle touch of metal or a bold statement, adding metallic accents is a fashionable way to upgrade your subway tile kitchen design.

11. Custom Shower Nooks With Subway Tiles

Instead of the conventional use of shower tiles, you can try something unique such as creating a custom shower nook or alcove. Shower nooks always require something durable and moisture-resistant, therefore, the Subway can be a great choice. Along with longevity, subway tiles bring a classy look and enhance the visual appeal of alcoves. You can try a combination of classic white subway tiles for a Victorian home-style design or combine different colours for a trendy appeal.

12. Colored Grout

Make your subway tiles stand out by using bold or contrasting grout colours. Black grout with white tiles creates an industrial look, while gentle pastels create a subtle pop of colour. This approach facilitates highlighting the tile pattern and adds personality to your bathroom with no need to change the tiles themselves, making it a smooth but impactful layout desired.

13. Bevelled Subway Tiles

You can opt for bevelled-edge subway tiles. The raised edges create depth, making partitions seem extra dynamic and visually attractive. This fashion is perfect for people who want a bit of an extra element without deviating from the conventional subway tile aesthetic. Bevelled tiles mirror light beautifully, improving brightness and giving your restroom a more polished, state-of-the-art appearance.

14. Mixed Materials

Combine subway tiles with other materials like marble, wood, or patterned tiles for a custom, layered effect. Subway tiles work beautifully alongside natural stone, creating a balanced contrast of textures. Whether you're adding a feature wall or mixing tile styles in different zones, this approach adds depth and visual interest to your bathroom while maintaining a cohesive and stylish design.

15. Extended Backsplash

Take subway tiles beyond the standard vanity backsplash by extending them to the ceiling. This technique creates a seamless, elongated look that adds sophistication and makes a bathroom feel more luxurious. An extended backsplash also protects walls from moisture and splashes while serving as a focal point, especially when paired with statement mirrors and stylish lighting fixtures.

16. Monochromatic Scheme

For a sleek and modern aesthetic, use subway tiles and grout in the same color. White-on-white creates a clean, airy feel, while black-on-black adds drama and depth. A monochromatic scheme helps unify the space, making it feel more expansive and elegant. This approach is especially effective in contemporary bathrooms, offering a refined, minimalist look that complements various decor styles.

17. Textured Subway Tiles

If you want to elevate the classic subway tile look, opt for textured versions. Matte, glossy, or rippled finishes add dimension and character to bathroom walls. Textured subway tiles catch the light differently, creating subtle variations in appearance throughout the day. They are a great way to introduce tactile interest without overwhelming the space, ensuring a unique yet timeless design.

18. Subway Tile Wainscoting

Use subway tiles as a modern take on wainscoting by installing them halfway up the wall. This adds a touch of elegance while protecting lower walls from water damage. You can cap the tiles with a decorative border or molding for a finished look. This design works well in both vintage-inspired and contemporary bathrooms, offering practicality with a classic aesthetic.

19. Dark Subway Tiles

While white subway tiles are a classic choice, dark-colored tiles like navy, charcoal, or even deep green can add sophistication and warmth. Dark subway tiles create a bold statement, especially when paired with contrasting grout and brass or gold fixtures. This moody and dramatic aesthetic works well in luxury bathrooms or those aiming for a high-end, boutique-hotel feel.

20. Subway Tile Niches

Enhance both style and function by incorporating recessed niches lined with subway tiles. These niches provide built-in storage for shower essentials while maintaining a seamless, clean look. Choosing a different color or layout within the niche can add a subtle contrast, making it a design feature rather than just a storage solution. This trick is perfect for maximizing space in smaller bathrooms.

21. Patterned Floor with Subway Walls

Create visual contrast by pairing classic white subway tile walls with bold, patterned floor tiles. This mix prevents the space from feeling too uniform while adding personality and flair. Geometric, Moroccan, or encaustic-inspired floor tiles work beautifully against the simplicity of subway tiles, allowing you to blend timeless and contemporary design elements effortlessly in your bathroom.

22. Ceiling Application

For a unique and immersive effect, extend subway tiles onto the ceiling, particularly in the shower area. This design choice creates a seamless, spa-like environment while protecting the ceiling from moisture. Using the same tiles on multiple surfaces enhances cohesion, making the bathroom feel more enclosed and luxurious. It’s a bold yet practical move for those who want to redefine their space.

Final Words

Anyone seeking a classic design that will never go out of style should choose a subway bathroom tile. Its modern appearance has been a favourite for more than a century, and its prevalence is certainly here to stay. Subway tile is a trend that won't go out of style shortly. We hope this blog has provided you with some fantastic ideas or patterns that you may utilize in your bathroom.

Sunwin Ceramica

Tile & Sanitaryware Manufacturer

Sunwin Ceramic is a renowned manufacturer of tiles and sanitaryware, recognized for its high-quality products & innovative designs. With a strong presence in the industry, we established ourselves as a leading brand, offering a wide range of ceramic & porcelain tiles and sanitaryware solutions.