12th May 2023
Subway Kitchen Tiles: 6 Ideas To Freshen Up Your Backsplash
Subway tiles made their debut in the early 1900s when they used to line the walls and ceilings of New York City subway stations. Centuries on, subway tiles are still on-trend and line the walls of kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms in a myriad of beautiful shades and patterns. They are an affordable, easy-to-install tile option that adds a timeless, classic vibe to any space.
So, if you want to add subway tiles to your reno and want some inspiration to start, we've got you covered. Our consultants have carefully curated six absolutely-gorgeous subway tile designs that can be used for your kitchen backsplash, pantry or scullery.
But first, there are some basics to keep in mind.
.
6 Subway Tile FAQS Answered by Kiwi Interior Designer
Check out what our in-house interior designer and tile expert, Moet Walker has to say about subway tiles that will help you make your decision.
.
Q: Is Subway tile good for a kitchen?
Yes, subway tiles are a great option for kitchens! They are one of the most popular tile choices because you can create multiple laying patterns such as; herringbone, brick-stacked, and vertical-stacked, just to name a few.
Another reason why subway tiles are so popular is that they are much more affordable to install than mosaics or XL tiles and are easy to clean and maintain.
.
Q: What is the most popular subway tile size for a kitchen?
What we're seeing in most of our tile showrooms across NZ is that the most popular size for subway tiles are,
- 100x300
- 75x300
- 65x200
Tiles in these sizes are easy to work with as they can fit into any modern kitchen design. But don't let that stop you from experimenting with different sizes to create a unique look!
Talk to one of our tile consultants to pick out a tile size that works best for your style and space.
Book a complimentary tile consultation right here.
Q: What is the best pattern for subway tiles?
This is a personal preference - there is no right or wrong way to lay a subway tile. However, if you want to go for a more conventional pattern, go for these seven designs
- Half-offset
- 1/3-offset, continuous
- 1/3-offset, zipper
- Diagonal half-offset
- Stacked
- Herringbone
- Vertical
Related Guide: 7 Stylish Ways To Use Herringbone Tiles In Your Kitchen
.
Q: Does subway tile need grout lines?
Yes, all tiles need grout lines in between. If you want a subway tile design that uses less grout, we recommend choosing a bigger tile that looks like a subway tile, like our Verre Blanc Branco Gloss in size 30x60. This type of tile will give you a more seamless look and less grout lines.
.
Q: Where should you not put a backsplash?
Splashbacks are generally put in areas where splashing occurs, this is in kitchens, bathrooms and laundries mainly - hence the name! So, anywhere that does not have splashing occurring, you don’t need a splashback.
Need more guidance on kitchen tiles. Check out these insightful guides.
- Beginner's Guide: How To Choose Kitchen Wall Tiles
- Kitchen Design 101: 6 Modern Kitchen Splashback Tile Ideas
- How to Choose The Best Tiles for Your Kitchen Floor
.
Q: Are butcher tiles the same as subway tiles?
Yes, rectangular wall tiles are known as subway, metro or even butcher tiles. ‘Butcher tiles’ is just another name for subway tiles, and in NZ, we use the word ‘subway’ more.
Basics sussed out, now let's get to the fun stuff- six subway tile designs that add oomph to any kitchen!
.
6 Subway Tile Ideas For A Kitchen Backsplash That's Beautiful And Practical
1. Moss Green Subway Tiles
Artisan Moss Green Gloss 6.5x20
Moss green subway tiles add a glamorous pop of colour to your kitchen. The light-coloured grout lines make the tiles stand out, and their glossy finish gives them a luxurious touch.
.
2. Vertically- Laid White Subway Tiles
A modern twist on a classic look. Vertically lined subway tiles in a white kitchen give an illusion of height, giving your kitchen a more spacious feel.
.
3. Rustic Subway Tile Look
If you're going for a rustic vibe like a classic, farmhouse-style kitchen, go for subway tiles with a texture like our Rustic White Matt 7.5x30. It has a rippled surface and uneven edges presenting a stunning, handmade look.
.
4. Diagonally-Laid Subway Tiles
A subway tile kitchen design for those who think outside the box! Subway tiles laid diagonally present a unique look that's great for the kitchen and a feature wall.
.
5. Handmade Subway Tile Look
Tiles that look like they are handmade are trending for their aesthetic appeal and affordability. Handmade-looking subway tiles made from porcelain, like our Fika Bianco Matt 10x20 and Marlow Cloud Matt 7.5x30 just take it to the next level with their beautiful charm and practicality.
.
6. Colourful Kitchen Subway Tiles
Village Azure Blue Gloss 6.5x20
Who said kitchen backsplashes need to be all neutrals? Go big and bold with shades of blues, pinks and earthy tones. Check out these beautifully-coloured subway tiles from our Costa Nova, Village and Terralma collections.
.
Now you have all the ideas and inspiration to create the perfect subway tile backsplash for your kitchen. Check out our Kitchen Inspiration page for more tiles and design ideas here. Give our Pinterest and Instagram pages a peek for more beautiful tile looks.
.
