The Art of Subway Tile Patterns & Layout: A Guide to Style and Design

Subway tile patterns are considered a classic in the interior design world. They have been around for decades, and remain a constant go-to as they give a stylish feel. Subway tile is versatile, comes in various materials and colors, and can be arranged in interesting patterns, which makes it a creative choice for diverse design styles. Its ability to blend well in any home comes from its clean lines and simplistic look, which makes it an iconic choice.

In this guide, we will explore how you can transform your space using subway tile patterns and layouts. We also share creative applications that will make your home, your warm haven.

The main trick to significantly create an amazing ambiance lies in the distinctive use of subway tile layout. Choosing the right subway tile pattern is the key to achieving your desired home aesthetic! These are some common ways to place subway tiles:

1. Running Bond Pattern/Brick Pattern

Just like its name suggests, it features a subway tile layout in a staggering brick pattern. Also referred to as a running bond, this subway tile pattern is considered a traditional design offering a classic and symmetrical feel to a home. It’s a popular choice for a backsplash tile design and provides a balanced background without overwhelming the room, which makes it perfect for transitional bathrooms or kitchens.

2. Herringbone Pattern

The herringbone pattern will make your home ooze elegance and sophistication. The tiles are laid to create a zigzag effect which instantly captures the eye, making it an exceptional focal point for your backsplash or feature wall. Check out our tile collection for even more stunning options!

3. Vertical Stack Bond Pattern

With this subway tile pattern, tiles are arranged in a vertical orientation. This placement gives an impression of taller walls and a high ceiling. Vertical subway tile layout is perfect for a statement wall In the living room or if you want to elevate your shower space.

4. Horizontal Stack Bond Pattern

Here, subway tiles are straight stacked one on top of the other in a horizontal orientation, resulting in a neat, modern appearance that goes well with minimalistic design. The horizontal stack pattern layout provides an orderly look that expands the walls of a narrow room.

5. Double Basketweave Pattern

The double basketweave subway tile pattern interlocks to look like the texture of a woven basket. This is an amazing way to add a statement while maintaining a coherent look.

6. Stepladder Pattern

This vertical subway tile layout gives the stair-step effect that lends a classic look to the room. Stepladder pattern can work with different décor styles, depending on the tile color and finish. It is ideal if you want to use subway tile patterns to give your bathroom walls or kitchen backsplash an intriguing sense of movement.

1. Neutral Tones

Neutral colors like gray, brown, and beige tile provide a calm yet sophisticated aesthetic, which blends seamlessly with different design elements, making them ideal for classic and contemporary homes. Subway tile patterns in a restrained colorway can also be used to ground an already vibrant space.

2. Bold Colors

Bold colors are designed to bring instant attention to an area of the room, as they add unique character and depth. They are best suited for maximalists who crave a dramatic effect. These vibrant options include teal, red, pink, orange, and green tile. Subway tile patterns in punchy colors are great in small installations like the backsplash, provided they blend well with the countertops, cabinets, and overall feel of the room.

3. Glossy Tile Finish

Glossy tile features a shiny appearance. They reflect natural light, making the room feel brighter and spacious. Because of this, they are ideal for dim rooms which you may feel need more lighting. They are also easy to clean, making for the perfect kitchen or shower wall tile.

4. Matte Tile Finish

Matte tile finish has a rough, non-reflective surface that offers a subtle, natural look. This finish is less prone to showing smudges, making it ideal for the kitchen backsplash in busy households. You can have them installed on bathroom floors as they provide better traction and will reduce slips and falls during bath time.

5. Textured Tile Finish

Textured finish subway tiles include natural materials such as stone and wood, and those that feature an embossed pattern. They create a dynamic and engaging surface and work best for rustic, farmhouse, and industrial decor styles. Textured subway tile patterns, like our Pearl White 3-in W x 12-in L Glass Textured and Glossy Rectangular Subway Wall Tile, inspire a sense of touch wherever installed.

Ceramic, glass, and marble subway tiles come with matching trim pieces so you can complete the look of your installation. Tile trims come in various shapes and are often crafted to blend well with the material, color and finish of the main tile. Adding a trim elevates the visual appeal of your design and improves durability. At Apollo Tile we have different options to choose from, including chair rail, bullnose, baseboard, and pencil tile trim.

Some benefits of finishing your installation with a tile trim are;

• Creates seamless design continuity from one tile style to another.
• Protects the tile edges from cracking, chipping, and wear damage.
• Ensures a polished finish by covering exposed edges where tile meets the wall.
• Adds a professional, modest look to any installation done.