Maximizing Your Bathroom Design with Subway Tile Ideas

When it comes to versatile and timeless design options for your bathroom, few choices can beat the classic appeal of subway tile. Originally introduced in NYC subway stations in the early 1900s, subway tile has since become a staple in kitchens, bathrooms, and powder rooms due to its sleek, modern look and ability to fit a wide range of styles from traditional to contemporary. Like the iconic little black dress, subway tile never goes out of style and can effortlessly elevate the look of any bathroom.

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Here, we’ll explore 37 subway tile bathroom ideas that showcase the endless possibilities this design element offers. From full walls of subway tile to innovative layouts and complementary decor elements, these ideas will inspire you to elevate your bathroom design to new heights.

Full Wall of Subway Tile by Burchard Design Co.

Adds a modern feel to the bathroom with crisp white subway tile covering all walls
Incorporates black accents and plants for added visual interest

Mixed Size Subway Tile by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions

Combines three different tile styles and sizes for a dynamic and cohesive look
Features gold accents for an elegant touch

Subway Shower Tile by Brophy Interiors

Creates the illusion of a larger space by using subway tile only in the shower
Wraps the traditional pattern around the corners for a seamless blend

Herringbone Subway Tile by Cathie Hong Interiors

Introduces a herringbone inset in a dark gray subway tile shower for a unique design
Offers an easy and cost-effective way to add visual interest

Subway Tile Layout by AE Designs

Alternates between horizontal and vertical positions for a complex and sleek design
Creates a striking contrast with circular mirrors

Subway Tile Shower with Metallic Accents by Marie Flanigan Interiors

Combines subway tile with rustic elements like exposed wooden beams for a unique look
Features a marble subway tile for a modern touch

Marble Subway Tile Shower by Maite Granda

Seamlessly blends subway tile with other elements using the same marble pattern
Creates a seamless transition between different surfaces

Large-Format Subway Tile by Marie Flanigan Interiors

Uses large-scale subway tiles to enlarge and lighten up the room
Offers a modern and sophisticated appeal

Subway Tile With Dark Grout by AE Designs

Changes up the classic white subway tile with a darker grout for contrast
Creates a taller shower effect by positioning the tile vertically

Subway Tile Shower by Emily Henderson Design

Features beveled subway tile for added depth and texture
Creates a timeless and classic look with a staggered tile layout

Green Subway Tile by Charlie Interior Design

Adds a luxurious touch with a green subway tile shower and marble accents
Creates a spa-like environment in the bathroom

All-White Subway Tile by Erin Williamson Design

Showcases vintage pieces against a backdrop of classic white subway tile
Highlights the elegance of a copper clawfoot bathtub and patterned floor

Black Subway Tile Flooring by Marie Flanigan Interiors

Adds dramatic flair with black subway tile flooring
Complements grayscale wallpaper for a cohesive look

Modern Subway Tile by House Nine Interiors

Highlights subway tile as a versatile backdrop for different styles
Creates a cohesive effect by incorporating similar shapes in decor elements

Pair With Bold Floor Tile by Erin Williamson Design

Allows patterned floor tiles to steal the spotlight against white subway tile
Creates a harmonious balance between subway tile and bold patterns

Built-In Tub with Subway Tile by Jessica Nelson Design

Integrates subway tile seamlessly with a built-in tub design
Creates a cohesive and stylish look in the bathroom

Boho-Style Bathroom with Subway Tile by @jcdesign1.1/ Instagram

Adds an earthy feel with plants alongside subway tile
Incorporates wicker and wood accents for a modern boho vibe

Marble Herringbone Tile by JK Interior Living

Showcases the versatility of subway tile on walls, counters, and floors
Adds depth and interest with a marble herringbone pattern

Subway Tile With Wallpaper by K Shan Design

Features a vibrant wallpaper pattern paired with classic white subway tile
Allows for infinite decor possibilities with a blank canvas

Subway Tile Backsplash by Marie Flanigan Interiors

Uses subway tile as a backsplash for an elegant and sophisticated look
Creates a seamless transition between different surfaces

Subway Tile Wainscoting by Malcolm Simmons for Emily Henderson Design

Maintains a classic look with subway tile wainscoting
Allows decorative elements to shine in the bathroom space

Subway Tile Stripes by K Shan Design

Adds interest with a bold striped pattern using black and white subway tiles
Creates a visual illusion of a larger space with horizontal stripes

Subway Tile Niches by Malcolm Simmons for Emily Henderson Design

Utilizes subway tile for shower niches to blend seamlessly with walls
Gives a clean and cohesive look to the bathroom space

Textured Subway Tile by Louis Duncan-He Designs/Heather Dunbar Photography

Elevates the design with textured white subway tile on one wall
Creates visual interest and dimension in a basement shower

Mixed Subway Tile Layout by Cathie Hong Interiors/Margaret Austin Photo

Alternates horizontal and vertical layout for a fresh look
Keeps the design light with beige grout and gold fixtures

Two-Tone Subway Tile by Max Humphrey and Beebe Skidmore for Emily Henderson Design/Photo by Kaitlin Green

Adds color and interest with contrasting two-tone subway tiles
Creates a unique look with a mix of vertical and horizontal layouts

Gray Marble Subway Tile by Michelle Boudreau Design

Incorporates marble subway tile for a luxurious feel
Adds contrast with gold-toned accents for a sophisticated look

Glazed Subway Tile by Max Humphrey and Beebe Skidmore for Emily Henderson Design/Photo by Kaitlin Green

Adds a rich feel to the shower walls with glossy glazed emerald green subway tiles
Balances the look with light grout and white hex tiles on the floor

Vertical Stack Subway Tile by Cathie Hong Interiors/Margaret Austin Photo

Introduces a vertical stack pattern with pale sage subway tile
Mixes midcentury modern and Japanese influences for a unique look

Glass Subway Tiles by Leclair Decor

Adds color and shine with a pale gray glass subway tile backsplash
Provides a modern and cool-toned aesthetic to the bathroom

Subway and Patterned Tiles by Mindy Gayer Design Co.

Defines the bath area with white subway tile and black grout
Complements the space with patterned floor tiles

Subway Tile Half Wall by Laura Brophy Interiors

Adds texture with off-white subway tile on upper half walls
Creates a contrast with smooth stucco and polished concrete surfaces

Shiny Black Subway Tiles by Leclair Decor

Adds interest with glossy black subway tiles in a herringbone pattern
Complements dark wood tones for a cohesive look

Subway and Penny Tile Mix by Erin Williamson Design

Creates a timeless look with a mix of white subway tile and classic penny tile
Enhances the vintage aesthetic with period-appropriate finishes

Wrap-Around Subway Tiles by Ashley Montgomery Design

Lets the wallpaper take center stage with a quiet subway tile backsplash
Adds subtle elegance to the powder room space

Subway Tile Wainscoting by Louis Duncan-He Designs

Mixes subway tile walls and hex floor tiles for a classic combination
Creates a wrap-around backsplash effect with marble subway tiles

Colorful Subway Tile by Ashley Montgomery Design

Energizes the bathroom with colorful subway tile on half walls and arch underside
Adds a bold and modern touch to a traditional space

Subway tiles are a popular choice for bathroom design due to their affordability, versatility, and timeless appeal. Whether you opt for the classic white subway tile or experiment with different colors and patterns, subway tiles can effortlessly elevate the look of your bathroom and create a stylish and functional space.

Are Subway Tiles the Right Choice for Your Bathroom?

Subway tiles are a versatile and practical option for bathroom design. Here are some reasons why subway tiles are a good idea for your bathroom:
– Affordable: Subway tiles are cost-effective and offer a stylish look without breaking the bank.
– Versatile: Suitable for various styles from traditional to modern, subway tiles can adapt to your design preferences.
– Neutral Base: White subway tiles provide a neutral backdrop that can be easily combined with other finishes for a cohesive look.
– Timeless Appeal: Subway tiles offer a classic and timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style.
– Easy to Maintain: Subway tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like bathrooms.

How to Make Subway Tile Look Upscale

If you want to elevate the look of subway tile in your bathroom, here are some tips to make it look more upscale:
– Herringbone Pattern: Lay subway tiles in a herringbone pattern for a classic and elegant feel.
– Vertical Stacks: Arrange subway tiles in vertical stacks for a contemporary and sophisticated look.
– Floor-to-Ceiling Installation: Run subway tiles from the floor to the ceiling for a sleek and modern design.
– Custom Grout Color: Choose a custom grout color that complements your subway tiles for a polished finish.
– Textured Finishes: Opt for textured subway tiles to add dimension and visual interest to your bathroom.
– Mix Colors: Combine white and black subway tiles to create a striped or color-blocked pattern for a striking effect.
– Contrast with Other Finishes: Pair subway tiles with other finishes like penny tiles or contrasting borders for a luxe look.

Incorporating subway tiles into your bathroom design offers endless possibilities for creating a stylish and functional space. Whether you prefer a classic white subway tile or want to experiment with different colors and patterns, subway tiles are a versatile choice that can enhance the look of your bathroom and add a timeless appeal that never goes out of style.