Should Subway Tile Be Vertical Or Horizontal?

Modern kitchen with horizontal dark blue subway tile backsplash, wooden cabinetry, and a marble island, highlighted by a sleek globe light fixture.

Subway tile, a timeless design element, offers endless possibilities for creating stunning backsplashes, showers, and more. But when it comes to installation, a crucial question arises: vertical or horizontal? This guide examines the visual tricks, practical considerations, and design trends associated with each orientation, empowering you to make the perfect choice for your space.


Bright kitchen featuring vertical subway tile backsplash, minimalist wooden cabinetry, and a sleek dining setup illuminated by modern black light fixtures.

How Subway Tile Impacts Space Perception

Vertical subway tiles, with their parallel lines extending upwards, create a powerful illusion of height. This visual trick is often employed in architectural design to make spaces feel more expansive and open. Think of the towering columns in ancient temples or the soaring ceilings in grand cathedrals. Similarly, vertical subway tiles can transform your home, making rooms appear taller and more spacious.

In contrast, horizontal subway tiles have a tendency to visually widen a space. The parallel lines running horizontally across the wall create a sense of breadth, making rooms feel more expansive and inviting. This effect is particularly beneficial in smaller spaces, such as narrow kitchens or cramped bathrooms, where horizontal subway tile can help to alleviate feelings of claustrophobia.


The Truth About Horizontal Tiles and Square Footage

It's a common misconception that horizontal subway tiles can physically increase the square footage of a room. While they may create the illusion of a larger space, they cannot alter the actual dimensions. However, the visual effect of horizontal tiles can make a room feel more spacious and welcoming, which can significantly improve its overall ambiance.


The Grout Line Effect

When installing subway tile, the grout lines between the tiles can have a significant impact on the overall appearance. Horizontal subway tile layouts tend to have longer, more prominent grout lines, which can create a busier or more visually cluttered look. However, this effect can be mitigated by using smaller tiles or a grout color that blends seamlessly with the tiles themselves.


Playing with Size

The size of the subway tile can also influence how a space is perceived. Larger subway tiles can create a bold, modern look, but they can also make a room feel more closed in. In contrast, smaller subway tiles can create a more delicate and refined appearance, while also making a space feel more open.

When choosing between vertical or horizontal subway tile, it's important to consider the specific dimensions and layout of your room. For instance, in a narrow hallway, vertical subway tile can help to make the space feel taller and less cramped. On the other hand, horizontal subway tile might be a better choice for a small kitchen, as it can create a sense of width and openness.


Modern bathroom with sleek vertical white subway tiles, large gold-framed mirrors, and a floating wooden vanity set against picturesque window views.

Design Trends and Subway Tile Orientation

Subway tile, a classic design element, continues to evolve with contemporary trends. Let’s explore the latest design trends and how they influence subway tile orientation.


The Classic Subway Look

Horizontally stacked subway tiles have long been a staple in kitchens and bathrooms, evoking a timeless and classic aesthetic. Inspired by the iconic New York City subway stations, this traditional look has endured for decades. White or neutral-colored subway tiles, paired with classic white or gray grout, create a clean, timeless, and versatile backdrop for any space. However, contemporary designers have breathed new life into the classic subway tile look, incorporating bold colors, contrasting grout, and unique patterns to create a more modern and personalized aesthetic.


The Modern Edge

In recent years, vertical subway tile has become a popular design trend, offering a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. Vertical layouts create a sense of spaciousness and openness, making them ideal for smaller kitchens or bathrooms. Additionally, vertical subway tiles can produce striking visual effects, especially when paired with bold colors or statement grout. For example, the Jaden 2.5x16 Glossy Ceramic Tile in Ink from Edward Martin can be paired with dark grout to add a dramatic, modern touch to a backsplash, while bright, contrasting grout can create a more playful and energetic atmosphere. This combination of bold tile and grout choices can elevate the overall look of your space.


Exploring Alternative Subway Tile Layouts

Beyond the traditional horizontal and vertical orientations, subway tiles can be used in a variety of alternative layouts to add unique, eye-catching elements to your design. Patterns such as herringbone, basketweave, and chevron bring texture and dimension to a room, while also creating a sense of movement and dynamism.

The herringbone pattern, with its diagonal arrangement of tiles, offers versatility and can be applied in both horizontal and vertical orientations, making it a popular choice for adding visual interest. Basketweave patterns, featuring interlocking squares, introduce texture and complexity, while the chevron pattern, with its distinct V-shaped design, creates a bold, sophisticated look that draws the eye. Each of these alternative layouts gives you the opportunity to experiment with subway tiles in creative ways that suit your space.


Elegant bathroom with glossy horizontal subway tiles, a marble-topped wooden vanity, brass accents, and dual mirrors under exposed beams.

Tips for Achieving a Professional Subway Tile Layout

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try creating your own unconventional subway tile layout. While it may require a bit more planning and patience, the results can be truly rewarding. Here are a few tips to get you started:


Plan Ahead

Before starting, create a detailed plan or sketch of your desired layout. Whether you choose a classic brick pattern or something more adventurous like herringbone or basketweave, visualizing the final result ensures you have the right materials and tools. Planning ahead also prevents surprises during installation and helps streamline the process.


Gather the Right Tools

Make sure you have the necessary tools for the job, including a level, tile cutter, adhesive, and grout. Proper tools will make the process smoother and help ensure precise cuts and alignments.


Practice Makes Perfect

If you're new to tiling, it's a good idea to practice on a small test area before tackling a larger project. This will help you get comfortable with the tools and techniques involved, ensuring you’re better prepared for the main project.


Focus on Installation Precision

Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions for both tile installation and grout application. Ensure that tile spacing is even, grout lines are straight, and seal the grout afterward to protect against stains and moisture.


Seek Professional Help

If you're unsure about your tiling skills or run into difficulties during the installation, it's always best to consult with a professional. A qualified tile installer can help you create a beautiful and durable subway tile installation.


Modern kitchen with sleek horizontal subway tiles, marble countertops, wood cabinetry, and black metal stools surrounding the island.

Practical Considerations for Subway Tile Orientation

Beyond aesthetics, the orientation of subway tile can significantly impact its practicality. Here are the functional aspects of subway tile:


Grout is Not Just Grout

When it comes to subway tile, grout plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Horizontal subway tile layouts typically have fewer, longer grout lines, making them easier to clean and maintain. Vertical subway tile, on the other hand, has more, shorter grout lines, which can be more challenging to keep clean. However, the impact of grout lines on cleaning can be mitigated by choosing a grout color that blends seamlessly with the tiles or by using a sealed grout that repels stains and moisture.


The Flow Factor

The orientation of subway tile can also affect the visual flow of a space. Horizontal subway tile can create a sense of continuity and cohesion, particularly when aligned with countertops, appliances, or other architectural elements. This can make a space feel more unified and visually appealing. Vertical subway tile, on the other hand, can be used to emphasize specific areas or features, such as a backsplash or shower wall.


Finish Matters

The material of the subway tile can also influence the choice of orientation. Glossy subway tile, for instance, is often used in a horizontal layout to create a reflective and shimmering effect. Vertical glossy subway tile, while still visually appealing, may not have the same impact. Textured subway tile, such as those with raised or embossed patterns, can be used in either orientation, but vertical layouts may be more effective at highlighting the texture and depth of the tiles.


Additional Considerations

In addition to the factors discussed above, there are a few other practical considerations to keep in mind when choosing between horizontal and vertical subway tile. For instance, if you have young children or pets, you may want to opt for a darker grout color that is less susceptible to stains. Additionally, if you are planning to install subway tile in a high-humidity area, such as a bathroom or shower, it is important to use a sealed grout that is resistant to moisture.


Elegant bathroom with arched mirrors, brass fixtures, marble countertop, and a combination of white and soft pink subway tiles.

Choosing the Right Subway Tile Orientation for You

Throughout this guide, we have explored the various factors that influence the choice between horizontal and vertical subway tile, from the visual impact on space perception to practical considerations like grout maintenance and design trends. Both orientations offer unique advantages, and the best choice ultimately depends on your personal style and the specifics of your space.

When selecting the ideal subway tile orientation, it’s important to embrace your personal style and preferences. Whether you opt for a horizontal or vertical layout, each can be stylish and complementary to your overall design aesthetic. Consider how the tile orientation works with your color scheme, tile finish, and the overall ambiance of the room. Additionally, take into account the size, shape, and layout of your space. For instance, a small, narrow room might benefit from horizontal subway tile to create a sense of width, while a tall, open space could be enhanced by a vertical layout. Natural light and airflow also play a role in how the tiles appear, so think about how these elements interact with your design.

Don’t hesitate to experiment when deciding on the right orientation. Create mockups using online design tools or lay out sample tiles in your space to get a better sense of how each option will look. Visualizing different layouts can help you make a more informed decision, ensuring the final design aligns with your vision for the space. With some creativity and careful planning, you’ll achieve a subway tile installation that transforms your space!

Reading next

Long hallway with a black and white checkerboard floor, lined with columns and illuminated by warm lighting, leading to an open outdoor space with city views.
Modern bathroom with a white freestanding bathtub and black fixtures and walls that feature a textured mosaic tile pattern in white with gray veining.