Subway tiles, known for their clean lines and enduring popularity, remain a staple in interior design. While their classic appeal is timeless, pairing them with complementary tiles opens up new possibilities for creative designs.

This guide explores the potential of subway tiles, focusing on factors like functionality, style, and color harmony. From classic pairings like hexagons to modern options like terrazzo and transitional choices like large-format tiles, we will provide practical insights to help you design a space that suits your vision.

 

A Closer Look at Subway Tiles

Subway tiles are rectangular ceramic or porcelain tiles often featuring a beveled edge. Their classic 3" x 6" format remains the most iconic size, offering a balanced look that works well in smaller spaces without feeling overwhelming. However, subway tiles are available in a range of sizes. For instance, the narrower 2" x 6" tiles create a sleek and modern appearance, while the larger 4" x 8" tiles bring a sense of grandeur to expansive walls.

The finish of subway tiles also significantly influences their overall look. Glossy finishes amplify light and create a spacious feel, making them a popular choice for smaller rooms. Matte finishes, on the other hand, provide a more understated sophistication and help conceal minor imperfections. For added depth and character, textured subway tiles introduce visual interest and make excellent focal points.

In addition to size and finish, layout patterns further enhance the design potential of subway tiles. The brick bond pattern, where tiles are staggered like a brick wall, is a classic and widely used option. For a minimalist approach, stacked layouts position the tiles directly on top of one another. Herringbone patterns, with tiles arranged in a zig-zag layout, bring a dynamic and eye-catching element to the space. These layout options allow for endless customization, enabling you to create a design that fits your vision perfectly.

 

Choosing Your Perfect Pair

The key to a successful subway tile pairing lies in considering several crucial factors before making your selection. Here, we'll delve into these factors to ensure your chosen companion elevates your design vision.

Function of the Space

Before exploring the world of complementary tiles, it’s important to focus on a key element that will guide your selection—the function of the space. The room’s purpose will significantly influence your tile choice, ensuring a balance between style and practicality. Below is a breakdown of key considerations for different areas:

Kitchen

This busy area demands durability above all else. Opt for tiles with a high PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating, indicating their resistance to wear and tear. Ease of cleaning is paramount, so consider smooth, non-porous surfaces like glazed porcelain. Grease resistance is another key factor. While both ceramic and porcelain tiles offer good resistance, porcelain, with its denser composition, might be a slightly better choice for heavily used kitchen backsplashes.

Bathroom

Moisture resistance is essential in bathrooms to prevent mold and mildew growth. Opt for porcelain tiles, as they are virtually non-porous and repel water. Slip resistance is crucial for bathroom floors, especially in areas like showers. Consider textured or matte finishes that provide better traction when wet.

Backsplashes

Backsplashes are less susceptible to wear and tear compared to floors or countertops. However, ease of cleaning remains a priority. Smaller mosaic tiles offer intricate patterns and can be easier to navigate around faucets and outlets. Alternatively, consider materials like glass tiles, which are non-porous, stain-resistant, and relatively easy to clean.

Style Preferences

Beyond functionality, your personal style preferences are crucial in shaping your ideal subway tile design. Identifying your design aesthetic will help you refine your options and craft a space that reflects your unique personality. Below is a breakdown of popular style preferences and how they translate into tile selections:

Classic

For a timeless and elegant look, aim for a cohesive aesthetic. Match the color of your subway tiles to your grout for a seamless, unified appearance. White subway tiles with white grout are a classic example, offering a clean and crisp look that complements a variety of design styles. This combination not only enhances the overall harmony of the space but also creates a bright and airy feel, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and beyond.

Modern

Explore the bold and dynamic side of modern design by experimenting with contrasting elements. For instance, pairing white subway tiles with dark grout creates a striking, graphic statement that instantly stands out. You can also experiment with textured subway tiles alongside smooth, geometric-patterned tiles, adding depth and visual intrigue. To push the boundaries further, consider contrasting colors—black subway tiles combined with a vibrant accent tile can create a truly dramatic focal point.

Transitional

Transitional design effortlessly bridges the gap between classic and modern aesthetics, combining elements of both styles to create a look that is both timeless and sophisticated. For example, you may pair classic white subway tiles with larger format tiles in neutral tones to evoke a sense of spaciousness and balance. For added warmth and modern flair, you may also consider textured subway tiles paired with smooth, wood-look tiles on an accent wall, blending elegance with natural charm.

Color Harmony

The color of your subway tiles and the existing elements in your space play a crucial role in creating a cohesive look. Consider the colors of your cabinets, countertops, and flooring when selecting your paired tile. Explore complementary color schemes, where opposing colors on the color wheel create a vibrant and dynamic effect. Alternatively, consider analogous color schemes, where neighboring colors on the color wheel create a harmonious and sophisticated feel.

Grout Color

Grout, often overlooked, plays a significant role in shaping the overall design. The color of your grout can either unify or contrast with your chosen tiles, influencing the final look of the space. Dark grout creates a bold and striking statement by highlighting individual tiles and adding visual interest. On the other hand, light grout provides a clean and seamless appearance, especially when paired with white subway tiles, creating a more open and airy feel.

Ultimately, the choice of grout color should align with your desired aesthetic and the overall color palette of your space. By thoughtfully selecting your grout color, you can ensure that your design not only complements the space's function but also reflects your personal style and achieves a cohesive, visually appealing finish.

 

Classic and Timeless Pairings

For those seeking a design that transcends trends and endures the test of time, classic pairings offer a sophisticated and elegant foundation. Here, we explore a selection of timeless companions for your subway tiles.

Hexagon Tiles

These flat-sided, six-sided tiles, often made from ceramic, porcelain, or even natural stone like marble or slate, add a touch of timeless elegance when paired with subway tiles. Their geometric shape complements the clean lines of subways, creating a harmonious interplay of forms. 

Hexagon tiles are also available in a wide range of colors, from classic white and neutral tones to bolder hues that can add a pop of color to your design. Additionally, the variety of materials allows you to tailor their look to your preference. For a smooth, easy-to-clean surface, glazed ceramic or porcelain are perfect options, or you may explore the natural beauty and subtle variations of honed or polished marble hexagons, such as the Aniston 2x2 Polished Porcelain Hexagon Mosaic Tile in Carrara Bianco, as seen in the picture above.

Porcelain hexagon tiles, in particular, excel in various applications. Their durability makes them suitable for busy areas like floors, and even shower floors when opting for textured or matte finishes with good slip resistance. Alternatively, use them on accent walls to create a statement piece or incorporate them into backsplashes for a touch of visual interest and classic charm.

Penny Round Tiles

These small, circular tiles, typically crafted from glass or ceramic, offer a playful and timeless touch when paired with subway tiles. Their diminutive size and smooth surface add a delightful textural contrast to the clean lines of subways. Penny round tiles are also available in a vast array of colors, allowing you to create intricate patterns or add pops of color to your design. Consider using white or neutral-colored penny rounds for a classic and understated look, or explore bolder colors to create a playful and vibrant backsplash.

The primary application for penny round tiles is on backsplashes, where their small size allows for intricate mosaic patterns and easy navigation around faucets and outlets. Additionally, they can be used to create stunning accent borders or add a touch of personality to powder rooms or tub surrounds. While not ideal for large floor areas due to the number of grout lines, they can be a charming and practical choice for smaller areas like shower floors.

Basketweave Tiles

For a touch of classic elegance and timeless sophistication, consider pairing your subway tiles with basketweave tiles. These tiles, typically square-shaped and interlocking to create a woven basket pattern, add a layer of texture and visual interest to your design. The basketweave pattern offers a subtle nod to traditional craftsmanship, evoking a sense of history and timeless style.

Basketweave tiles also offer a wide range of color options to complement your existing design scheme. Opt for neutral tones for a classic look, or explore bolder colors to create a more modern statement. The durability of porcelain options, in particular, makes them suitable for various applications including shower floors (especially in matte or textured finishes for better slip resistance). Additionally, they can be used on accent walls to add a touch of visual interest and texture, or incorporated into backsplashes for a unique and timeless look.

Marble Subway Tiles

Elevate your classic subway tile design to a whole new level with the luxurious touch of real marble subway tiles. These tiles offer the timeless appeal of subway tiles with the natural beauty and variations inherent to marble. The subtle veining and texture of marble add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space.

While undeniably stunning, marble subway tiles come with a few considerations. Their natural stone composition makes them a higher-cost option compared to ceramic or porcelain tiles. Additionally, marble requires sealing to protect it from stains and etching. However, for those seeking a luxurious and timeless look, the benefits outweigh the considerations.

Marble subway tiles are best suited for wall applications like backsplashes and shower surrounds due to their potential for scratching and etching. With proper sealing and care, they can also be used in less frequently used areas, such as bathroom walls or powder rooms.

 

Modern and Bold Pairings

For those seeking a design that pushes boundaries and embraces the cutting edge, modern and bold pairings offer a chance to create a truly unique and impactful space. Below, we explore a selection of unconventional companions that will elevate your subway tiles to a whole new level.

Terrazzo Tiles

These dynamic tiles, composed of marble, granite, quartz chips embedded in cement, offer a modern aesthetic with a touch of industrial chic. Their speckled appearance, with chips of various sizes and colors, creates a visually captivating surface that complements the clean lines of subway tiles. Terrazzo tiles also come in a wide range of color combinations, allowing you to tailor their look to your specific design vision. A classic black and white terrazzo, for example, is great for a timeless modern statement, as seen with the Sloane 12x24 Matte Porcelain Tile in Charcoal in the photo above, or you may explore bolder color combinations to create a truly unique focal point.

While undeniably modern, terrazzo tiles come with a few considerations. Due to their cementitious base, they require sealing to protect them from stains and etching. Additionally, the cost of terrazzo tiles can vary depending on the size and type of aggregate used. However, for those seeking a durable and visually striking statement piece, they can be a fantastic choice for floors, especially in kitchens or busy areas. Their speckled aesthetic can also be used effectively on accent walls to add a touch of modern flair.

Metallic Tiles

Available in a range of finishes like stainless steel, bronze, copper, or even brushed nickel, these tiles add a touch of luxury and drama to any space. Their reflective surface bounces light around the room, creating a sense of spaciousness and a touch of Hollywood regency flair. Pairing metallic tiles with subway tiles creates a dynamic contrast between the clean lines of the subways and the shimmering texture of the metallic elements.

However, due to their reflective nature, metallic tiles can show fingerprints or water spots more easily compared to other materials. Therefore, it's best to use them sparingly for an impactful accent. They can be used effectively in feature walls of entryways or other small areas to create a touch of glamour.

Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles provide a versatile and creative option for enhancing your space. These small tiles, made from materials like glass, ceramic, or stone, are arranged in patterns on a mesh backing, offering a wide range of design choices. From geometric shapes to floral designs, they add color, pattern, and visual interest to your decor.

Pairing mosaic tiles with subway tiles creates an appealing contrast between the clean lines of the subway tiles and the intricate details of the mosaic. For instance, you may use mosaic tiles for your entire backsplash to create a striking focal point, or include them as a border around a subway tile field for added character. They also work well in shower niches, giving you the opportunity to design a custom and eye-catching accent within your space.

Patterned Cement Tiles

For a truly bold and unique statement, consider pairing your subway tiles with patterned cement tiles. These encaustic tiles, crafted from pigmented cement, feature stunning geometric or floral patterns in rich and vibrant colors. They offer a touch of Moroccan or Mediterranean flair, instantly transporting your space to a different time and place.

Patterned cement tiles are a particularly fantastic choice for creating a statement floor, especially in kitchens or bathrooms. However, due to their intricate patterns and potential for higher cost, they are best used sparingly. Consider using them on a small area like a bathroom floor or a kitchen backsplash for a bold and captivating focal point. Be also mindful of potential maintenance concerns, as cement tiles require sealing to protect them from stains and wear.

 

Blending Classic and Modern

For those seeking a design that gracefully bridges the gap between timeless elegance and contemporary flair, transitional pairings offer the perfect solution. Here, we explore a selection of companions that seamlessly blend classic subway tiles with modern elements, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and current.

Large Format Tiles

Large format tiles offer clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic that complements modern design. Their significantly larger size compared to the standard 3" x 6" subway tiles creates a sense of spaciousness and delivers a sleek, sophisticated look. With fewer grout lines, these tiles achieve a cleaner and more contemporary appearance, making them ideal for anyone seeking a refined and minimalist design.

Large format tiles also come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and even natural stone options like marble or granite. This variety allows you to tailor their look to your specific design vision. Opt for sleek and polished porcelain tiles for a modern touch, or explore the natural beauty of honed marble for a more classic and timeless feel.

While undeniably modern in their effect, large format tiles come with a few considerations. Due to their size, they can be more challenging to install, especially on walls. For larger tiles or complex layouts, consider seeking the expertise of a professional tiler to ensure a flawless installation. Additionally, large format tiles may not be ideal for very small spaces, as they can overwhelm the area. However, in kitchens with ample wall space or expansive bathroom walls, large format tiles paired with classic subway tiles can create a stunning and sophisticated look.

Wood-Look Tiles

Introduce a touch of warmth and natural beauty into your space by pairing subway tiles with wood-look tiles. These innovative tiles mimic the appearance of real wood, offering the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and ease of maintenance of ceramic or porcelain tiles. Wood-look tiles come in a vast array of wood grain patterns and colors, allowing you to create a design that complements your existing décor. Opt for light and airy wood tones for a Scandinavian-inspired look, or explore darker, richer tones to add depth and drama to your space.

The benefits of wood-look tiles extend beyond aesthetics. They offer a unique way to incorporate the warmth and visual interest of natural wood into areas where real wood might not be practical due to moisture concerns. For example, you can create a stunning accent wall in your bathroom using wood-look tiles, adding a touch of warmth without compromising functionality.

However, wood-look tiles require specific cleaning products to avoid damaging the surface. Additionally, while some wood-look tiles are water-resistant, they might not be suitable for areas with constant direct water exposure like shower floors. Therefore, it's crucial to choose tiles with the appropriate water resistance rating for the intended application.

Textured Subway Tiles

Textured subway tiles bring a fresh dimension to classic designs, adding a modern twist without losing the timeless appeal of their traditional shape. These tiles feature non-smooth surfaces, which can range from subtle wave patterns to more pronounced linear or geometric designs. This added texture introduces depth and visual interest, creating a captivating play of light and shadow within your space.

Textured subway tiles also come in a variety of materials, including ceramic and porcelain, and offer a wide range of color options to complement your existing design scheme. Consider pairing white textured subway tiles with smooth white grout for a clean and modern look, or explore bolder colors and textures to create a more dramatic statement.

While undeniably beautiful, textured subway tiles come with a slight cleaning challenge. The grooves and ridges of the texture can trap dirt and grime more easily compared to smooth tiles. However, with proper cleaning techniques and appropriate cleaning products, textured subway tiles can be a fantastic choice for both walls and backsplashes.

Whatever your choice may be, these transitional pairings will allow you to seamlessly blend timeless and modern elements for a balanced design. While large format tiles provide spaciousness and a sleek contemporary touch, wood-look tiles introduce warmth and natural charm. Textured subway tiles, on the other hand, enhance the classic subway shape with added dimension and flair, resulting in a design that feels both elegant and innovative.

 

 

Planning and Installation Tips

Transforming your vision into reality requires careful planning and execution. Here are some essential tips to ensure a successful and seamless installation process when pairing subway tiles with complementary options:

Sample, Sample, Sample

Before committing to a specific tile combination, visualize how the chosen pairings will look together in your space. Ordering samples of both the subway tiles and your chosen companion tiles allows you to assess their color, texture, and scale firsthand. Experiment by laying the samples side-by-side in different lighting conditions to ensure they complement each other aesthetically. This crucial step helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures you achieve the desired design outcome.

Taking Visualization a Step Further

In addition to physical samples, augmented reality (AR) technology provides a modern solution to visualize your design. Our augmented reality tool allows you to see how different tile combinations will appear directly on your walls and floors, offering a more immersive and interactive experience. This can be especially helpful when finalizing your design choices with confidence.

By combining the traditional approach of physical samples with the innovative capabilities of AR technology, you can make well-informed decisions with ease. This dual method ensures your subway tile design complements your space seamlessly, bringing your vision to life with precision.

Mastering the Art of Grout

Grout, often overlooked, plays a surprisingly significant role in the overall look and feel of your tiled surface. The color of your grout can either unify or dramatically contrast with your chosen tiles. Online grout visualization tools can be invaluable in this process. These tools allow you to upload pictures of your chosen tiles and virtually experiment with different grout colors. Alternatively, some tile stores offer sample boards showcasing various grout colors paired with specific tiles. Utilize these resources to determine the perfect grout color that complements your design vision.

Layout Creativity

Don't be afraid to explore different layout options for both your subway tiles and the paired tiles. The classic brick bond pattern is a timeless choice, but other options like stacked, herringbone, or basket weave patterns can add visual interest and create a unique aesthetic. When pairing subway tiles with another tile option, consider how the layout of each will contribute to the overall design. Experiment with using the paired tiles as a border around a field of subway tiles, or create a focal point by using them in a specific pattern within the subway tile layout.

Professional Expertise

While some tile installation projects might be manageable for DIY enthusiasts, complex layouts or large areas might benefit from the expertise of a professional tiler. Professional tilers possess the necessary skills and experience to ensure a flawless installation, minimizing the risk of errors and ensuring a long-lasting and visually appealing result. For intricate patterns or large-scale projects, consider consulting a professional tiler to bring your design vision to life.

By following these planning and installation tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful pairing of subway tiles with your chosen companion, creating a beautiful and functional space that reflects your unique design style.

Perfect Pairings for Subway Tiles

Subway tiles offer endless design possibilities, serving as a timeless foundation for creating spaces that reflect your unique style. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of classic hexagon or penny round tiles, the boldness of terrazzo and metallic designs, or the versatility of large format and wood-look tiles, there’s a pairing to suit every aesthetic. These combinations provide opportunities to balance timeless appeal with modern flair, offering both style and functionality.

When planning your subway tile design, consider practical factors like durability and cleanability for busy areas, as well as moisture resistance for spaces like bathrooms. With thoughtful selections in tile materials, colors, and layouts, you can transform your subway tile vision into a design that is both visually captivating and perfectly suited to your space.