Subway Tiles: A Trend That Never Dies!
After decades of working on bathroom and kitchen renovations, I can confidently say that subway tiles are one of the most versatile and timeless wall tile choices available. Whether you’re designing a kitchen splashback or choosing a feature wall tile for your bathroom, white subway tiles never fail to deliver a clean, stylish finish that works with almost any design style. They’ve been a staple in my own projects and countless customer renovations here at Ross’s Discount Home Centre.
In this article, I’ll share why subway tiles remain a fail-safe option, drawing on both my personal experience and their unmatched practicality. I’ll also introduce some of our top subway tile options, perfect for splashbacks, bathrooms, or kitchens. Let’s delve into the reasons behind these tiles’ enduring appeal!
Why You Can’t Go Wrong With Subway Tiles
They are timeless
No one tile has had the longevity of subway tiles. Subway tiles have been a staple tile choice since their debut in New York’s subway stations in 1904, which is how they got their name. The first subway tile was a white 3″ x 6″ (76x152mm) tile designed by George C. Heins and Christopher Grant La Farge.
In no time at all, New York’s subway tiles spread around the world. Initially, they appeared in the subway stations of Paris. They then started popping up in all types of interiors, including kitchens and bathrooms, where they remain to be used to this day.
The sheer fact that, after more than 115 years, subway tiles are still one of the most popular wall tile choices is reason enough to know that you can’t go wrong by choosing subway tiles in Perth for your home. They have always been in style and on-trend, and I can’t see this ever changing.
They are versatile
Another great benefit of choosing subway tiles is their versatility, not only in application but also in design. Subway tiles have evolved from the 3″ x 6″ tile to a vast assortment of sizes. There are countless options in terms of size, and each size delivers a different result. The current trend in subway tiles is a leaner design, such as 75x300mm, which is the size of this popular Gloss White Ripple Wall Tile.
Subway tiles are generally plain in design, pattern-free. This also adds to their versatility. You can consistently use them in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries throughout a home without them becoming overpowering.
Along with the versatility offered by the tile’s size is the versatility of patterns to which they can be laid. The options really are endless. Traditionally, the New York subways laid subway tiles horizontally in a brickwork pattern. However, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in flexibility in terms of trending options. While the original horizontal brickwork pattern will never fade, it’s not uncommon to see this turned into a vertical brickwork pattern. Herringbone and stacked are also popular and can be laid vertically or horizontally for flexibility.
There are countless subway laying patterns, and the end result will look different depending on the tile size you choose. The grout colour also adds to the result. White and black grout are popular choices to consider.
They suit all design styles
Over the past 115 years, numerous design styles have emerged and disappeared, yet subway tiles have remained a staple. Over the decades, subway tile styles have remained consistent, finding a place in every design style.
Whether you choose to use subway tiles in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry, they are a versatile and stylish option for any home. There isn’t a single style that subway styles don’t suit. Today, homes with modern, contemporary, beach, Hamptons, minimalistic, mid-century modern, Scandinavian, traditional, and transitional designs commonly incorporate subway styles.
They let you be creative
Subway tiles are a playground for creativity. Not only do they come in a variety of sizes, but they also offer an extensive range of colours, finishes, and even laying patterns to suit any design style. While the timeless gloss white subway tiles of 1904 remain a classic choice, today’s designs lean towards bold-coloured subway tiles and unique finishes for added flair.
Our range features an exciting palette, including black, dark green, navy, pink, light grey, and, of course, white subway tiles. Our Edge Wave subway tile’s “wave” design, with its textured dimension and visual appeal, is a top choice for finishes. Matte and bevelled edge finishes, like our Edge Frame subway tile, are also popular options for adding sophistication and depth to any room.
But colour and finish aren’t the only ways to get creative with subway tiles—laying patterns can make a huge impact too. Classic horizontal brick patterns provide a clean, traditional look, while herringbone or vertical stack arrangements offer a contemporary twist. For a bolder statement, consider mixing finishes or colours in a chevron or diagonal pattern. With so many options, subway tiles let you design a space that’s uniquely yours.
Conclusion
For a wall tile that will look good in any room, in any decade, choose subway tiles. Choosing wall tiles is a stressful task. Making a wrong decision can result in a lifetime of dread. That’s why choosing a tile that has endured over time, such as subway tiles, is a safe choice.
You simply cannot go wrong in choosing subway tiles as your wall tile choice. They have been around for more than 115 years and don’t age. They are also extremely versatile. These days, you can find them in a variety of sizes and arrange them in endless patterns. They suit all design styles, and you can be as plain or creative as you want. There are plenty of colours and finish options to choose between to provide the look and feel that you desire.
For subway tiles in Perth, look nowhere else but Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We offer a variety of plain white subway tiles in different sizes, in addition to our recently introduced Edge Wave and Edge Frame tiles, which are proving to be highly popular.
Visit our Guildford showroom to see our range in person or shop online for delivery to all Perth Metro addresses.