Subway tile baths


20 Beautiful Bathrooms With Subway Tile

By

Anabelle Bernard Fournier

Anabelle Bernard Fournier

Anabelle Bernard Fournier is a freelance writer who specializes in home decor and interior design. She's been writing about interiors since 2012 and focuses on bathroom design and personalizing a home.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

and

Lacey Ramburger

Lacey Ramburger

Lacey Ramburger is a personality assessment expert based in Kansas City, Missouri, with more than five years of experience. Her areas of expertise include Zodiac, Myers-Briggs, and the Enneagram. She is the author of the book "Being Whole" and dozens of articles on personality assessments and relationships.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 01/07/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

Subway tile is a rectangular, brick-like, usually polished ceramic tile that reminds you of subway stations. Adorning kitchens, bathrooms and powder rooms, it comes in many colors and fits all kinds of styles, from traditional to contemporary.

The best thing about subway tile? It's always fashionable. Like the little black dress, subway tile is the best choice if you want your bathroom to look great and retain its decor value through the years.

32 Beautiful Bathroom Tile Design Ideas

16 Subway Tile Bathroom Ideas to Inspire Your Next Remodel

Devon Grace Interiors

 

Ah, subway tile. Who knew such a small, unassuming shape could be so controversial? When the subway tile trend hit hard a few years ago and quickly spread from bathrooms to kitchens to your corner coffee shop, we were more than happy to see such a refined and classic look come back into the fold. But as with all trends, it had some detractors—those who argued that the ever-presence of these little white rectangles was unchecked and that the seemingly trendless style had become a trend in and of itself.

Well, we beg to differ. With ever-more enticing color options, perfectly-imperfect hand-touched artisan styles, and unique grout juxtapositions, we're firmly of the camp that says subway tile will never die. In fact, it's looking fresher than ever, thanks to the inventive and sometimes off-the-wall imaginations of our favorite designers. Looking for clever subway tile bathroom ideas? Look no further. These powder rooms and primary bathrooms prove that subway tiles are here to stay (and can be interpreted in more than one way).

Click through to see the bathrooms that are turning typical subway tile on its head—but be warned, they just might inspire you to get grouting yourself.

01 of 16

Katie Martinez 

There's so much to love about this stunning subway tile bathroom. The dark blue-grey door and gold accents feel traditional, while the poured concrete sink and funky floor tile make the overall effect eclectic and modern. In short? We're sold.

02 of 16

No Longer Wander

Sometimes, less is more. Streamlining the space with a clean and cohesive tile shape is a great move for smaller bathrooms, while the choice of a dark grey (nearly black) grout with wider grout lines creates a cool graphic pop that keeps things interesting.

03 of 16

Katherine Carter

Ultra-thin grout lines and a bright white color palette let these subway tiles melt into the background, letting the focus fall on the stunning soaking tub and octagonal floor tile. But look closely and you'll notice a slightly uneven, handmade element to the subway tile that adds texture and interest to this gleaming surface.

04 of 16

 Design: Pure Salt Interiors, Photo: Vanessa Lentine

Don't let subway tile's classic appeal limit your creativity! This super-chic shower by Pure Salt Interiors uses contrasting hexagonal tiles in shades of grey in the storage alcoves and floor and adds even more interest with a striated marble-like ledge (a perfect perch for a plant, or for a leg up when shaving).

05 of 16

Reagen Taylor

This subway tile bathroom looks relatively de rigueur...until your eye lands on the floor. Unabashedly bold black penny tile and a high-shine black toilet take this look from understated to downright dramatic—and we're all in favor of the effect.

06 of 16

 Tara Kantor

Designer Tara Kantor's understated, Scandi-minimalist bathroom is proof that even a limited color palette can yield a stunning result. Different shades of grey and white let the various textures in the space really shine, from the matte floors to the soft leather drawer pulls to the sleek shower tile.

07 of 16

Reena Sotropa

Can't decide between a trendy slab shower and classic subway tile? Why not combine them? This shower has tons of instant oomph thanks to a beautiful (and more cost-effective!) piece of slab set into an inlet. Not only does it mean less grout to clean, but it makes the brushed brass fixtures really *pop*.

08 of 16

 Rikki Snyder

Subway tile is often synonymous with a more timeless, traditional look, but as this design from Rikki Snyder proves, it can also work in a modern boho bath. Pepper in warm wood accents, woven baskets, and an imported runner, and the final result is less expected (and much cozier).

09 of 16

 Devon Grace Interiors

Punching up basic subway tile with a mix of bold and graphic black and white accent tiles = a super-savvy way to insert some personality into even the smallest space. We love the mix of Moroccan-inspired concrete floor tiles with mod angular arrow motifs (made up of adjoining parallelograms).

10 of 16

Design: Emily Henderson, Photo: Sara Ligorria Tramp 

If you're not married to the classic offset-line look of subway tile, try flipping this iconic look on its head (and then its side...and back again). Three-tile stacks in an alternating square pattern add tons of dimension and motion to this sleek bathroom backsplash.

11 of 16

 Design: Black Lacquer Design, Photo: Jessica Alexander

Proof positive of how an unexpected color scheme can transform versatile grey and white tile: this bathroom takes on a modern glam feel with subtly pink-hued walls, which lend added dimension to the combination of artisan subway tile and hexagonal floor tile.

12 of 16

 Design: Michelle Lisac Interior Design, Photo: Jennie Corti Photography

For a more femme take on subway tile, we love the idea of using it only halfway up the wall and adding a petal-inspired wallpaper to soften the overall look. A chic vanity stool completes the look (and adds a stylish space for primping. )

13 of 16

 Design: Black Lacquer Design, Photo: Jessica Alexander

A maximalist's dream bathroom. Black subway tile with high-contrast white grout pairs strikingly with technicolor floral collage-inspired wallpaper, creating a thoroughly unexpected take on the classic tile shape.

14 of 16

Artistic Tile 

If the stark look of white tile isn't doing it for you, opt for a moody shade of indigo blue to breathe new life into the space. Even a single wall of this evocative hue can transform a powder room in the best way.

15 of 16

Design: Michelle Lisac Interior Design, Photo: Jennie Corti

 

When you plunk a rectangular mirror onto a wall of subway tile, the whole thing can seem a little...square. And while round mirrors are certainly having a moment, we much prefer the look of something like this statement style—an architectural, Moroccan-esque archway mirror lends global flair to a basic black-and-white scheme.

16 of 16

Design: Emily Henderson, Photo: Sara Tramp 

While many types of subway tile are a bit one-note in their color, handmade tiles are an excellent alternative to more commercial options because of the rich variation from piece to piece. This tiled wall is nothing short of breathtaking due to all the different subtle shades that make up the pattern, reminding us of fish scales or an artisanal patchwork quilt.

Definitive Proof That Tiled Bathrooms Make a Striking Statement

Ceramic bathroom tiles - selection guide

Home / Bathroom renovation

Published:

When choosing finishing materials for the bathroom, it must be taken into account that this room is constantly exposed to temperature changes. As a result, condensation forms on the walls and floor, so it is not possible to use traditional wallpaper or paint - they are not designed for a humid climate. But what to do if a bathroom renovation is due soon? What finishing material to choose so that the room lasts a long time and at the same time looks attractive? nine0003

Ceramic tile for the bathroom has all the necessary advantages and is perfect for decorating such rooms. It withstands sharp temperature changes, has high wear resistance and water-repellent properties. In addition, thanks to a wide range of ceramic tiles from different manufacturers, it becomes possible to think over an individual design of the room. This finishing material can turn an ordinary bathroom into a real work of art, making it not only beautiful, but also unique. nine0003

Contents

  1. What are ceramic tiles? Bathroom Tiles ?

    Bathroom ceramics are plates made from a mixture of clay, sand and other materials by heat treatment - firing. As a result of applying synthetic coatings to the front side of the tile, a strong, durable surface is obtained that is not afraid of external physical influences and moisture. nine0003

    Ceramic tiles or tiles are used for cladding walls or floors in rooms, as well as for outdoor decoration. It has a number of advantages over other materials, which makes it very popular in the repair of kitchens, bathrooms and other premises.

    Ceramic tiles in the bathroom are valued for qualities such as:

    • strength;
    • moisture resistance;
    • wear resistance;
    • durability.
    • nine0047

      Many people often compare ceramics and tiles, thinking that these are different materials - but this is not entirely true. They have an almost identical composition and manufacturing technology, with the exception of a few differences in the additives used. Whether tile is laid in a bathroom or ceramic, in fact, does not make much difference - the quality and properties of these materials are the same.

      Ceramic is an inert substance. Roasting at high temperatures produces an extremely durable material that is practically unreactive to most chemicals, with the exception of strong acids. Ceramics have a smooth structure, so it is easy to mount. For this, special building compounds with adhesive properties are used. nine0003

      Bathroom ceramics

      The bathroom is a room with high humidity. In order to finish the walls and floors inside the room, it is necessary to select the highest quality finishing materials. They must be:

      • heat and water resistant;
      • as strong as possible;
      • chemical resistant.

      Ceramic tiles are often used for bathroom renovations. This is a classic version that has not lost its relevance for more than a hundred years. This material is ideal for walls and floors, it is strong and durable enough. Bathroom, lined with ceramic tiles, with a high degree of probability will not require repairs within 7-8 years. nine0003

      The following standard bathroom tile sizes are available:

      • 30x30 cm;
      • 40×40 cm;
      • 50×50 cm;
      • 60×60 cm.

      In general, the size of the ceramic plate depends entirely on the manufacturer. There is a small mosaic ceramic tile, not exceeding a few centimeters in size, and an impressive tile with a facade in the form of a photorealistic image. Modern stores are ready to offer a wide range of any shape and size of this finishing material. nine0003

      The average price of a bathroom tile is quite democratic and affordable for almost any middle-income citizen who wants to renovate. Porcelain stoneware has a higher cost, but at the same time it is more durable and durable - and therefore profitable.

      Bathroom tiles are very practical - they do not require any special care. It is enough to wash it from time to time with a damp sponge so that the surface does not lose its original luster.

      Bathroom wall decoration

      The humid climate of the bathroom requires high moisture resistance from finishing materials, which is adequately provided by ceramics or tiles. They easily resist the effects of household chemicals and their vapors, which are inevitably present in the bathroom.

      Bathroom wall tiles, due to their hydrophobic nature, also prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can cause irreparable damage to human health.

      Ceramics and tiles in the bathroom will not only make the room more suitable for a humid climate, but also give it a pleasant appearance. Specialty stores today are ready to offer a wide variety of tiles of various colors, shapes and sizes. nine0003

      Light-colored tiles are perfect for bathroom walls, especially if the room is small. If the tile has a glossy surface, this will further expand the space. However, the walls in the bathroom do not have to be plain. Usually, several types of tiles of different colors are purchased for a room, combining them with each other to achieve a contrast.

      Bathroom floor finish

      The most important requirement that bathroom flooring must meet is durability. This room is a place with high traffic, it is visited daily by all family members, so the floor in it is subjected to heavy loads. If the material is not sufficiently wear-resistant, it may soon require repeated repairs. nine0003

      That is why laying tiles on the floor in the bathroom is the most rational solution. Ceramic coating after laying becomes very durable and can easily withstand everyday stress. In addition, ceramic floor tiles designed for the bathroom are water-repellent - this is extremely important for the bathroom floor, which is almost always exposed to moisture from swimming or condensate.

      Floor ceramin in the bathroom is usually used quite large. The average plate size is 40-60 cm. This allows you to make a clear contrast between wall and floor ceramic tiles. However, the design of the room may include tiles of any size that is available for purchase in the store. nine0003

      Ceramic tiles designed for bathroom floors, more massive. The thickness of the floor plate is an order of magnitude greater than that of the wall options. This is due to the increased degree of load on ceramics - thin tiles can and will withstand the weight of a person, but for a bath or appliances it may turn out to be too fragile and break.

      Suspended ceiling in the bathroom - how to make it and how it happens can be found in our publication.

      Methods for bleaching a discolored bathroom are listed in this article. nine0003

      Design when tiled

      Modern ceramics and tiles provide ample opportunities in terms of design planning. You can choose any color shades, any shape and size of tiles.

      Tiling your bathroom in almost any style:

      • classic;
      • Mediterranean;
      • in Hi-tech style;
      • modern, etc.

      Exotic lovers can easily find bathroom tiles made in Egyptian, Japanese or Oriental style. For more romantic natures, natural wood imitation bathroom tiles are an excellent base for Country or Retro finishes. nine0003

      Modern bathroom design is easy to think of - a standard medium-sized rectangular tile without patterns or patterns, laid out using contrasting colors and complemented by futuristic lighting and chrome elements, will look extremely impressive and make the bathroom unique.

      Manufacturers often offer special tile panels with high-definition images. It can be a tropical jungle with waterfalls, antique arches entwined with vines, beautiful flowers or paintings by famous artists. Some firms provide custom-made tiles with photorealistic 3D images. nine0003

      How to prepare for bathroom tiles

      Renovation of the daily hygiene room is a major undertaking. Finishing a bathroom with ceramic tiles is one of its most difficult stages, so you need to carefully prepare for it.

      To tile a bathroom, you need to have some experience in construction, so if you don’t have it, it’s better to ask employees for help. For a fee, they will produce high-quality tile laying, which will delight the owners with its attractive appearance for many years. nine0003

      If you have to do the work yourself, then in order for the renovation of the bathrooms to go quickly and without problems, you should adhere to the following general rules:

      1. Consider the design of the room. Any action is preceded by planning, therefore, it is necessary to sketch out a sketch of the future premises on your own or with the help of a specialist - the color tone of the tile, the size and method of its installation, a possible ornament, etc.
      2. Calculate the required amount of material. To do this, measure the total area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room, and then, by mathematical calculations, calculate the number of tiles based on its size. Calculation of ceramic tiles is best done with a margin, 15-20% more than needed for repair - this is a safety net in case of manufacturing defects of individual tiles and its possible damage during installation. nine0016
      3. Prepare consumables and tools. For the installation of tiles, you will definitely need special adhesive mixtures, as well as devices for cutting and direct laying. Their preparation should be taken care of in advance.

      When choosing ceramic tiles, you should pay attention to its manufacturer - you can even ask the seller to present a quality certificate. Do not be tempted by cheap material - usually it is of low quality and the money saved will be much less than it will be required for repeated premature repairs. nine0003

      When purchasing more than one pack of bathroom tiles, be sure to check each pack for color matching - different batches of material may differ in shades. Such a tile does not become a room decoration.

      Bathroom tile is the right choice

      The presence of tiles in the bathroom ensures that the room will retain its original appearance over time and will not become a breeding ground for bacteria or mold.

      High-quality bathroom tiles are highly resistant to physical impact, temperature changes and humidity. It is made by manufacturers in the form of standard rectangular or square plates of various sizes, it can imitate natural and artificial materials. nine0003

      A wide variety of these products on the market of finishing materials allows you to choose a tile or ceramic with which the bathroom will not only acquire moisture-proof properties, but also an attractive appearance.

      When choosing a particular tile for decoration, you should follow some rules that will help you get a quality product. The very process of laying ceramics or tiles is quite complicated and time-consuming, so it is not recommended to do it yourself without sufficient experience. nine0003

      In general, ceramic tiles are an excellent finishing material for the bathroom. It looks good both on the walls and on the floor, it is difficult to scratch or split it. It is easy to care for and has water-repellent properties, so with proper installation it will last for many years without losing its original attractiveness.

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      See also:

      • High-quality bathroom renovation with a guarantee
      • Bath screens: types, installation, materials
      • Bathroom edging tape: rules and tips for sealing joints
      • Types of materials that can be used to paint bathroom walls

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      nine0000 About the choice of tiles depending on the size of the bathroom - an article on the OBI website

      Regardless of the size of the bathroom, a professional designer will help make the room comfortable and stylish due to the competent selection of color, texture and shape of tiles. He will also choose the best way of laying. If you are doing repairs yourself, when buying tiles, pay attention to the characteristics, which will be discussed below.

      one. Surface type

      Glossy gives a pleasant sheen and reflects light better. It is perfect for small spaces, especially if preference is given to light colors. But it is advisable to veneer only walls with it. When wet, its surface becomes slippery, so it is better to choose a matte floor for the floor: it does not slip, dries quickly, and tolerates contact with detergents well. nine0003

      2. Form and design

      • • Square is a versatile option that fits well in most spaces and is easy to install.
      • • Rectangle allows you to visually increase the area of ​​the room.
      • • If you lay out the elements with the long side vertically, the ceiling will appear higher.
      • • A horizontal cladding will help visually expand the room, especially if you choose light shades. nine0016
      • Mosaic tiles - small fragments that make up a single panel. It is better to entrust the laying of such material to a specialist: a beginner may choose the wrong pattern, because of which the idea itself will lose its meaning. Mosaic looks great in spacious bathrooms. It is often laid on only one wall, choosing larger rectangular or square products for others.
      • • Relief or three-dimensional ceramics allows you to radically transform the space.
      • • Light shades are best for small spaces, there are no restrictions for spacious ones. nine0016
      • • The most popular design options are geometric shapes, imitation of natural materials, ornaments. To visually enlarge the space, the lower part of the wall is tiled with such tiles, and a lighter, glazed one is used for the upper one.
      • • Irregular shaped tiles look nice but are very difficult to install. This option is best left for rooms with clear corners and perfectly even walls, otherwise you will have to take material with a large margin and adjust the pattern for a long time. nine0016

      3. Choosing tiles for small spaces

      For a small room, it is undesirable to take a small format: it will hide the space due to the seams. Horizontally laid rectangular tiles will help to make the room wider. Also, do not choose panels with patterns. A solid color or a combination of two light colors looks more successful.

    • White VKZ ceramic tiles 35x25 cm

      ₽per M²

      • Discount

      Green glass mosaic 32.7x32.7 cm

      162 ₽

      49 ₽

    • Glass mosaic blue 32.7x32.7 cm

      99 ₽pcs.

      • Discount

      Beige glass mosaic 30x30 cm

      • Discount

      White glass mosaic 30. 6 x 30.6 cm

      539 RUB

      162 RUB

    • Ceramic tile La Favola Orchid white 40x28 cm

      577.81 ₽ PAKOVKA

      469 ₽ M²

    • ceramic tiles Cersanit LIGHT 30X20 cm

      9000.8 · UMO 49000 ₽ Management room.
    • Ceramic tiles Cersanit Light light beige 30x20 cm

      275 ₽pack0003

      406.8 ₽ packing

      339 ₽ M²

      • Discount

      Elada Mosaic Crystal Blue-Blue Glass 32.7x32.7 cm

      329 ₽

      99 99 ₽.

      is not available

      • Discount

      Ceramic tile Cersanit Hammam Belaya 44x20 cm

      838.95 ₽ Pacovka

      1 199 ₽ per m² 9000

    • ₽ ₽ ₽0016

      Glass tiles ELADA MOSAIC Crystal sky blue 30x30 cm

      319 ₽

      96 ₽pcs.

      • Discount

      Glass tiles ELADA MOSAIC Crystal gray mix 30x30 cm

      319 RUB

      96 RUB pcs.

      Out of stock

      • Discount

      Glass tile ELADA MOSAIC Crystal beige 30x30 cm nine0003

    • 4. The choice of tiles for spacious rooms

      For a spacious room, dark shades are also suitable, as well as any size, geometric shapes and textures. If the bathroom is combined, zoning will be emphasized by tiles of different colors and sizes.

      five. How to calculate the quantity

      It is quite difficult to accurately calculate the required amount: it depends on the number of plumbing fixtures and the type of installation, and the features of laying pipelines. nine0003

      But there are several rules that allow you to determine the right amount with a minimum error:

      • 1. It is necessary to add up the areas of all walls for cladding (except for the door and window openings) and divide by the area of ​​one tile. To calculate the area of ​​​​one wall, you need to multiply its width by height, tiles - length multiplied by width. Important: Pay attention to the fact that the area of ​​​​walls and tiles in the calculation was indicated in the same units - either square meters or square centimeters. nine0198
      • 2. When making calculations, use the handy calculators wall and floor tiles .
      • 3. Buy tiles with a margin of 10% of the total area to be covered. This will cover the amount that will need to be cut when decorating corners and areas around the plumbing, as well as a possible fight.
      • 4. Calculations will be longer, but more accurate if you calculate how many whole tiles will fit along the length and height of the wall. Then you can estimate how many tiles will be cut, and whether it will be possible to use the remaining parts in another place. nine0016
      • 5. Installing a tiled bathtub or shower enclosure will increase the flow rate, so add their area to the area of ​​the walls.
      • 6. During the calculation, it should be taken into account that the wall behind the bathroom must also be tiled. If you just paint or leave the plastered walls, then this is fraught with the appearance of mold.
      • These rules apply to standard shaped tiles. To calculate non-standard consumption, it is better to contact specialists.

        Important: when buying a tile, keep in mind that the factory calibration allows discrepancies within 1 mm. They are indistinguishable in appearance, and they are easy to hide due to the seam when laying. Some budget tile manufacturers allow a calibration error of more than 1 mm - it is more noticeable, and it is more difficult to hide it when laying. nine0198

    • GRAMOMENT Unitile LIFE Technogres Concrete Svetlo-gray 30x30 cm

      498.15 ₽ Pacovka

      369 ₽ m²

    • Ceramic tiles Fortuna is gramure 4022222223 9,0002 847 ₽ 23 M²

      • Discount

      Ceramic tile ceramin Vive Blue 40x40 cm

      367. 84 ₽ PAKOVKA

      829 ₽ per m²

      209 ₽ M²

    • 999
    • Ceramic tile Kerammin Marcel tree Belaya 40x40 cm

      385.44 ₽ Umpakovka

      219 ₽ M²

    • ceramic tiles Beryoza Ceramica Eliz Beami Belian 9000 cm

      9000 1 408.59 ₽ PUSK

    • Ceramic tile Thailand light blue 40x40 cm

      1 055 ₽ packing

      599 ₽ M²

    • Ceramic tiles of nephritis Tuscan Beam Stone Stone Stone 38.5x38.5 cm

      594.07 ₽ Pacovka

      669 ₽ M²

    • Ceramic tile La Favola dark red 40x40 cm

      574.4 ₽ Pacovka

      359 ₽ M²

    • 9000 9000 9000 9000 Ceramic pale Brown 32.7x32.7 cm

      665.81 ₽ PAKOVKA

      479 ₽ M²

    • Porcelain tile LB Ceramics Scandriy Gray 60x20 cm

      237 ₽ packing

      282 ₽ M²

      no in the presence0016

    • Porcelain tile atem Sherwood W tree White 60x20 cm

      234 ₽ PAKOVKA

      195 ₽ M²

      is not available

    • Caramine Grres Bezda Bresmin Beaming Bresmin Beaming Bresmin Beaming

      4 ₽ Uzakovka -UMO 489

      is not in stock

    • Porcelain tile LB Ceramics Westernwood Light brown 60x20 cm

      259. 56 ₽ packing

      309 ₽ m²

    • 9000 border LB Ceramics Beli 60x20 cm0003

      259.56 ₽ packing

      309 ₽ M²

      is not available

    • GREET CERSANIT GRes A100 Beige 30x30 cm

      889.38 ₽ PAKOVKAING 9000 549 ₽ M²

    • 6. Benefits of buying tiles at the OBI construction hypermarket

      The choice of finishing materials is a difficult task for those who are not professionally engaged in repairs. You can find an interesting repair solution in our catalog.

      In addition, OBI employs qualified consultants who will help you choose tiles, additional decor and everything you need for installation.

      7 reasons to buy finishing materials from OBI:

      • 1. Our designers will help you choose the style, finishes and all the materials in your chosen style of bathroom interior.
      • 2. You can immediately see the ready-made options - we have prepared 17 showrooms with a ready-made bathroom design in several styles for rooms of different sizes.
      1. Surface type 2. Shape and design
      3. Choosing tiles for small spaces 4. Choosing tiles for large spaces
      5. How to calculate the quantity 6. Benefits of buying tiles from OBI

      Learn more