What Is A Subway Tile?

Subway tile is a ubiquitous design element found in homes and commercial spaces alike. But what exactly are they? This comprehensive guide explores the history, characteristics, applications, and variations of subway tile, offering valuable insights for homeowners, designers, and anyone interested in this versatile material.

History of Subway Tile

Subway tile, with its clean lines and enduring appeal, has transcended its utilitarian origins to grace kitchens, bathrooms, and more. But where did this iconic design element begin? Delve into the fascinating history of subway tile, from its surprising subterranean beginnings to its status as a versatile design staple that continues to grace modern homes.

Origins in New York City 

The story of subway tile begins in the bustling metropolis of New York City in the early 1900s. As the city embarked on a monumental project – the construction of its first underground rapid transit system – architects faced a unique challenge: designing stations that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

The subterranean environment presented several obstacles. Darkness prevailed, and artificial lighting was still in its early stages. Additionally, the constant flow of passengers and potential for grime accumulation necessitated a material that could withstand heavy use and be easily cleaned.

Architects George C. Heins and Christopher Grant La Farge, tasked with the design of the initial stations, opted for a simple yet effective solution. Subway tiles refer to glazed ceramic tiles that typically measure 3" x 6". They are crafted from readily available clay and fired at high temperatures, resulting in a durable, non-porous surface. The glazed finish also offered a brilliant white sheen, reflecting precious light and creating a sense of spaciousness in the dimly lit stations.

Evolution beyond Subways

The success of subway tiles in the New York City subway system didn't go unnoticed. Architects and designers soon recognized the versatility and practicality of this material. The inherent benefits – durability, low maintenance, and a clean aesthetic – made subway tiles well-suited for a wide range of applications beyond the subterranean world.

Early adopters incorporated subway tiles into public spaces like schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. The ease of cleaning made them ideal for high-traffic areas susceptible to dirt and grime. Additionally, the timeless design seamlessly blended with various architectural styles, from the ornate Beaux-Arts of the early 20th century to the more streamlined Art Deco movement.

As the 20th century progressed, the popularity of subway tiles continued to rise. The burgeoning American middle class, with its growing emphasis on hygiene and sanitation, embraced the clean lines and easy maintenance of subway tiles. These tiles found their way into kitchens and bathrooms, particularly in the post-war period when home design prioritized functionality and a streamlined aesthetic.

The enduring appeal of subway tiles lies not only in their practicality but also in their timeless design. Unlike trendy materials that fade in popularity, subway tiles have transcended fleeting trends. Their simple elegance continues to resonate with homeowners and designers alike, ensuring their presence in modern architecture and interior design.

Characteristics of Subway Tile

Subway tile's popularity extends far beyond its ubiquitous presence in kitchens and bathrooms. This seemingly simple rectangular tile boasts a surprising range of characteristics that contribute to its enduring appeal. Dive deeper and discover the unique qualities of subway tile, from its classic shape and versatile finishes to its timeless design potential.

Shape and Size

The defining characteristic of subway tile is its rectangular shape. While the most iconic size is undoubtedly the 3" x 6" format, this classic has spawned a variety of options to cater to different design preferences and spatial constraints. For smaller areas or a more contemporary feel, 2" x 4" tiles offer a compact option. Conversely, larger spaces can benefit from the elongated elegance of 4" x 8" or 6" x 12" tiles. These larger formats create a more streamlined look with fewer grout lines, ideal for achieving a modern aesthetic.

The traditional installation pattern for subway tile is the "running bond", where tiles are laid horizontally with a 50% offset. This means the vertical joint of each tile lines up with the center of the tile directly below it, creating a staggered appearance. While the running bond offers a classic and timeless look, it's not the only option. For a touch of variety, consider the "stack bond" pattern, where the vertical joints align throughout the installation. For a more dynamic visual effect, the "herringbone" pattern arranges tiles in a zig-zag formation, creating a sense of movement and adding a touch of sophistication.

Material

Traditionally, subway tiles were crafted from ceramic, a readily available and affordable clay-based material. The glazed surface offers a non-porous and easy-to-clean finish, ideal for maintaining a hygienic environment.

Modern advancements in tile technology have introduced a wider range of material options for subway tiles. Porcelain, a denser and more water-resistant cousin of ceramic, provides a durable option, especially for areas prone to moisture, like shower enclosures. For a touch of elegance and light-reflecting brilliance, glass tiles create a unique aesthetic and add a touch of luxury. For those seeking a truly opulent look, natural stone options like marble and granite offer timeless beauty and a luxurious feel.

Finish 

The finish of subway tile plays a significant role in its overall aesthetic and functionality. The classic choice is a glossy finish, which reflects light beautifully, contributing to a brighter and more spacious feel. This finish also offers a clean and polished look, ideal for traditional and timeless design styles. For a more contemporary and subdued appearance, matte finishes provide a softer and more textured look. While not as reflective as their glossy counterparts, matte finishes can add depth and visual interest to a space.

Applications of Subway Tile

Subway tile's versatility extends far beyond its namesake origin. Its timeless design and practical qualities make it a popular choice for a wide range of applications in homes and commercial spaces.

Kitchens

The kitchen is arguably the most popular domain for subway tile. The classic application is the backsplash, the vertical surface behind the countertop that protects walls from splashes, splatters, and heat. Subway tile excels in this role due to its ease of cleaning and grease resistance. The smooth, non-porous surface allows for quick wipe-downs, making post-cooking cleanup a breeze. Furthermore, the variety of colors and finishes available in subway tile allows for seamless integration with various kitchen styles. For a classic and timeless look, white subway tile with a glossy finish remains a popular choice. However, homeowners seeking a bolder statement can opt for colored tiles in shades like blue, green, or gray to create a focal point. Subway tile's adaptability extends beyond backsplashes. In modern kitchens, these tiles can be used to create accent walls, adding a touch of texture and visual interest. Additionally, some daring homeowners explore using subway tile for countertops. While not as common as other materials, subway tile countertops offer a unique aesthetic and can be surprisingly durable.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms present another ideal environment for subway tile due to its inherent water resistance. The glazed surface effectively repels moisture, making it suitable for shower surrounds and wall applications. In bathrooms with limited natural light, the classic glossy finish of subway tile helps to brighten up the space by reflecting light and creating a sense of spaciousness. While not typically used for shower floors due to potential slipperiness, some manufacturers offer slip-resistant subway tiles specifically designed for this application. These tiles often incorporate textured surfaces or etched patterns to provide additional traction underfoot. For a touch of luxury, consider using glass subway tiles in the shower. These tiles not only add a unique aesthetic but also contribute to a more open and airy feel in the shower enclosure.

Laundry Rooms

Laundry rooms are often overlooked spaces, but subway tile can elevate their functionality and aesthetics. The durability and easy maintenance of subway tile make it a practical choice for laundry room walls. White subway tile, with its clean and bright appearance, creates a fresh and welcoming atmosphere in a space often associated with chores. For those seeking to add a touch of personality, consider incorporating patterned tiles alongside classic subway tiles. This design approach injects a dose of visual interest while maintaining the practicality of the material.

Entryways and Mudrooms

Entryways and mudrooms are high-traffic areas that often bear the brunt of dirt, dust, and tracked-in debris. Subway tile's durability and easy-to-clean nature make it an excellent choice for these spaces. The smooth surface allows for quick sweeping or mopping, keeping the entryway looking neat and tidy. Additionally, subway tile can add a touch of elegance to entryways, creating a welcoming first impression for guests. For a more visually interesting look, consider using a herringbone pattern when installing subway tile in these areas. The zig-zag formation adds a touch of sophistication and creates a sense of movement, drawing the eye into the home.

Variations of Subway Tile

Subway tile's adaptability extends far beyond its rectangular form. Modern advancements offer a plethora of variations in color, texture, and even grout, allowing homeowners and designers to personalize this classic material and create truly unique spaces.

Color

While the classic white subway tile remains a perennial favorite for its timeless elegance and ability to brighten up a space, the color palette for subway tiles has exploded in recent years. This vast array of choices empowers homeowners to express their personal style and create kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces that reflect their individual taste.

Neutral Colors

For those seeking a versatile foundation, neutral colors like gray, beige, and black offer a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. Light gray subway tiles create a clean and modern look, while darker shades add a touch of drama and can help ground a busy space. Beige subway tiles provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, particularly well-suited for traditional or rustic design styles. Black subway tiles make a bold statement and create a dramatic focal point. They pair beautifully with white fixtures and stainless steel appliances for a sleek and modern look.

Bold Colors

Don't be afraid to embrace color! Subway tile comes in a wide spectrum of vibrant hues, from cheerful yellows and blues to dramatic greens and reds. A splash of color can add personality and energy to a space. For a subtle approach, consider using colored subway tile for an accent band within a predominantly neutral backsplash. Alternatively, create a bold statement wall using colored subway tile. This daring design element can become the focal point of a room and is a great way to showcase your unique style.

Two-toned Kitchens

For a truly unique look, explore the option of a two-toned kitchen. This design approach involves using two different colors of subway tile, often in conjunction with contrasting grout. A popular combination is white subway tile paired with a darker shade on the bottom portion of the backsplash. This creates a visual separation between the countertop and the upper cabinets, adding depth and dimension to the space. Alternatively, consider using a band of colored subway tile to accent a white backsplash. This injects a pop of personality without overwhelming the overall design.

Grout Color Considerations

The color of the grout plays a significant role in how the chosen subway tile color is perceived. Matching grout creates a seamless and classic appearance, allowing the beauty of the tile to take center stage. This approach is ideal for smaller spaces or when using bold-colored tiles. Contrasting grout, on the other hand, emphasizes the individual tiles and creates a bolder and more defined look. For example, dark grout with white subway tile creates a graphic and modern aesthetic. However, it's important to note that dark grout can be more prone to showing dirt and grime.

Texture 

The traditional subway tile boasts a smooth, glossy finish. While this classic option remains popular for its light-reflecting properties and clean aesthetic, modern advancements have introduced a wider range of textures to this versatile material.

Matte Finish

For a more contemporary look, consider matte finish subway tiles. This finish provides a softer and more textured appearance, creating a subtle play of light and shadow. Matte subway tiles are a great choice for modern and minimalist design styles, and they can also help to hide minor imperfections in the tile surface.

Textured Subway Tiles

For those seeking a truly unique visual experience, explore the world of textured subway tiles. These tiles incorporate variations in surface texture, such as bevels, ripples, or uneven surfaces. The added texture adds visual interest and depth to the space. Beveled subway tiles, for example, create a subtle three-dimensional effect, while handcrafted subway tiles with uneven surfaces offer a rustic charm.

Metallic Accents and Patterns

A touch of luxury can be achieved with subway tiles featuring metallic accents or patterns. These tiles often incorporate metallic glazes or inlays in precious metals like gold, silver, or bronze. Metallic subway tiles add a touch of sophistication and glamor to a space, making them a great choice for high-end kitchens and bathrooms. Subway tiles with geometric patterns, such as chevrons or hexagons, can also add visual interest and create a unique focal point.

Grout

While often overlooked, the grout color plays a significant role in the overall finished look of your subway tile installation. Choosing the right grout color can elevate the design or, conversely, detract from it.

Matching vs. Contrasting Grout

As mentioned earlier, matching grout creates a seamless and classic appearance, allowing the focus to remain on the beauty of the tile itself. This approach works well for smaller spaces or when using bold-colored subway tiles. However, it's important to consider the shade of white used in the grout. An off-white grout can appear dingy next to bright white subway tiles, so opting for a grout that precisely matches the white of the tile is crucial for a truly seamless look.

Contrasting Grout for Definition

Contrasting grout offers a bolder and more defined look. This approach emphasizes the individual tiles and creates a graphic element within the design. For example, dark grout with white subway tile creates a high-contrast, modern aesthetic. Similarly, using a colored grout that complements the subway tile color can add a playful touch. However, there are some practical considerations when choosing contrasting grout. Dark grout, while visually striking, can be more prone to showing dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to maintain the intended aesthetic.

Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout 

Beyond color, the type of grout also plays a role in the final look. Sanded grout contains fine particles of sand, which helps to create a textured finish that fills wider gaps between tiles (typically those larger than 1/8 inch). Unsanded grout, on the other hand, provides a smooth finish and is better suited for narrower grout lines (typically 1/8 inch or less) commonly found with subway tile installations. Unsanded grout is also easier to clean and maintain, making it a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

Choosing the Right Grout Color

Ultimately, the best grout color for your subway tile project depends on several factors, including the overall design style, the color of the tiles themselves, the size of the grout lines, and personal preference. Consider creating a sample board to experiment with different grout colors alongside your chosen subway tile to visualize the final outcome before committing to a large-scale installation.

Choosing A Subway Tile

Subway tile's versatility can be both a blessing and a curse. With a multitude of colors, textures, finishes, and even grout options to consider, the selection process can feel overwhelming. However, by carefully considering several key factors and following some helpful tips, you can navigate the world of subway tile and choose the perfect option for your project.

Project Location and Functionality

The first step in choosing subway tile is to consider the location of your project. Kitchens and bathrooms are prime candidates for subway tile due to their water resistance and easy cleaning. However, the specific functionality of the space within these areas may influence your choice. For example, in a shower stall, you'll need to prioritize slip-resistant tiles and consider using a different material, like porcelain, for its superior water resistance compared to standard ceramic subway tile. In contrast, a kitchen backsplash offers more flexibility in terms of material selection, and you can focus on aesthetics and ease of cleaning.

Desired Aesthetic and Style

Subway tile can seamlessly integrate into various design styles, from classic and traditional to modern and minimalist. Think about the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your space. For a timeless look, consider classic white subway tile with a glossy finish. For a more contemporary feel, explore matte finish subway tiles or experiment with bolder colors and unique patterns.

Color Scheme and Existing Design Elements

Subway tile should complement the existing color scheme in your space. Consider the colors of your cabinets, countertops, flooring, and fixtures. Will you be using neutral tones for a calming environment, or do you want to introduce a pop of color with your subway tile? Additionally, take stock of the existing design elements. Subway tile should integrate seamlessly with other materials and finishes in the space.

Maintenance Considerations

The maintenance requirements of your chosen subway tile should also be a factor. Glossy finishes are generally easier to clean as their smooth surface allows for quick wipe-downs. However, they may show fingerprints and water spots more readily. Matte finishes can hide minor imperfections but may require slightly more effort to keep clean. Consider your lifestyle and cleaning habits when making this decision.

Material Selection

Beyond aesthetics, consider the material of the subway tile. Ceramic is the most affordable option, but porcelain offers greater durability and water resistance, making it a better choice for areas with constant moisture exposure. For a luxurious touch, explore glass or natural stone subway tiles, but be aware these options come with a higher price tag.

Size and Layout

Subway tile comes in various sizes, from the classic 3" x 6" format to larger options like 4" x 8" or 6" x 12". The size you choose will impact the overall look and feel of the space. Larger tiles create a more streamlined aesthetic with fewer grout lines, while smaller tiles can add a touch of detail and visual interest. Finally, consider the layout of your subway tile. The classic stack bond is a timeless option, but explore alternatives like brick bond or herringbone for a more unique look.

Selection Tips

Installation of Subway Tile

While subway tile is a versatile and beautiful material, achieving a professional-looking finished product requires careful preparation and proper installation techniques. This section will provide a step-by-step overview of the subway tile installation process, focusing on the key stages of preparation, tiling, and grouting.

Preparation

Tiling Process

Grouting

Maintaining Subway Tile

Subway tile's popularity stems not only from its aesthetics but also from its relative ease of maintenance. With a proper cleaning routine and occasional sealing, subway tile can stay looking fresh and beautiful for years to come.

Regular Cleaning Routine

The key to maintaining subway tile's beauty lies in consistent cleaning. For routine cleaning, a mild detergent solution and a soft microfiber cloth are all you need. Mix a few drops of dish soap or a gentle all-purpose cleaner into a bucket of warm water. Dip your microfiber cloth into the solution, wring it out to remove excess moisture, and wipe down the tile surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the glazed surface of the subway tile, making it more susceptible to dirt and grime buildup over time.

Tackling Tough Stains

For tougher stains or greasy messes, particularly in kitchens, consider using a natural cleaning solution like white vinegar diluted with water. Vinegar's mild acidity helps cut through grease and grime without harming the tile surface. Alternatively, a store-bought grout cleaner specifically designed for subway tile can be effective for stubborn stains lodged within the grout lines. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using any cleaning product.

Sealing

While subway tile itself is moisture-resistant, the grout lines can be susceptible to staining and mold growth over time. To prevent this from happening, apply a penetrating sealer to the grout lines. These sealers create a water-repellent barrier that helps prevent moisture from seeping in and causing staining or mildew problems. Choose a high-quality, penetrating sealer specifically formulated for grout, following the application instructions on the product label. Remember, the frequency of resealing will depend on several factors, including the type of sealer used, ventilation in the space, and overall usage. Generally, a high-quality penetrating sealer applied every 1-2 years is sufficient for most subway tile installations. However, for areas with constant moisture exposure, like showers, more frequent resealing might be necessary.

Conclusion

Subway tile offers a timeless combination of practicality and style. With its versatility in application, diverse range of colors and textures, and ease of maintenance, it's no wonder this design element continues to be a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. By understanding its history, characteristics, variations, and installation considerations, you can confidently incorporate subway tile into your next project and create a beautiful and enduring space.