Installation Patterns for Subway Tile

With so many tile types available to design with, it’s no surprise that subway tile has remained an enduring selection found in homes across the country– and across decades! The classic rectangular shape can be used in virtually any design style from modern to traditional, and can be used in many applications including walls, backsplashes, showers, and floors. Durable, resistant to moisture and heat, and easy to clean, attractive subway tile options deliver chic style and easy maintenance for our kitchens and bathrooms effortlessly.

We adore subway tile for the customization capabilities that produce unique designs for our clients. Once you choose your favorite shade, size, and finish, now it’s time to explore which subway tile installation pattern will truly bring your personalized vision to life. Our tile experts can help you assess the best use of the space you are planning for! Here are a few of the most popular installations patterns for subway tile that you should certainly consider:

Best Installation Patterns for Subway Tile

It’s no secret that the layout of tiles horizontally or vertically can dramatically change the way a finished installation looks. We love the way that all these popular subway tile installation patterns lend interest, precision, and proportion:

• Traditional Offset Subway Tile – For this classic look, the subway tiles are laid in rows, with each row shifted subtly to the left or right, thus resulting in an offset pattern. Subway tiles provide flexibility with different offsets: We love the common brick or running pattern at a traditional 50% offset, but an offset of 40/60% or 30/70% can create soft visuals as well.
• Stacked Subway Tile – Rather than the brick look, a stacked tile pattern is installed in straight rows, directly above one another. Explore this clean layout if you are striving for a modern or contemporary interior.
• Vertical Subway Tile – To create a sense of height and draw the eye upward, you can install subway tiles vertically in either an offset or clean stack pattern.
• Herringbone Subway Tile – The subway tile shape works perfectly for creating the visual complexity of the classic herringbone layout. This pattern is ideal for modern décor and making the perspective of smaller spaces feel larger.

Enhancing Visual Interest with Subway Tile Installation Patterns

If you’re looking into additional ways for creating visual interest with subway tile installation patterns, you can always explore the latest tile trends, as well as these effective methods:

• Larger Subway Tiles – The standard 3”x 6” subway tile will always be a classic format, but larger format subway tiles such as 4”x 8” and up will add dramatic appeal! When planning a backsplash that extends to the ceiling, consider large subway tiles to craft a luxurious look.
• Accent Colors – If you want your subway tile to blend in more, start with muted neutrals such as white, tan, or gray. For a statement subway tile installation, choose a vibrant accent color that connects to other features in the room. No matter what color tile you love, always balance all main elements together including counters, cabinets, flooring, backsplash, and wall colors.

How to Choose a Subway Tile Installation Pattern

Our Dolphin Carpet & Tile experts can help you determine the best subway tile installation pattern by weighing a few key factors pertaining to your space:

• Your Home Style: Do you need your subway tile to match a specific aesthetic?
• Room Size: Do you need to make a small room feel larger or create more visual interest for a spacious area?
• Tile Size & Shape: What size is the area you are designing for and how will your tile dimensions best enhance the perspective of the space?
• Additional Design Elements: How will your subway tile installation pattern work with the other patterns, textures, or focal design points in the room?

Once you have zeroed in on your favorite subway tile styles, make sure to visit one of our ten locations to get tile samples, bring pictures of your space, and ask any questions you have to our tile design specialists!