5 Ways to Use Subway Tiles for Bathroom

5 Ways to Use Subway Tiles for Bathrooms

Subway tiles are a classic for a reason. They're simple, neutral, and bright. You may not have realized that they are also versatile tiles for the home and can be used in different ways to achieve specific design aesthetics. While subway tiles can be used anywhere on walls, here are five ways to use subway tiles for bathrooms.

Subway Tile Half Wall

Subway tiles are great home tiles for bathrooms. They are easy to incorporate into any design and affordable enough to make a statement partial wall in your bathroom. Use either flat or beveled subway tiles to create a waterproof half-wall moment suitable for any powder room or full bath. Finish off the top with a thin piece of matching tile called a pencil. Then, either paint the top part of the wall or apply wallpaper.

Shower Walls

Subway bathroom tiles can also be used on shower walls or niches. Create a beautiful blank slate with a patterned floor tile or porcelain mosaic on the shower pan. Just be sure to use only subway tiles as floor tiles--they are typically made of ceramic and need to be more durable for foot traffic!

Backsplash

Although backsplash is typically reserved for kitchens, add some tile behind your bathroom sink or vanity. This will protect the wall from splash and splatter while inviting a new design element. Create a dramatic backsplash by bringing the subway tile all the way to the ceiling. Keep things simple by tiling the area between the sink and mirrors.

Chevron/Herringbone Pattern

While beveled subway tile for backsplash is usually found in 3x6 sizes, you can also find them in bigger sizes that can be used in herringbone and chevron patterns. Keep things light and airy while adding a cool pattern on your shower walls, backsplash, or even as a statement wall.

High-Contrast Grout

One of the easiest ways to add a twist to these timeless subway tiles is to use dark grout to add contrast. While white grout can help subway tiles blend in, dark grey or black grout can help them pop and add a fun graphic element to your design. This is an easy way to keep the layout and size simple while incorporating subway tiles for bathroom designs.