22+ Subway Tile Colors
ID# 187904 – Product BA6330 – Multicolor Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Contemporary Kitchens
Featuring clean and sleek lines, this contemporary kitchen gives a bright look with a sophisticated appeal! To start with, the blue cabinets paired with brass handles provide an elegant foundation. The multicolored marble subway tile backsplash creates a visual feast as a backdrop, bringing a dose of opulence. The wood wall cabinets and floating shelves complement the gold veining of the marble. Keeping the upper parts simple with a white range hood and beige-painted walls balances the busy patterns of the tiles.
ID# 187915 – Product BA6201 – Space Brown Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Transitional Kitchens
In this transitional kitchen, the stark white surfaces are balanced with the warm wood textures, creating a well-balanced overall look with a welcoming atmosphere. The white upper cabinets and countertops provide a bright appeal for the space. The space brown subway tile backsplash with its glossy finish complements this fresh look. The wood cabinets and floating shelves provide a warm foundation. The black cabinet hardware slightly punctuates the design and adds a much-needed contrast.
Best Subway Tile Colors
Dating back early 20s, subway tiles were first used for New York City subway stations, hence their name. Since then, they become one of the most important design elements for tiling applications for interiors. While the traditional color of these classic tiles is white, they also come in an endless variety of color options. From subtle gray shades to vivid blues, dramatic blacks, or even cheerful yellows, you can find subway tiles in almost any color shade. Since each of these shades offers different aesthetics and moods, it is time to find the right one for your design. Do you prefer a sleek and subtle backdrop or add a pop of color to make a fun twist? There’s always an opportunity to have some fun with your kitchen backsplash and this article that includes the best subway tile colors will help you to expand your imagination!
Endless Variety of Colors for Subway Tiles
From white to black, blue, green, and gray, color options for subway tiles are various. Available in different formats and materials, you can highlight these colors in a wide range of ways. When choosing a color for your subway tiles, you need to consider the overall design aesthetic, color scheme, and mood you want to create in the space. And since the classic pattern of the subway tile exudes a timeless elegance, you can easily choose the best subway tile color that enhances the beauty and functionality of your space. If you are wondering how, in this round-out, we completed over 23 design projects with a focus on subway tiles in different colors. So, read on to get inspired and familiar with the tile colors and choose the right one for your kitchen walls.
ID# 187901 – Product BA6201 – Space Brown Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Gray Kitchen Cabinets
If you want to make a statement with your subway tile backsplash, take it up through the ceiling and choose a unique color! In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the glass subway tiles are adorned with a space brown color that gives the mosaic a one-of-a-kind appeal without overpowering the space. Peeking behind the gray kitchen cabinets, these tiles enhance the space feel with their glossy finish. For the rest, the gray cabinets topped with white quartz countertops draw a sleek and modern profile that allows the tiles to be the star of the show.
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
What is the most popular subway tile color?
When it comes to the best subway tile colors, no doubt that white is the most popular one since it is the traditional color that was used for subway stations. Aside from their origin, white subway tiles also offer a timeless and versatile appeal that can be a great pair for any kitchen design. This versatility makes them an ideal choice for kitchens regardless of the style. Besides this classic option that will never go out of style, subtle neutral shades like gray, beige, brown, or black are also popular color options for subway tiles. These neutral shades tend to create a timeless look in a classic pattern.
ID# 187902 – Product BA8011 – Blue and White Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Blue and White Cabinets with Glass Mosaic Tile Backsplash
This mosaic tile backsplash showcases that even a classic subway tile pattern can make a terrific impact! Featuring blue and white colors, this glass subway mosaic makes a strong design statement as a backsplash. The jewel-like appeal of these tiles gives the space a glamorous look. The blue and white kitchen cabinets perfectly complement the color shades on the tiles. The brushed nickel cabinet hardware makes a cohesive touch that enhances the modern aesthetic.
How to choose the right subway tile?
Even if it seems like a small detail, the choice of the backsplash is one of the most important decisions that you have to make when designing a kitchen. Since a backsplash is the visual focal point of the kitchen, it has a significant impact on the overall look. That’s why choosing the right backsplash requires attention to detail. If you decide to go with a subway tile but don’t know how to pick the right one, we have some recommendations.
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Best Subway Tile Colors
First thing first, you need to decide on the color. The color of the subway tile doesn’t necessarily have to match with the cabinets or countertops but it needs to complement them to create a cohesive overall look. Think about what kind of appearance that you want for your kitchen. For example, if you are going with white cabinets and countertops and want to jazz up your space, you can opt for a colorful subway tile. On the other hand, if your space is too dark, you can enlighten the atmosphere by using lighter colors like white, light gray, beige, or pastel shades.
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Right Material
Once you have chosen the color, it is time to decide on the material. Similar to the colors, subway tiles come with a large plethora of material options. Ceramic and porcelain are the most preferable options due to their versatility, cost, and ease of maintenance. If you are looking for a material that is both practical and glamorous, glass or metal tiles would be a great option. Last but not least, natural stone tiles such as marble, slate, onyx, or travertine are the perfect materials to give your space a luxurious sense.
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Different Patterns
While a horizontal brick pattern is the traditional pattern for subway tiles, they can be laid in many different ways, thanks to their simple rectangular shapes. The running bond, aka off-set pattern, will be the best choice to give your space a subtle elegance. However, if you want to spice it up a little bit, you can consider other options like herringbone, chevron, basketweave, or stacked.
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Right Grout Color
When choosing a backsplash, the last decision that you need to make is to choose a grout color. Even if it seems like a small detail, grout colors can easily make or break the entire design. To choose the right grout color, first, you need to decide what type of look you want for your tiles. Mainly there are three approaches: using complementary, matching or contrasting colors. Using a matching grout color with the tiles will provide you with a seamless backdrop. Complementary colors offer a cohesive look that can add depth to your design. However, if you want to emphasize the pattern of your tiles, opt for a contrasting grout color.
All of these might feel overwhelming but after these considerations, you can easily find the right tile design for your kitchen.
Subway Mosaic Tiles
ID# 187903 – Product BA7016 – Pearl Glass Hand Cut Artisan Mosaic Tile
All-white Kitchen Design with a Hint of Blue
When designing a white-dominated kitchen, a backsplash is the perfect area to add a pop of color without overwhelming. In this transitional kitchen, for example, the white shaker cabinets and white Silestone quartz countertops create a bright and spacious atmosphere, seamlessly blending with each other. Between them, the pearl glass subway mosaic tile completes this fresh appeal but it adds a pop of color with its blue transitions. The brushed nickel hardware slightly punctuates the cabinets and adds visual interest to the overall look.
ID# 187905 – Product BA2007 – Modern Warm Gray Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Warm Gray Marble Tiles
From two-tone cabinets to marble backsplash, cabinet hardware and appliances, each feature in this modern farmhouse kitchen harmoniously blends with each other, creating a cohesive look with a warm and welcoming atmosphere! For the upper parts, white cabinets create a bright and fresh feel. Below, the wood cabinets provide an elegant foundation while the warm gray marble subway tile backsplash complements this look. The chrome cabinet hardware adds a dose of sparkle as a final touch.
White Subway Tile Backsplash
There are a few tile designs that are as timeless and versatile as a white subway tile. In the early 20s, white subway tiles were first used for New York City’s subway stations. Since then, they have been used for various tile applications from bathroom walls to fireplace surrounds, laundry rooms and kitchen backsplashes. As the staple for kitchen backsplashes, a white subway tile backsplash promises a calm and subtle background that can be combined with monochromatic, colorful, or contrasting schemes!
Whether you prefer a traditional, modern, farmhouse, Scandinavian, or industrial kitchen, you can not go wrong with white subway tile backsplashes. And if you want to add movement to the backdrop, feel free to lay subway tiles in a herringbone or chevron pattern. These geometric patterns will give you a visually expressive and very contemporary backdrop. You can also emphasize the pattern of your subway tile by using a contrasting grout color or a glossy white subway tile.
ID# 187906 – Product BA8001 – Sparkled White Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for White Shaker Cabinets
You don’t have to use bold textures or vivid colors to make a design statement for your kitchen. Sometimes classic features in an all-white color scheme would be enough to create a stylish overall look. This transitional kitchen, for example, goes with an all-white color scheme, consisting of white shaker cabinets, white subway tile backsplash, and white quartz countertops. These features flawlessly find a balance between modern and traditional styles. The slight marble-like textures on the white subway tiles and countertops give the space a more detailed look while the addition of the brass knobs brings much-needed warmth.
Are matte or glossy subway tiles better for kitchens?
When choosing a color, material, shape, or finish for your backsplash tile, there are no certain rules: it’s all about your personal preferences. Both glossy and matte finishes can be used for subway tiles. When it comes to glossy subway tiles, they tend to give a more classic feel, since they are reminiscent of the traditional subway tiles used in subway stations. The primary benefit of having a glossy subway tile is the shine which can help spread light throughout the room to give the room the feeling of spaciousness. If you are expecting your subway tiles to have a modern look, then the matte surface will be ideal for you.
ID# 187907 – Product BA5503 – Marble Look White Glass Herringbone Mosaic Tile
Black and White Kitchen with Glass Herringbone Backsplash
This transitional kitchen perfectly represents the timeless beauty of a black-and-white color scheme. The black shaker cabinets anchor the space, creating a sophisticated foundation with a dramatic impact. The white backsplash tiles and countertops bring a bright look between the black surfaces, providing a well-balanced look. The slight textures on the white herringbone tile backsplash enhance the visual interest while the white grout lines create a continuous look. For the final touch, the brass hardware finalizes the design elegantly.
Gray Subway Tile Backsplash
Popular in ceramic, glass, and marble materials, a gray subway tile backsplash creates an edgy yet approachable design. From very light grays to almost black ones, gray subway tiles come in a wide range of color shades. This variety allows the homeowners to express their personal style in their designs. Whether the aim is to create a sleek modern kitchen with a subtle backdrop or a contemporary kitchen with a striking focal point, a gray subway tile backsplash can be a great addition to different design approaches. Yet with the integration of wood accents and gold hardware, you can make a kitchen with a gray backsplash much healthier.
ID# 187908 – Product BA1034 – Modern Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Traditional Kitchen with Vertical Subway Tiles
To make a modern twist on the classic subway pattern, lay the tiles vertically. This way you can create a more modern backdrop with a timeless elegance. In this traditional kitchen, for example, the marble subway tiles are laid in a vertical running bond pattern, creating an illusion of a higher ceiling. The remaining part has white shaker cabinets which are complimented by black countertops creating a timeless appeal that will not be out of trend.
What is standard-size subway tile?
The typical size for a subway tile is 3*6 which also suits a kitchen backsplash best. This dimension offers a well-balanced look with a subtle elegance. Whether you prefer a modern or traditional kitchen, these tiles can be a great addition to it, thanks to the timeless appeal of the traditional subway tiles! But if you are looking for smaller or larger formats, today’s market offers a wide range of formats for subway tiles.
ID# 187909 – Product BA8009 – Modern Gray & Beige Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
White Cabinets with Gray Countertops and Wall Tiles
If you are not ready to experiment in terms of bright and daring colors and you are trying to achieve that eternal quality in the kitchen design, then a gray and white combination will be your safe choice. In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the white kitchen cabinets set the tone of the space, providing a bright and fresh appeal. Between them, the gray subway tile backsplash creates a visually appealing focal point with its gorgeous textures. The use of gray granite countertops is consistent with the opulence of the glass tile placed on the interior as well as the brass details complement the interior design perfectly!
What is the best pattern for subway tile?
Typically, subway tiles are installed in an offset pattern which mimics the classic brick lay pattern. In this version, the corner of the tile in one row is aligned with the central point of the tile in the next row. So, that’s where an offset pattern comes from. But nowadays, this offset pattern is replaced by horizontal and vertical stacking. This new layout gives kitchens a contemporary upgrade and a sleeker profile. That’s why minimalist and contemporary kitchens prefer to have their subway tiles stacked. On the other hand, if you desire a more lively background, herringbone, chevron, or basketweave patterns will suit your needs. These patterns clearly explain that even a slight shift within the general layout affects the entire outlook significantly.
ID# 187910 – Product BA7018 – Charcoal Gray Glass Hand Cut Artisan Mosaic Tile
Modern Home Bar with Black Cabinets
Similar to kitchen designs, backsplashes can also be used for home bars, as demonstrated in this example. Here, the charcoal gray glass mosaic tiles add visual interest between the black cabinets along with the white countertops, creating a cohesive look. The unique pattern of the mosaic gives the space a more personalized look. The diagonal shelf design of the open cabinets brings dimension and provides a visually aesthetic place to display the bottle collection or glassware.
Black Subway Tile Backsplash
Even if it is the opposite shade of white, a black color in a classic subway pattern can be as timeless as a white one. Dramatic and opulent, a black subway tile backsplash can incorporate a modern edge with a luxe feel into any kitchen, offering a timeless elegance. Their opulence and sophistication make them an ideal choice for kitchen backsplashes. By treating subway tiles with a gloss finish, you can make these richly pigmented tiles pop even more. Also, use metallic finishes that include gold or chrome to further modernize a black backsplash. Similar to the white-colored tiles, grout colors have an important impact on the black tiles. While darker grout colors create a continuous look with the black tiles, you can highlight the subway pattern by using white grout.
ID# 187911 – Product BA1045 – Modern Black Slate Subway Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Black and White Kitchens
Even though white kitchens are beautiful for many reasons, you can enhance this look by creating a dramatic contrast. In this kitchen, for example, the white cabinets dominate a large portion of the space, offering a fresh and airy atmosphere. The addition of black elements like the countertops, subway tile backsplash, and range hood creates a striking contrast that enhances the overall look with a touch of opulence. The undercabinet lights emphasize the black surfaces even further. Mirroring the perimeter cabinets, the large kitchen island maximizes functionality by providing additional work and storage space. To avoid monotony in the kitchen’s color tones and to introduce some warmth into the space that is dominated by black and white, there is a wooden continuation of the kitchen island.
ID# 187912 – Product BA1070 – Modern Black Slate Subway Backsplash Tile
White Cabinets with Granite Countertops and Slate Tiles
You can not go wrong with a black-and-white color scheme when designing a traditional kitchen. Receiving plenty of natural light, this traditional kitchen perfectly shows the timeless elegance of the black and white combination. The white cabinets set the tone of the space as bright and spacious. Between, the black slate subway tile backsplash creates a strong contrast, adding a focal point. Notably, this work has white grout lines which in a way further make the horizontal brick pattern stand out. And for the final effect, light gray granite countertops will just suffice the requirements of an opulent look.
ID# 187913 – Product BA1081 – Modern Black Long Slate Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Gray and White Cabinets
Black, white, gray, and a touch of gold! This contemporary kitchen showcases a timeless elegance with its beautiful color palette. The gray and white kitchen cabinets provide a sleek and elegant look as a foundation. Reaching through the ceiling, the long design of the cabinets provides ample storage for kitchen essentials. In between, the black slate subway tiles stand out as the hero. If you feel like you need a contemporary appearance to your subway tiles, you should opt to use large format tiles which have been illustrated above!
Beige Subway Tile Backsplash
Looking for a subtle backdrop with a warm sense? Then a beige subway tile is the route to go! Beige subway tiles offer a warm, neutral option that complements various color schemes. Whether you want to create a traditional kitchen with wood cabinets or add a warm sense to your white kitchen, you can achieve the desired look with a beige subway tile backsplash. Lighter beige shades are perfect to create a bright and spacious atmosphere. This fresh look can be further accompanied by a glossy finish, thereby improving the feel of the space even more. Light beige will not be very striking but medium tone or even darker beige shades will easily enhance depth, warmth, and a sophisticated tone towards your kitchen area.
ID# 187914 – Product BA7015 – Opal Beige Glass Hand Cut Artisan Mosaic Tile
Light Wood Cabinets with White Quartz Countertops
This contemporary kitchen gives a calming effect with its color scheme including subtle neutral shades. The light wood cabinets paired with white quartz countertops provide a sleek and modern appeal for the space. The stainless steel appliances perfectly complete this modern flair. The ceiling-height backsplash gives the space a more light and airy feel. Adorned with beige color reflections, these hand-cut mosaic tiles surround the kitchen window and provide a unique backdrop. The absence of the upper cabinets enhances the impact of the tiles even more. The wood floating shelves are used instead of wall cabinets, providing an open storage space.
ID# 187916 – Product BA1092 – Light Ivory Travertine Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Traditional Kitchen with Beige Travertine Subway Tile
The high craftsmanship in this traditional kitchen makes this design unique and opulent. The gorgeous molding details of the kitchen cabinets and range hood look phenomenal, creating a visual interest. The addition of the travertine mosaic backsplash tiles and beige granite countertops perfectly completes the luxurious sense. The oil-rubbed bronze hardware, glass pendant light, and even the candlesticks on the island’s counter finalize the design cohesively.
Blue Subway Tile Backsplash
Reminiscent of sky and sea, blue is one of the most popular color options for kitchen backsplashes. From soft pastel shades to vivid jewel-like tones, blue color comes with an endless variety of shades that can work as a kitchen backsplash. Although the blue color is generally associated with coastal-inspired designs, a blue subway tile backsplash can work with different design aesthetics from modern to traditional. According to the desired aesthetic, you can play with different textures, patterns, and sizes to create a stylish backsplash design with a blue subway tile. While the classic horizontal brick pattern offers a timeless feel in the shades of blue, you can also stack them vertically or horizontally to introduce order and clarity to the background.
ID# 187917 – Product BA8010 – Blue Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Small White Kitchens
Designing a small kitchen might be tricky and using a light color scheme is the best way to enhance the space feel, as it showcases in this contemporary kitchen. However, while doing that you don’t have to sacrifice style! Here, the white color surrounds the space through the cabinets, countertops, floating shelves, and walls, creating a bright and spacious atmosphere. The addition of the blue subway tiles gives the space an instant transformation, even the tiles have a subtle blue shade. The color transitions on the tiles enhance the visual interest of the backdrop.
White Mosaic Tiles
ID# 187918 – Product BA5507 – Blue Glass Herringbone Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Beach-style Kitchen with Wood Accents
If you are designing a beach-style kitchen, a blue subway tile backsplash will be a flawless addition! However, if you want to create a more dynamic look, why not try a herringbone pattern? As demonstrated in this kitchen, the classic rectangular subway tiles are laid in a herringbone pattern, creating a visually appealing backdrop that adds depth to the space. The blue color transitions and glossy finish make the tiles even more visible. The white upper cabinets and countertops also complement the standing tiles giving the space a fresh and clean look, and the blue cabinets give a contrasting color without taking over the entire kitchen. It is combined with wooden inserts and metallic accents that make a perfect synthesis of completing the beach look.
ID# 187919 – Product BA6202 – Space Blue Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
White Cabinets and Countertops with Brass Handles
If you want to make your subway tile the star of your design, opt for a statement-maker color and keep the rest simple! As you can see in this contemporary kitchen, the glass subway tiles are adorned with a gorgeous space blue color, creating a striking focal point. The plain appeal of the flat-panel cabinets and countertops allows the tiles to stand out even more. The glossy finish of the tiles bounces the light around the room and gives the space a more dynamic look. The brass cabinet hardware adds much-needed warmth and complements the metallic effect of the tiles.
Multicolor Subway Tile Backsplash
Multi-colored subway tiles create backsplashes that have more depth and dimension. The ones that feature different saturations of the same color are especially popular in kitchens. And if you want to make an unexpected twist with your subway tiles, why settle with just one color instead of incorporating multiple shades? A multicolor subway tile backsplash offers a classic pattern with a fun twist. From subtle color transitions to striking contrasts, multicolored subway tiles come with endless design possibilities. And those looking for glamorous tiles can consider backsplashes consisting of copper, brass, and steel subway tiles. Plus, the backsplashes which are combinations of different material subway tiles could also make intriguing and eye-catching additions. For example, you can opt for a glass and metal subway mosaic tile to give your backdrop a one-of-a-kind appeal.
ID# 187920 – Product BA8002 – Blue & Brown Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Subway Tile Colors for Two-tone Kitchen Cabinets
Featuring a calming color palette, this kitchen showcases the serene beauty of the beach-style design approach. The two-tone kitchen cabinets consist of white and wood shades, setting the tone of the design. Between them, the multicolored subway tile backsplash acts as a piece of art with its blue and beige color transitions. These colors evoke the beach feeling even further. The white quartz countertops complement the bright appeal of the white wall cabinets while the black hardware punctuates the cabinetry with a modern flair.
ID# 187921 – Product BA8005 – Blue & Gray Metallic Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
Contemporary Kitchen with Colorful Backsplash
Contemporary kitchens love pops of color, and this one executes this approach flawlessly. Here, the glass subway tile backsplash adorned with blue and gray color shades makes a strong design statement, creating a striking focal point. The white flat-panel cabinets and quartz countertops create a clean and fresh frame for the rectangular tiles. The plain appeal of the white surfaces allows the backsplash tiles to stand out even more.
Marble Mosaic Tiles
ID# 187922 – Product BA7017 – Honey Onyx Glass Hand Cut Artisan Mosaic Tile
Light Wood Cabinets with Glass Mosaic Backsplash
This contemporary kitchen showcases how the right choice of backsplash can significantly enhance the overall look! Adorned with warm yellow shades, this honey-onyx glass hand cut artisan mosaic tile backsplash creates a stunning backdrop that catches the eye at first sight. The irregularities in shape and size of this colorful subway tile give the space an authentic and personalized look. The light wood cabinets perfectly complement the warm appeal of the tiles while the pure white countertops balance the busy patterns. The greenery wall decor and floating shelf give the space a more lived-in feel while the black hardware adds a slight contrast.
