20+ How to Lay Subway Tile Backsplash
ID# 189703 – Product BA6202 – Space Blue Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Vertical Subway Tile Backsplash with Black and White Cabinets
In this transitional kitchen, the black and white color palette waits for some more vibrant color, which is brought in by the blue subway tile backsplash. Puncturing the backdrop, the space blue subway tile backsplash brings a shimmering effect while adding depth and dimension. The rest features black and white cabinets with white quartz countertops that draw a classic profile while brass accents finally warm up the interior.
Design tip: If you want to give your backsplash a more modern look, lay the subway tile backsplash vertically. This way you can create a more dynamic backdrop while creating an illusion of a higher ceiling.
ID# 189720 – Product BA6204 – Blue Rustic Glass & Ceramic Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Vertically Stacked Subway Tile Backsplash with Wooden Shelves
While larger subway tile sizes offer a more sleek appearance, smaller tiles tend to create more intricate patterns. Here, for example, the blue glass and ceramic mosaic tile backsplash create a detailed backdrop that enhances the overall aesthetic. These small subway tiles are set up vertically, and such a layout creates an illusion of the ceiling being higher. Furthermore, the brown inserts of these mosaic tiles give a rustic touch, which goes well with dark wood floating shelves. The snow-white color of the countertops balances the dark colors and lightens up the atmosphere.
How to Lay Subway Tile Backsplash
Dating back to the early 1900s, subway tiles were first used in New York City subway stations, hence their name. Since that day, they become one of the most popular interior design elements. These simple rectangular tiles have the power to transform homes with exciting patterns. Available in an endless array of colors, materials, sizes, textures, and patterns, these tiles are a go-to choice for shower walls, fireplace surrounds, kitchen and bathroom backsplashes, and more. While the offset aka running bond is the traditional pattern of the subway tiles, lots of different patterns can be applied thanks to their simplistic shapes. But how to lay a subway tile backsplash? Which pattern is the best for your design? Do you prefer classic or more contemporary? To assist you in choosing the right pattern, here are some different layout options that will show you various design possibilities!
Creative Ways to Lay Subway Tile Backsplash
The classic offset pattern still retains its popularity, due to its versatile and timeless appeal. This staggered pattern can be a great pair for all types of kitchen styles from modern to traditional. However, a simple twist on this classic pattern can make a drastic change in the overall look. Available in herringbone, chevron, basketweave, and stacked layouts, subway tiles have carved a whole new identity for themselves to retain their popularity, making them compete with on-trend geometric pattern backsplashes. In this blog, we have gathered 20+ design projects with a focus on the various subway tile layout options that will fire up your imagination and demonstrate how you can create different and creative designs with rectangular subway tiles.
ID# 189701 – Product BA8005 – Blue & Gray Metallic Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern White Cabinets with Blue Subway Tile Backsplash
Even if you keep the entire kitchen white- at least almost all-white a colorful backsplash provides enough energy to change the overall ambiance. In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the subway tile backsplash adds a pop of color between the white cabinets and countertops, creating a striking focal point. Even though these tiles give a classic feel with their traditional staggered layout, their blue and gray colors give this mosaic a metallic effect which adds a more modern look. The plain appeal of the cabinets and countertops allows the backsplash tiles to stand out even further.
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
What is the best way to lay subway tile backsplash?
Subway tiles are rectangular tiles, that measure twice as wide as they are tall. Thanks to this simple rectangular shape, they can be laid in various options, from herringbone to chevron, basketweave, diagonal, offset, and stacked. But the definition of the ‘best’ pattern depends on your personal preferences. When choosing a subway tile pattern, you first identify what kind of impact you would want. For instance, if you are playing it really safe and going classic, you can lay subway tiles in an offset or running bond pattern. However, if you are into geometric patterns, herringbone and chevron will give you just that. If you want to create a modern and on-trend look with subway tiles, then stacking them either horizontally or vertically would be great.
ID# 189702 – Product BA9901 – Modern Custom Engraved Black Stone Tile Backsplash
Black Stone Backsplash with White Flat-front Cabinets
In this contemporary kitchen, the generosity of the design lies in the bright white shades that enhance the openness of the space! To balance the airiness, the black backsplash tiles are added to bring the design down to earth. Stacked vertically, these black subway tiles feature white organic patterns that add visual interest to the backdrop. The white modern cabinets and countertops provide a clean and fresh frame for the tiles, punctuating the tiles even further.
What Are the Different Ways to Lay Subway Tile Backsplash?
Herringbone, chevron, running-bond or off-set, and basketweave are the most popular ways to lay a subway tile. In addition to those, you can also stack them vertically or horizontally, which is nowadays an on-trend look. While the off-set aka running bond is the traditional pattern for subway tiles, you can create more unique appeals by experimenting the other alternatives. Each of these patterns has a different impact on the overall aesthetic and before your decision you need to learn more about these impacts.
Running Bond (Traditional Subway Pattern)
Also known as off-set or horizontal brick, the running bond is the traditional pattern for subway tiles, regardless of their sizes. To create this layout, each row is offset by half the width of the tile. In other words, it is ensured that each tile joint aligns with the center of the tile placed above and below it. This classic pattern offers a versatile and timeless appeal for the kitchen and bathroom backsplashes. Exuding a subtle elegance, this pattern can be a great pair for a variety of kitchen styles from modern to traditional. While 3×6 inch glazed ceramic tiles in white color are the traditional ones that were used for the New York metro stations, they can be found in limitless colors, materials, sizes, and textures.
ID# 189704 – Product BA8001 – Sparkled White Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
All-white Kitchen with Shaker Cabinets and Brass Accents
One of the key features of designing an all-white kitchen is to keep the flow alive with small details! This transitional kitchen, for example, does it with a rich material repertoire and small-scale fixtures that add flow to the space. To exemplify, the white shaker cabinetry provides a timeless foundation for the space. The white subway tile backsplash and countertops seamlessly blend with the cabinetry. The slight textures on the glass subway tiles and countertops add enough interest while the brass accents bring a warm sense.
Subway Mosaic Tiles
Is it difficult to lay a subway tile backsplash?
Installing a subway tile backsplash can be a manageable DIY project, especially if you are going with a classic horizontal brick pattern. The plain rectangular shape of subway tiles makes them easier to deal with than some of the more finicky tile patterns. That means installing a subway tile backsplash isn’t overly difficult, but it does require careful planning, the right tools, and attention to detail.
ID# 189705 – Product BA6201 – Space Brown Glass Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Ceiling Height Subway Tile Backsplash with Gray Cabinets
The brightness and warmth of this modern kitchen are welcomed by an eye-catching subway tile backsplash! These space brown subway tiles are used as a ceiling-height backsplash that peeks behind the cabinets, creating a striking accent wall. The gray cabinets balance the shimmery look of the tiles and create a harmonious look. The white quartz countertops provide a continuous aesthetic.
ID# 189706 – Product BA1034 – Modern Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Black and White Kitchen with Marble Backsplash Tiles
In this transitional kitchen, the combination of the white shaker cabinets and black kitchen countertops draw a classic profile for the space. By contrast, the vertically laid subway tile backsplash adds a modern upgrade. These gray marble tiles also provide a smoother transition between the black and white surfaces. The black cabinet hardware punctuates the design and gives enough visual interest to the white cabinetry.
Should subway tile be staggered or straight?
Subway tiles can be laid in both staggered and straight patterns. While both of these patterns have different impacts, there is no certain rule that a subway tile should be laid staggered or straight. This decision depends on your personal preferences. The traditional pattern of the subway tiles is staggered. For this, every row is offset by half the width of the tile. The staggered layout is versatile, works in myriad styles, and offers an appeal that’s classic and timeless.
A straight layout (grid or stack bond) creates a more sleek and modern look for the kitchen and bathroom walls. For this layout, the tiles are aligned directly on top of one another, creating a streamlined appeal. While the staggered layout gives you that timeless and somewhat classic look with a little visual texture, the straight pattern fits the bill if what you’re after is something modern, sleek and uniform.
ID# 189707 – Product BA2007 – Modern Warm Gray Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Dark Wood Floor
This gorgeous and cozy modern farmhouse kitchen design features a color palette down to earth, abounding in wood shades. The natural wood base cabinets topped with white countertops and marble subway tile backsplash harmonize beautifully, presenting a heart-fluttering scene. This charming combination feels enriched by white upper cabinets and wood open shelving. The wood flooring evokes visual interest, which ties the design together along with the wood cabinetry. At the center, the dark gray kitchen island brings the space a contrasting look that enhances visual interest while maximizing functionality.
ID# 189708 – Product BA6330 – Multicolor Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Multicolor Marble Subway Tile Backsplash with Two-tone Cabinets
This modern kitchen is mainly characterized by a multicolor subway tile backsplash that delivers elegance. Its gold and gray veining matches the two-tone kitchen cabinets, adding texture and authenticity. To complement it, medium-tone wood wall cabinets and wood floating shelves bring just the right amount of warmth. Below, the navy blue perimeter cabinets inject a healthy dose of color into the interior and enhance elegance. The brass cabinet pulls also coordinate with the wooden textures to pull the space together.
Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone is the second most popular pattern that can be created with rectangular tiles. For such a pattern, tiles are to be installed perpendicular, or at 90-degree angles, to each other. This placement creates a V-shaped, zigzag formation that resembles the bones of a herringbone fish, hence its name. There is more than one way to lay them, since they may be laid at various angles-straight, diagonal, etc.-with various effects. Still, in all of these, the movement factor becomes imposed on your kitchen walls and commands attention. So, if you are aiming for a timeless yet dynamic appeal a herringbone backsplash can effortlessly enhance any wall and serve exceptionally well as a focal point.
ID# 189709 – Product BA5507 – Blue Glass Herringbone Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Lay Subway Tile Backsplash in a Herringbone Pattern
This beach-style kitchen features a two-toned effect to evoke an instant charm. And in doing so, it not only uses two-tone cabinetry but also employs two different cabinet styles. While the white and blue shaker-style cabinets anchor the space, the addition of the glass-fronted cabinets brings the space a light and airy feel. Together they also make a striking statement, while the incorporation of blue tiles adds further dynamism. The blue color transitions on the herringbone backsplash tiles enhance the beachy vibes while the addition of the wooden trims gives the space a warmer feel.
ID# 189710 – Product BA5503 – Marble Look White Glass Herringbone Mosaic Tile
Gray and White Kitchen with Brass Cabinet Hardware
To create a fully-fledged kitchen design, you don’t always need vibrant pops of colors. Sometimes the combination of gray and white is more than enough and even assertive when combined with a sophisticated mixture of materials. This transitional kitchen, for example, goes with gray shaker cabinets and pairs them with white tiles and countertops. Combining perfectly with gray cabinets, the white marble-look herringbone backsplash also adds a level of delicacy but is strong in the core. And with white quartz countertops, it provides a seamless transition between the gray cabinets. To keep the matte gray cabinets fingerprint-free, the designers also install brass cabinet hardware. This way, it is more convenient to open and close the cabinets without making them dirty.
Chevron Pattern
Often confused with herringbone, the chevron pattern is another popular choice for backsplashes. While both have similar appearances, the most notable respect in which herringbone differs from chevron is that one pattern is considered to be made up of rectangular tiles, while the other involves taking normal rectangular tiles and cutting them diagonally at both ends to 45-degree angles. This placement provides an inverted ‘V’ pattern, creating a zigzag shape with a continuous flow.
It is a much smoother pattern compared to the herringbone layout and hence looks highly broken up. Chevron tiles usually show a symmetrical zigzag pattern that expresses dynamism, style, and semblance. They also are often associated with contemporary design styles but they still can complement traditional designs when used in the right context.
ID# 189711 – Product BA631613 – Modern White Marble Chevron Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Traditional Kitchen with Ceiling-height Marble Backsplash
If you want to create a dynamic backdrop while still maintaining the timeless appeal, you can lay the subway tile backsplash in a chevron pattern! Chevron tiles can easily infuse dynamism into your kitchen walls with their striking zigzag pattern. In this traditional kitchen, for example, the marble chevron tiles surround the entire wall space behind the stove, creating a visually appealing backdrop. Peeking behind the cabinets, these tiles with their natural textures enhance the visual interest. The white shaker cabinets and white Silestone quartz countertops go in harmony with the ceiling-height backsplash. The black oversized range hood creates a striking contrast against the white background; the wood floor balances this contrasting look and brings warmth to the interior.
ID# 189712 – Product BA8030 – Chevron Pearl Marble Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with White Shaker Cabinets
This white-dominated yet warm kitchen owes its approachable vibe to the addition of the wooden accents and the intriguing marble chevron tile backsplash. Both elements together give a new outfit for the white color scheme, while the white countertops offer a smooth finish to work on. The white shaker cabinets provide a sleek and fresh foundation for the space. The chevron backsplash tiles with the shell inserts add a sparkled look as a backdrop. The black cabinet hardware punctuates the cabinets and adds much-needed contrast. The wooden shelves are also great spots to exhibit the less-used items and put some books and kitchen plants on display to incorporate personality into the kitchen.
ID# 189713 – Product BA6320 – White Gray & Brown Marble Chevron Mosaic Tile
Wooden Bathroom Vanity with Marble Tiled Accent Wall
Similar to the kitchen walls, chevron tiles are also popular choices for bathroom backsplashes. In this modern bathroom, for instance, the chevron mosaic tiles envelop the entire wall space behind the vanity into a dramatic accent wall. Gray and brown veining give these marble tiles a luxurious sense as a backdrop. The dark wood floating vanity creates a cohesive look with the neutral shades on the marble tiles. While the white vanity top and vessel sink bring a bright and fresh feel, the addition of the brass accents add a dose of sparkle.
Horizontally Stacked Pattern
A stacked subway tile gives a modern and clean look that is quite different from the traditional staggered or herringbone layouts. Horizontal stacking is of particular use if one intends to expand the kitchen’s visual scheme on the horizontal axis. This consists of directly placing rectangular tiles on top of each other in a straight line to create a uniform, grid-like layout. While it was originally applied for smaller tiles such as the classic 3×6-inch subway tiles, this pattern can be widely adopted to different tile sizes: larger 4×8-inch or even 12×24-inch tiles, depending on the scale of the space and the desired effect.
ID# 189714 – Product BA1038 – Modern Long Gray Limestone Backsplash Tile
Modern White Kitchen with High Gloss Cabinets and Countertops
All-white kitchens are beautiful and timeless but sometimes they need some details to jazz up the white-on-white look. Here, for example, the high gloss white cabinets dominate the space, providing a bright and fresh atmosphere. The marble-look white quartz countertops perfectly complement the fresh look of the cabinetry. Between them, the light gray limestone backsplash tiles bring a slight contrast that enhances the white look. The horizontally stacked layout of the subway tile backsplash gives the space a more modern appearance. This monochromatic kitchen is generously sized, also hosting an island that looks like a mere copy of the perimeter counters. Finally, the addition of the red velvet counter chairs adds a pop of color without overpowering the bright color scheme.
ID# 189715 – Product BA6204 – Blue Rustic Glass & Ceramic Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Black Kitchen Cabinets with Stacked Subway Tile Backsplash
This dramatic kitchen design is sleek, edgy, and contemporary to the core. The black handle-free cabinets colonize the space, paired with a blue backsplash that lightens up the kitchen, breaking up the black look. Laying the blue subway tile backsplash in a horizontally staked pattern enhances the contemporary aesthetic even further. Also, the glossy finish of these tiles enlightens the room and avoids a cave-like feel. The black granite countertops seamlessly blend with the cabinets to create a continuous look. These black surfaces allow the blue subway tile backsplash to stand out even more.
Do you need space between subway tiles?
Yes, you need space between subway tiles to accommodate grout. The space accommodates grout which is considered a grout joint that will help to stabilize the tiles. Aside from the functional aspects, grout lines have also a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of the backsplashes. When it comes to the size of this space, the most common size spacers measure 1/8-inch, 1/16-inch, and 3/16-inch, but which one you should be using depends on the size of the subway tiles. The logic is to use small spacers for small tiles and bigger spacers for bigger tiles.
White Mosaic Tiles
ID# 189716 – Product BA4501 – Modern Long Beige Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Stacked Subway Tile Backsplash with Two-tone Cabinets
In this modern kitchen, the gray and white color palette waits for some more vibrant color, which is brought in by a stainless steel stove. Puncturing the space, this stove further enhances the contemporary lines. Rounding up the white and wood cabinets is the horizontally stacked subway tile backsplash that gives a warm sense with its beige shades while adding depth and dimension. For a final touch, the black cabinet hardware punctuates the cabinets, adding much-needed contrast.
Vertically Stacked Pattern
Offering a modern and unique twist on the traditional subway tile layout, vertically stacked subway tiles are an increasingly popular design choice! The tiles do not lay beside one another in a grid-like horizontal fashion but are instead stacked upon one another into vertical columns that evoke a clean linear look. This orientation makes the area much taller vertically and pulls the eye up, so this is an appropriate choice whenever trying to visually raise a ceiling or accentuate the height of any wall. Especially if you take the vertically stacked subway tiles up to the ceiling, they will give your kitchen extra height.
ID# 189717 – Product BA9901 – Modern Custom Engraved Black Stone Tile Backsplash
Black Subway Tile Backsplash with Dark Gray Cabinets
To make a modern statement with your backsplash, lay the subway tile backsplash in a stacket layout or choose a dynamic pattern. Well, this contemporary does both. Here, the black subway tiles are laid in a vertically stacked pattern that enhances the modern elegance with a streamlined appeal. But the real showstopper is the white patterns on black tiles, adding such organic flow to the interior. Modern gray kitchen cabinets turn out completely great with the sleek look of the black backsplash tiles. The addition of the pure white quartz countertops creates a contrast against the dark surfaces and enlightens the atmosphere. The brushed nickel cabinet hardware and glass pendant lights are the other elements that harmoniously finalize the design.
Marble Mosaic Tiles
ID# 189718 – Product BA4502 – Modern Light Gray Porcelain Backsplash Tile
All-white Contemporary Kitchen with Dark Wood Floor
The grout color is an effective way to make a white kitchen backsplash stand out and look more vibrant. In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the charcoal grout lines highlight the vertically stacked pattern of the subway tiles, enhancing visual interest without overpowering the interior. The long and slim shape of the tiles also complements the handless door style of the white flat-panel cabinets. The white quartz countertops are adorned with marble-like veining that adds another layer of texture. Contrasting floors will be one of the best things to balance an all-white kitchen. Here, the dark-colored wood floor will contrast very nicely with the white surfaces and will add depth to the space.
How to install subway tile backsplash?
Preparation:
Clean the wall surface before laying the tiles. Make sure there is no bump. If there is any, use sandpaper and after sanding, don’t forget to clean the wall with a soft cloth and remove residual dust. Cut the cardboard of the same size as the backsplash area, or any other material that is strong enough to hold the weight of the tiles. You may lay the tiles on this cardboard for a look to get a more solid idea about how they would look on the wall. That way, you will see how much you have to cut the tiles that go on the edges. You can also mark the electric layouts on the cardboard and lay the tiles according to it.
Installation:
Once you’ve done cutting and your little trial on cardboard of tile design, you now spread the tile adhesive. For leaving even gaps between the tiles, you can take advantage of spacers. These spacers can be removed when you are done, and the mortar is completely cured.
Now, it is time for the grout. Either you get a premixed one to make it easy for you or just mix it yourself. While applying the grout, just move the float diagonally at a 45-degree angle and make sure the grout fills the gaps. Use a wet sponge to clean the extra grout before it dries. Then, take a soft cloth to dry the tiles and take off any possible dust and grout.
The last thing you need to do is caulk the gap with a caulk gun between the countertops and backsplash to prevent water or any other liquid spills from seeping through this joint.
ID# 189719 – Product BA1038 – Modern Long Gray Limestone Backsplash Tile
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash with White Cabinets
If you want to avoid a too-white look, the addition of the light gray surfaces will be an excellent alternative- as displayed by this kitchen. Featuring clean and sleek lines, this gray and white kitchen exudes a contemporary style with an industrial vibe. The white flat front kitchen cabinets dominate the large portion of the space, providing ample storage for kitchen essentials. The white quartz countertops brushed nickel hardware, and built-in stainless steel appliances perfectly complete this modern appearance. Between them, the vertically stacked subway tile backsplash provides a nice textural look as a backdrop. An oversized concrete range hood and concrete floor add a dose of industrial charm. If you want to give your kitchen a more modern appearance, lay the subway tile backsplash vertically stacked!
