20+ Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas
ID# 178710 – Product BA8023 – Shimmery White Textured Glass Backsplash Tile
White Shaker Cabinets with Quartz Countertops and Black Hardware
Even if you go with white tile backsplashes, you can always make them pop by choosing more expressive textures and patterns. This transitional kitchen, for example, goes with a shimmery glass long subway tile backsplash that adds a dazzling look between the shaker style cabinets. The gloss finish of the white tiles adds extra charm to them, while the black cabinet hardware brings a sense of contrast. The white quartz countertops complement the white scheme, staying loyal to the kitchen’s sleek profile.
ID# 178713 – Product BA1080 – Modern Rosewood & Gray Marble Kitchen Backsplash
Natural Wood Cabinets with Gray Countertops and Marble Tiles
Though stacking subway tiles vertically is one way to make the backsplash look more stylish, the surroundings are as important as the tiles themselves. And this contemporary kitchen has no excuses! Adorned with rosewood and gray veins, the modern marble backsplash creates a visual feast between the wood cabinets. The neutral shades of the cabinets and countertops perfectly complement the sleek appeal of the tiles.
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas
Of course, your kitchen needs to be functional but it should also make you happy with its aesthetic value! While cabinets and countertops are the backbones of the kitchens, there are different points that you need to consider and backsplash is one of the most important of them. Being both functional and aesthetically pleasing, a backsplash is the focal points of your kitchen which tie all the elements together. Understandably, choosing the right tile might be a daunting task. Among all the alternatives, there is one material that comes in front with its elegance and adaptability: a subway tile backsplash! Although running bond or offset is the main layout option for a subway tile, did you know that different options can modernize the classic appeal? So, if you think that subway tiles are boring, keep reading to find modern subway tile backsplash ideas you’ve ever seen!
Timeless, Stylish, and Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas
Even though all elements are important for kitchen designs, a backsplash is the make or break point. And, a subway tile backsplash is one of the most timeless options that can work with any design aesthetics. Almost 120 years after their first use in the New York City subway system, these rectangular tiles become an important feature for interior designs and they still maintain their popularity in today’s world. The traditional subway tiles come in a 3×6-inch size and a running bond pattern that provides a perfect balance between function and style. However, if this classic layout is too boring for you, you can still find different alternatives from herringbone, basketweave, diagonal, and stacked for modern subway tile backsplash ideas!
ID# 178701 – Product BA2007 – Modern Warm Gray Subway tile Backsplash
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas for Farmhouse Kitchen
Drawing inspiration from a modern farmhouse style, this bright kitchen offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere! While the white color dominates the upper parts to enlighten the room, the natural texture exudes an organic warmth to balance the stark white appearance. The modern warm gray marble subway tile backsplash provides a balanced look between the cozy and opulent. The wooden base cabinets complement the tiles. At the center, the dark gray kitchen island brings a much-needed contrast. The gold counter chairs and the white pendant lights make a cohesive final touch that enhances the farmhouse aesthetic.
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
ID# 178702 – Product BA1038 – Modern Gray Limestone Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Modern Kitchen with White and Wood Cabinets and Gray Floor
White, gray, and a touch of wood… If you are looking for a color scheme that is both warm and cool, this one will never let you down! In this modern kitchen, the white base cabinets and kitchen island paired with gray countertops provide a clean and fresh foundation. The modern gray backsplash adds a slight contrasting look between the cabinetry and enhances the visual interest with its natural veining. The addition of the wooden upper cabinets and dining table breaks the gray and white color scheme to bring warmth to the atmosphere. The black pendant lights above the island and chairs increase the contrast with an ultra-modern look.
Is subway tile in style 2024?
For almost a century, subway tiles have dominated kitchen and bathroom walls with great popularity and in 2024, they still enjoy the same level of popularity as before! There are some points of light to modernize the antiquated style that is traditional for a subway tile backsplash! Even though white is the most used color for such rectangular tiles, one can achieve a powerful effect with bolder and brighter colors like blue green orange red or yellow!
ID# 178703 – Product BA8024 – Shimmery Black & Gray Textured Glass Backsplash Tile
Gray and White Glass Backsplash Tiles with Granite Countertops
White ceramic is the traditional material for subway tiles but if you want to make a statement with your backsplash, check this one! Adorned with gray and black colors, the glass subway tiles are laid in a vertically stacked pattern which creates a super modern appeal. The textured surface of the tiles adds a shimmery look and enhances the impact of the backsplash. The black granite countertops perfectly complete the dramatic appeal of the tiles while the natural wood cabinets balance the seep black shades and bring warmth to the atmosphere.
White Mosaic Tiles
ID# 178704 – Product BA4501 – Modern Beige Porcelain Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Two-tone Cabinets with Beige Backsplash
These days, all-white kitchens are a highly trendy design trend, but a fantastic approach to counterbalance the harsh white appearance is to add some warm accents! White quartz countertops, white base cabinets and a white kitchen island give this modern kitchen a light and airy feel. The area is made cozier with the addition of the wood upper cabinets and the beige backsplash. The beige rectangular subway tiles, with their long and slim shape and vertically piled pattern, give off a sleek, contemporary appearance that goes well with the cabinets’ handleless design.
ID# 178705 – Product BA4502 – Modern Light Gray Porcelain Tile Kitchen Backsplash
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas for Gray and Wood Cabinets
This contemporary kitchen has a sleek and elegant appearance, thanks to its soft neutral color scheme. The light wood base cabinets bring much-needed warmth to the space, while the gray elements—such as the worktops, backsplash tiles and upper cabinets—create a manly appeal with a cool attitude. Without overpowering the design, the textured surfaces of the cabinets and backsplash are enhanced by the porcelain tile.
How do you make subway tile look modern?
If you want to add a modern flair to the traditional subway pattern, there are many ways to achieve your goal:
Play with Textures and Layouts
Subway tile is traditionally smooth but now there are options with a variety of textures, such as hand-pressed tiles or tiles with a crackled finish which can enhance the modern aesthetic. The other way to give a modern flair to a traditional subway tile is playing layouts. Yes, the classic running bond pattern is still popular but designers are also getting creative with subway tile layouts, such as herringbone, basketweave or even vertical stacks!
Bold and Vibrant Colors
Apart from this, all color and material choices contribute also greatly to the look of subway tiles. Jewel tones such as emerald green, navy blue, burgundy or velvety purple have been swept away by neutral shades in 2024. And because of the modern architecture behind these rectangular tiles, such rich colors can look good alongside a subway pattern. Firstly, the grout lines also have a profound effect on overall décor and along with many traditional options such as black, white and grey there will be more playful hues for grouting too!
Mix and Match Materials
Subway tiles are made using ceramic tiles, porcelain and natural stone materials which is the first choice. However, modernity can be increased using metallic accents as additions if you wish to achieve a sparkling appeal on your backsplash. These accents can be accompanied by metallic hardware or lighting fixtures to give a consistent charm.
All these points considered, the easiest way to determine whether subway tile is right for you would be to look at your style and general atmosphere that needs to prevail in your space.
ID# 178706 – Product BA631613 – Modern Marble Chevron Mosaic Tile Backsplash
Gray Kitchen Cabinets with Marble Chevron Backsplash
Chevron is one of the most sophisticated patterns that you can create with subway tiles. Intriguing and classic at the same time, a chevron tile backsplash can be used as a minimalist design element or the focal point of your kitchen. In this contemporary kitchen, the eye-catching zigzag pattern of the marble chevron backsplash creates a seamless backdrop. The gray kitchen cabinets paired with white countertops perfectly complement the timeless elegance of the backsplash. The rose gold pendant lights are the only elements that break the monochrome color scheme and add a dazzling look.
Modern White Subway Tile Backsplash
When it comes to subway tile backsplash, white is the traditional color application. And if you want to complete the pureness of the white, a classic running bond pattern will be a perfect and failsafe match! This tile pattern, also known as off-set, takes its clue from the brickworks in New York subway stations. It is one of the simplest to lay out patterns that can be a perfect DIY project. Even though the 3×6 inches is the classic tile size for this layout, you can also use different tile sizes like 4×8, 6×12, or 10×20 inches.
Besides this classic layout, other modern white subway tile backsplash designs can enhance the overall look of your kitchen. To create a more modern appeal, a vertical or horizontal stacked layout will be a great option.
Subway Mosaic Tiles
ID# 178707 – Product BA6306 – Modern White Marble Subway Tile Backsplash
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas with Wood Kitchen Cabinets
If you are wondering how a classic white subway tile backsplash can create an impactful look, check out this example! Adorned with light gray grout, the white marble subway tile backsplash creates a classic yet timeless backdrop for this transitional kitchen. The white quartz countertops might be the perfect pair to complete this elegance. The wood cabinets on the other hand, balance the stark white color of the tiles and countertops and provide a warm atmosphere.
ID# 178708 – Product BA1078 – Modern Light Gray Marble Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Light Gray Kitchen Cabinets with Modern Mable Backsplash
These days, gray-on-gray kitchens are become more and more common and this one is a great example! While the gray cabinets’ flat-panel doors and the pure white quartz counters provide a simple clean aesthetic, the contemporary marble backsplash provides a lovely textural element with a hint of luxury. The integrated stainless steel appliances are the ideal finishing touch to the contemporary style.
ID# 178709 – Product BA5503 – Marble Look White Glass Herrinbone Tile Backsplash
Gray and White Kitchen with Marble-look Herringbone Backsplash
If you love the timeless elegance of the subway tiles but want to jazz up the classic appeal, look no further than herringbone tile! A herringbone tile pattern which dates back to the common interlocking pavement method of the Roman Empire, can be the ideal texture and appearance for your kitchen backsplash. In this transitional kitchen, the white glass herringbone tile backsplash adorned with marble-like textures enlightens the atmosphere. The white quartz countertops seamlessly blend with the tiles while the gray shaker-style cabinets provide a classic elegance.
Modern Marble Subway Tile Backsplash
Although each tile material has unique qualities and benefits, marble stands out for its classic beauty and opulent feel above the others! And the outcome is really stunning when this priceless material is combined with traditional subway designs. Marble is a timeless material for all types of kitchens and bathrooms because of its natural veining, unquestionably opulent appeal and durability. It can also dramatically improve your design. However, how can we modernize this timeless appeal?
Even though the marble subway tile backsplashes have a classic look, you can still add a modern flair to them. If you love the traditional running bond pattern, adding a honed or matte finish will help you to modernize this appeal. Besides the finish options, different layouts like herringbone, chevron, diagonal or stacked will give a modern look to the marble subway tiles.
ID# 178711 – Product BA1034 – Modern Marble Subway Tile Backsplash
Vertical Subway Tiles with Black Countertops and Cabinet Hardware
Needless to say, subway tiles are the all-time classics. But can they look stylish too? And if they can, how? This transitional kitchen makes them pop in beautiful marble textures that are offset with an honed finish. These marble subway tiles laid in a vertical running bond style make a strong visual statement and add a modern flair. For the rest, the white shaker cabinets and black quartz countertop provide a classic yet elegant foundation while the black cabinet hardware makes a cohesive final touch.
ID# 178712 – Product BA631613 – Modern Marble Chevron Mosaic Kitchen Backsplash
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas in Chevron Pattern
This contemporary kitchen prides itself on a white color scheme that provides a bright and spacious atmosphere. The flat-panel kitchen cabinets paired with brushed nickel hardware serve a sleek modern look as a foundation. The marble chevron subway tiles surround the entire wall space behind the stove and create an elegant backdrop. The marble countertops seamlessly blend with the chevron tiles and enhance the sense of luxury. The glass floating shelves and decoration units on them add visual interest to the marble tiles without empowering them.
ID# 178714 – Product BA2007 – Warm Gray Marble Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Traditional Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances
This bright kitchen design has a traditional edge to it, thanks to shaker-style cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. In the background, the beige marble subway tile backsplash gives the design movement and warmth. And to complement it, this kitchen goes with medium-tone wood flooring. The black cabinet knobs, counter stools and chain chandeliers perfectly complete the traditional aesthetic with a touch of contrast.
Modern Subway Mosaic Tile Backsplash
As far as mosaic tilings are concerned, they play the role of art and come up with unique looks. A modern subway mosaic tile backsplash is great for infusing sleek and stylish character into your kitchen. If you want to apply a modern twist to the timeless beauty of a classic subway tile pattern, you can incorporate unexpected colors for grout like black or metallic ones or use an unusual layout such as herringbone and stacked bond. A combination of several other hues and materials such as metal, stone natural, wood or concrete also increases the modernity of stone subway backsplash ideas.
ID# 178715 – Product BA1012 – Modern White Marble & Glass Mosaic Tile
White Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas with Marble Look Quartz Countertops
This white transitional kitchen is mainly characterized by white shaker cabinets and marble-look quartz countertops! The modern white mosaic tile backsplash just blends seamlessly with the clean appeal of the white cabinets. While the chrome cabinet hardware complements the bright atmosphere, the dark wood floor brings a striking contrast and depth to the space. Overall, the resulting scheme is peaceful, relaxing, and well-balanced with a designer look.
Should subway tiles be glossy or matte?
Once you have decided on the material and color of your subway tile, it is time to consider finish options. Glossy, matte, honed or tumbled. Each finish option has its own benefits and drawbacks but which one is the right for your kitchen?
Adorned with a polished finish, glossy tiles reflect the light and are perfect to make the space feel larger. So, if you are working on a small space or want to enlighten the dark-colored kitchen cabinets, a glossy subway tile backsplash will be a perfect addition. This smooth finish also resists stains and grime more than the matte tiles which provide an easier-to-clean surface. However, a glossy finish is more prone to show imperfections and fingerprints. And if you are designing a cozy rustic kitchen, this stark appeal might not be a perfect fit.
Matte tiles, on the other hand, create softer and more neutral appeals. The sleek and elegant look of the matte tiles can easily work with any design aesthetic. If you want to create a modern or contemporary look, a matte subway tile backsplash will be a great addition to your kitchen. However, these tiles are not capable of reflecting light which means they can make the space feel smaller. Also, they are not as easy to clean as the glossy ones!
In the end, whether it is a glossy or matte finish of the subway tile patterns relies on the size, color scheme, and layout of the kitchen as well as the overall look you want to achieve!
ID# 178716 – Product BA62038 – Modern Glass & Quartz Mosaic Kitchen Backsplash
White and Wood Cabinets with White Countertops
One of the best ways to further stylize your kitchen backsplash is to give it a polished finish! In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the white mosaic backsplash tiles are enriched with silver chips and a glossy finish. The white quartz countertops, likewise, come with a beautiful sheen. The white flat front cabinets perfectly complete the clean and bright appeal of the tiles. The wood open cabinets add a much-needed contrast to this white-dominated design.
Modern Stone Subway Tile Backsplash
We have already reviewed the marble material; however, how about other natural stones? Although marble is one of the most commonly used natural stone materials for kitchen backsplashes, you may also find that there are other variants from slate to travertine and limestone or even granite which can complement the subway pattern’s timeless elegance. Stone tiles may seem to have the appearance of rustic contrary to the modern style. However, proper finishing, shape, color, and material will ensure you easily get the contemporary stone subway tile backsplash designs.
ID# 178717 – Product BA1045 – Modern Black Slate Subway Tile Backsplash
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas with Wood Floating Shelves
Neutral color schemes, functionality, and simplicity are the key defining features of Scandinavian kitchens, and this one brings all the premises! While the white kitchen cabinets nicely come together with the white quartz countertops, the black slate subway tile backsplash with black grout brings a striking contrast that enhances the overall look. The wood floating shelf used instead of the upper units provides a more breathable spot along with the black backsplash tiles. The wood texture of these floating shelves also breaks the black-and-white color scheme and brings warmth to the atmosphere.
ID# 178718 – Product BA1024 – Beige Travertine Subway Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Rustic Kitchen with Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas
This rustic kitchen boasts every conceivable amenity and function imaginable! Firstly, the kitchen’s natural wood cabinets offer a sturdy foundation for the area. These wood cabinets’ highly stained finishes produce a charming, cozy and lively atmosphere full of personality. The timeless elegance of these cabinets is flawlessly complemented and given a hint of opulence by the wood countertops and beige travertine subway tile backsplash. The finished result is warm, welcoming and aesthetically soothing overall!
What is the most timeless backsplash?
In the past, backsplashes serve as a functional wall covering that keeps water, food, and grease from ruining the walls. Today, besides their functional aspects, backsplashes have become one of the most important elements of kitchens with their aesthetic value. From glossy glass tiles to sleek metal panels, there are endless alternatives for a backsplash. But what is the most timeless one? This is one of the most frequent questions of homeowners while designing a kitchen.
A timeless backsplash refers to tile designs that can be used for many years. So, if you want a backsplash that will withstand the test of time (and questionable fashion fads), subway tiles are definitely worth a look! These rectangular beauties are the tile world’s “little black dress,” endlessly flexible and elegantly chic. Plus, they’re a classic for a reason: clean lines, timeless beauty and usefulness that doesn’t require hours of scrubbing grout.
ID# 178719 – Product BA1081 – Modern Dark Gray Slate Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Two-tone White and Gray Kitchen Cabinets with Brass Hardware
One of the best routes to honor your kitchen backsplash is to go with natural stone materials- just like this kitchen does! While the white and gray kitchen cabinets offer a more passive and soothing realm, the modern black slate tile backsplash spices up the look. Using white grout is a perfect way to highlight the beautiful grid pattern which gives a modern flair to the space. For a final touch, the brass cabinet hardware synchronizes skillfully to formulate a style with a designer look.
Marble Mosaic Tiles
ID# 178720 – Product BA1079 – Modern Long Marble Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Modern Subway Tile Backsplash Ideas with Stacked Pattern
In this contemporary kitchen, marble serves as a hero finish that comes in the form of a full-height backsplash! With its eye-catching gray veins and uncommon long and slim shape, this backsplash instantly elevates the otherwise white overall look. It pairs perfectly with white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops. The chrome cabinet hardware, stainless steel dishwasher, brass faucet, and wall sconce are the final elements that add a dose of sparkle.
