Staff Picks: Subway Tile Favorites for 2024
Subway tile has been a design staple for decades, and for good reason. Its versatility, classic aesthetic, and endless customization options make it a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and even pools and spas. Its clean lines seamlessly blend with various interior styles, from traditional to modern.
Whether you're aiming for a minimalist kitchen or a spa-like bathroom, subway tile can be the perfect foundation for your design. Let's dive into the world of subway tile and explore some of our favorite staff picks.
Subway Tile Staff Pick # 1: The Vague Blue Glass Subway Tile
Sarah Barker, Merchandising Manager
Our Merchandising Manager, Sarah Barker, has selected the Vague Blue 2" x 6" Glass Subway Tile as her top pick. This stunning tile features beveled edges and a deep blue color, reminiscent of a tranquil ocean. Plus, glass tile adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making it a versatile choice for a variety of spaces.
Sarah loves the way this tile captures the essence of coastal living while maintaining a modern aesthetic. She envisions it as a beautiful backsplash in a kitchen with white cabinetry or as a calming focal point in a spa-like bathroom. The tile's versatility allows it to seamlessly blend with various design styles, making it a popular choice for homeowners seeking a touch of coastal charm.
She says, “The deep grey blues combined with the beveled edges add a rich texture that instantly transforms any space. The combo of style and durability in these tiles really wins me over - they're a perfect fit for anywhere you need a backsplash, vanity wall, or shower surround that's both beautiful and low-maintenance.”
Subway Tile Staff Pick #2: The Jade 2” x 4” Glass Subway Tile
Justine Castro, Fulfillment Manager
Next up, we have Justine Castro, our Fulfillment Manager, showcasing her favorite subway tile. Justine has chosen the captivating Jade 2" x 4" Glass Tile for its unique aesthetic and iridescent finish.
This tile features a stunning jade green shade that adds a touch of vibrancy and luxury to any space. The smooth textured, iridescent finish beautifully reflects light, creating a dynamic visual effect. Justine loves the way this tile injects a pop of color while remaining sophisticated.
Justine has this to say about it: “I love a good color mix, and the alternating light greens and blues remind me of sunlight reflecting off the ocean. The smaller format glass tiles also work well in a variety of spaces to add brightness, perfect for a kitchen or bathroom project, and the mesh-backing lends itself to an easy DIY install.”
Subway Tile Staff Pick #3: The Calacatta Cressa White Subway Tile
Jamie Brinkman, Executive Director
For our next pick, we're featuring our Executive Director, Jamie Brinkman, and her go-to subway tile, the ever-elegant Calacatta Cressa, 3” x 6” White Stone Subway Tile.
This tile boasts a crisp white background with subtle veins of gray and taupe, offering the classic look you’d expect from natural marble. The Calacatta Cressa tile elevates the atmosphere of any space with its inherent luxury and texture.
Jamie loves the way this tile creates a clean and sophisticated backdrop, perfect for a variety of design styles. She envisions it as a timeless backsplash in a minimalist kitchen, creating a clean and airy aesthetic. It's also a stunning choice for a master bathroom or stylish accent wall, adding a touch of visual interest and natural beauty.
She says, “I’ve always loved the beauty and time-tested elegance of natural marble tile. The Calacatta Cressa combines the subtle grace of the stone and the convenient, modern shape of a subway tile to create a truly unique tile that will elevate any space!”
Subway Tile Staff Pick #4: The Glossy Black Subway Tile
Goldie Weideman, Regional Sales Manager
Our Regional Sales Manager, Goldie Weideman, is stepping forward with her favorite subway tile pick. Goldie has chosen the bold and beautiful Glossy Black 2" x 4" Porcelain Subway Tile for its dramatic effect and unexpected versatility.
This tile makes a powerful statement with its high-gloss finish and rich black color. The porcelain material offers durability and timeless elegance, making it a perfect choice for creating a bold and modern statement.
Goldie loves the way this tile can be used to create a dramatic focal point. She envisions it as a stunning backsplash in a contemporary kitchen, paired with sleek stainless-steel appliances for a high-contrast look. It can also be a striking accent wall in a bathroom, adding a touch of sophistication and unexpected drama.
“This glossy black subway tile's sleek design makes it a perfect choice for a sophisticated kitchen backsplash or a dramatic accent wall. It’s modern, yet timeless, and will transform your space,” she says.
Subway Tile Staff Pick #5: The Flamenco Princess White Porcelain Subway Tile
Jorge Goytisolo, Senior Sales Manager
Rounding out our staff favorites is Jorge Goytisolo, our Senior Sales Manager! Jorge brings his design expertise to the table with his choice of the Flamenco Princess White 2" x 18" Porcelain Tile.
This captivating tile stands out with its unique elongated format, breathing new life into the classic subway tile design. The pristine white color exudes elegance and sophistication, while the larger format adds a modern touch to any space. The smooth porcelain surface reflects light beautifully, creating a feeling of openness and airiness – a key feature for Jorge.
He loves how the Flamenco Princess tile's versatility allows it to transform different spaces. Jorge envisions it as a stunning wall tile in a small bathroom, creating the illusion of a larger and more luxurious retreat. It can also be a dramatic backsplash in a modern kitchen, adding a touch of minimalist style. The elongated format allows for a clean and streamlined look, perfect for contemporary design enthusiasts.
“The Flamenco Princess White is a game-changer," says Jorge. "Its elongated shape and sleek finish create a sense of spaciousness and modern elegance. It's a versatile tile that can transform any space, from a minimalist bathroom to a bold kitchen floor."
Subway Tile Styling Tips
Subway tile offers endless possibilities for customization. Let's explore some tips to help you create the perfect look for your space.
Grout Color Matters
The color of your grout can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your subway tile installation. Here are three popular options:
- Matching grout: Creates a seamless, minimalist look.
- Complementary grout: Adds subtle contrast and depth.
- Contrasting grout: Makes a bold statement and draws attention to the tile pattern.
Not all grout is made equal. We highly recommend using epoxy grouts for any tile project. That’s why we proudly stand behind Litokol and their vast assortment of options. Unlike their cement-based counterparts, epoxy grout is resistant to fading, staining, and cracking. It’s a long-lasting superior product that you’ll be glad you invested in!
Plus, with over 70 color options and various additives to customize the look even further, there really is something for every project. We can’t stress the importance of choosing high-performance, quality epoxy grout for your tile. Not only will it add the finishing touch to the overall look, but its durability is unmatched and will secure your tile investment for years to come!
Laying Patterns for Added Interest
While the classic horizontal brick pattern is a timeless choice, there are many other layout options to consider:
- Vertical stack: A modern and clean look.
- Herringbone Pattern: Adds a touch of sophistication and elegance.
- Diagonal: Creates a dynamic and eye-catching pattern.
- Metro bond: A classic pattern with a slightly offset look.
Experiment with different layouts to find the perfect style for your space.
Subway Tile in Different Rooms
Subway tile's versatility shines in various rooms. It easily creates a timeless kitchen backsplash or dining room accent wall. When adorning shower walls, tub surrounds, or even when used as bathroom flooring, it truly shines and makes a statement. Don’t forget its use in pools and spas where it makes for a sleek pool waterline tile or even as an all-tile pool finish.
No matter where you choose to install it, subway tile is a great choice to easily upgrade your house into your dream home.
Wrapping it Up
Subway tile is a timeless classic for a reason. Its versatility and clean lines make it a perfect fit for any space, from the modern kitchen to the spa-like bathroom. Whether you're dreaming of a crisp white look or want to add a splash of color, subway tile has you covered.
For help choosing the perfect subway tile for your next project, give us a call at (800) 971-1442 and Bring Paradise Home today!