When George Lewis Heins and Christopher Grant LaFarge designed the New York City Subway, they envisioned a clean, functional and brightly lit space that was befitting of the shining light of the free world’s public transportation system. The architects chose white ceramic tile for their concept, as its smooth surface was at once reflective and hygienic.
New Yorkers took note of the subway system’s distinctive tiles for their ability to brighten up what would otherwise have been a very dim underground space, as well as how easy they were to clean. They soon began incorporating the tiles into their own homes. They fittingly called them “subway tiles.”
Subway tile is a still popular design accent in kitchens and bathrooms for the same reasons it became all the rage around the turn of the century. It is remarkably easy to clean. It resists staining and bacterial colonization alike. It is also incredibly versatile, with a 1:2 rectangular shape that gracefully complements any living space.
How do you incorporate a classic design element into your home without making it look old fashioned in the process? It’s easy once you understand all the different ways subway tile can be laid out!
Classic Running Bond
This is the traditional arrangement for subway tile: inspired by classic brickwork, with a 50% offset that entails aligning the center of each tile with the edges of the two tiles just above it. A running bond pattern is easy to lay out and requires relatively few cuts. Choosing all-white tiles and grout is a great way to create a clean, geometrically pleasing aesthetic. If you would rather infuse a little personality into subway tile’s most common pattern, then you may choose a darker-colored grout – or colorful or patterned tiles.
Vertical Running Bond
It’s the classic running bond with a twist: vertically aligned tiles instead of horizontal ones. This pattern is an excellent choice for smaller spaces, as it creates the illusion of a higher ceiling. It is especially suitable for walk-in showers, and looks especially nice when contrasted against the solidity of slate flooring.
Horizontal Stacked Bond
Looking for the simplest subway tile pattern? Simply lay the tiles in evenly stacked rows, with 0% offset, like this:
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The horizontal stacked bond pattern combines minimalism and orderliness to create a remarkably contemporary aesthetic. If you’re looking for an equally easy-to-install pattern that creates a more dramatic impact on its surroundings, then a vertical stacked bond will do the trick quite nicely:
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45° Herringbone
The 45° herringbone pattern can be broken down into two-tile elements. One leans 45° to the left: the other is 50% offset, and leans 45° in the opposite direction. Herringbone’s “zig zag” appearance creates subtle peaks and valleys that naturally draw attention up, down, and around the perimeter of whichever room it’s displayed in. It’s visually striking, versatile (yet ideal for smaller spaces), and looks more expensive than it actually is – excellent if your home’s resale value is at the forefront of your mind.
90° Herringbone
Rotate the 45° herringbone pattern yet another 45°, and you’ll quite naturally have a 90° herringbone. This stair-stepped pattern is especially appealing when incorporated into a vintage-style kitchen, and also complements the straight lines of a bathroom’s mirror and cabinetry quite well. The 90° herringbone’s sense of movement softens a room’s harder elements, and doesn’t distract viewers from surrounding features (so long as its grout is the same color as its tiles).
Double Basket Weave
Picture two parallel horizontal tiles, which together form the shape of a square. Now picture two vertical tiles (◫) on all four of that square’s sides. This pattern is known as the “double basket weave,” and it is an cost-effective, easily-to-install solution for impactful walls. Choosing darker grout will really help a double basket weave “pop.” This pattern also looks marvelous when it features colorful tiles.
The perfect subway tile design begins with the perfect subway tile. Whether you’re looking for ceramic, porcelain, metal, or even natural stone, Gallery 77 offers just the custom tile you need in order to give your home a classic yet modern design twist. We welcome you to contact us today to learn more, or visit our showroom in Hudson, WI for more inspiration!
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