Subway tiles are rectangular ceramic or porcelain tiles, typically measuring 3×6 inches, that create timeless, durable bathroom designs with easy maintenance and water resistance. Originally used in New York Metro stations for their cleanability and longevity, subway tiles now come in multiple sizes (2.5×8, 3×6, 3×8, 3×9, 3×12, and 5×10), various finishes (glossy, matte, polished, honed), and numerous colors making them ideal for modern bathroom renovations.
Why choose subway tiles for bathrooms? They resist water damage, stay hygienic with minimal cleaning, offer versatile design options from classic white to colorful patterns, and provide lasting value without needing replacement as trends change. Popular installation patterns include traditional horizontal brick bond, vertical stacking for height illusion, and herringbone designs for visual interest.
At Nova Tile And Stone, we offer ceramic and porcelain subway tiles starting at $1 samples with free shipping across our Northern Nevada and Northern California locations. Our collections include the Imagine 3×12 Matte Porcelain (8 colors), Bristol 3×8 Glossy Porcelain (6 colors), Fresco 3×6 Ceramic (13 colors, matte or glossy), and specialized herringbone mosaics for homeowners seeking both traditional and contemporary bathroom aesthetics.
This guide covers: 12 specific subway tile applications, size recommendations for small vs. large bathrooms, matte versus glossy finish comparisons, grout color selection strategies, and professional installation considerations to help you create stunning, functional bathroom spaces.
Why Subway Tiles Excel in Bathroom Applications
Subway tiles first gained recognition in the New York Metro system for maintaining a clean appearance with effortless upkeep thanks to solid, smooth glazed finishes. This characteristic makes subway tiles ideal for bathrooms, they preserve hygiene while resisting water damage and everyday wear without compromising visual quality. Compared to alternative bathroom tiles, subway tiles offer remarkable durability and adaptable solutions for bathroom updates and complete renovations. When you desire enduring bathroom style that won't demand replacement as design trends evolve, subway tiles provide lasting value.
12 Inspiring Subway Tile Bathroom Ideas for 2025
Explore these simple yet impactful design concepts for your upcoming project: