3 Ways to Liven Up Subway Tile

Let’s talk tile! More specifically, subway tile. Subway tiles are easily some of the most versatile tiles in the game. The layouts and patterns are endless, the materials stretch far beyond a typical ceramic or porcelain, and the rectangular sizes include more than the standard 3”x 6” subway these days. Though options are vast, we are sometimes left scratching our heads when it comes to making subway tile feel exciting and new. Well, we are here today to give you three ways to liven up those subway tiles to feel fresh and inspiring. Check out a few ideas that are catching our eye below!

1. Thick Grout Lines: We can’t help but notice this design trend circulating around the design ether more and more, and we’ve got to say we are here for it! It feels chunky and bold but still sleek and clean. It’s a great statement detail to liven up a typical inline vertical stacked layout. You can go more tonal and monochromatic for a sophisticated and modern look, or you can go with a contrasting grout for a more striking and artistic moment.

2. Colored Grout: Here we are talking about grout again! But seriously, grout can change the entire effect and feel of an entire room. A trend we have seen trickling into the United States from places like Europe and the Land Down Under is colored grout. We are talking pinks, terra-cottas, reds, and even soft powder blues. Using a colored grout can elevate and highlight the tile pattern as a playful and edgy design detail without feeling too loud and overbearing.

3. It’s All About the Layout: When it comes to layouts and tile pattern, we are opening up a portal of limitless options. If you are one for keeping things simple and stacked, a shift of color and/or direction can go a long ways. We love the look of  “random” placement and the idea of an unexpected pattern that keeps your eyes on visual journey instead of being stuck in predictable repetition. A few flips, switches, and pops of contrast, and you have yourself a layout that is unique unto itself.

We hope this gives you all a boost of inspiration and some ideas start flowing on how to jazz up subway tiles in your own home or upcoming projects. If you are in the market for some tile recommendations, check out Claire’s latest tile collaboration, The Horizon Series, with Clay Imports! Whether you are looking for an earthy color pop or a calm neutral, they’ve got you covered. Here’s a little peek of a few subway tiles below. Enjoy!