While subway tiles got their start in New York City’s underground transportation system, they are now used in fashionable kitchens and bathrooms around the country. Whether you see them as shower or backsplash tiles, there are numerous ways to make this design element your own. Use the following list of tips to arrange your subway tiles like a professional.

3 Ways to Arrange Subway Tiles in Your Home 

1. Vertical Stacked Bond

For cramped spaces, such as mudrooms, guest bathrooms, or apartment kitchenettes, the traditional running bond may look too busy. For a more streamlined look, try stacking the tiles vertically, creating long, extended stripes from the floor to the ceiling. With the grout lines aligned, you’ll create the illusion of taller walls, giving your smallest spaces more breathing room.

2. Running Bond

This popular arrangement best mimics the staggered design found in actual New York City subways. When positioned horizontally, staggered tiles resemble traditional bricklaying, but with the modern appeal of a glossy white surface. If you’re considering this classic look, try dark-hued grout to contrast the white tiles, such as black or charcoal gray. For kitchens, this will add a restaurant-quality look. In the bathroom, the dark grout will hide those inevitable stains, so you can go longer in between deep cleans.

3. Herringbone

This decorative style is an offset chevron pattern, with the tiles arranged in staggered V-shapes. Since the end of each tile hits the center of another, the herringbone style creates a woven look. This pattern works nicely in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, or anywhere you’d like to add some eye-catching texture to a blank wall.

If you have a small pocket of space, such as an alcove above a stove, you can install a small, eye-catching patch of subway tile in this intriguing pattern, like a miniature accent wall. Add even more dimension by choosing colored subway tiles, such as light blue, and highlighting them with bright white grout lines.

If you're interested in purchasing this classic backsplash tile in creating your own design, head to Anderson Tile Sales of Odessa, TX. You can browse their inventory in their showroom, and talk to a staff member there about your remodeling vision. They have over 44 years of experience providing top-quality tiles to customers throughout Ector and Midland County. To learn more about their flooring, wall, and backsplash tiles, visit the website, or call them at (432) 558-6655 to request a free estimate.