Subway tile showers have become increasingly popular in modern bathroom designs. These classic tiles, inspired by the subway stations of New York City, offer a timeless and versatile look that can enhance any bathroom space. Subway tiles are rectangular in shape, typically measuring 3 inches by 6 inches, and are known for their clean lines and simple yet elegant design.
Benefits of Using Subway Tiles in Bathroom Design
There are several benefits to using subway tiles in bathroom design, making them a popular choice among homeowners and designers alike. Firstly, subway tiles are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of design styles, from traditional to contemporary. They can create a sleek and modern look or add a touch of vintage charm to a space.
In addition to their versatility, subway tiles are also known for their durability. Made from materials such as ceramic, porcelain, or glass, these tiles are resistant to water, stains, and scratches, making them ideal for use in showers. They are also easy to clean, requiring only a simple wipe down with a mild cleanser.
Choosing the Right Subway Tile for Your Shower
When selecting subway tiles for your shower, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you’ll want to choose the material that best suits your needs and design preferences. Ceramic subway tiles are a popular choice due to their affordability and wide range of color options. Porcelain subway tiles are more durable and resistant to moisture, making them a great choice for showers. Glass subway tiles, on the other hand, can add a touch of elegance and reflect light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
Another consideration when choosing subway tiles is the finish. Subway tiles are available in a variety of finishes, including glossy, matte, and textured. A glossy finish can create a sleek and modern look, while a matte finish can add a touch of sophistication. Textured subway tiles can add depth and visual interest to your shower design.
Planning the Layout and Pattern of Subway Tiles
The layout and pattern of subway tiles can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your shower. One of the most common layouts is the classic brick pattern, where the tiles are stacked horizontally. This layout creates a clean and timeless look. Another popular option is the herringbone pattern, where the tiles are laid at a 45-degree angle, creating a visually striking design.
When planning the layout, it’s important to consider the size of your shower and the dimensions of the tiles. If you have a small shower, using larger subway tiles can make the space feel more open and spacious. Conversely, if you have a large shower, using smaller subway tiles can create a more intricate and detailed design.
Color Options for Subway Tile Showers
Subway tiles come in a wide range of colors, allowing you to create a shower design that suits your personal style and preferences. Classic white subway tiles are a popular choice, as they can create a clean and timeless look. They can also make a small shower feel larger and more open. However, if you’re looking to add a pop of color or create a bold statement, there are also subway tiles available in a variety of vibrant hues, such as blue, green, or even black.
When selecting the color of your subway tiles, it’s important to consider the overall color scheme of your bathroom. If you have a neutral color palette, white or light-colored subway tiles can complement the space and create a cohesive look. On the other hand, if you have a bold and colorful bathroom, using subway tiles in a contrasting color can create a striking and eye-catching design.
Creating a Focal Point with Subway Tile Accents
Subway tile accents can add visual interest and create a focal point in your shower design. One way to incorporate subway tile accents is by using a different color or finish for a specific area, such as the back wall or the niche. For example, if you have white subway tiles throughout your shower, you can create a focal point by using a contrasting color, such as a bold blue or a metallic finish, for the back wall.
Another way to create a focal point is by using subway tiles in a different pattern or layout. For instance, you can create a border or a stripe of subway tiles in a herringbone pattern, or you can create a geometric design by alternating between horizontal and vertical subway tiles.
Incorporating Different Grout Colors for a Unique Look
The color of the grout can greatly impact the overall look of your subway tile shower. While white or light-colored grout is a popular choice, using a contrasting grout color can create a unique and eye-catching design. For example, if you have white subway tiles, using black grout can create a bold and dramatic look. On the other hand, if you have colored subway tiles, using a matching grout color can create a seamless and cohesive design.
When selecting the grout color, it’s important to consider the overall color scheme and style of your bathroom. If you have a modern and minimalist bathroom, using a grout color that matches the subway tiles can create a clean and seamless look. On the other hand, if you have a more eclectic or bohemian style, using a contrasting grout color can add a touch of visual interest and create a unique and personalized design.
Installing Subway Tiles in a Shower Niche
A shower niche is a great way to add storage and functionality to your shower, and subway tiles can be a perfect choice for this area. When installing subway tiles in a shower niche, it’s important to consider the size and dimensions of the niche. Subway tiles can be cut to fit the space, creating a seamless and cohesive look.
To create a visually striking design, you can use a different color or finish for the niche. For example, if you have white subway tiles throughout your shower, using a contrasting color or a metallic finish for the niche can create a focal point and add visual interest.
Adding Decorative Borders or Mosaics with Subway Tiles
Subway tiles can also be used to create decorative borders or mosaics in your shower design. Adding a border of subway tiles can create a defined and finished look, while adding a mosaic can create a unique and personalized design.
When adding a border or a mosaic, it’s important to consider the overall style and color scheme of your bathroom. If you have a more traditional or vintage style, using subway tiles in a classic pattern, such as a basketweave or a herringbone, can create a timeless and elegant look. On the other hand, if you have a more contemporary or eclectic style, using subway tiles in a geometric or abstract pattern can create a modern and artistic look.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Subway Tile Showers
One of the benefits of using subway tiles in a shower is that they are easy to clean and maintain. To keep your subway tile shower looking its best, it’s important to regularly clean the tiles and grout. You can use a mild cleanser and a soft brush or sponge to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the tiles or the grout.
To prevent the growth of mold or mildew, it’s important to keep your subway tile shower dry and well-ventilated. After each use, wipe down the tiles and grout with a towel or a squeegee to remove any excess moisture. You can also use a fan or open a window to promote air circulation and prevent the buildup of humidity.
Enhancing the Shower Experience with Subway Tile Accessories
To enhance the shower experience and add functionality to your subway tile shower, you can incorporate various accessories. One popular accessory is a shower shelf or a soap dish, which can provide a convenient place to store your shower essentials. These accessories can be made from the same subway tiles as your shower, creating a seamless and cohesive look.
Another accessory to consider is a shower bench or a seat, which can provide a comfortable and relaxing space to sit while showering. These accessories can be made from materials such as teak or marble, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to your subway tile shower.
Inspiring Subway Tile Shower Design Ideas
There are countless design possibilities when it comes to subway tile showers. Whether you prefer a classic and timeless look or a bold and modern design, subway tiles can be used to create a shower that suits your personal style and preferences.
For a classic and timeless look, you can use white subway tiles throughout your shower and pair them with a contrasting grout color, such as black or gray. This combination can create a clean and sophisticated look that will never go out of style.
If you’re looking to add a touch of color or create a bold statement, you can use subway tiles in a vibrant hue, such as blue or green. Pairing these colored subway tiles with a neutral grout color can create a striking and eye-catching design.
For a more modern and artistic look, you can use subway tiles in a geometric or abstract pattern. This can be achieved by alternating between horizontal and vertical subway tiles, or by creating a mosaic or a border with subway tiles.
In conclusion, subway tile showers offer a versatile and timeless look that can enhance any bathroom space. Whether you prefer a classic and timeless design or a bold and modern look, subway tiles can be used to create a shower that suits your personal style and preferences. By carefully selecting the right subway tiles, planning the layout and pattern, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can create a stunning and functional shower that will stand the test of time.