14 Subway Tile Backsplash Pattern Ideas

Subway tile is classic and never goes out of style. It's also budget-friendly. For those reasons, you see it used often in kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms.

The standard 1/2 off-set pattern, sometimes called running bond, is the most common way of installing a subway tile backsplash. It's an easy to follow pattern that is perfect for the first time tiler.

Read more to find out the best method of installing subway tile backsplash in your kitchen.

Square subway tile has a more modern look than the classic 3x6 size subway tile shape.

Installed in the 1/2 off-set pattern like the previous subway tile backsplash idea, dark grout is used to enhance the modern look of the tile.

Beware of dark grout if you aren't sure your tile is perfectly spaced and level. Every imperfection will show.

Subway tile all the way to the ceiling makes quite a statement! You may also notice that this one isn't the traditional 3x6 subway tile either. I bet you didn't know you could get it in so many variations.

These subway tiles set in the 1/2 off-set pattern are larger, most likely 3x12 or 4x12 and they look gorgeous in this kitchen!

There is something to be said for simplicity, and the subway tile backsplash in this kitchen looks clean and modern.

Stacking subway tile in a horizontal pattern, aka stack bond, is the perfect way to get a modern look in your space. Taking it all the way to the ceiling turns this subway tile backsplash idea into the focal point of the room.

This refreshing kitchen image was used as inspiration for the color, but let's talk about the vertically stacked subway tile backsplash.

Yellow is a bold color for backsplash, but if it's your style I say go for it. What is different about this pattern of subway tile is that it is stacked vertically.

While it seems odd to me, remember we replaced tile installed like this, stacking it vertically is a modern take on classic subway tile that lots of people really like.

This vertically stacked tile has a bit of texture to it and the light plays off of the texture adding visual interest to the simple pattern.

Used as a backsplash for the cooking area it draws the eye in an creates a beautiful focal point in this kitchen.

We have already seen square subway tiles set 1/2 off-set in a bathroom with dark grout. This kitchen subway tile backsplash pattern is finished with light grout, giving it a completely different look.

The 1/2 off-set pattern works perfectly in this kitchen to give it a classic farmhouse look all the way to the ceiling.

We've seen a lot of white and we've seen yellow, no we have a 1/2 off-set pattern with blue subway tile.

The best part about this subway tile backsplash pattern idea is that the tiles are peel and stick! No mortar or tile adhesive to slap up on the wall, just peel off the back and put it up.

Once it's stuck though, you will have a hard time moving it around, so make sure you get exactly where you want it.

A herringbone pattern adds instant class to a subway tile backsplash, even in a laundry room.

These 2x8 tiles are installed and then finished with a white grout for a seamless look that is clean and bright.

Be sure to lay out your pattern first before adding it to the wall to ensure your keep the pattern consistent.

Different sized subway tiles will give your herringbone pattern a different look. This herringbone subway tile backsplash pattern uses 3x6 tiles.

The pattern is closer together and the dark grout contrasted with the withe tile gives it a modern look.

The classic 1/2 off-set pattern is also sometimes called a brick pattern. We can see why, as it mimics the pattern of a brick wall.

White grout gives this subway tile backsplash pattern a seamless look that fits any design style.

We have the 1/2 off-set brick pattern again in this kitchen, but it's fresh and modern when it's done using glass subway tiles.

I love the way the light reflects off the tiles in this fresh modern kitchen.

You could use a single slab and carry the look of your marble counter up onto the wall for a seamless look. Or you could add texture and interest to your tile backsplash by using marble subway tile.

The different hues and veining in these subway tiles really make this a focal point in this kitchen.

Not ready to take on a full-on tiling job? Peel and stick tile sheets are your best friend to get the look of a subway tile backsplash.

Tile sheets already have the pattern and just require you to peel off the back and stick to the wall. Make sure your wall is clean and prepped so the adhesive will stick and last for a long time.