The mind-blowing popularity of a white subway tile in the bathroom can be easily understood. With their simplicity and versatility, these tiles add a sophisticated and contemporary touch to bathroom renovations. Given the huge array of subway tile options available today, making a decision can be challenging. So that’s why I rounded up my favorite timeless ideas for white subway tile in bathrooms to inspire you!
When you think of white subway tile, you probably envision a traditional white subway tile in a 3″ x 6″ size with a smooth finish. And while that is definitely what you’ll see most often, the really cool thing about subway tile is that nowadays they can offer a variety of textures, ranging from smooth and beveled or even something with a subtle texture to a handcrafted feel.
Another cool thing about subway tile, because it is so versatile, is that it comes in plenty of color options, so you can choose your favorite color that fits in perfectly with the rest of the room.
But, here’s one thing I think we’ll all agree on…there’s something so classic about specifically white subway tile – so that’s why we’re focusing on it today. The bright appearance of white subway tiles in a bathroom creates an appealing contrast with various color schemes, making them adaptable to different interior design styles.
Whether you’re ready to embrace the traditional allure of your home or you’re wanting to go more modern and revitalize your bathroom and shower with vibrant colors, captivating patterns, and unique tile combinations, these white subway tile ideas for bathrooms will get your wheels spinning.
What are subway tiles?
First of all, let’s start with the basics. What are subway tiles anyway?
If you want to get technical, subway tiles are any rectangular tile that is twice as long as it is tall – so 3×6 (which is the typical size), 4×8, 5×10, etc. They are typically laid in a 50% offset pattern (also called brick pattern or running-bond pattern) but there are a lot of different ways to install them, which you’ll see below.
However over the course of time, the term “subway tile” has gotten a little loose and can sometimes include square tiles or even extra wide (2×8, 4×12, 4×16, etc).
Why are they called subway tiles?
They are called subway tiles because they were first used in the New York subway system in the early 20th century. They were created because the designers of the subways needed something that was easy to clean and brightened up the underground stations.
Subway tiles work in any room
Subway tiles, initially designed for New York City subway station, have totally revolutionized home decor. While commonly used in a modern kitchen (I love my white subway tile backsplash), they are not limited to just one room.
These versatile tiles can be incorporated into almost any area of your home, adding texture and depth in unique ways. Subway tiles are durable but also timeless and cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for home renovations.
Benefits of white subway tile:
- Timeless appeal: The classic look of subway tiles is timeless and seriously never goes out of style. They have been used for decades and are still a popular choice for homeowners. This is one of the main reasons I turn to them when designing our bathrooms and kitchens. You don’t have to worry about the room being out of date in a couple of years!
- Visual interest: Subway tiles can create visual interest in a room by adding texture and dimension. The repetitive pattern of the tiles creates a sense of rhythm and can make a space feel more dynamic and engaging.
- Bright and light: Specifically white subway tiles will help lighten up a room because they will bounce light around the room, making it appear brighter and more spacious. This is especially beneficial for smaller rooms or areas with limited natural light, like small bathrooms with no windows.
- Easy to clean: Subway tiles are extremely easy to maintain and clean, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. The smooth surface of the tiles is resistant to stains and can be easily wiped down, keeping your room looking fresh and clean.
- Variety of materials: Subway tile materials come in many varieties—such as glass, marble, and ceramic subway tile.
- Cost-effective: Subway tiles are almost always the most affordable option, compared to other tile options, making them a budget-friendly choice for home renovations. You can achieve a stylish and sophisticated look without breaking the bank.
The tiles have been a staple of interior design since the early 1900s and it’s easy to see why. There are endless ways they can be used. Let’s jump in and check out these ideas for using white subway tiles in bathrooms.
15 White Subway Tile in Bathroom Ideas
Subway tile is a classic option for any home. It's durable, versatile, and affordable making it the perfect choice for your next DIY bathroom project.
Boho Farmhouse Bathroom with White Subway Tile Shower and Accent Wall Behind Sink
We incorporated a lot of white subway tile in our kid's bathroom because it was affordable and really brightened up this bathroom without windows! Get ready to be amazed by the farmhouse's modern bathroom reveal with boho vibes! This stunning transformation features classic white subway tile, a boho shower curtain, modern black accessories, and rich wood tones.
Subway Tile Shower and Lower Half of Bathroom Walls
I just love this bathroom design with a white subway tile shower! They even brought the subway tiles out of the shower and continued them on the lower half of the walls. Despite some hiccups during the seven-month renovation, the classic look result is worth every minute.
Shower/Bath with Subway Tile
Get ready to be inspired by this stunning bathroom makeover! With careful planning, attention to detail, and the timeless look of subway tile, Sarah has transformed this bedroom and bathroom into a beautiful and inviting space.
Vintage-Inspired Subway Tile with Black Line Accents
How perfect is this guest bathroom with light blue walls and classic vintage-inspired subway tile that looks just like an NYC subway station? I love the thin black lines, which brings in the classic design elements.
Tub Surround and Lower Half of Wall Behind Toilet and Sink with White Subway Tile
Discover how a beautiful hexagon tile on the flood and an impressive tub surround with white subway tiles can be incorporated while staying within budget. In the article, Ashley even shares her budget breakdown for this remarkable bathroom renovation!
Classic Bathroom with Wood Accents and Tiled Walls
Experience a modern look classic bathroom makeover! I just love the character of the clawfoot tub and wood doors combined with the charm of white subway rectangular tile on the bathroom and shower walls and black subway tile and black penny tile on the floor.
Black and White Bathroom with Timeless Charm
Step into this cozy modern bathroom design with white subway tile and black fixtures with a timeless charm with a contemporary design. This subway tile has a bit of texture to it and is a bit wider than the traditional 3x6 tile size for a modern look. With a harmonious blend of textures and an inviting visual interest, this remodel offers the perfect balance of comfort and personal style.
Modern Bathroom with Tile on All Four Walls
Check out this modern bathroom all four walls with white subway tile adorned with black grout. Prepare to be enchanted by a popular choice of unique charm and a focal point of a stylish ambiance that this transformation brings to life.
Subway Tile Accent Wall in Bathroom with Dark Grout
A bathroom accent wall is a popular design element that adds visual interest and style to a bathroom. This accent wall with white subway tile and thick black grout looks great! Whether you choose a vibrant color scheme, eye-catching pattern, or textured material, black accents in your bathroom add depth and character to the space.
Tiled Walls Around Bathroom
Lauren and Robert have officially created the cutest kids' bathroom in existence! They added white subway tile on the walls around the bathroom, which looks great with the other tile choices in the bathroom.
Modern Bathroom with White Tiles and Wall Mural
Prepare to be amazed by Mandi's stunning bathroom featuring an amazing paint-by-numbers wall mural. The bathroom comes to life with vibrant different colors and intricate details, like the small square tiles on the floor and the subway tile that is in the shower and one wall.
Vintage and Modern Master Bathroom with Tiled Walls and Shower
This bathroom combines timeless design with contemporary fixtures for a beautiful look! There is a ton of subway tile with white grout in this bathroom, wrapping around most of the bathroom walls and in the shower.
Classic Subway Tile in Shower with Blue Accent Niche
This shower and bathroom combination has classic subway tile with a large niche with a pretty blue accent tile for contrast. In this simple guide, Rachel helps you navigate the options of bathtubs and make an informed choice for your bathroom remodel.
Bathroom with Subway Tile Backsplash and Shower
If you're considering a future bathroom remodel, get ready to be inspired by the beautiful bathroom ideas found in this master bathroom retreat. They feature subway tile behind the bathroom sink as a backsplash and in the shower. Discover budget-friendly tips and DIY projects to help you create your dream bathroom (even if you're on a budget).
Bathroom with Marble Subway Tiles
Ok, this one may be "pushing it" a bit to include in this round-up of white subway tile in bathroom ideas because she actually used marble subway tiles. But it was just too gorgeous not to include. I love the shower with the rectangular tiles with the pretty marble finish.
White subway tile in bathroom design continues to be a popular choice due to its versatility and timeless appeal.
Whether you opt for a classic all-white look or experiment with contrasting grout lines, patterns, or mixed materials, white subway tiles provide a solid foundation for creating a stylish and inviting bathroom space. Upgrade your bathroom with these ideas as inspiration to transform your bathroom!
Which of these bathrooms was your favorite?
