How Subway Tile Shower Is Used In Bathrooms? Here’s the Explanation!

You’ve probably heard about subway tile showers, but do you know what they are and how they’re used in bathrooms? Named after the white, rectangular tiles used in subway stations in the early 20th century, subway tiles have become a popular choice for bathroom decoration. They are versatile, timeless, and can seamlessly fit into any bathroom design, whether it’s modern or traditional.

Subway tiles are renowned for their ability to reflect light, making your bathroom appear brighter and more spacious. Depending on the color and finish, subway tiles can also add a touch of elegance and sophistication. But beyond aesthetics, subway tiles are easy to clean – a crucial factor when it comes to bathroom design. The simple, flat surface of the tiles makes maintenance a breeze, ensuring your bathroom looks sparkling clean with minimal effort.

So, how do you go about installing subway tiles in your shower? Can you mix and match it with other tile designs? And what are some creative ways to use subway tiles in your bathroom? This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions, providing you with everything you need to know about subway tile showers.

How to Install Subway Tile in a Shower: A Step-by-Step Guide

Don’t use the overrated peel-and-stick shower tiles! Installing subway tiles in your shower might seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of patience and the right tools, it’s a project you can tackle yourself. The first step is to gather your materials. You’ll need subway tiles, grout, a trowel, a tile cutter, a level, and a sponge. It’s also a good idea to have a bucket of water nearby for cleaning up.

Start by applying a layer of thin-set mortar on the shower wall using your trowel. Press the subway tiles into the mortar, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Use spacers to ensure even gaps between the tiles. Once all the tiles are in place, let the mortar dry for 24 hours. After it’s dry, spread the grout over the tiles using a grout float, making sure to fill all the gaps. Wipe off any excess grout with a damp sponge, then let it dry for another 24 hours.

Remember, installing subway tiles requires precision and patience. It’s important to take your time and make sure all the tiles are evenly spaced and level. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to hire a professional.

Why Choose Subway Tiles for Your Shower?

Subway tiles offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for your shower. First and foremost, they’re durable and easy to clean. The bathroom is a high-moisture environment, and bathroom tiles are designed to withstand this. They won’t easily crack or chip, and their smooth surface makes them resistant to mold and mildew.

Subway tiles are also incredibly versatile. They come in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing you to create the perfect look for your bathroom. Whether you want a classic white subway tile shower, a chic gray subway shower tile, or a bold black marble tile, there’s a subway tile to suit your style and your shower floor tiles.

Perhaps one of the biggest reasons to choose subway tiles for your shower is their timeless appeal. Subway tiles have been around for over a century, yet they never seem to go out of style. They offer a clean, sophisticated look that can elevate any bathroom design. Whether you’re going for a modern minimalist look, a rustic farmhouse style, or a luxurious spa-like vibe, subway tiles can help you achieve your vision.

1. Using White Tile Showers For A Clean Look

White subway tiles are a classic choice for showers, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a clean, crisp look that can brighten up any bathroom. When paired with white grout, the tiles create a seamless look that can make your bathroom appear larger. When paired with darker grout, the tiles can add depth and contrast, creating a more dramatic look.

White subway tile designs are also incredibly versatile. They can be arranged in different patterns – from the traditional brick pattern to the more modern herringbone or chevron patterns. You can also mix and match with other tile designs. For instance, you might use white subway tiles on the shower walls and a patterned floor tile for the bathroom floor.

And let’s not forget the practical benefits of white subway tiles. They’re easy to clean and maintain, making them an excellent choice for bathrooms. They’re also durable and resistant to staining, ensuring they look good for years to come.

2. White Subway Tile With Black Grout: A Classic Choice

If you’re looking for a way to add contrast and depth to your bathroom, consider using white subway tiles with black grout. This is a classic combination that can make your subway tile shower stand out.

Black grout can highlight the shape and layout of your subway tiles, adding interest and complexity to your shower design. It’s also a practical choice, as it’s less likely to show dirt and grime compared to lighter-colored grout.

However, keep in mind that black grout can be a bit harder to clean than lighter-colored grout. It’s also more visible, which means any mistakes during installation will be more noticeable. But with careful application and regular cleaning, white subway tiles with black grout can be a stunning addition to your bathroom. Also, don’t forget that you can be both classic and fashionable! Use the Pantone Color of the Year 2024, Peach Fuzz wall tile design with this classic choice and create a unique style!

3. Herringbone Tile Shower and Mosaic Shower Floors: A Unique Combination

For a unique and stylish look, consider combining a herringbone subway tile shower with a mosaic shower floor tile. The herringbone tile pattern is a classic design that adds a touch of elegance to your shower. It’s created by laying subway tiles in a zigzag pattern, creating a “V” shape.

On the other hand, mosaic shower floor tiles add texture and interest to your bathroom. They come in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to create a custom look that matches your style. You might choose a simple black-and-white mosaic, a colorful geometric design, or a sophisticated marble herringbone tile.

Together, herringbone subway tiles and mosaic shower floor tiles create a dynamic and visually appealing look. The contrast between the smooth subway tiles and the textured mosaic tiles can add depth and dimension to your bathroom, creating a space that’s both functional and stylish.

4. How to Enhance Your Shower with Hexagon or Mosaic Floor Tiles?

Hexagon tiles, in particular, are a trendy choice for bathrooms. They offer a unique geometric design that can add a touch of modernity to your space. They come in a variety of colors and materials, allowing you to create a custom look. You might choose a simple white hexagon tile for a minimalist look, a black marble tile for a touch of luxury, or a bold, colorful design for a more playful vibe.

Mosaic floor tiles, on the other hand, offer a more intricate design. They’re made up of small, individual tiles that can be arranged in a variety of patterns. This allows for endless design possibilities. You might choose a simple monochromatic design, a complex geometric pattern, or a colorful, artistic design.

When paired with subway tiles, hexagon and mosaic floor tiles can create a striking contrast. The smooth, simple design of the subway tiles can balance out the texture and complexity of the floor tiles, creating a balanced and harmonious look.

5. Unconventional Subway Tile Shower Ideas: Gray Tiles

If you’re looking for a more unconventional subway tile shower idea, consider using gray subway shower tiles. Gray is a versatile color that can work with a variety of bathroom styles. It’s a neutral color, which means it can match with almost any other color. Whether you’re going for a minimalist, modern look or a more traditional, rustic style, gray subway tiles can fit seamlessly into your design.

Gray tiles also offer a touch of sophistication and elegance. They can create a calming, serene environment – perfect for a relaxing soak in the tub. And because they’re a darker color, they can add depth and dimension to your bathroom, making it appear more spacious.

You can pair gray subway tiles with a variety of other tiles and bathroom fixtures. Consider using a gray subway tile with black grout for a classic, monochromatic look. Or pair with a patterned floor tile for a more eclectic, contemporary vibe. The possibilities are endless!

6. Perfect Match: Level Up Your Shower with Concrete or Cement Tile Floors

If you’re looking for a way to level up your subway tile shower, consider pairing it with cement tile floors. Cement tiles are a durable and stylish option for bathrooms. They offer a unique, handcrafted look that can add character and charm to your space.

Cement tiles come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to create a custom look. You might choose a simple, monochromatic design for a minimalist look, or a bold, colorful pattern for a more eclectic vibe. Also, they will match your bathroom vanities well!

When paired with subway tiles, cement tiles can create a striking contrast. The smooth, simple design of the green subway tiles can balance out the texture and complexity of the cement tiles, creating a balanced and harmonious look.

7. Combining Tiles with Other Elements: Black Marble Tiles and Marble Subway Tiles

Combining subway tiles with other elements, such as black marble tiles and marble subway shower tiles, can create a luxurious and elegant bathroom design. Marble is a timeless material that exudes luxury and sophistication. It’s a natural stone that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, each piece unique in its own way.

Black marble tiles can add a touch of drama and depth to your bathroom. They can make your space appear more luxurious and elegant. When paired with white subway tiles, they can create a striking contrast.

On the other hand, marble subway tiles offer a softer, more subtle look. They can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your bathroom, creating a spa-like environment. When paired with other marble elements, such as a marble top vanity or marble floor tiles, they can create a cohesive, luxurious look.

8. Enhancing Subway Tile Showers with Patterned Floor Tiles

Patterned floor tiles are a great way to enhance your subway tile shower. They can add interest and personality to your bathroom, creating a more dynamic and visually appealing design.

Patterned floor tiles come in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to create a custom look. You might choose a simple black-and-white geometric design for a modern, minimalist look. Or you could go for a colorful, artistic design for a more eclectic, bohemian vibe. All of them can create an efficient way to style your small bathroom.

9. Getting Creative: The Other Hexagon and Herringbone Tile Shower Designs

Getting creative with your subway tile shower can result in a truly unique and stylish bathroom design. One way to do this is by experimenting with different tile layouts. Two popular options are hexagon and herringbone designs.

Hexagon tile showers offer a modern, geometric look. The six-sided design can add interest and complexity to your shower, creating a more dynamic look. Hexagon comes in a variety of colors and materials, allowing you to create a custom design.

Marble herringbone tile, on the other hand, offers a more classic, elegant look. The zigzag pattern can add a touch of sophistication to your bathroom, creating a more luxurious vibe. Herringbone tiles can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and marble tiles.

Last Look for Timeless Design: Subway Tiles in a Nutshell

In conclusion, subway tiles are a versatile and timeless choice for showers. They are easy to clean, durable, and come in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing you to create the perfect look for your bathroom. Whether you opt for a classic marble subway tile shower or a chic gray subway shower tile you’re sure to create a stylish and functional space that you’ll love.

So, why not consider subway tiles for your next shower tile renovation? They’re a tried-and-true choice that can add value and style to your home. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to hire a professional, installing subway tiles is a project worth considering. Contact our tile depot near you and explore our collections of subway tiles!