Subway tiles have officially entered their modern design era. No longer limited to the classic white 3×6 rectangle, today’s subway tiles come in textured finishes, oversized proportions, bold colours, metallic edges, and hundreds of unique layout possibilities. In 2025, homeowners and designers are using subway tile layouts in more inventive ways than ever—transforming kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms into highly curated, magazine-worthy spaces.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to use subway tiles like a pro. We’ll cover trending tile patterns, grout ideas, colour combinations, kitchen styling tricks, bathroom layout upgrades, and the top subway tile trends shaping home design in 2025. Whether you’re starting a renovation or refreshing a single wall, these expert strategies will help you design a space that feels modern, cohesive, and beautifully intentional.
Why Subway Tiles Still Dominate Modern Homes in 2025
Before diving into styling tricks, it’s worth understanding why subway tiles remain one of the most used materials in modern home design.
Timeless Versatility
Subway tiles suit every interior style—from minimalist to coastal, industrial to Scandinavian. This versatility makes them a safe yet stylish option for long-lasting remodels.
Easy to Style Around
Because subway tiles are simple and streamlined, they don’t compete with cabinetry, benchtops, hardware, or décor. They work as a perfect backdrop.
Affordable and Accessible
Most subway tiles are budget-friendly, yet they deliver a designer-level effect when installed well.
Endless Customisation
With new tile patterns, textured finishes, and grout ideas, subway tile layouts can look subtle or bold depending on your vision.
See more: Herringbone Tiles vs. Chevron: What’s the Difference?
Top Subway Tile Layouts to Try in 2025
The layout you choose dramatically influences the final look of your kitchen or bathroom. Below are the most popular and impactful tile patterns trending this year.
1. Classic Running Bond (Offset) Layout
Still the most recognised pattern, the running bond layout features tiles staggered by half their length. Designers love it because it:
- Adds subtle movement
- Works in both small and large rooms
- Fits every interior style
Pro Tip: Pair white subway tiles with light-grey grout to create a soft, contemporary look.
2. Vertical Stacked Layout
A major 2025 trend, the vertical stacked pattern elongates walls and makes ceilings appear taller.
Best for:
- Small bathrooms
- Powder rooms
- Narrow kitchen splashbacks
Designer insight: Glossy vertical tiles reflect more light, enhancing height and brightness.
3. Horizontal Stacked Layout
Perfect for clean, modern homes, this layout creates a smooth, uniform grid.
Use it when:
- You want modern minimalism
- Your cabinetry has strong lines
- You’re using matte tiled surfaces
4. Herringbone Pattern
Elegant, directional, and luxurious—herringbone subway tile layouts are ideal for homeowners wanting a statement wall.
Best placed:
- Behind vanities
- As kitchen splashback feature panels
- In walk-in showers
Pro Tip: Add bold grout to highlight the zig-zag geometry.
5. Chevron Pattern
Chevron tiles create perfect V-shapes for a dynamic and dramatic effect.
Why designers love it:
- Adds movement without looking busy
- Works beautifully with long subway tiles
- Enhances luxury bathrooms and premium kitchens
6. Step Ladder (Vertical Offset)
This playful pattern stacks tiles vertically with subtle shifts across rows—great for contemporary homes.
Try it in:
- Laundry splashbacks
- Small kitchen zones
- Accent sections near windows or stovetops
7. Basketweave Layout
A more intricate pattern where tiles “weave” over and under. It’s perfect for heritage-style homes or modern spaces needing subtle texture.
8. Large-Format Subway Layouts
Oversized subway tiles (100×300mm, 75×300mm, or 100×400mm) are rising in popularity due to fewer grout lines and cleaner aesthetics.
Best in:
- Spa-inspired bathrooms
- Minimalist kitchens
- Open spaces needing visual calm
Trending Tile Color Combinations for 2025
Colour plays a crucial role in elevating subway tile layouts. Here are the top tile colour trends designers recommend this year.
1. Earthy Neutrals
Warm beiges, greige, sand, and clay tones create relaxing, natural environments. They pair beautifully with timber cabinetry and warm metal finishes like brass.
2. Deep Greens
Eucalyptus, emerald, and olive green subway tiles are extremely popular for creating luxurious, nature-inspired spaces.
Where they shine:
- Bathroom shower walls
- Kitchen splashbacks paired with gold hardware
3. Ocean Blues
Soft turquoise, seafoam, and navy shades add a fresh, coastal-inspired effect—ideal for Australian homes.
4. Glossy Black & Charcoal
Bold black subway tiles paired with contrasting grout create a high-end, editorial finish. They’re perfect for:
- Modern kitchens
- Industrial bathrooms
- Dramatic feature walls
5. Soft Pastels
Powder pinks, soft mints, and pale yellows are trending in modern, playful kitchens and bathrooms.
Expert Grout Ideas for 2025 Subway Tile Designs
Your grout colour can make or break your design. Here’s how to choose the right one for your space.
White Grout
Perfect for a seamless look, especially in minimalist or Scandinavian interiors.
Light Grey Grout
Ideal for soft contrast without overwhelming the tiles.
Charcoal or Black Grout
Creates a bold, graphic effect and hides dirt well—great for kitchens.
Warm Beige Grout
Works beautifully with earthy tones and natural wood.
Coloured Grout
A major 2025 trend—navy, sage, terracotta, and even metallic grout add artistic flair.
How to Style Subway Tiles Like a Pro in Your Kitchen
Kitchen tiles are more than a backdrop—they tie your cabinetry, benchtops, and hardware together. Here’s how to master subway tile layouts in the kitchen.
1. Choose a Layout That Matches Your Cabinet Style
- Modern kitchens → horizontal or vertical stacked
- Luxury kitchens → herringbone or chevron
- Hamptons/coastal → classic offset
- Minimalist → oversized tiles with soft grout
2. Use Contrasting Grout for Visual Interest
Charcoal grout with white subway tiles is a classic designer trick that instantly elevates kitchen splashbacks.
3. Extend Tiles to the Ceiling
Tiling all the way up creates a seamless, polished, and expensive look—especially behind open shelving.
4. Mix Tile Patterns in Different Zones
Try:
- Herringbone behind the cooktop
- Vertical stack beside the sink
- Horizontal stack across open walls
It creates subtle variety without clashing.
How to Use Subway Tiles Like a Pro in Bathrooms
Bathrooms offer huge creative freedom when it comes to tile patterns and colour combinations.
1. Make Ceilings Look Higher with Vertical Tiles
Use vertical stacked layouts or long-format subway tiles to visually elevate small bathrooms.
2. Create a Feature Shower Wall
Chevron or herringbone patterns look luxurious in showers and pair beautifully with rainfall showers and glass screens.
3. Use Bold Colours for Spa-Like Atmosphere
Try deep greens, charcoal, or ocean blues for a rich, calming aesthetic.
4. Use Two Complimentary Patterns
For example:
- Vertical stack on main walls
- Herringbone just behind the vanity
This adds dimension without overwhelming the space.
2025 Subway Tile Trends Designers Swear By
Here are the latest professional insights that will dominate modern homes this year.
1. Handmade-Look Subway Tiles
Irregular edges and textured surfaces add character and warmth.
2. Ultra-Long Subway Tiles
Tiles like 75×400mm or 60×300mm offer a sleek, elongated aesthetic.
3. Matte & Textured Finishes
Earthy, stone-like subway tiles create spa-worthy bathrooms.
4. Metallic Grout Accents
Gold or silver grout offers a bold, luxurious finish.
5. Curved-Edge & Bevelled Tiles
Retro-inspired but modern in rich colours.
FAQs
1. Are subway tile layouts still in style for 2025?
Yes—subway tile layouts continue to dominate bathrooms and kitchens in 2025 because they combine timeless appeal with modern versatility. New colours, textures, and innovative patterns make them easy to customise. Whether you prefer minimalist, coastal, industrial, or luxury design, subway tiles adapt beautifully to any style without looking outdated.
2. What grout colour works best with subway tiles?
White grout creates a seamless, classic look, while light grey adds soft contrast. Charcoal or black grout is ideal for bold, modern spaces and hides dirt very well, especially in kitchens. Warm beige grout pairs beautifully with earthy tile colours. In 2025, coloured grout—like navy or sage—is becoming a hot design trend.
3. Which subway tile layouts work best in small bathrooms?
Vertical stacked patterns or long-format subway tiles are perfect for small bathrooms because they visually lift the ceiling. Herringbone can also work well if used on a single feature wall. Lighter tile colours and glossy finishes will reflect more light and make compact rooms feel larger and more open.
4. What tile patterns are trending in kitchen renovations?
Herringbone and chevron patterns are highly popular for feature splashbacks. Horizontal and vertical stacked patterns suit modern minimalist kitchens, while the classic offset layout works well for timeless or coastal homes. Oversized subway tiles are also trending for creating sleek, contemporary kitchen walls with fewer grout lines.
5. Are subway tiles easy to maintain?
Yes—subway tiles are low-maintenance and easy to clean, especially glossy or glazed finishes. Regular cleaning with mild soap helps prevent stains. Using a high-quality grout sealer reduces maintenance even further. Dark grout is especially practical in kitchens because it resists discoloration and maintains a clean appearance.
6. Can I mix two different tile patterns in one room?
Absolutely. Designers often combine two patterns—such as vertical stack + herringbone—to add depth and sophistication. The key is to use complementary colours and avoid mixing too many bold patterns. For example, use one pattern for the shower and another behind the vanity to create visual balance.