Subway tile got its start as a low-maintenance option for transportation hubs in the early 20th century and the style has steadily increased in popularity ever since. Now, you’ll find subway tile in homes and businesses all over the world.

The original subway tile was white and it continues to be a timeless decor choice. However, subway tile design has evolved to include limitless creative options for color, glaze, size, grout combinations, and layout variations. Subway tile installed in a herringbone, vertical, diagonal, or stacked pattern gives a contemporary twist to this time-tested favorite.

These are just a few of our ideas for how to use subway tile in your home or business and you can find more inspiration on our Pinterest board. The sky’s the limit for subway tile design options, so use these examples as a starting point and then let your imagination run wild!

Beige Laundry Tile Grid

Basic never looked better. This laundry room features a straightforward beige horizontal tile grid for its backsplash and large cement-look floor tiles for a simple and efficient style.

Retro Pink Laundry Room Tile

Three things we love about this retro laundry room: the pink, horizontally stacked subway tile, the vintage-inspired black and white ceramic tile flooring pattern, and that classic gold dog shower fixture.

Beige GaugedPorcelain Tile Pavers

Pinkish beige gauged porcelain tile pavers and pearly white wall tile complement the pretty-in-pink paint color of this indoor-outdoor space. Note that ceramic tile has many options that withstand freeze-thaw cycles so that you can use ceramic tile in these spaces without worry of damage.

Light Blue Ceramic Tile Backsplash

Nothing rivals a view of the ocean — except maybe this pastel blue ceramic tile backsplash. The backsplash leads your gaze right to the sea, but still, you might find yourself returning to the tile. Although light in color, the backsplash won’t show any stains or scratches; and you won’t need to worry about water…