Best Size Subway Tiles for Kitchen

It’s no wonder that the practicality of subway tiles make them so popular in many homes and especially in kitchens. The standard 3” x 6” subway tiles were first introduced during the 1900s in New York subway stations. (Hence, the name “subway tiles.”) They were easy-to-clean and easy-to-install. The 3” x 6” dimension of a subway tile conveniently fits in the tile installer’s hands for quick and easy tile installation. Its rectangle shape and simple layout make subway tiles easy to clean as well.

Typically arranged in an offset or staggered pattern horizontally across the wall, subway tiles are easily recognizable. The classic subway tile layout has stuck around since they debuted over a century ago, becoming the most popular choice for residential kitchens and bathrooms until today.

While 3” x 6” is the standard size, subway tiles come in other sizes such as 2” x 4”, 4” x 6”, and even 3” x 12” (among other dimensions). Here are our thoughts on the most ideal size and design inspirations for today’s trendiest kitchens.

Image via elmsid.com

3 x 6 Subway Tiles with Bold Mosaic Floor Tiles

For a kitchen with flair, it doesn’t get more aesthetically appealing than pairing classic 3” x 6” subway tiles with fun patterned mosaic tiles. Whether you choose 6” x 6” floor tiles, 4” x 4” field tiles, or 12” x 12” floor tiles, the classic 3” x 6” subway tile size is versatile and works well with any floor tile size and shape.

While we might imagine subway tiles in a traditional kitchen decor or “American style” kitchen, the classic 3” x 6” subway tiles make the best backsplash for Lisbon or Portuguese tiles. When paired with the right patterned porcelain floor tiles, subway tiles take on a whole new look. Suddenly, subway tiles are much more exciting when they balance out or complement a bold visual element such as floral or geometric mosaic tiles.

Image via deringhall.com

4 x 12 Glossy Subway Tile for High-End Kitchen

When it comes to a state-of-the-art kitchen, think commercial grade stoves and faucets with durable stainless steel hardware, a fancy range hood, and glossy 4” x 12” white on white subway tiles. 4” x 12” subway tiles add elegance by exaggerating lines. It creates a comfortable look and feel. Add wood elements and some color, such as fresh flowers, to incorporate personal touches to your state-of-the-art kitchen.

For a transitional home decor, consider combining French Country kitchen cabinets with Industrial Chic pendant lights. Coffered ceilings add an interesting dimension that won’t compete with a glossy subway tile backsplash. Want to add a stylish detail to your kitchen backsplash? Consider beveled subway tiles.

Image via thegreenroominteriors.com

2 x 4 Matte White Subway Tiles with Black Grout

White subway tiles on the kitchen wall don’t have to feel so sterile and cold. Warm up the space with some carefully curated pieces. Pay attention to hardware details such as cabinet knobs and pulls. Toss in a tan or brown tribal print kitchen runner for an earthy touch and feel that is also the perfect complement for wood-look porcelain floor tiles.

Once you start to incorporate other elements and colors in an all white kitchen, you’ll realize that it’s not that hard to warm up the space. If you really want to polish your decor, add a pop of warm gold tones for a glamorous vibe. Tie it all together with black accents and “statement pieces” in the kitchen such as a gorgeous black stove range, range hood and black details in the rug.

Image via partyideapros.com

3 x 6 Stacked Glass, Porcelain, or Stone Subway Tiles

If you want something that’s a little different from the traditional subway tile layout, consider stacked subway wall tiles. They’re clean, fresh, and modern. With crisp lines, stacked tiles create a streamlined look for a modern or transitional kitchen. Add texture in the kitchen with marble slabs and wood elements such as a custom designed kitchen island or dining table. For this stacked look, consider any material including stone subway tiles, porcelain subway tiles, or glass subway tiles. 3” x 6” stacked subway tiles can be dressed up or down however you like. It’s all up to you.

Images via kitchenandbathco.com (Left) | puresaltinteriors.com (Right)

4 x 8 and 3 x 6 All White Kitchen With White Subway Tiles

If you’re going for a super posh and ultra chic all white kitchen, 4” x 8” and 3” x 6” polished subway tiles create the perfect backsplash in the kitchen. Take it up a notch and add glamour with luxurious marble, all white kitchen cabinets and kitchen island. Create a subtle ambiance with flush mount ceiling lights or make a statement with brass wall sconces or a statement lighting fixture. To make an all white kitchen stand out, stick with minimal hardware such as small round knobs in stainless steel, brushed nickel, chrome, or brass. For a trendy look, don’t be afraid to mix it up with complementary metal furnishings such as bronze or brass wall sconces or brushed  metal barstools. Get the look with this polished marble tile.

2 x 4 White on White Subway Tiles With Glass Wall Cabinets

In this chic country kitchen, 2” x 4” subway tiles find a neat way to shine as a clean backsplash for glass wall cabinets. While 2” x 4” subway tiles are not as common, you can achieve an overall classic look of 3” x 6” subway tiles with 2” x 4” white on white subway tiles. Since 2” x 4” subway tiles are close enough in dimension to 3” x 6” subway tiles, you can create the illusion of a bigger kitchen by installing 2” x 4” subway tiles in a small kitchen. Add some color and brighten up a white kitchen backsplash with fun colors such as a nice beech wood countertop, pink and white stripes for the curtains or dining chair covers, and fun green chair cushions for the barstool.

However you prefer to decorate your kitchen, the versatility of subway tiles will provide you with tons of options. You can be sure that you’ll be able to get the look you want with the practicality and convenience of subway tiles. Let us know what ideas or inspirations you have for your own kitchen remodeling project!  

About the Author:

Lucy Parker is the Resident Design Consultant at​ HomeDecorAZ.com​.  When she’s not busy helping clients with interior design projects, Lucy writes blog posts  related to home décor. She’s also a foodie who loves traveling and enjoys movies (except horror).