Subway Tiles, Reimagined: Modern Ways to Use a Classic Material in the Twin Cities

Subway tiles are a timeless design element, but don’t mistake classic for boring. From clean lines to bold patterns, subway tiles are being reimagined in stunning new ways that bring texture, dimension, and sophistication to kitchens and bathrooms alike.

At Casamia Design & Build Co., we love helping Twin Cities homeowners put a modern twist on traditional materials. Whether you lean minimalist or love a bit of drama, subway tiles can elevate your space—subtly or boldly—depending on how you use them.

Let’s explore a few layout, color, and grout combinations that can transform this familiar favorite into something truly extraordinary.

Modern Subway Tile Layouts That Break the Mold

Classic Horizontal (Offset)
The traditional brick pattern remains a favorite for a reason: it’s timeless, clean, and works in nearly every space.

Stacked Vertical
Turn the layout 90° for a more modern, architectural look. Vertical stacks are ideal for spaces where you want to draw the eye upward, like shower walls or a powder room backsplash.

Herringbone
An elegant upgrade that adds movement and texture, perfect for behind a stove or vanity.

Crosshatch or Basketweave
For a luxe, custom feel. These patterns are less common, so they instantly make a space feel more curated.

Casamia Tip: Try mixing layouts within the same space, like a vertical stack in the shower niche and a herringbone feature wall—for subtle contrast.

Color Trends: Going Beyond White

While glossy white tiles are forever iconic, there’s a whole world of color options that add depth and personality to your home.

Earthy Neutrals
Think sage green, terracotta, or greige; calming and elegant, these hues pair beautifully with natural wood and brass finishes.

Bold & Moody
Deep navy, forest green, or charcoal tiles bring a dramatic, cozy vibe to modern spaces. Perfect for accent walls or full-surface coverage in smaller baths.

Tonal Texture
Matte finishes, crackled glazes, and handmade edges make neutral tiles feel warm and organic.

Grout as a Design Element

Grout isn’t just functional, it’s a powerful design choice.

• Matching grout (white on white, black on black) creates a seamless, polished look.

• Contrasting grout (like dark gray with white tile) adds dimension and showcases the tile pattern.

Casamia Tip: Lighter grout brightens a space, while darker tones hide stains and add contrast. Always seal grout for longevity, especially in high-moisture areas.

Sidebar: How to Calculate Square Footage for Your Tile Project

Before you place an order, you’ll need to know how much tile you actually need. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Measure the area: Multiply the height by the width of each wall or surface. (e.g., 8 ft high x 10 ft wide = 80 sq. ft.)

2. Add 10–15% extra: This accounts for cuts, waste, and potential repairs.

3. Round up to the nearest full box: Tile is typically sold by the box, so round accordingly.

Bonus Tip: Working with unusual layouts like herringbone? Add an additional 5% for angled cuts.

Conclusion:

Whether you're remodeling a kitchen backsplash, upgrading a bathroom, or making a statement with a floor-to-ceiling tile wall, subway tiles offer incredible flexibility. When thoughtfully chosen and creatively applied, they can feel as luxurious as any marble slab or custom paneling.

At Casamia Design & Build Co., we help Twin Cities homeowners curate elevated, timeless spaces that blend form and function. Ready to make subway tiles work beautifully in your home?