In 1904, the New York City Subway System opened. Fast forward 110 years later and the design inspirations that blossomed from those first subways are still alive and well today. The original architects of the first subways chose the tiles because they felt they would be easy to clean, long-lasting, and versatile. Homeowners today crave these tiles for their kitchens and bathrooms for the same reasons. Subway tiles have so much to offer your new bathroom and promise to offer a classic, enduring style that will stand the test of time and trends.
A subway tile backsplash is going to hold up to the demands of a busy bathroom much better than simple painted walls. A makeup mishap is an easy clean up with a wet towel on subway tile, whereas the same accident on a painted wall might leave a nasty stain. Even better, consider tiling your entire bathtub and shower surround with subway tiles and save yourself even more hassle. Think about what goes on in your bathtub on a routine Tuesday night. Kids are splashing, bath toys are flying. Subway tiles can stand up to all of this, however, and will remain a strong, permanent façade flanking your bathroom for decades to come.
Subway tiles have come a long way over the past 100 years or so. This design feature is not just limited to simple, white, rectangular tiles. Imagine a stainless steel subway tile in a herringbone pattern. This look screams modern and chic. An infinite variety of color choices in subway tiles also makes this a great choice to add a pop of color to a bathroom in a stylish and classic way. Even classic white subway tiles can be amped up. A shower lined top to bottom with larger white subway tiles etched with a very dark grout makes a bold statement that really boosts the style and appeal of your bathroom. Materials, colors, and patterns can be so varied, the options are limitless with subway tiles!
You can achieve the look of a breathtaking bathroom using subway tiles in a variety of colors, textures, patterns, and materials. The cost of these tiles ranges anywhere from $2 per square foot all the way up to an astronomical $50 per square foot for handmade artisan tiles. However, it is very doable to keep things on the lower end of the cost spectrum while still putting forth a sophisticated and polished look. Consider using less expensive, smaller subway tiles in the shower and tub surround but adding a border of more eclectic, colorful tiles in a different material to maximize the character.
If you haven’t hopped on the subway train yet, it’s time to consider it. One of our certified bathroom designers at Dream Bath would love to work with you to help you make subway tiles an integral part of your new bathroom design. Together we can take a beautiful ride towards a stunning new bathroom!
The best way to learn about Dream Baths and your upcoming project is to reach out and talk to one of our designers.
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