This is How to Rock a Beautiful Subway Tile Backsplash

Although kitchens can feel completely utilitarian, their aesthetic shouldn't be overlooked. Given how much traffic this room gets, it's only right that you give your kitchen some interior design love. After you've picked your appliances, found an accent rug, and chosen the perfect cabinets, it's time to consider the backsplash.

Subway tile backsplashes have long been an interior staple and for good reason. Subway tiles are equally fresh and timeless, and there's a wide spectrum of variations, so it's easy to find tiles that align with your aesthetic. You can opt for luxe materials, like marble, or vary your layout with a herringbone or crosshatch design instead of the traditional horizontal stack. If you're not sure what type of subway tile is right for your space, check out these stunning kitchens for all the inspiration you'll need.

White on White

This dreamy kitchen appears bright and expansive thanks to its all-white motif. The subway tiles blend together without heavy grout defining each line. Using subtle grout means you can play with different tile patterns without overwhelming your design. Achieve this look by laying tiles in a straight herringbone design.

Marble Tiles

Marble never goes out of style and it'll instantly give your kitchen a luxe upgrade. Depending on the vein variation you choose, you can make the design bold and eye-catching or subtle and understated.

Visible Grout

This kitchen features a traditional subway tile design with visible grout that draws the eye toward the tiles. Using darker grout is a great way to add definition and visual intrigue to your design, especially when it complements black accents like those pictured here.

Straight Herringbone Style

Here, marble subway tiles take on a straight herringbone design. The two elements make the backsplash unique, and the darker marble flows effortlessly with the rest of the design features in the kitchen.

Glossy Finish

Don't have quite as much square footage as you'd like? No sweat. The shiny offset subway tiles in this glossy kitchen contrast beautifully with the wood countertops, and their sheen makes this small kitchen feel much bigger.

Dark Tiles

For a sophisticated look that goes against the trend of the all-white kitchen, match dark cabinets and appliances with a moody backsplash. This kitchen features black tiles in a traditional herringbone design, but you can change it up with a crosshatch or vertical design to go with the color of your choice.

Offset Pattern

While you may want to show off your subway tile, don't be afraid to hang shelves on them. In fact, shelves can highlight the tile. Here, wooden shelves add dimension and play off the rustic wooden floorboards in an otherwise white space. The offset tiles with visible grout blend seamlessly into the existing décor for a chic look.

Surrounding the Windows

For a modern look, get inspired by this bold kitchen design. The backsplash appears clean and glossy as tiles travel up the wall and around high windows. Play with various heights and hues, and don't be afraid to contrast dark cabinets with light tiles—the juxtaposition can be ultra-compelling.