

Today, subway tile’s popularity continues to grow. Its sanitary appearance and health benefits meant that it was soon being used anywhere hygiene was a concern, including kitchens and bathrooms. Is Subway Tile Still Popular?Īfter its inception in 1904, subway tile went on to appear in other transportation hubs around the world. Additionally, the white and glossy design of the first subway tiles formed a highly reflective surface that helped create a safe, sanitary feeling for passengers who may have had concerns about travelling underground.

Victorians prioritized hygiene, so easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, and bacteria-resistant ceramic tile was a natural choice. When designers were tasked with designing a surface that was both low-maintenance and bright for the first subway station in 1904, subway tile was born. You might be wondering, why are subway tiles called subway tiles? The answer: They were first used in New York subway stations.

Why Do They Call It Subway Tile? Photo via | Photo by David Sagarin, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Historic American Engineering Record, August 1978 Made of ceramic tile, subway tile is known for both its durability and its timeless style. The term “ subway tile” typically refers to rectangular tiles (usually 3 x 6 inches) laid horizontally with a 50% offset. We’re here to help! We’ve included a little historical perspective, the general characteristics of traditional subway tile, creative subway tile installation patterns and adaptations, and some ideas on how to use subway tile in your home. Subway tile: you’ve heard of it and admired it, but do you really know what makes subway tile subway tile?

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