Subway Tiles in Bengaluru: Classic Backsplash and Bathroom Tiles

Subway tiles are small rectangular wall tiles, named after the white tiles used in early New York subway stations. Simple, practical and easy to clean, they have become a favourite for kitchen backsplashes in Bengaluru homes, especially in modern and Scandinavian-style kitchens.

What subway tiles are

A subway tile is a glazed rectangular tile, usually twice as long as it is high. Most are ceramic with a glossy glaze, though matt, crackle glaze and handmade-look versions are also available. Some have a bevelled edge, which catches light and adds depth when laid.

Because they are ceramic wall tiles, they are not meant for floors. Water absorption is higher than vitrified, but the glazed face handles splashes well.

Where they work, and where they don't

Good fit:

• Kitchen backsplash between the counter and cabinets
• Bathroom walls, full height or as a band in the shower area
• Utility and wash area walls
• Cafes, bakeries and restaurant counters
• Open shelving walls in kitchens

Less ideal:

• Floors of any kind. Use floor rated tiles there
• Very large walls, where so many small tiles add labour and grout lines. A 300x600 mm wall tile may be more practical
• Directly behind a heavy-use tawa or kadai with cement grout. Use epoxy grout there or the joints will darken

Sizes and finishes commonly available

Finishes include glossy (most common), matt, satin, crackle and bevelled. Colours go beyond white: sage green, navy, black, terracotta, pastel pink and grey are all used.

How to choose and lay them

1. Pick the pattern.
   • Running bond: each row offset by half a tile. Classic and forgiving.
   • Vertical stack: tiles stacked straight up. Makes a low wall feel taller.
   • Herringbone: tiles at 45 or 90 degrees. Decorative, more cutting and wastage.
2. Choose grout colour carefully. White grout with white tiles looks clean and soft. Grey or black grout with white tiles highlights the pattern and hides kitchen stains better.
3. Use epoxy grout near the stove. It resists turmeric and oil stains far better than cement grout. See our grout and spacers guide.
4. Check straightness. Small tiles show uneven lines quickly. Ask your tiler to use a level line and spacers.
5. Plan the ends. Decide how the tiles finish at cabinet edges and windows, using a trim or a neat cut edge.
6. Buy extra. Patterns like herringbone need more spare tiles.

For more inspiration, read our kitchen backsplash tile ideas.

See subway tiles in person

The glaze and edge of a subway tile look different in real light. Call the shop to check current colours, or visit us with your backsplash length and height.