Metro tiles are the most popular wall tile in the UK—and they have been for over a century. The simple rectangular format that originated in New York subway stations in the early 1900s and followed by the Paris Metro and London Underground, has become a design staple in kitchens, bathrooms, and splashbacks everywhere. But ‘metro tiles’ now covers a huge range of sizes, colours, finishes, and profiles, which can make choosing the right one surprisingly complex. A white gloss 75x150mm bevelled metro tile looks nothing like a matt sage green 100x300mm flat metro tile, even though both carry the same name. With so many variations available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—but it doesn’t have to be. This guide breaks down every option clearly and simply, so you can confidently choose the perfect metro tile for your project, whether you’re tiling for the first time or the tenth.
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What Are Metro Tiles?
Metro tiles—also known as subway tiles—are rectangular wall tiles, typically in a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio. The classic size is 75x150mm (3×6 inches), though modern versions come in various dimensions.
The name comes from the tiled walls of the underground subway systems in the early 1900’s. They were purposely designed for use in the New York City subway station, Paris Metro and the London underground, where white glazed rectangular tiles were chosen for their hygiene, easy cleaning, and light-reflecting properties in underground spaces.
Are Metro tiles still in fashion? Absolutely! Metro tiles are loaded with versatility and for this reason have remained a popular tile choice. They are mainly used on walls—in kitchens, bathrooms, splash backs (Discover our complete guide to kitchen splash backs here), and shower enclosures. While the rectangular shape is consistent, the options are vast: gloss or matt finishes, bevelled or flat edges, handmade-effect textures, crackle-glaze surfaces, and endless colours and patterns. This versatility has kept metro tiles a design favourite for over a century.
Metro Tile Sizes – Which One Should You Choose?
Size is the first decision you’ll make, and it has a significant impact on the finished look. Here’s a breakdown of the most common metro tile sizes and how to choose the right one for your space.
75x150mm (3×6 inch) – The original and still the most popular metro tile size. This is the ‘classic’ metro tile that suits any space and works with any layout pattern. If you’re unsure, this is your safest bet.
100x200mm (4×8 inch) – A slightly larger alternative that reduces grout lines and gives a more contemporary feel. Increasingly popular in modern kitchens and bathrooms, it strikes a balance between classic and current.
75x300mm (3×12 inch) – An elongated metro tile that creates a sleek, linear look. Popular for contemporary splashbacks and bathroom walls where a horizontal emphasis is desired, it adds visual length to a space.
100x300mm (4×12 inch) – The largest common metro size. Fewer grout lines create a cleaner, more minimal aesthetic, making it ideal for large wall areas and modern kitchens where simplicity is key.
50x150mm and smaller – Compact metro tiles designed for detailed work, feature panels, and smaller spaces. These create a more intricate, textured wall with increased visual interest.
General rule – Smaller metro tiles suit smaller spaces and add more texture, while larger metro tiles suit bigger walls and create a cleaner, more contemporary look.
Finishes and Profiles
The finish and profile you choose can completely transform the look of a metro tile. Here’s what’s available.
Gloss – The classic finish. Reflects light, brightens spaces. A white gloss metro tile is the UK’s most popular wall tile.
Matt – A softer, contemporary alternative. Matt tiles absorb light, creating a calmer, more understated look—popular in earthy and neutral palettes.
Bevelled – Edges angled inward create a raised border that catches light and adds depth. The traditional style for a classic, detailed look.
Flat (Square-Edged) – Completely flat surface with no bevel. Creates a cleaner, modern look that works well with thin grout lines for a seamless finish.
Handmade-Effect – Deliberate surface undulations and colour variations mimic artisanal tiles. Adds character and warmth but costs more than standard metro tiles.
Crackle-Glaze – A clear glaze with fine cracks across the surface creates a vintage, aged appearance—ideal for period-style spaces.
Metro Tile Layouts and Patterns
How do I lay Metro Tiles? Metro tiles can be laid in a number of ways, the layout you choose transforms the look entirely—the same tile can create completely different results depending on how it’s laid. Here are the most popular options.
Brick Bond – The standard metro tile layout. Each row is offset by half a tile, creating the classic look most people picture when they think of metro tiles. Safe, timeless, and works everywhere.
Stack Bond – Tiles aligned directly on top of each other with no offset, creating a modern, grid-like look. Vertical grout lines draw the eye upward, making this layout popular in contemporary bathrooms.
Vertical Stack – Metro tiles turned 90 degrees and laid vertically in a stack bond. This elongates walls and makes rooms feel taller—a simple way to give a standard metro tile a more modern edge.
Herringbone – Metro tiles laid in a V-shaped zigzag pattern. Creates visual movement and a more decorative, eye-catching wall, working especially well on splashbacks. Discover our complete guide to Herringbone here.
Vertical Brick Bond – Tiles laid vertically with each column offset by half a tile. Less common but increasingly popular for a distinctive, contemporary look.
Basket Weave – Pairs of horizontal and vertical tiles alternated to create a woven effect. A decorative option ideal for feature areas or accent walls.
Choosing the Right Colour
Colour sets the tone for your entire space. Here’s a guide to the most popular metro tile colours and who each one suits.
White – Still the most popular metro tile colour by a wide margin. White brightens any space, suits every style, and pairs with any grout colour. White gloss bevelled metro tiles are the safest and most versatile choice for kitchens and bathrooms—if you’re unsure, start here.
Green – Sage green and forest green metro tiles are the biggest colour trend in kitchens and bathrooms right now. Green brings warmth and pairs naturally with wood, brass, and copper fixtures, creating an earthy, organic feel that’s both contemporary and timeless.
Grey – A softer alternative to white. Light grey keeps things neutral and calm, while dark grey or charcoal creates drama and depth. Grey metro tiles suit contemporary and industrial-style spaces particularly well.
Blue – From pale sky blue to deep navy, blue metro tiles bring a coastal or Mediterranean feel to bathrooms. Navy is especially popular with white grout for a classic, high-contrast look.
Pink and Blush – A growing trend for bathrooms. Soft pink metro tiles create a warm, feminine aesthetic that works beautifully with brass fittings and terrazzo floors.
Black –Bold and dramatic. Black metro tiles with white grout create a striking graphic effect. Best used as a feature wall or splashback rather than across an entire room to avoid overwhelming the space.
Tip: Metro tile colours look different under artificial kitchen or bathroom lighting compared to daylight. Order one of our free samples so you can check the colour in your own space before committing.
Grout and Practical Considerations
The practical details make all the difference between a good installation and a great one. Here’s what you need to know.
Grout Colour Impact – White grout on white tiles creates a seamless, cohesive look. Dark grout on light tiles creates a graphic, grid-like effect that emphasises the tile shape and layout. The rule is simple: matching grout blends the tiles together, while contrasting grout makes each individual tile stand out.
Grout Width – Standard grout joints (2-3mm) suit most metro tile installations and are the easiest to work with. Very thin joints (1mm) give a more premium, seamless look but require greater precision during installation. Wider joints (4-5mm) can create a more rustic, industrial feel.
What size spacers should I use for metro tiles? 2mm spacers are the most common for metro tiles and deliver consistent results. Bevelled metro tiles can handle slightly wider joints because the bevel creates a natural visual gap between tiles.
How many Metro Tiles do I need per square metre?
This depends on the tile size. For 75x150mm metro tiles, expect approximately 89 tiles per square metre. For 100x200mm, approximately 50 tiles per square metre. Always buy 10% extra to account for cuts and waste.
Are Metro tiles easy to clean? – Gloss metro tiles are the easiest to clean—a damp cloth is usually enough. Matt tiles can show watermarks and soap residue more easily, so may need more frequent attention. Grout in wet areas (showers, around baths) should be sealed to prevent staining and discolouration.
Conclusion
Metro tiles are popular for good reason—the simple rectangular format is endlessly versatile. The same basic tile shape can create a classic Victorian bathroom, a contemporary kitchen splashback, or a bold coloured feature wall, depending on the size, finish, colour, and layout you choose. That versatility is their greatest strength, but it can also make the choice feel overwhelming.
The key decisions are size, finish, colour, and layout pattern—and this guide has covered all four. Filled with that knowledge, you’re ready to choose metro tiles that suit your space and style.
Browse our metro tile range to order your free samples and see the colours and finishes in your own space.