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Metro tiles, also known as subway tiles, have long been a beloved choice in interior design, known for their simplicity and versatility. Inspired by the iconic tiles used in the London Underground, these rectangular tiles have become a classic element in both residential and commercial spaces.
Shape and Size: Typically, Metro tiles are rectangular, often measuring 20x10cm. However, variations in size can be found to suit different design needs.
Material: These tiles are usually made from ceramic, which offers durability and ease of maintenance. Some designs may use glass or natural stone for a more luxurious finish.
Colour and Finish: While the classic Metro tile is white with a glossy finish, they are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, including matte and textured options, allowing for endless customisation.
Metro tiles can be used in various settings, from kitchens and bathrooms to commercial spaces like cafes and restaurants. Their clean lines and neutral appearance make them a versatile choice for both modern and traditional interiors.
Kitchen Backsplashes: The glossy finish of Metro tiles makes them an excellent choice for kitchen backsplashes, reflecting light and making spaces appear larger and brighter.
Bathroom Walls: In bathrooms, Metro tiles can create a clean and fresh look. They are resistant to moisture, making them ideal for wet environments.
Feature Walls: In living rooms or commercial spaces, using Metro tiles to create a feature wall can add a modern touch while maintaining a classic element.
One of the reasons for the enduring popularity of Metro tiles is the variety of installation patterns available:
Traditional Brick: The classic brick pattern is a popular choice, offering a timeless look.
Herringbone: This pattern adds a dynamic and intricate feel to any space.
Vertical Stack: For a contemporary twist, Metro tiles can be stacked vertically, creating a sleek and modern appearance.
Metro tiles, also known as subway tiles, have long been a beloved choice in interior design, known for their simplicity and versatility. Inspired by the iconic tiles used in the London Underground, these rectangular tiles have become a classic element in both residential and commercial spaces.
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Metro tiles have remained a design staple for well over a century, originally made famous by the London Underground. Their simple rectangular shape and clean lines work equally well in traditional and modern settings, meaning they rarely date – a reassuring quality when you are making a long-term investment in your home.
These tiles are most commonly used on kitchen splashbacks, bathroom walls, and shower enclosures, but they are equally effective in utility rooms, cloakrooms, and even commercial settings such as cafes or retail spaces. Their versatility means they suit everything from a period Victorian terrace to a contemporary new-build.
The classic brick bond (offset) pattern is the most traditional choice for metro tiles and the one most commonly associated with the Underground look. However, a stacked (grid) pattern can create a more modern, minimal feel – the best choice really depends on the overall style you are going for in your room.
Metro tiles are widely considered one of the more beginner-friendly tile formats to install thanks to their regular rectangular shape and manageable size. That said, good surface preparation and a steady hand when aligning the offset joints are key to achieving a professional finish – if in doubt, consulting a professional tiler is always worthwhile.
Measure the width and height of your splashback area in metres and multiply the two figures together to get the area in square metres, then add 10% for waste and cuts. At 200x100mm, you will need roughly 50 tiles per square metre, so it is easy to scale up your calculation once you have your total area.