Photo: James Bombales, design by Claire Jefford
The struggle to save money on home renovations without being labeled “basic” is real. Yes, I am referring to subway tile — that versatile, affordable, now-ubiquitous wall covering. Its most classic form is rectangular and ceramic, measuring three by six inches. But these days, there are endless sizes, colors, glazes and materials to choose from. If you’re drawn to the wallet-friendly price or timeless appeal of subway tile, but don’t want your kitchen backsplash to look like everyone else’s, consider one of these inventive layout ideas.
1. Vertical running bond
Photo: 1111lightlane/Instagram
2. Diagonal running bond
Photo: artplusvie/Instagram
3. Horizontal stacked
Photo: noellebeckerstudio/Instagram
4. Vertical stacked
Photo: oursouthwestnest/Instagram
5. Crosshatch
Photo: sarahshermansamuel/Instagram
6. Basketweave
Photo: triciavaughn/Instagram
7. Traditional herringbone
Photo: katiepritchard/Instagram
8. Double herringbone
Photo: roseontherow/Instagram
9. Diagonal herringbone
Photo: semihandmade/Instagram
10. Step ladder (aka 90-degree herringbone)
Photo: sunnycirclestudio/Instagram
