Metro Tiles Buying Guide

The Metro tile has become a cult classic in modern homes and is now the go-to for many homeowners looking for a stylish yet inexpensive tile. This simple tile exudes sophistication and can be used in many ways making it a versatile option. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at what metro tiles are, where you can use them and how you can style them in your home.

Metro tiles, also known as subway tiles, are rectangular wall tiles which were commonly used in underground and subway transport systems in the early 20th century. Classic metro tiles are typically made from ceramic and often feature a bevelled edge which gives them a very distinct look. Their rectangular design allowed them to accommodate the curvature of underground station walls, whilst the glossy, hardwearing ceramic finish was a practical solution for helping to keep public areas clean and hygienic.

Metro tiles are commonly available in 10x20cm and these are the best option if you are after the classic metro tile look. They also come in two other sizes including 10x30cm and 7.5x15cm. If you are looking for a larger more elongated design which still features the classic gloss finish and bevelled edge, then our Diamante tile is perfect for this. For smaller spaces, you can try the Minton Hollins Bevel tile.

As well as coming in a range of sizes, you can also choose from a couple of finishes including gloss for a more classic look or matt for a more subtle design. They are also available with the classic bevelled edge for a more standout 3D effect or you can opt for more modern metro tiles which have a flat finish. Don’t forget to consider the colour options available – from vibrant hues to neutral tones, there’s something to suit every style and preference.

If you are looking for a more classic metro tile look, pairing white grout with white tiles is a fail-safe option. Similarly pairing a coloured metro tile with a matching grout colour will provide a seamless finish whilst creating more of a statement, ideal for smaller spaces. For an even bigger statement, you could pick a contrasting grout and metro tile colour to really show off the design – the options are endless!

Metro tiles are incredibly versatile and can be used throughout various spaces in your home. Their clean, glossy appearance conveys a sense of cleanliness and hygiene making them particularly popular in kitchens, utility rooms, bathrooms and walk-in shower rooms. As well as these common spaces, metro tiles can also be used as a fireplace feature in a living room, an entryway (reminiscent of traditional Victorian homes) or a feature wall in an office space.

Even a century on, metro tiles are still considered one of the most popular styles of tiles used in homes today and now surpass interior trends, they have become a cult classic in interior design. The vast array of colour options and metro tile pattern combinations make them an incredibly versatile choice for any décor style. They are also a great option for those who want to achieve a 'mix-and-match' style, serving as both a standalone tile or as a supporting tile alongside more decorative patterned tiles.

Our biggest seller, the Metro White tile, is both versatile and stylish. Inspired by the look of the London Underground with a clean edge, the classic finish of these tiles means a glossy surface and high-quality bevelled edges. Ideal for use in kitchens and bathrooms, the white tiles can be creatively mixed to add distinction to almost any space. This white tile looks minimal and seamless in a brick bond pattern paired with a complementary light grout. Alternatively, you could opt for a darker grout and laid in a herringbone design for a contemporary twist.

For a modern edge, our Metro White Matt tiles certainly fit the brief. The subtle matt glaze is ideal for those looking for something a little different for a cult shape without steering away from a beautiful classic white.

We are obsessed with indulging deep greens in our interiors, and we are happy to confirm it is not going anywhere! With its classic design, our Forest Green Metro tile is ideal for adding a splash of colour to your home whilst creating a traditional look with a modern twist. Ideal for both kitchens and bathrooms, the Forest Green Metro tile is a great way to add drama and sophistication to any room.

Our pale pink tile, Metro Blush, is a perfect kitchen or bathroom tile to create a beautiful blushing interior. The tile would pair perfectly with its sister Metro Forest tile, but equally can be paired with greys, blues or kept minimal with a white tile. This tile is incredibly versatile and would work well in a variety of colour schemes and spaces. With its classic design, our Forest Green Metro tile is ideal for adding a splash of colour to your home whilst creating a traditional look with a modern twist. Ideal for both kitchens and bathrooms, the Forest Green Metro tile is a great way to add drama and sophistication to any room.

The Metro Carrara tile lends a stunning marble look to enable elegance and a traditional metro-style tile in one. Highly versatile, these tiles are perfect for adding a subtle marble design to your dream kitchen or bathroom.

Pairing both Dove and Mint Metro tiles with wooden accessories and natural accents is a great way to create a cosy country bathroom. These subtle pastels are great for adding a splash of calming colour without distracting away from other decorative elements of your space. These colours pair beautifully with gold kitchen and bathroom fittings for that vintage French chic look.

Create a kitchen full of character by flipping the classic white tile with a contrasting grout. Instead, go for a Metro Grey with crisp white grout to create a playful feature in any kitchen or bathroom.

If you are after a light and airy colour but white is not your thing, you could consider Metro bone. These off-white, cream tiles help to provide a clean look, whilst still adding warmth to your space. You could also try pairing this neutral colour with other colours for a more exciting contrast.

Embrace a serene sage into your interior for a comforting and homely aesthetic. Pair with sage units for a tonal look or contrast with blush pink to create a playful design.

Create an elegant and sophisticated interior by choosing Metro Deep Blue. We love the vertical running tiles for a modern edge and a hint of opulence besides gold features. The Metro deep blue tile is ideal for adding a splash of vibrant colour to walls whilst still giving a classic décor a contemporary feel.

Metro Black is a great way to create a little drama in your space. Use this black tile alone to create a sense of depth or to complement a monochromatic palette. Combining with other colours from the Metro range can help you achieve a more eclectic design whilst still adding your desired depth and drama.

With so much choice it can feel hard to choose which Metro to opt for. This range is so versatile that it is almost always going to be a winner in any décor setting. Your home is a space where you want to feel your best. If a deep green makes you feel connected with nature or the pastel pink gives you some sugary sweetness, then don’t hesitate. It’s all about creating your dream interior.

Whatever colour scheme and trend you are looking for we have a metro tile to match. From classic whites and airy neutrals to dark forest greens and moody blacks, we have a colour to suit any scheme.

 You can also use our helpful visualiser to see how our tiles could look in your very own kitchen, bathroom or living space.

 Looking for more metro tile inspiration? Read our guide to discover five ways to style our classic Metro tile.