Subway tile is a timeless choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. While the classic horizontal brick pattern remains a favorite, there are countless creative ways to arrange these versatile tiles to add personality and style to your home. Whether you're looking for a modern twist or a bold statement, here are ten stylish ways to lay subway tiles in your custom home.

At Joyner Homes, we love the versatility of subway tile and how different layouts add character-rich details and charm to any space.

For more design inspiration, take a look at some of our completed homes.

1. Traditional Brick Pattern

This is the most well-known subway tile layout, with each row offset by half the width of a tile. It’s a classic, clean, and balanced look that works well in any space, from kitchens to showers.

2. Vertical Stack

For a contemporary feel, install subway tiles in a straight vertical stack. This layout emphasizes height, making it a great choice for small bathrooms or accent walls where you want to create a sense of spaciousness.

3. Horizontal Stack

A clean and modern take on subway tile, this pattern lines up each tile in a grid-like formation. It’s perfect for creating a sleek, minimalist design while still maintaining the charm of subway tile.

4. Herringbone

Herringbone is a sophisticated pattern where tiles are laid at 45-degree angles, forming a beautiful zigzag effect. This eye-catching layout works well as a backsplash, a feature wall, or even a shower accent.

5. Chevron

A chevron tile pattern features tiles cut at an angle and arranged in a continuous V-shape, creating a sleek, dynamic design that adds movement and visual interest to any space.

6. Basketweave

This layout uses pairs of subway tiles placed horizontally and vertically in a woven-like pattern. It’s a unique and dynamic way to incorporate subway tile while maintaining a sense of symmetry.

7. Step Ladder (Stepped Pattern)

In this pattern, tiles are arranged to gradually step up or down, creating a cascading effect. This unique layout adds movement and a playful touch to backsplashes or shower walls, offering a modern twist on a traditional tile shape.

8. Crosshatch

For a subtle yet stylish approach, stagger tiles at 90-degree angles to create a pattern reminiscent of woven fabric. This layout adds texture and interest without overwhelming the space.

9. Vertical Offset

A vertical offset subway tile pattern arranges tiles in a staggered, brick-like layout but oriented vertically, creating a modern twist on the classic subway tile while adding height and visual interest.

10. Alternating Subway Tile Colors - Get Creative!

Using alternating subway tile colors allows for a bold and creative design—whether through a checkerboard effect, gradient transition, or custom pattern—adding depth and personality to any space.

Making Your Subway Tile Stand Out

No matter which layout you choose, subway tiles can be further customized with different grout colors, tile finishes, and even contrasting borders. Whether you prefer a clean and simple look or something bold and dynamic, Joyner Homes can help bring your tile vision to life in your custom home build.

Contact us today to explore the endless possibilities for your dream home! You can begin by filling out a customer worksheet or call (317) 468-2330 to be connected with one of our New Home Specialists.