Metro Tiles for Bathrooms – Classic Style with Contemporary Versatility
Metro tiles are a format that has stood the test of time thanks to their clean lines, versatile format, and timeless appeal. Sometimes known as subway tiles, this format was originally inspired by the tiling used in early 20th-century underground stations, and it’s now become a popular choice in bathroom design across the UK. At Bowman Bathrooms, we understand the lasting popularity of this classic tile format and offer a wide range of metro tiles suitable for all bathroom styles, from traditional to contemporary.
What Are Metro Tiles?
Metro tiles are typically rectangular, ceramic tiles most commonly sized at 200 x 100 mm, though variations are widely available. They feature a bevelled or flat edge and are usually laid in a brick or stacked pattern. They’re widely sought after by those looking for sleek, practical and affordable tiling solutions for bathrooms.
Their popularity stems from a combination of style and practicality. Metro tiles are easy to clean, resistant to moisture, and ideal for both small and large bathrooms. Thanks to their simplicity, they can complement nearly any bathroom design, whether that’s a period-style room with vintage fixtures or a minimal, modern space.
Where and How to Use Metro Tiles in the Bathroom
Shower and Bath Surrounds
Metro tiles are a natural choice for tiling around showers and bathtubs. Their regular shape allows for clean lines and easy coverage across large surfaces. Laid in a classic brick pattern or a more modern vertical stack, they create a cohesive and stylish backdrop in wet zones.
Bathroom Feature Walls
Using metro tiles to create a feature wall is a smart way to introduce texture and interest without overwhelming the space. Whether you go for a bold colour or stick with classic white metro tiles, a tiled feature wall can add depth and style to even the smallest bathroom.
Sink Splashbacks
Metro tiles make excellent splashbacks behind bathroom sinks and vanities. Their glazed surface makes them easy to wipe clean, while the variety of colour options allows you to add a personal touch.
Full Wall Coverage
For a truly striking look, metro tiles can be used to tile entire walls. This is especially effective in bathrooms with a minimalist design, allowing the tiles themselves to take centre stage. A monochrome palette using black or grey metro tiles can look also particularly striking.
Metro Tile Trends in Bathroom Design
Metro tiles continue to evolve, with new colours, finishes, and laying patterns keeping this classic style feeling fresh. If you’re considering bathroom wall tiles in metro style, here are some trends to consider in 2025:
Bold Colours and Matt Finishes
While white gloss metro tiles remain a firm favourite, many homeowners are embracing deeper shades such as navy blue, forest green, and charcoal. Matt finishes are growing in popularity too, offering a more subtle and modern texture that works well in contemporary bathrooms.
Coloured Grout
The use of contrasting grout is another trend that adds lots of definition and character. For example, white metro tiles with black grout give a crisp, graphic look, while grey grout with coloured tiles can help tone down the contrast for a softer finish.
Vertical and Herringbone Patterns
Moving away from the traditional horizontal brick layout, designers are increasingly experimenting with vertical stacking, diagonal herringbone, and chevron patterns. These approaches breathe new life into metro tiles and allow for a unique and personalised finish.
Mixing with Other Tile Formats
Combining metro tiles with other formats, such as hexagonal or large-format tiles, creates a layered and multidimensional bathroom design. This is especially effective when used to define different zones within a bathroom.
Choosing the Right Metro Tile for Your Bathroom
When choosing metro tiles for your bathroom, it’s important to consider both aesthetic and practical factors:
Colour and Finish
Gloss tiles reflect light and can help smaller bathrooms feel more spacious. Matt tiles, on the other hand, offer a modern alternative and pair well with muted palettes and natural materials. Neutral tones work well in most bathrooms, while bold colours can be used to create a standout feature.
Layout and Pattern
The way you lay your metro tiles can have a big impact on the final look. Horizontal brick patterns remain the most popular, but vertical or herringbone patterns can elongate a room or draw the eye to a particular feature.
Grout Choice
Grout is not just functional, it can also be an important design element! A complementary grout will create a seamless appearance, while a contrasting grout can define each tile and add structure to your walls.
Suitability for Wet Areas
All of our metro tiles are suitable for high-moisture bathroom areas, including inside showers and around bathtubs. Their glazed surfaces resist water and staining, making them both hygienic and long-lasting.
Why Choose Bowman Bathrooms for Metro Tiles?
At Bowman Bathrooms, we specialise in providing high-quality, bathroom-specific tile solutions. Our range of metro tiles is carefully selected to meet the demands of modern bathroom interiors, while offering the versatility to suit more traditional tastes too.
Expertise and Personal Service
Our team understands bathrooms inside and out. We can advise on everything from tile layout and colour selection to practicalities like slip resistance and easy cleaning. Whether you’re working with a small cloakroom or a large master ensuite, we’ll help you find the right metro tile for your space.
Bathroom-Focused Selection
Unlike general tile suppliers, our tile collections are tailored exclusively to your bathroom design. This means you can be confident in the durability, moisture resistance, and design compatibility of every metro tile we offer.
Full-Service Design and Installation
From beginning to end, we offer a complete bathroom service. If you’re installing metro tiles as part of a wider renovation, our experienced fitters will ensure the finish is precise and long-lasting.
Quality and Value
We work with trusted manufacturers to provide metro tiles that are not only stylish but also built to last. Whether you’re looking for classic white bevelled metro tiles or bold coloured tiles for a modern twist, you’ll find an option that suits your style and budget.
Find Your Ideal Metro Tiles with Bowman Bathrooms
Metro tiles offer the perfect balance of tradition and trend, simplicity and statement. Their clean lines, flexibility of layout, and broad colour options make them one of the most enduring and popular tile choices for bathrooms. Visit our showroom or get in touch with our expert team to explore our full range of metro bathroom tiles and find the perfect match for your project!
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