When it comes to installing a new kitchen floor, tiles are an enduringly popular choice for many Australian homeowners. Although many other flooring types have become the hot trend over recent years, tiles have held their position as a practical, durable and attractive flooring option for this high-traffic and high-wear environment.
If your initial thought when you consider tiles is that they're plain, neutral and uninspiring, then you may not realise how many colourful, contemporary and stunning tile options there are available in today's competitive market.
An increasingly popular choice for interior designers and homeowners is subway tiles. Subway tiles are named after the iconic tiles used to adorn the walls of underground railway stations in New York City. They are small, rectangular tiles that are made with crisp white porcelain that can be used in a wide variety of patterns. Here are the three most popular patterns to use for your subway tiles.
1. Stacked
A stacked pattern involves laying the tiles down so that both the horizontal and vertical grout lines are identical through the pattern. This creates a grid-like pattern that is ideal if you like a feeling of order and symmetry in your home. With a stacked tile pattern, it's important to align the tile pattern perfectly with your cabinetry to maintain clean and pristine lines.
2. Running bond
Running bond describes a pattern that is essentially laid like standard brickwork, with each layer offset from the one below it by half. This is a great option if you love an immaculate and symmetrical look but would like a little more visual interest than the stacked pattern provides. It's also fantastic if you prefer a slightly more traditional and homely look for your kitchen.
3. Herringbone
A herringbone pattern takes the running bond idea and flips it diagonally to create a zigzag or chevron pattern with the subway tiles. Although the herringbone pattern has been used on flooring in homes for centuries, it's going through its renaissance and is a highly desirable pattern for many high-end interior designers.
Whichever pattern you decide to use for your subway tiles, having them installed by highly experienced tilers is essential. Unlike many other tiling styles, properly installing subway tiles requires a steady and meticulous hand in order to ensure that the tiles are properly spaced and perfectly aligned and that the pattern maintains its integrity through the entire tiles floor area.