Metro Kitchen Tiles

Frequently Asked Questions

Are metro tiles only suitable for splashbacks, or can I use them elsewhere in the kitchen?

While metro tiles are most commonly used as splashbacks, they are by no means limited to that purpose. Many homeowners use metro tiles to cover full kitchen walls, create feature panels behind cookers, or even tile entire chimney breasts or alcoves for added depth and interest. Their rectangular shape makes them ideal for creative layouts that suit both modern and traditional kitchens, and their glossy finish helps reflect light around the space. In larger kitchens, you might choose to tile one full wall to create a statement backdrop, or use metro tiles in vertical columns to define specific zones within an open-plan area. At Hyperion Tiles, we’ve seen customers use metro tiles in clever ways to add texture, contrast, and colour to their kitchen designs. So, while splashbacks are the most common use, metro tiles are versatile enough to be used just about anywhere on the kitchen wall.

Can metro tiles be used in modern kitchens or are they best suited to traditional designs?

Metro tiles work beautifully in both modern and traditional kitchens—it really comes down to how you style them. In traditional or period-style kitchens, metro tiles in classic white or cream with a bevelled edge and brick-bond layout offer a timeless and elegant finish. Pair them with Shaker units, brass hardware, and warm-toned worktops for a charming, heritage feel. In modern kitchens, you can opt for metro tiles in darker tones like charcoal or forest green, laid vertically or in a herringbone pattern for a sleek, contemporary edge. Using contrasting grout adds a bold, graphic look that works well with minimalist cabinetry and clean lines. At Hyperion Tiles, we stock metro tiles in a wide variety of colours and finishes so you can achieve the style that best reflects your personal taste and the character of your kitchen, whether you're restoring a cottage or designing a brand-new extension.

Are metro kitchen tiles easy to clean and maintain?

Yes, one of the biggest advantages of metro kitchen tiles is how easy they are to clean and care for. Their smooth glazed surface makes them resistant to stains, moisture, and grease—ideal for busy kitchens where mess is a daily reality. For everyday cleaning, a simple wipe with a damp cloth or sponge is usually enough to keep them looking fresh. If any marks or splashes from cooking build up, a mild, pH-neutral cleaner will do the job without damaging the glaze. Darker grout may require the occasional scrub to prevent discolouration, but this is easily managed with a soft brush and appropriate grout cleaner. Because metro tiles are ceramic or porcelain, they’re durable enough to resist chipping and won’t absorb moisture, meaning they retain their good looks over time with very little effort. At Hyperion Tiles, we recommend sealing grout in high-use areas to keep maintenance even simpler and preserve the clean lines metro tiles are known for.

What grout colour should I choose with metro tiles?

The grout colour you choose can dramatically change the overall look of your metro tile installation. If you're after a clean, seamless appearance, a grout colour that matches your tile—such as white grout with white tiles—will help everything blend smoothly and create a light, fresh look. If you want to highlight the shape and pattern of the tiles, using a contrasting grout—such as black or grey with white tiles—will create definition and add a more graphic, industrial or contemporary edge. Coloured tiles also look great with neutral grout for a softer finish, or with darker grout for added drama. At Hyperion Tiles, we encourage customers to consider how visible they want the tile pattern to be, and whether they’re looking for a bold statement or something more subtle. We’re always happy to offer advice and show samples so you can compare tile and grout combinations before making your final decision.

Can metro tiles be laid in different patterns or just the classic brick-bond layout?

Metro tiles are incredibly versatile and can be laid in several different patterns depending on the effect you want to achieve. The classic brick-bond layout, where each row is offset like traditional brickwork, is by far the most popular and gives a timeless, balanced appearance. However, metro tiles can also be laid vertically, either stacked or in a brick pattern, to elongate the height of your kitchen walls and create a more contemporary look. Another popular option is the herringbone pattern, which adds movement and a touch of luxury—perfect for statement splashbacks or smaller feature areas. For modern or minimalist kitchens, a simple stacked layout in clean rows and columns offers a very structured, uniform look that feels fresh and streamlined. At Hyperion Tiles, we can guide you through layout options and provide visual examples to help you choose a pattern that complements your kitchen style and makes the most of your space.

Classic Meets Contemporary: Metro Kitchen Tiles from Hyperion Tiles

At Hyperion Tiles, we believe that timeless design never goes out of fashion—and few tiles have stood the test of time like metro kitchen tiles. Also known as subway tiles, these rectangular tiles bring a clean, structured look to any kitchen, blending seamlessly into both traditional and modern settings. Whether you're creating a bright splashback, tiling a full wall behind your hob, or adding a subtle border detail, metro tiles offer an effortlessly stylish solution.

Inspired by the white-glazed tiles used in early 20th-century underground stations, metro tiles have become a design classic in kitchens across the UK and beyond. Their iconic bevelled edge and glossy finish reflect light beautifully, making your space feel larger, cleaner, and more open. But metro tiles are anything but one-dimensional. Available in a variety of colours, finishes, and sizes, they can be laid in countless patterns to suit your personal style—whether you’re after something understated or a bit more playful.

At Hyperion Tiles, we offer a curated selection of high-quality metro kitchen tiles to suit every type of home. Whether you're renovating a period property or refreshing a sleek city flat, these tiles add polish, personality, and practicality to your kitchen design.

What Are Metro Kitchen Tiles?

Metro tiles are small-format rectangular tiles, traditionally measuring around 200mm by 100mm. Their most recognisable feature is a bevelled edge, which creates light and shadow for added texture and depth. Originally used in underground stations in London, Paris, and New York in the early 1900s, these tiles were chosen for their practicality as well as their timeless visual appeal. Their glossy glaze made them easy to clean, while their neat shape allowed for quick installation and strong visual continuity.

Today, metro tiles have found a permanent place in domestic interiors—especially in kitchens, where hygiene, durability, and style all matter. At Hyperion Tiles, our collection includes traditional white metro tiles as well as modern takes in bold colours, satin or matt finishes, and even textured or crackle-effect glazes. With so many choices available, metro tiles can be adapted to suit everything from country cottages and Shaker-style kitchens to contemporary open-plan layouts and modern industrial schemes.

Whether you lay them horizontally in a brick bond for a classic look or arrange them in a herringbone or vertical stack for something more current, metro tiles offer design flexibility without ever losing their character.

Why Choose Metro Tiles for Your Kitchen?

There’s a reason metro tiles continue to be one of the most popular choices for kitchen walls—they offer the perfect balance of style and functionality. Their glossy glazed surface makes them easy to clean and naturally resistant to stains, grease, and moisture. This makes them particularly well-suited for splashbacks, worktop surrounds, and cooker hoods where protection and hygiene are essential.

From a design perspective, metro tiles are incredibly versatile. They can be used to achieve a traditional or contemporary aesthetic depending on the tile colour, finish, and layout. Classic white tiles with white grout offer a fresh, timeless look that works beautifully in any kitchen. Opt for coloured tiles with contrasting grout, and you suddenly have a bold, graphic effect that draws the eye and adds personality to the space.

One of the most appealing things about metro tiles is how they can suit almost any budget or project scale. Whether you're simply updating your splashback or fully retiling your kitchen walls, metro tiles are an affordable way to make a big visual impact. At Hyperion Tiles, our range includes tiles suitable for compact flats, large family kitchens, and everything in between.

Perfect Splashbacks and Statement Walls

Metro kitchen tiles are perhaps most often used to create eye-catching splashbacks. Their rectangular shape and tidy proportions make them ideal for framing your worktops, hob area, or sink with a stylish yet practical finish. A tiled splashback helps to protect your walls from splashes and spills while adding texture and colour to your kitchen design. It also provides an excellent opportunity to introduce pattern, whether through the layout, grout choice, or tile finish.

For those looking to go beyond the basics, metro tiles can be extended beyond the splashback to cover entire walls or chimney breasts for a more immersive effect. Floor-to-ceiling tiling with metro tiles works particularly well in galley kitchens or smaller rooms, as the reflective surfaces help maximise light and make the space feel larger. In open-plan kitchens, metro tiles can also be used to define a cooking or preparation area, creating a subtle visual boundary without closing off the space.

At Hyperion Tiles, we’ve seen our metro tiles used in everything from minimalist monochrome kitchens to bold, Mediterranean-inspired designs. With the right layout and colour palette, they can be tailored to suit any kitchen style, whether modern, rustic, vintage, or industrial.

Colour and Finish Options

While classic white metro tiles will always be in demand, modern homeowners are increasingly using colour to personalise their kitchens. At Hyperion Tiles, our range includes an array of colours from soft pastels and earthy neutrals to deep blues, forest greens, and charcoal greys. These tones help you achieve everything from a calming, nature-inspired kitchen to a bold, urban space with high contrast and texture.

Glossy finishes remain a popular choice due to their light-reflecting properties, which help brighten darker kitchens or make small spaces feel more open. However, matt and satin finishes offer a more contemporary, understated look, perfect for those who prefer a softer aesthetic. Crackle glazes and handcrafted-style tiles bring a tactile quality to your kitchen walls, adding depth and uniqueness to the surface.

Metro tiles are also available in different sizes, allowing for more creative freedom in how they’re arranged. Whether you want a long, thin tile for a sleek vertical stack or a slightly larger tile for a statement layout, our collection gives you the flexibility to explore different options. Grout colour can also transform the look entirely—pairing white tiles with dark grout creates a sharp, industrial feel, while tone-on-tone grout delivers a seamless and subtle finish.

Low Maintenance and Everyday Durability

One of the reasons metro kitchen tiles are so enduring is their incredible practicality. Ceramic or porcelain metro tiles are glazed to create a water-resistant surface that is simple to maintain. Everyday cleaning usually involves nothing more than a quick wipe with a damp cloth or sponge, making them ideal for busy kitchens where ease of upkeep is a priority.

Because they are fired at high temperatures, these tiles are hard-wearing and resistant to chipping or staining. The glazed surface repels spills and grease, which means you can confidently use them behind your hob or around your sink without worrying about long-term damage. With proper installation and care, metro tiles will continue to look smart and polished for many years.

At Hyperion Tiles, we always recommend using high-quality adhesive and grout for the best finish. Our team is happy to advise on installation techniques, cleaning products, and grout sealants to ensure your tiles stay looking their best well into the future. Whether you’re handling the job yourself or hiring a professional, we’re here to support you at every step.

Visit Hyperion Tiles or Explore Online

If you're looking to update your kitchen with something classic, functional, and full of character, metro kitchen tiles are the perfect solution. At Hyperion Tiles, we offer a diverse collection of tiles to suit every taste and design preference. From timeless whites to rich, bold colours, and from glossy finishes to handmade textures, we’re confident you’ll find the ideal tile to complete your kitchen transformation.

You can browse our range online or visit our showroom to see the full collection in person. Our knowledgeable team is always on hand to answer questions, suggest layout ideas, or provide samples so you can see how your chosen tiles will look in your own space. With nationwide delivery and expert advice at every stage, Hyperion Tiles is here to help you bring your dream kitchen to life.

Speak with us today and discover how metro tiles can bring effortless style, structure, and practicality to the heart of your home.

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