Buy Metro White Wall Tiles
Posted by Asad on 14th Apr 2025
Metro White Bevelled Wall Tiles (100x200mm): Timeless Style for UK Interiors
Metro white bevelled wall tiles – the classic 100x200mm “subway” tiles – have become a staple in UK homes. You’ve likely spotted them in trendy London cafés, chic modern kitchens, and cosy Victorian-style bathrooms. These glossy white tiles, with their distinctive bevelled edges, offer a timeless appeal that fits both classic and contemporary interiors. In this post, we’ll explore why white metro tiles are so beloved, share stylish design ideas for kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms, offer practical cleaning tips, and answer frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll see why these tiles remain a go-to choice for British homeowners and interior designers alike.
The Enduring Appeal of White Metro Tiles
What makes metro white bevelled tiles so special? For starters, they carry a bit of history and charm. Originating in the early 1900s, these tiles got their name from the subway (or “metro”) stations of London and Paris, where bevelled white ceramic tiles were used to brighten underground corridors. Over a century later, the design has barely changed – and yet it still looks fresh. In fact, metro tiles have stood the test of time with their popularity only increasing, an impressive feat for a 100-year-old design.
One key to their enduring appeal is their undeniable style and versatility. Metro tiles manage to blur the line between vintage and modern décor, fitting in just as easily with a sleek contemporary kitchen as they do in a rustic cottage or a Victorian bathroom. The crisp white glaze and bevelled edges create a play of light and shadow that makes any space feel brighter and more open. This light-enhancing quality is especially valued in our often modestly sized UK kitchens and bathrooms – a small room clad in glossy white metro tiles instantly feels larger and airier as the tiles reflect light around the room.
Another appeal is that metro tiles are affordable and easy to work with. They are widely available across the UK (you can find 100x200mm white metro tiles at most tile retailers) and typically cost much less per square metre than fancy patterned tiles or natural stone. Yet, despite their budget-friendly price, they look “a million dollars” once installed, lending a high-end look for a fraction of the cost. DIY enthusiasts also love them because the small rectangular format is easy to cut and lay, even for beginners – you don’t need to be a pro tiler to get a great result with these tiles. And if a tile does crack during installation, replacements are cheap and easy to find.
Finally, durability and low maintenance seal the deal. Made from glazed ceramic, white metro tiles are water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean – perfect for kitchens and bathrooms where spills and splashes are common. The bevelled surface doesn’t accumulate grime any more than a flat tile; a quick wipe with a cloth keeps them gleaming. All these qualities combined (style, versatility, brightness, affordability, and ease of upkeep) explain why metro white bevelled tiles remain a favourite choice in UK interiors, year after year.
Kitchen Inspiration with White Metro Tiles
Kitchens are one of the most popular places to use white metro bevelled tiles – especially as a splashback (the area above your countertops and cooker). There’s something about a white metro tile kitchen splashback that just feels right: it’s clean, bright, and works with almost any kitchen style. Whether you have an ultramodern handleless kitchen or a traditional Shaker-style design, white metro tiles can complement the look.
White bevelled metro tiles in a classic brick-bond layout create a clean, bright kitchen splashback. Contrasting grout emphasizes the brick pattern and adds visual interest.
Classic look: The most common layout you’ll see is the classic subway pattern – tiles laid in a brick-bond (staggered) arrangement. This timeless layout gives a clean and classic look that suits both contemporary and traditional kitchens. Pair glossy white tiles with white grout for a seamless, airy effect, or use a medium grey or black grout to make the rectangular pattern pop. White tiles with black or dark grey grout create a bold contrast that works great in kitchens, adding a hint of industrial chic. In fact, the black-and-white metro tile combo is considered a timeless design choice – it’s eye-catching yet still neutral enough to go with anything.
Modern twists: If you want to put a modern spin on your kitchen, try playing with tile orientation. For example, install the 100x200mm tiles in a vertical stack (one on top of the other in straight columns) instead of the usual horizontal layout. Vertical stacking draws the eye upward and can make your kitchen walls seem taller – a neat trick for compact spaces. Another idea is the herringbone pattern, where tiles are laid at 45° angles in a zigzag pattern. A herringbone metro tile backsplash adds movement and a touch of sophistication, becoming a subtle focal point behind your hob or sink. It’s a bit more effort to install, but the result looks high-end and bespoke. (For instance, herringbone is often suggested to elevate the look of inexpensive tiles, making them appear more luxurious.) You could also do a straight stack (tiles aligned in a grid) for a sleek, modern feel.
Style pairings: White metro tiles are incredibly versatile with colour schemes. In a modern kitchen, you might have matte grey or navy-blue cabinets – the crisp white tiles will balance those darker tones and keep the space feeling light. In a farmhouse or cottage-style kitchen with wooden worktops and pastel cabinetry, white metros add to the cosy, country vibe (think of classic country kitchens with butler sinks – they often feature metro tile splashbacks!). If you’re aiming for an industrial style kitchen, pair white bevelled tiles with black grout, open metal shelving, and maybe some exposed brick elsewhere; the look will nod to urban lofts and trendy eateries. On the other hand, a minimalist all-white kitchen will benefit from the subtle texture the bevelled tiles provide, preventing the space from looking too flat or clinical.
To spark some ideas, here are a few kitchen design combos using white metro tiles:
Modern Monochrome: White bevelled tiles + white grout + sleek grey cabinets + stainless steel appliances = a bright, modern kitchen with a seamless look (great for showcasing colourful accessories or cookware).
Bold Contrast: White tiles + charcoal grout + black cabinets or a dark painted feature wall = a dramatic yet classy contrast, perfect for industrial or contemporary styles.
Warm Farmhouse: White tiles + beige or light grey grout + sage green or cream cabinets + oak worktops = a warm, inviting country kitchen. The bevelled tiles add vintage charm that complements rustic elements.
Coastal Fresh: White tiles + light blue grout (or try a soft blue accent tile mixed in) + white cabinets + brass hardware = a breezy coastal vibe, bringing character without overwhelming the simplicity.
As you can see, white metro tiles in the kitchen can adapt to just about any palette or theme. They provide a neutral backdrop that lets other design features shine, yet they have enough character (thanks to the bevelled texture and grout pattern) to be interesting on their own. No wonder interior designers often call subway tiles their “secret weapon” for kitchens – they reliably make the design look pulled together and stylish.
Bathroom Ideas: Classic to Contemporary
Bathrooms and white metro tiles are a match made in heaven. From luxurious walk-in showers to petite cloakroom toilets, metro bevelled tiles can enhance bathroom walls with their reflective sheen and retro charm. If you’re searching for metro tiles bathroom ideas, here are several stylish ways to use them:
Full-height shower walls: Tiling an entire shower enclosure or bath surround with white bevelled tiles creates a bright, clean space that feels spa-like. The glossy surfaces bounce light around, which is especially helpful in small bathrooms. You can stick with the classic horizontal brick layout for an elegant, understated look. For a contemporary twist, consider doing the shower in a herringbone pattern or vertical running bond (where each row is offset vertically). These layouts instantly upgrade the look and can make your bathroom feel like a boutique hotel.
Using white metro tiles in a herringbone pattern adds a stylish twist to a bathroom. Here, a half-wall behind a bathtub is tiled in a diagonal herringbone layout, giving the classic white tile a fresh, contemporary feel.
Half-wall wainscoting: A popular design in UK bathrooms (especially period properties) is tiling the lower half of the wall and painting the upper half. White metro tiles are perfect for this half-tiled wall approach. For example, in a Victorian-inspired bathroom, you might tile up to dado height with white bevelled metros and use a dark grey or black grout for a traditional contrast. Above the tiles, paint the wall in a rich colour (deep navy, forest green) or even use patterned wallpaper, and cap the tile with a decorative trim. This gives you the best of both worlds: the practical durability of tiles where water splashes, and the warmth of paint or paper above. Black and white schemes are classic (white metro tile wainscoting with a black and white patterned floor tile = instant Victorian charm). For a twist, some designers use coloured metro tiles as a border or stripe within the white field – e.g. a thin line of black tiles or a checkerboard pattern to mimic vintage styles.
Small bathroom tricks: If your bathroom is tiny, don’t worry – metro tiles can actually help it feel bigger. Opt for a white-on-white scheme: white tiles with white (or very light) grout will create a continuous surface that visually expands the space. Additionally, consider laying the tiles vertically. When you install metro tiles vertically (with the longer side going up and down), it creates an illusion of added height, making the ceiling seem taller. This trick, combined with the light reflection of glossy white glaze, can make even a cramped London flat’s bathroom feel more open. Also, using larger tiles on the floor (or a seamless sheet vinyl) with the small metro on walls can balance the proportions.
Mixing with patterns: Another trend is pairing simple white metro wall tiles with a bold patterned floor. For example, intricate encaustic-look tiles or geometric mosaic floors are very on-trend; keeping the wall tiles plain white subway style ensures the space doesn’t look too busy. The metro tiles act as a canvas that lets your statement floor or fixtures take the spotlight. This is a great design strategy: it provides interest underfoot while maintaining clean, bright walls. Throw in some brass or matte black taps and a frameless shower screen, and you have a magazine-worthy bathroom.
Modern luxe touches: Metro tiles can also play a supporting role in more glam bathroom designs. If you love a bit of luxury, you could use white bevelled tiles with an accent of mirror or metal tiles (for instance, a strip of mirror-finish metro tiles as a feature, or rose-gold metallic trim pieces). Because white is so neutral, it pairs with brass, gold, chrome, or black fixtures equally well. A freestanding tub against a wall of white bevelled tiles looks very elegant, especially if you add wall lights or sconces that further reflect off the tiles. For a soft modern spa look, use white metro tiles with a light grey grout, add natural wood accessories or shelving, and incorporate plenty of fluffy white towels and some greenery – simple and serene.
In summary, there’s hardly a wrong way to use white metro tiles in a bathroom. They can evoke any style from classic Edwardian (just add a clawfoot tub and black and white scheme) to ultra-modern (pair with concrete-look flooring and minimalist fittings). Their water-resistant, easy-clean nature is just the practical bonus on top of their aesthetic versatility.
Beyond Kitchens and Baths: Utility Rooms & More
The versatility of metro white bevelled tiles doesn’t stop at kitchens and bathrooms. These tiles can be employed in other areas of the home to add style and practicality:
Utility rooms & laundry rooms: UK homes often have a separate utility area or laundry room, and metro tiles are fantastic here. Use them as a backsplash behind your sink or along the counter where you do the washing up. White tiles will make what is usually a small, functional room feel cleaner and brighter (and let’s face it, we all want a fresh vibe where we clean clothes!). Plus, their wipeable surface is great for any detergent splashes or mud from cleaning off boots. Even in a garage utility area or under-stairs laundry nook, a bit of white tiling can protect the walls and jazz up the space.
Entryways and mudrooms: Tiling an entryway lower wall can protect against scuffs and dirt. White metro tiles half-way up the wall in a porch or mudroom create a durable dado. It’s a very traditional look (Victorian homes often had tiled entrance halls). You can pair the white tiles with a dark checkerboard tiled floor for a classic design, or keep the floor plain and let the metro tiles be the feature. It’s both decorative and highly practical for wet umbrellas and muddy wellies – just wipe the walls down if they get dirty.
Feature walls and alcoves: Consider using white bevelled tiles to create a feature wall in an unexpected place. For example, behind a home bar or in an alcove where you have shelving. The tiled surface will add texture and reflect light from any accent lighting or candles you place there. Some homeowners even tile the back of built-in bookcases or around a fireplace (if using special heat-resistant adhesive and staying clear of direct heat). Around a decorative fireplace or log burner, white metro tiles can evoke that cosy Parisian café vibe.
Commercial style at home: Love the look of your favourite coffee shop or a trendy pub? Many commercial spaces use white subway tiles extensively – think bars with metro-tiled fronts or café walls covered in them. You can bring that urban chic look home by using metro tiles in a dining room or open-plan living area, perhaps as a half-wall or full feature section. It’s a cool backdrop for wall art and gives the room a bit of edgy, industrial character while still being neutral.
Keep in mind, standard metro tiles are ceramic wall tiles, so they’re not suitable for flooring or outdoor use (they aren’t rated for floor traffic or frost). However, you can get porcelain versions or special outdoor-rated “subway style” tiles if you really want that look on a patio wall or such. For most interior purposes, the classic 100x200mm white ceramic metro tile will serve beautifully anywhere you want a combination of style and easy-clean practicality.
Metro Tiles: From Vintage Charm to Modern Chic
One reason metro white tiles remain so popular is that they act like chameleons in interior design – they can fit into a wide range of styles. As trends evolve, these tiles keep getting reinvented with new twists. In 2024-2025, for example, designers are embracing bold colours and textures in tiles, yet classic white subway tiles are still “holding strong” amidst the new trends. They provide a comforting, timeless element even as surrounding decor changes. Below, we look at how metro tiles can be used in both classic and contemporary interior themes:
As shown in the table, metro tiles effortlessly bridge design eras. In a modern setting, they can feel cool and architectural; in a rustic or vintage setting, they lend authenticity and charm. This adaptability is a big reason why designers continue to use them widely. No matter if your taste changes over the years from ultra-modern to traditional, your white tiled walls will likely still fit in – or can be made to fit with small tweaks like changing grout colour or surrounding paint. It’s a safe yet stylish choice.
Speaking of grout, remember that grout colour can significantly affect the look: white grout will blend in and make the tilework one continuous surface (great for modern or small-space looks), whereas a darker grout emphasizes the grid pattern (great for industrial or retro looks). Neither is “right” or “wrong” – it’s all about the effect you want. You can even find grout in colors like pale grey, beige, or even bold hues if you want something different. There’s also the option of glitter grout (yes, grout with sparkles!) if you fancy a hint of glam – it’s not for everyone, but some folks love it for adding personality to an otherwise simple tile job.
In recent design trend reports, white metro tiles are often cited as classic and not going anywhere. They’re considered a design classic that can be refreshed with new accessories and styling. So, if you invest in metro tiled walls now, you can be confident they’ll still look on-trend years down the line, even as kitchen and bathroom fashions evolve around them.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Metro Tile Walls
One of the best perks of having glossy white ceramic tiles on your walls is how easy they are to maintain. Metro tiles are low-fuss, but here are some practical cleaning tips to keep them (and the grout) looking pristine:
Everyday cleaning: For routine cleaning, just wipe down the tiles with a soft cloth or sponge and warm soapy water. Mild dish soap works perfectly. This will remove everyday splashes, grease from cooking, or soap residue in bathrooms. Because the tiles are glazed, most dirt doesn’t cling strongly – a quick wipe does the trick.
Avoid harsh abrasives: Steer clear of abrasive scrubbers or very harsh chemical cleaners on the glossy surface. You don’t need powerful bleach or scourers for general cleaning. In fact, abrasive pads can dull the shiny glaze over time or scratch the surface. Stick to gentle cloths or non-scratch sponges. If you have a sticky stain (like spaghetti sauce that dried on the splashback), just soak it with a warm damp cloth for a few minutes and it should loosen up.
Cleaning grout lines: The tiles themselves are easy to clean – it’s the grout that can sometimes be trickier (especially white grout, which can show stains). To keep grout looking fresh, periodically use a grout cleaner or a DIY mix of baking soda and water. An old toothbrush is great for scrubbing grout lines gently. In kitchens, degreasing cleaner can help on grout near the hob. In bathrooms, a little vinegar can work against soap scum (but don’t use vinegar too often on grout as it’s acidic – occasional use is fine). Rinse well after cleaning so no cleaner is left sitting in the grout.
Seal the grout (optional): If you have cementitious grout (common sanded or unsanded grout), consider sealing it after installation and re-sealing every year or two. Grout sealer is usually a clear liquid you apply with a brush or spray; it helps repel water and stains. This is optional but can prolong that just-installed look, especially for white or light-colored grout. Epoxy grouts, on the other hand, are inherently stain-resistant and don’t need sealing (they’re less commonly used due to cost, but if you have them, you’re in luck!).
Moisture control: In bathrooms, always ensure you have good ventilation (use that extractor fan!). While metro tiles are moisture-proof, grout can absorb some moisture. Ventilation prevents mold or mildew. If you ever see a bit of mildew starting in the grout (like in a shower corner), address it promptly with a mold-removing cleaner or diluted bleach solution, so it doesn’t spread.
Scuffs or marks: Occasionally, you might get metal marks or scuffs on tiles (for instance, from moving appliances or if a metal utensil rubs against the wall). These gray marks on glaze can often be removed with a gentle cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend or even a pencil eraser, believe it or not. Just test in an inconspicuous area first.
Overall, cleaning metro tiles is straightforward. Their smooth, glossy finish does not hold onto dirt. A regular wipe-down is usually enough to keep them sparkling. This ease of maintenance is a big reason they’re loved in kitchens – spaghetti sauce splatter on a painted wall might mean repainting, but on a tiled wall, it’s gone in seconds with a wipe. Just remember to show a bit of love to the grout lines now and then, and your white metro tile walls will stay as gorgeous as the day they were installed.
Top Tips: Do’s and Don’ts with Metro Tiles
Do:
Plan your pattern and layout before tiling. Whether you choose brick-bond, herringbone, or another pattern, lay some tiles out on the floor first or draw a guide line on the wall to ensure you like the look and the tiles end neatly at edges or corners.
Use proper tile spacers when installing (typically 2-3mm spacers for metro tiles) so you get consistent grout lines. The bevel can trick the eye, but even spacing is key for a professional finish.
Consider edging trims. If your tiled area doesn’t end at a natural corner, finish the edges with a tile trim or bullnose tiles for a clean look. You can get trims in white, chrome, black, etc., to complement your design.
Order a bit extra. It’s wise to purchase about 10% more tiles than your calculated need. This covers any cutting mistakes or future repairs. Metro tiles are small, but you’d be surprised how many you might cut in halves or thirds for corners and edges.
Experiment (within reason) with grout colours. Grout is not permanent like tile – it can be changed later if needed. So don’t be afraid to choose a grout that makes your tiles stand out or complements your colour scheme.
Don’t:
Don’t use wall metro tiles on floors. They’re not rated for floor use and could crack. If you want a matching floor look, search for “floor-safe subway tile” alternatives or use a small format porcelain tile.
Don’t ignore grout curing times. After installation, grout needs time to cure (per packet instructions). Keep the area dry for that period – it ensures your grout stays strong and unstained. (So, no long steamy showers in your brand new metro-tiled bathroom until the grout is set!)
Don’t clean with strong acids or wire brushes. These can damage the glaze or discolour the grout. Stick to gentler methods as mentioned in the cleaning tips.
Don’t assume white on white is boring. Some people worry a white tile with white grout will look too plain – but it can actually be stunning and very elegant, especially in small spaces. The bevelled texture provides interest. So if you want a seamless look, go for it. You can always add colour through towels, artwork, or small accents.
Don’t be afraid to mix styles. Metro tiles can handle it. For example, a modern light fixture in a retro-tiled bathroom can look awesome. Or a rustic wooden shelf on a wall of shiny white tiles adds cool contrast. These tiles are a great backdrop for personal touches, so feel free to combine old and new.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll ensure your metro tile project goes smoothly and yields beautiful results. Now, let’s address some common questions UK consumers have about white metro bevelled tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions about Metro Tiles
Q: Are white metro tiles still in style in 2025, or are they outdated?
A: White metro tiles are absolutely still in style – in fact, they’re considered a timeless choice. While tile trends in 2025 have expanded to include lots of colors and textures, classic subway tiles are “still holding strong” in popularity. Designers continue to use them because they have a universal appeal. Rather than looking outdated, they can actually make a design feel grounded. The key is how you style them: pair them with contemporary fixtures or trending colours and they’ll blend right into a modern 2025 interior. Essentially, metro tiles have become a neutral canvas that transcends fickle trends. So don’t worry about them going out of fashion – they’ve lasted over 100 years so far and aren’t going away anytime soon!
Q: Why are they called “metro” tiles?
A: They’re called metro tiles because of their original use in the early 20th-century underground “Metro” stations of cities like London and Paris. The subway (or “metro”) stations used these glossy white rectangular tiles extensively on walls. The style caught on and eventually made its way into homes. In the US they’re often called subway tiles (same reason – named after New York City subways). So “metro” and “subway” tiles are the same thing. The classic size was roughly 3 x 6 inches (about 75 x 150mm) back then, but today 100 x 200mm (around 4 x 8 inches) is a very common size – which is the size we’ve been discussing here. The bevelled edge was also an early feature to help reflect light in those dim underground stations, a function it still serves in our interiors today.
Q: What’s the difference between bevelled metro tiles and flat metro tiles?
A: The difference is simply in the shape of the tile’s face. Bevelled metro tiles have edges that slope or angle down, creating a little raised center on each tile and a groove at the grout lines. This gives extra texture and shadow lines, which many feel adds character and a vintage vibe. Flat metro tiles have no bevel; they are completely flat on the surface, which gives a slightly more modern, clean-lined look. Bevelled tiles will create more pronounced grout lines (since the grout sits slightly lower than the tile surface) and catch the light differently. Flat tiles, especially with minimal grout lines, can achieve a very smooth, uniform appearance on the wall. There’s no right or wrong – it’s aesthetic preference. Flat tiles might be easier to clean just because there’s no indent at the edges, but honestly bevelled tiles are also easy to wipe down (the bevel is not steep). If you want that classic Paris subway look, go bevelled. If you want a contemporary twist on the look, flat could be the way to go.
Q: Is there a standard size for metro tiles?
A: The most popular standard size is 100 x 200 mm (10 by 20 cm), which is roughly 4 x 8 inches. This is the size sold by many UK retailers for “metro” or “subway” tiles – including the Metro White bevelled tiles we’ve been talking about here. However, there are other sizes available too. Some common variations include 75 x 150 mm (3 x 6 inches, a slightly smaller classic subway tile) and even larger formats like 100 x 300 mm (4 x 12 inches) for a more elongated look. There are also mini metro mosaic tiles at around 50 x 100 mm for creating detailed patterns. So while 100x200mm is something of an industry standard for that metro look, you can find other sizes if you want a different scale. Just note that if you mix sizes, the effect changes – smaller tiles mean more grout lines (busier look but can be charming), larger tiles mean fewer grout lines (sleeker look).
Q: What kind of grout is best with white metro tiles – white grout or colored grout?
A: This comes down to style and practical considerations. White grout with white tiles will give you a uniform, all-white look where the individual tiles blend together. This can make a space feel bigger and the tile installation feel more like one surface – it’s great for a clean, minimalist style. The downside is white grout can show dirt or discoloration over time, especially in areas prone to splashes (e.g., behind a cooker or in a shower). It will need cleaning to keep it bright. Grey or colored grout (light grey, medium grey, black, etc.) will frame each white tile, emphasizing the layout pattern. Darker grout is very practical as it hides stains or discoloration much better than white. A mid-grey grout with white tiles is a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms because it’s the best of both worlds: not too stark, not too hard to keep clean. Black grout gives a striking contrast – a true vintage or industrial vibe – but keep in mind black grout can sometimes show efflorescence (a white haze) or soap residue, so it’s not completely maintenance-free either. There are also specialty grouts in colours like beige, blue, etc., but those are used more for design effect. Many UK homeowners default to a light grey grout with white metro tiles for a subtle contrast that’s easier to maintain than pure white. In the end, choose what looks best to you. If you seal your grout and clean occasionally, even white grout can stay pretty clean. And if it does get bad, grout can be refreshed or even re-grouted, so it’s not an irreversible decision.
Q: How do I keep the grout clean on white metro tile walls?
A: As covered in our maintenance tips, the main strategies are: seal the grout after installation (to buy yourself some protection), clean up spills quickly (don’t let coffee or hair dye sit on the grout too long, for example), and do occasional targeted cleaning. Using a grout-specific cleaner or a mild bleach solution can restore a lot of whiteness if your grout has discoloured. In showers, squeegee the tiles and grout after use to reduce soap scum buildup, and run the fan or open a window to reduce mold growth. There are also grout pens – basically like markers with paint – that let you “colour in” your grout lines back to white if they’ve become permanently stained or just dingy. Those can be a DIY fix to make grout look new. Using a slightly darker/off-white grout from the start is another tactic to keep a clean look with less anxiety. But overall, a gentle scrub periodically and keeping moisture in check will go a long way. The good news is that with metro tiles, grout lines are thin and the tiles are small, so there’s usually only a thin line of grout to worry about between each tile.
Q: Can I use metro wall tiles on the floor or outside?
A: Typically, no – standard metro tiles are meant for walls only. They are usually ceramic, which is perfectly fine for walls but often not sturdy enough for floors (ceramic wall tiles are thinner and can crack under heavy weight). Floors need tiles rated for floor use (often porcelain or thicker ceramic with higher break strength). If you love the look and want a coordinating floor, look for porcelain subway tiles or small brick tiles rated for flooring. As for outdoors, the issue is that ceramic can be porous and might absorb water; if that water freezes (in UK winters, for example), the tiles could crack or pop off. There are some porcelain versions of metro tiles that could be used outdoors on a sheltered wall, but in general, stick to using these metro bevelled tiles indoors on walls, as intended. They excel in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, etc., but wouldn’t last on a patio floor or an exterior facade through frost cycles.
Q: Are metro tiles easy to install as a DIY project?
A: Relatively, yes. Many DIYers find that the 200x100mm size is quite manageable. You don’t have the challenges that come with very large tiles (like lippage or needing very even substrates), and you don’t have the fiddliness of tiny mosaic sheets either. You will need some basic tiling tools: a tile cutter (manual score-and-snap cutter works fine for ceramic metros, plus maybe a tile saw or bit for any outlet holes), tile spacers, adhesive, grout float, etc. The bevelled shape means you need to take a bit of care not to overfill the grout (you don’t want grout completely covering that bevel). But otherwise, it’s straightforward tiling 101. Many first-time tilers start with subway tiles. As one interior designer noted, even if you make a small mistake here or there, these tiles are forgiving and still tend to look “fantastic wherever you lay them”. Just plan your layout, keep things level, and don’t rush the grouting, and you can achieve a very professional look. If you’re unsure, start with a small area (like a backsplash) to build confidence. Plenty of guides and videos are available that specifically walk through how to lay metro tiles in different patterns.
In conclusion, metro white bevelled wall tiles are a brilliant choice for almost any interior project. They bring a bright, timeless backdrop that you can dress up or down to suit your style. From sleek modern flats in London to quaint cottages in the Cotswolds, these tiles find a home everywhere – enhancing light, adding texture, and doing it all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen reno or just looking to refresh a backsplash or shower, white metro tiles offer a versatile canvas for your creativity. Have fun with patterns, play with grout colours, and make the look your own. With the tips and ideas in this guide, you’re well-equipped to design a space that not only looks fabulous today but will remain stylish for years to come. Happy tiling!