Metro tiles are classic, easy to use, and easy to style. They work well in kitchens, bathrooms, splashbacks, and utility rooms. In this guide, you will learn where they came from, which size and finish to choose, how to lay them, and how to match them with grout and room style.

Why metro tiles are called metro tiles

The name comes from the underground. People first used these tiles in stations because they were strong, easy to clean, and good at reflecting light. As a result, the style became popular in homes too.

Today, metro tiles still work for the same reason. They look neat, they suit many rooms, and they are simple to keep clean. That is why many people still choose them for modern homes and classic homes alike.

Sizes, finishes, and edges

Before you buy, think about the tile shape and finish. A flat edge gives a clean look. A bevelled edge gives more shadow and depth.

Finish matters too. Gloss tiles bounce light around the room, so they work well in small or dark spaces. Matt tiles look softer and hide marks more easily.

Our range includes Sage Metro Gloss, Blue Metro Gloss, White Gloss Metro, and Gloss Green Metro. We also have White Metro 15x15cm for a square format. All of these work well on walls and splashbacks.

Metro tile colours

Colour changes the mood of the room. A light tile helps a space feel open and calm. A darker or richer tile adds more drama.

Sage Metro Gloss

Sage Metro Gloss is soft and easy to live with. It works well with wood, brass, and black fittings. Also, it suits both simple and classic layouts.

Gloss Green Metro

Gloss Green Metro is deeper and more striking. It looks good with white cabinets, dark handles, and gold lights. In addition, it gives the room a richer feel.

White Gloss Metro

White Gloss Metro is the easiest choice if you want a safe, bright look. It reflects light well and fits almost any room style. Because of this, it is a very popular option.

White Metro 15x15cm and Blue Metro Gloss

White Metro 15x15cm gives you a neat square format. If you want more colour, Blue Metro Gloss adds depth and works well in a vertical layout. That way, a low wall can feel taller.

If you want a stronger look, you can also browse our Black Tiles collection or the Signature Black and Gold Matt Porcelain range. You can then balance the wall with a terrazzo floor.

How to lay metro tiles

The same tile can look very different depending on the layout. Here are eight simple patterns you can use.

• Brick bond: the classic offset pattern. It is timeless and easy to work with.
• Stack bond: the joints line up in a straight grid. This looks clean and modern.
• Running bond: similar to brick bond, but often used to guide the eye across the wall.
• Herringbone: tiles meet at angles to make a zig-zag pattern. It looks bold and stylish.
• Chevron: a sharper V-shape that feels more structured.
• Vertical stagger: a simple vertical layout with a small offset. It adds height.
• Basket weave: tiles alternate in pairs. This gives a woven look.
• Diagonal: the brick pattern turned at an angle. It can make a wall feel more active.

Use the more detailed patterns for a splashback or one feature wall. As a result, the room keeps a balanced look and the work stays easier to manage.

Style ideas for each room

Metro tiles work in many rooms. However, the best style depends on the room and the rest of the finishes.

Kitchen

Use metro tiles on a splashback behind the hob or sink. They are easy to wipe and they handle daily use well. For a warm look, pair them with wood and soft colours.

Bathroom

Gloss tiles are a good choice in bathrooms because they help the room feel brighter. They also work well in small spaces, where light matters more.

Dining room

A metro wall behind a bench or sideboard can add texture without making the room feel crowded. You can see more ideas in our Dining Room Tile Ideas guide.

Utility room

Utility rooms need simple materials that are easy to clean. Metro tiles fit that need well, especially in classic white or sage.

Grout colour tips

Grout can change the whole look of the tile. A matching grout keeps the wall calm and smooth. A darker grout makes each tile shape stand out more.

For example, white grout with Gloss Green Metro gives a clear outline. On the other hand, dark grout with White Gloss Metro gives a bolder look. Both choices can work well.

Let the adhesive dry for 24 hours before you grout. For wet areas, use a flexible product such as our Gel-Tec S1 Flexible Tile Adhesive.

Metro tiles in small rooms

Budget-friendly choices

Metro tiles are already a smart choice for most rooms. If you want extra value, look at our Pallet Deals section. You can also use our free tile calculator before you order, so you buy the right amount first time.

Samples and orders

Colour can look different on a screen than it does in real life. Because of this, we offer free next-day samples on many tiles. The sample cost is refunded when you place your full order. You can also create a My Account profile to save favourites and check orders later.

More tile collections

Metro tiles often look best with a matching floor. You can explore more collections below.

For floor pairings, the Chappo Terrazzo Beige, Terrazzo Gobi Cream, Gobi White, Gobi Grey, and Gobi Dark Grey are all good matches. If you want a stronger floor, try the Signature Black and Gold Matt or the Polished Porcelain range. If you want a softer finish, Alberta Chateau Grey parquet works well with sage or white metro walls.