3x9 Subway Tile Is the New ‘It’ Size (and Starts at Just $12)

At once on-trend and timeless, our elegantly oversized 3x9 subway tile has become our top-selling size–for good reason! Bigger than traditional subway tiles, this size complements large spaces proportionally while creating the illusion of space in tight areas like powder rooms or homes with a smaller footprint.

A large part of this size’s popularity boost can be attributed to our budget-friendly Essentials Collection where 3x9 tile starts at just $12/SqFt–an incredible price for tile that’s responsibly made in the USA by a certified B Corp. When we launched Essentials in 2022, our goal was to expand access to sustainable tiles, and clients new and old answered the call! With eight nature-inspired colors and two sheens to choose from, our 3x9 Essentials continue to top the charts.

That said, this versatile size is available (and beloved) in more than just Essentials. Our Original Ceramic Tile product line offers over 100 gorgeous hand-mixed glaze colors in the 3x9 size, with gloss and slip-resistant matte finishes and artisan characteristics such as crackled detailing and wide-ranging color variation. Our other ceramic product line, Natural Press, includes even more artisan shades to choose from, all in both gloss and satin sheens.

The design possibilities with this humble rectangle are endless, so we’ve rounded up some of our favorite 3x9 installations to inspire your next project.

Clean & Modern Kitchen

Try a fresh take on a white subway tile backsplash by turning 3x9 on its side in a vertical counter-to-ceiling installation. Cleanly stacked and outlined in contrasting grey grout, the tile instantly captures a modern look that adds height and timeless appeal to the kitchen.

Whimsical Wainscoting

Interior design is all about proportions, and the perfect way to balance out intricate wallpaper and a mosaic tile floor is with oversized tile between. Leaning into its traditional inspiration, this powder room hung the smoky brown 3x9 tile wainscoting in a classic offset pattern, finished with matching trim.

Mudroom Magic

Similar concept, different proportions. The mudroom below features larger format wallpaper and 8” Hexagons across the floor, so the wainscoting of 3x9 subway tile is perfectly to scale.

Restaurant Accent Wall

3x9 is an ideal choice for commercial projects. The larger size allows the tile to make a statement even in an expansive space like this beer hall, where an accent wall of vertically stacked 3x9 sets a decidedly Scandinavian vibe.

Crisp Blue Bathroom

If you’ve fallen in love with one of our hand-mixed glazes, the larger surface area of a 3x9 subway tile allows the color to take center stage. The bathroom below takes full advantage of this design feature, instantly drawing the eye to a backsplash of Navy Blue 3x9.

Herringbone Backsplash

This size loves to play with pattern beyond offset and straight set. Try a lively herringbone pattern to add timeless visual interest to your kitchen like the space below, try out a parquet, or do something entirely unique.

Stunning Stripes

Speaking of unique, designer Becki Owens created a one-of-a-kind striped tile bathroom with our budget-friendly 3x9 Essentials. We love how the large vertical stripes add a dramatic illusion of height to the space.

Traditional Roots

Prefer a more classic look? Try a behind-the-stove backsplash with this versatile size in a color such as soothing olive green. When paired with traditional elements like marble countertops and dark wood cabinets, the 3x9 tile is a standout that feels right at home.

A Feature Fireplace

3x9 is making a splash beyond the kitchen and bathroom. Frame your flame by cladding your fireplace with this popular size–just keep in mind that our tile is suitable for the fireplace surround, not the interior firebox.

Organic Modern Backsplash

One design style that we’re seeing everywhere these days is organic modern, and oversized subway tile in an earthy color fits seamlessly into this look. Pair your 3x9 tile backsplash with natural accents like wood, stone and metal to achieve a Sarah Sherman Samuel-esque space.

Minimalist Kitchen

Keep it clean with 3x9 subway tile in a monochrome palette. Tonal grout, cabinets, counters, and tile create a sleek, modern look that emphasizes the color and texture of the tile you choose.

Luxe Green Bath

Rich jewel tones really shine on a larger tile like 3x9. We love how the bathroom below created an Art Deco feel with classic offset 3x9 subway tile in glossy Evergreen. The perfectly built-in shower niche is the cherry on top.

Floor to Ceiling

Whether your palette is soft neutrals or moody dark shades, creating a floor-to-ceiling backsplash wall with your 3x9 subway tile makes a stunning design statement.