Subway tiles debuted in 1904. Designed by architects George C. Heins and Christopher Grant LaFarge to be easy to clean, durable, and bright for New York City's first subway stations, designers quickly realized they were much too stylish to stay underground. From the early 20th century onward, these shiny tiles have remained a staple of timeless kitchens everywhere. For proof, look no further than photographs taken of Kate Bush's home in 1978.
Images of the English singer in her family's home in East Wickham, London, perfectly demonstrate the timeless allure of the subway tile in the kitchen. Though the white space is relatively unassuming, the shiny tiled wall instantly gives it a je ne sais quoi that still endures to this day. They reflect light and add texture to the simple kitchen.
As homeowners chase the elusive 'timeless kitchen,' Kate's kitchen idea will only grow increasingly popular, and we predict that we are going to see even more homes with subway tiles in 2026. So, how can you bring this charm to your own home? Though peel-and-stick tiles (like these stylish ones from Amazon) are a great option, there are many ways to make a white kitchen look more interesting. To explore, we've curated an edit of our favorite acccents for a white kitchen, and gathered experts quotes on how you can pull of Kate's look in your own home. But first, we present you with Kate Bush's kitchen.
Shop The White Kitchen Edit
Bring a touch of understated elegance to your table with these stoneware salad plates. Their soft, off-white hue and subtle woven-like texture add warmth and sophistication, making them perfect for salads, appetizers, or everyday dining.
Elegant and enduring, this marble untensil holder can sit beautifully on your kitchen counter; perfect for complemeting marble countertops, or bringing a chic contrast to you space.
A lazy susan is not only a chic addition to a dining table, perfect for placing condiments, small bowls and dining accessories, but it also looks great when placed on a kitchen island.
Add a contemporary feel to a classic setting with this sculptural ceramic bowl. Its flowing form blends artistry and function, creating a modern statement piece that is sure to spark conversation.
The Thessaly Vase stands out with its distinctive sculptural form. Crafted from stoneware and finished in a crisp white glaze, it adds a neutral yet striking element to any display.
Bring a touch of artisanal charm to your table with this stoneware bowl, featuring a white reactive glaze. Perfect for serving salads, fruits, or as a stylish centerpiece.
First, why are subway tiles so timeless? According to experts, it has to do with their versatility.
Jennifer Rogers, a kitchen and bath designer at BKC Kitchen and Bath advises: 'Using white subway tiles in a white kitchen can create a very neutral tone on tone color palette. This look can be inviting and also allows the homeowner to express themselves with decoration.'
Furthermore, there are several ways to bring Kate Bush's subway tile idea to your own kitchen. Jennifer advises: 'Subway tile can be installed in a traditional 3x8 size in a running bond pattern. For a more modern look, a horizontal or vertical stacked tile pattern installation could be done.'
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