Creative Ways to Combine Marble Effect Tiles and Metro Tiles for a Stylish Home

When it comes to designing the home of your dreams, tile choices can make all the difference. Two classic options that are sure to never go out of style are marble effect tiles and metro tiles. Whether you’re aiming for timeless elegance or a modern vibe, these tiles can be blended seamlessly to create a unique and luxurious look. We’re here to explore how to combine marble and metro effectively in various spaces to elevate your home decor.

Elegant modern bathroom with white matt brick style wall tiles and matching floor tiles. A sleek marble countertop holds a round basin, with gold accents in the wall-mounted tap, towel rail and lighting. A round gold framed mirror and minimal decor, including a vase with dried flowers, complete the serene and luxurious design.
Above, Hamlet White Matt Brick Wall and Floor Tiles

Why Choose Marble Effect Tiles for Your Home Design?

Marble effect tiles offer the beauty and sophistication of real marble without the high cost or maintenance, making them ideal for creating a luxe look in your home. The versatility of marble effect tiles allows them to be used in bathrooms, kitchens or living areas, adding an air of elegance to both walls and floors.

By incorporating marble tiles into your home, you can achieve a timeless look that suits both modern and traditional interior designs. They reflect light beautifully and come in a variety of shades – from classic whites to soft grey and even bold blacks – giving you endless design possibilities.

Contemporary dining area featuring glossy marble effect floor tiles in white with subtle gold veining. The space includes a modern grey dining table with a concrete like surface, surrounded by dark grey upholstered chairs with sleek black legs. A large window with textured glass and dark curtains adds natural light to the minimalist yet sophisticated room decor.
Above, Cappella Gold Veined Gloss Marble Effect 600×600 Wall and Floor Tiles

The Versatility of Metro Tiles in Modern Interiors

On the other hand, metro tiles are a popular choice for adding a clean and contemporary touch to your home. Known for their rectangular, brick shape, metro tiles often feature bold colours and a glossy finish that creates a sleek, modern look. Originating from the underground and subway stations of 20th-century Paris, London and New York, metro tiles have become a design staple, adding charm and character to various spaces.

Thanks to their simple shape and size, metro tiles can be laid in different patterns such as herringbone, stacked or horizontal brick bond, giving you plenty of room for creativity. They’re perfect for feature walls, kitchen splashback, or bathroom surrounds, bringing a fresh and stylish edge to your interior design.

Stylish shower area featuring glossy brown metro tiles arranged in a herringbone pattern. The tiles have a rich espresso tone, adding depth and texture to the space. A chrome shower fixture is mounted on the wall, with a sleek glass shelf holding bath products. The glass shower partition adds a modern touch while a small side table with a potted plant introduces a natural element to the sophisticated design.
Above, Hope Espresso Wall Gloss Brown Brick Tiles

How to Blend Marble Effect Tiles and Metro Tiles in Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are one of the best places to mix marble effect tiles and metro tiles. To achieve a spa-like aesthetic, consider using marble effect tiles on the walls or floors to create a luxurious base. The soft veining and reflective surface of marble effect tiles can make small bathrooms feel more spacious.

For a modern twist, use metro tiles as accent pieces. You may opt for simple white or light grey metro tiles around the bathtub or shower areas, paired with the more intricate pattern of marble effect tiles. Alternatively, you might even consider using darker-coloured metro tiles to contrast with the lighter tones of marble, creating a striking visual effect that feels balanced and harmonious.

Bathroom mood board featuring a freestanding gold bathtub as the centrepiece, complemented by glossy deep green metro tiles arranged in a brick pattern. A large marble effect tile is included to show a luxurious floor option, along with an arched gold framed mirror. The board also features patterned black and white towels, a striped black and white bath mat, a cream waste bin with a wooden lid, and a dark green ribbed candle, offered a mix of textures and bold contrasts.
Featuring, Marble – Modern Staturario Polished Tiles, Metro – Victorian Green Metro. Bath and Mirror – Bathroom Mountain. Towels, Bath Mat, Candle, Bin – George at ASDA

Kitchen Splashback Inspiration: Marble Paired with Metro Designs

If you’re looking to create a show-stopping kitchen splashback, why not combine marble effect tiles with classic metro designs? A marble splashback behind the hob or sink adds a touch of luxury and works beautifully when framed with natural tones of metro tiles.

For a more dramatic look, consider using dark or coloured metro tiles – like navy blue, deep green or black – next to white or grey marble effect tiles. This pairing creates a striking contrast that draws attention to the splashback while maintaining a cohesive overall scheme.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more subtle and cohesive appearance, using similar tones of marble effect tiles and metro tiles (such as white on white) can create a minimalist, seamless look. Or, for a true merge of styles, take a look at our marble effect metro tiles, seamlessly blending the two styles to create an elegant, sophisticated backdrop.

Kitchen mood board showcasing a mix of playful and elegant elements. It includes marble effect subway tiles, dark blue cabinet paint, and a gold faucet. A patterned floral print is featured as a potential tea towel option, along with dark blue shaker style cabinet doors and a brass knob. Light wood look tiles provide a warm flooring option. The mood board is completed with quirky wall art that says 'I came to Boogie' and 'Kitchen Disco', adding a fun, vibrant touch to the overall kitchen design.
Featuring, Metro Marble – Vena Biana Mini Bumpy Gloss Metro Tiles, Wood – Cedar Brown Matt Wood Effect Wall and Floor Tiles. Paint – Lick. Taps, Knobs, Kitchen, B&Q. Print, Tea Towel – George at ASDA

Contrasting Colours and Textures: Mixing Marble and Metro

One of the most exciting aspects of combining marble and metro is the opportunity to play with contrasting colours and textures. The smooth, glossy finish of metro tiles complements the matt or polished look of marble effect tiles beautifully. This contrast can add depth and interest to your design, preventing it from feeling flat or one-dimensional.

For a bold statement, consider pairing dark-toned metro tiles with lighter marble effect tiles. The deep colours of the metro tiles will make the soft veining of the marble effect tiles pop, creating a dynamic design. You could also mix the metro tiles up a bit with different layout methods, creating texture and movement within your space.

Dining room mood board featuring warm, earthy tones and natural textures. The board includes terracotta coloured tiles with marble effect tile accents, a light wood table with black metal legs, and a modern white upholstered chair. A minimalistic cream rug with a geometric pattern complements the space, while a wire-frame pendant light in gold adds warmth, The mood board also includes a rectangular mirror with integrated lighting and a vase with greenery, creating a balance between rustic and modern elements.
Above, Marble – Capella Gold Veined Gloss Wall and Floor Tile, Metro – Hope Ochre Wall Orange Brick Tiles. Mirror – Bathroom Mountain. Table, Chair, Rug, Vase, Ceiling Light – Dunelm.

By incorporating marble and metro into your home design, you can create a space that is both elegant and contemporary. The combination of these two tile styles offers endless possibilities for kitchens, bathrooms and beyond, allowing you to express your unique style while staying on trend.

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