Glossy vs. Matte Subway Tiles – Which Look Should You Choose?

Oct 2025

If you’ve been scrolling through kitchen or bathroom inspo lately, you’ve probably noticed that subway tiles are everywhere. But here’s what most people don’t talk about: the finish! Glossy and matte aren’t just visual choices; they’re mood and maintenance decisions.

The wrong one can make your space look flat or too flashy. Whereas the right one can transform even the simplest corner into a design statement. So, Glossy vs. Matte Subway Tiles – Which Look Should You Choose?

Let’s break this down together, so by the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which finish suits your home best.

Glossy Subway Tiles 

Let’s start with the crowd favorite: glossy subway tiles. These are the shiny, reflective ones that bounce light beautifully across the room. If your kitchen or bathroom feels a little dim, glossy tiles are a great pick. They instantly make your space look bigger and brighter. 

That’s why glossy green subway tiles have become such a hit lately. They add a pop of color and that luminous glow that makes everything look fresh and vibrant.

Why people love them:

• They’re very easy to clean, making them perfect for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
• Their reflective surface bounces light around, making even small spaces feel bright and open.
• They give a crisp, modern look, adding instant style to backsplashes and feature walls.

But there’s a flip side.

That same shine can make smudges and watermarks more visible, especially when using darker shades. Lighter, glossy tiles show marks too, but they are less visible.

So, regular wiping may be needed in kitchens or bathrooms if you’re using darker shades of subway tiles.

Where do they suit best?

A glossy subway tile backsplash behind your stove or sink not only looks elegant but also makes cleaning effortless. For bathrooms, a glossy finish around the vanity or shower wall reflects just the right amount of light, giving that luxurious spa feel.

And if you want to go beyond plain white, explore something with personality, like green subway tiles. 

The glossy green collection by Lavish Ceramics is a great example. They combine high-gloss polish with color depth, giving you that luxe look that still feels fresh and modern.

Matte Subway Tiles 

Now, on the opposite end of the spectrum lie matte subway tiles.

They don’t reflect light, and that’s exactly their beauty. Matte finishes create a soft, sophisticated texture that feels grounded and modern.

Why people love them:

• They hide fingerprints, water spots, and streaks, keeping walls looking clean with minimal effort.
• Colors appear deeper and more muted, giving your space a sophisticated, timeless feel.
• They complement natural materials like wood, brass, and stone, creating a warm, inviting, and cohesive look.

Imagine a green subway tile bathroom with a matte finish, soft light, subtle tone, and a spa-like calmness. That’s the aesthetic many modern homeowners are chasing now.

Where do they suit best?

For a green subway tile bathroom, matte tiles are ideal. They’re slip-resistant, have a gentle look, and make the space feel more relaxing; perfect for anyone who wants a minimal yet luxurious vibe.

And again, Lavish Ceramics delivers beautifully in this category. Their matte subway tiles blend practicality with elegance. Each tile feels thoughtfully designed to add character without overpowering the décor.

The Real Question – What’s Better for You?

Well, neither glossy nor matte is “better.” It depends entirely on your lifestyle and space.

Let’s simplify it:

The Color Factor: How Shades Shape Space and Mood?

The finish of your subway tiles is important, but the color can completely change how a room feels. Think of it as the personality of your wall.

If you want a space that feels light, airy, and open, go for lighter shades like whites, creams, and soft pastels. They bounce light around and make even a small kitchen or bathroom feel bigger.

On the other hand, if you’re after warmth and depth, don’t shy away from richer tones like forest green, navy, or charcoal. These colors anchor the room, add intimacy, and pair beautifully with natural touches like wood, brass, or matte black fixtures. A glossy subway tile backsplash in a darker shade will give you a bold, striking look.

But if you switch that same color to matte, it suddenly feels calm, earthy, and sophisticated. See? The same tone, two totally different moods. Honestly, don’t worry about what’s “trending.” Think about how you want to feel in the room every day. That’s the real win.

That’s what Lavish Ceramics does so well: offering color ranges that work across moods and finishes. Their tiles aren’t just colored, they’re crafted to reflect or absorb light in just the right way, making every wall feel intentional and beautifully balanced.

Mixing Both: A Designer’s Secret Trick

Here’s a little insider advice: you don’t have to choose one finish. Mixing glossy and matte subway tiles can create an incredible contrast. Let us explain!

Consider lining the shower wall with a green subway tile bathroom for a soft, calming effect. And then, adding a glossy tile border along the top or around niches to catch light and subtly highlight the design.

Contrasts like these create depth and make the shower area feel both elegant and lively. You can similarly experiment with your kitchen area, too!

And since Lavish Ceramics offers both finishes in complementary shades, it’s easy to experiment confidently without worrying about mismatched tones.

Wrapping Up

Finally, we have to admit, there’s no wrong choice between glossy and matte; only what fits your space and style. Choose glossy for brightness, reflection, and easy cleaning. Else, choose matte for softness, depth, and a calm, modern look. Before you decide, test a few samples under your actual lighting. The one that feels right is usually the one that’s meant for you!