Origin of Subway tiles?

The origination of subway tiles happened in the early 20th century. In 1904, these glazed ceramic, 3"x 6" tiles were initially seen on the walls of the New York City subway stations. The glinting white tiles adorned the walls of the upcoming subway platforms and were usually accentuated with vibrant tile mosaics of the station names. Many eminent buildings in the New York city also started having their names written on colorful tile mosaics. Subway tiles enabled effortless cleaning and graffiti erasure. These radiant tiles exhibit traits like easy cleaning, blotch resistance, and durability. Shortly the design, style, and attributes of subway tiles were admired by homeowners, designers, and craftsmen. Besides being low on maintenance, these tiles proclaimed hygiene which made them popular in pre-war bathrooms and kitchens throughout the nation.

Historical Importance of Subway tiles:

• During the Victorian years, subway tiles became an exemplar of the axiom of "form follows function", and became the touchstone of sanitary ceramic tile-work.

• Subway tiles became a distinctive mode of tile installation and followed a systematized American architecture and design.

• The tiles are a representation of the early 20th century authentic tilework used in the construction of residential homes and mercantile structures.

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