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.
