Subway Tile Patterns

Let’s talk subway tile for a wee bit shall we?  I have a decision to make and the choice isn’t going to be easy.  We are looking to tile the area below the white railing on this empty (tiny) beast of a wall.
 

 

First on the list, Herringbone. Love it. It’s a slight departure from the norm. It’s a statement. And paired with some gray grout, it’s down right sexy. My question…Is it timeless?

 

 

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What if Herringbone isn’t set on a diagonal, like the above?  What if it’s all horizontal and vertical and you have to cock your head to the side to see the diagonal? It feels a bit more traditional in my mind.  Provides a good pop but nothing absolutely bananas.

 

 

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Next Up, Vertical Tile on a Vertical Running Bond.  I like it.  It’s fun, but I prefer the horizontal version of this. You know, the traditional subway tile pattern. This just feels busy to me.

 

 

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How about, Vertical Tile on a Horizontal Running Bond.  Woah!  Simple with only a slight stray from the norm.  I like it.  It’s unexpected.  It’s a contender.

 

 

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Then there’s Crosshatch.  So simple, yet so purty.  The symmetry almost makes it feel organic, which is something I really like about this.  I don’t think you can go wrong here.

 

 

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Now here is where I kindly ask for your opinion.  What do you think?  Do you have any favorites?  Maybe there are some you would nix in a heartbeat.  Let me know!