Total credit is due to journalist Katie Watson-Smith (Mad about the House) and her post about Metro Tiles. She was writing about the trend back in 2014, but here, in 2018, I think it is something still so relevant and Metro interiors (both Metro-inspired and the ACTUAL transport link) has extended significantly. I agree with Katie, that the metro tile trend is very hit and miss. Get it right, and the tiles look fresh, modern and some an element of luxury. Alternatively, it can look too 'street' for indoor use, meaning dirty and unfinished. I would really recommend looking at the post if you want a heads up about metro tiles - the only thing I would add / emphasise is the use of coloured tiles and grout. Below are some pictures of my favourite uses.
The second part of this post I am attributing to my love of travel. I don't use the metro / subway / railroad often, but I always find a source of inspiration within or without and think some should be given credit for their use of interior decoration! Some of my favourites throughout the globe:
Central Metro Station, Stockholm
Metro Station Ceiling, Stockholm
Checker-board flooring, marbled wall tiles and mismatched slabs on the ceiling. I don't know either, but somehow it works?
Metro Station, Stockholm
Plac Wilsona, Warsaw, Poland
Named after Woodrow Wilson and inspired by UFO.
University of Naples Metro Station Staircase, Naples
This is one of the most effective ways to bring colour or pattern into a household and liven up any stairway. Use wallpaper samples, paint, chopped images & paintings making sure you measure the riser accurately to prevent gaps and overlap.
Toledo Metro Station, Naples
Photography by Mimmo Iodice, Naples
I think this is such a refreshing use of classical art. So simple but so so effective.
A Olaias Station, Lisbon
Westfriedhof Station, Munich
Most definitely an inspiration for lighting and colour schemes that can be used in the home.
Slavyansky Bulvar Station, Moscow
Moscow Metro Station
Moscow Metro Station
Avtovo Metro Station, St. Peterburg
Bochum Rathus, Germany
Arts et Metiers Station, Paris
Arts et Metiers Station, Paris
Copper walls and ceiling cogs. If this doesn't hit the industrial decor scheme nail on the head then I don't know what will!
Aalto University Metro Station, Finland
Who knew the metro could be so much more than convenience? Never underestimate!