Metallic Subway Tile with Ocean Energy: Meet Iridescent Isles

Bring the Ocean Home—With a Twist of Iridescence

There’s something about the shimmer of sunlight on water that never gets old. That’s the energy behind Iridescent Isles, our newest metallic subway tile series. Inspired by the depths and moods of the sea, this collection brings aquatic tones to life in a handcrafted finish that feels as natural as it does elevated.

Whether you're remodeling a kitchen, designing a spa-worthy bathroom, or dreaming up a moody wet bar, Iridescent Isles channels that calming, coastal energy—with just the right amount of drama.

What Makes It Different: Art Meets Alchemy

Iridescent Isles is far from your average subway tile. Here's what sets it apart:

Reactive Glaze, One-of-a-Kind Look

Each tile is finished with a reactive glaze—a special technique that causes the surface to transform in the kiln, creating subtle shifts in color and texture. No two tile pieces are the same, which means your finished space will always feel personal.

Metallic Depth Without the Shine Overload

Unlike traditional glossy finishes, this tile uses a metallic base glaze that shimmers softly beneath the surface. It’s not mirrored or high shine, but rather a refined glow that shifts as light moves across it.

Graniglia Glaze for Textural Interest

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Inspired by the Italian ceramic tradition of Graniglia, this tile has a slightly granular visual texture baked into the glaze. That subtle speckle adds dimension and contrast—especially in natural light.

Ocean-Inspired Color Palette

From deep tidal blues to sandy shimmer and stormy silver, the color names say it all:

Cove - a warm champagne hue

Seaweed - soft, washed aqua

Harbor - moody navy with hints of purple

Treasure - silver-blue with cool undertones

Anchor - dark copper with a subtle luster

Seashell - soft, shimmering pearlescent white

Each shade brings a different side of the ocean to your space, whether you're going for soothing, dramatic, or somewhere in between.

Where to Use Metallic Subway Tile

Kitchen with white metal look subway tile on backsplash, white cabinets, white countertop, and a wood cutting board on counter.

Iridescent Isles is made for vertical installations and feature moments. Think:

Kitchen backsplashes with a little glow
Bathroom accent walls that feel like a private retreat
Fireplace surrounds with unexpected depth
Bar areas or built-ins that catch the light just right
Pool linings for a show-stopping shimmer effect

This is a series designed to stand out—especially where mood lighting or natural light can highlight its surface movement and shine

A Handcrafted Feel—Made for Modern Life

Living room with brown metallic look subway tile on back wall, white rectangle floor tile in herringbone pattern, black sitting chair, and a lit fireplace.

Living room with champagne metallic look subway tile on back wall, white rectangle floor tile in herringbone pattern, black sitting chair, and a lit fireplace.

Living room with navy blue metallic look subway tile on back wall, white rectangle floor tile in herringbone pattern, black sitting chair, and a lit fireplace.

Living room with blue metallic look subway tile on back wall, white rectangle floor tile in herringbone pattern, black sitting chair, and a lit fireplace.

Living room with light blue metallic look subway tile on back wall, white rectangle floor tile in herringbone pattern, black sitting chair, and a lit fireplace.

Living room with white metallic look subway tile on back wall, white rectangle floor tile in herringbone pattern, black sitting chair, and a lit fireplace.

Even with all its artisanal charm, Iridescent Isles is a porcelain tile, which means it’s as durable as it is beautiful. Designed to perform and easy to clean, it’s the perfect mix of form and function for modern homes.

Ready to Make a Splash?

Explore the full color range of Iridescent Isles and see how metallic subway tile can bring your remodel to life. Whether you’re going coastal, luxe, or eclectic, this series was made to play with light—and break from the ordinary.

Need help designing your space? Visit a Daltile showroom near you for free design services and expert advice on pulling your full look together.