[WATCH] Why Are NYC Subway Tunnels Tiled? The Surprising Reason Behind Those Glossy Walls

Ever noticed the tiled walls in subways and wondered why they’re there? It’s not just about style—it’s about light, cleanliness, and early 20th-century problem-solving. In this video, we explore the fascinating story behind tiled subway tunnels and stations. From hygiene to wayfinding, discover why these tiles are more than just decoration.

Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:55 - Why Subways Started Using Tiles
2:05 - Tiles Help Light Up Tunnels
3:23 - Tiles Make Cleaning Easier
4:40 - Tiles Helped People Navigate
6:02 - Why Modern Tunnels Don’t Use Tile As Much
7:08 - Final Thoughts

Matt Coneybeare

Matt Coneybeare

Editor in Chief

Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.

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