When it comes to getting tiles, the layout you choose is just as important as the type and the colour.
Different tile layouts communicate different things, and can make a big difference to how your home looks and feels.
Read the 9 most popular tile layouts and decide which one would take your home’s style to the next level.
1. Subway
Subway style tiles, also known as offset or staggered brick tiles, are a timeless design. They resemble the layout commonly used for brick-laying, meaning the point where two bricks meet is the centre-point of a brick in the row above. This prevents long unbroken lines of grout and creates an eye-catching patchwork pattern.
The subway style is perfect for houses looking for an industrial atmosphere, while still being warm and cosy.
2. Offset
The offset tile layout is very similar to the subway pattern, except each tile is placed a third of the way along the brick beneath it. This creates a nice diagonal slant across the entire tile facade which is subtle and becomes less noticeable the closer you look.
The offset style is ideal if you want all the benefits of the subway style, but you are looking to be a little bit more unique.
3. Herringbone
There are few tile layouts more immediately visually striking than the herringbone pattern. By laying tiles at 45 degree angles, a series of interlocking ‘V’ shapes are created. What makes this design even more extraordinary is the pattern has a 3D quality, as some tiles appear to disappear beneath others.
If you are looking for a style that makes a statement, herringbone is the tile layout for you. Stop guests in their tracks or simply enjoy a vibrant design yourself during a relaxing bath.
4. Chevron
Chevron tiles are created by joining specially cut ends at 45 degree angles. Rather than being perpendicular to each other, chevron tiles create a series of angles. These resemble upward and downward facing arrows that interlock and create smooth vertical patterns.
The chevron tile layout takes inspiration from the herringbone design, but where herringbone impresses because of its complexity, chevrons look fantastic because of their uniformity. They are perfect for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
5. Grid
Grid tiles, also known as stacked tiles, are probably the most simple tile layout. Square or rectangular tiles are simply stacked neatly to form a grid of tiles and grout lines, all perfectly straight and uniform. In the case of rectangular tiles, these can be stacked vertically or horizontally. As long as they are uniform they’ll suit the grid style.
The grid design is perfect for homes that are looking for a modern, orderly feel. They are best used if you don’t want your tiles to overpower other features of the room.
6. Diamond
The diamond design is quite literally the grid layout, just on an angle. Rather than the tiles being stacked straight up and down, diamond designs have square tiles laid with their points facing vertically. It is a simple variation, but it is very visually striking.
Diamond tile layouts look great on their own, but where they can really shine is if they are used in contrast to a grid layout. For example, try creating a centrepiece in a regular grid layout where the design suddenly changes to diamonds. This can be perfect for kitchen splash backs.
7. French
French tile layouts, also referred to as Versailles tiles, combine square and rectangular tiles to form either repeating or irregular patterns. The combination of squares and rectangles, along with using them in various sizes, allows almost unlimited combinations.
The French style lends itself to both warm, homely atmospheres and more modern, minimalist spaces. For a warmer feel, use warmer coloured stone, and for a sleek, industrial aesthetic, use shades or dark blues.
8. Hopscotch
The hopscotch pattern, also called a pinwheel tile layout, is similar to the grid pattern. Square tiles are placed in line with each other, except each tile sits slightly off to the side. When the entire surface is done, this leaves a small square space at the corner of each larger tile, which can be filled with a smaller, contrasting tile.
The hopscotch tile layout is perfect if you want something that looks intricate, but is actually deceptively simple. It will also give a unique swirling appearance which naturally draws the eye over the expansive main tiles to the smaller contrasting ones.
9. Basket Weave
The basket weave tile layout takes the hopscotch method a step further. Rather than square tiles, a series of slightly curved rectangular tiles are interlocked to create a weave pattern. In the corners of each of these tiles is a small space where a contrasting tile can be added. This then gives the appearance of a hole in the weave.
The basket weave design is a classic found in many period homes. If you want an intricate, attention-capturing design, the basket weave is the one for you.
Get the Right Design for You
Hopefully one of these designs has caught your attention, but have you considered the next steps? Like what coloured tiles you’d like, or what kind of stone?
At Central Coast Tile and Stone Warehouse, get access to an expansive range of stone and glass tiles. Our showroom experts can also give you plenty of helpful tips, tricks and advice to help you design the perfect tile layout for your home.
Contact us today to get our specialist advice from the comfort of your home.
