Popular Tile Patterns

You want to change the existing tile, or even add tile to your space, but what pattern should you use? What patterns are there?  Using the right pattern can elevate your design, polish the space, and add to the resale value of your home.
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Before we get too carried away, remember to always try dry-fitting the pattern you are thinking about, and make sure you like it.  Take some time to look at the finishes in the room and use websites like Pinterest to get ideas for what can be done to your space.  

Stacked (also known as Straight, stack bond, Grid or Stacked Vertical) – This is the most common and simplest style layout, square or rectangular tiles are set in a straight line to create a very simple and clean grid pattern.  creates a contemporary feel with their vertical and horizontal lines. Mosaics are usually in this style, and come in a wide variety of colours and are fantastic to use as an accent or feature wall.  

Stretcher Bond (Running bond, offset, Staggered, Brick pattern) – This is a very recognized pattern found with bricks, it has been used many times through the past as it is a clean and timeless style, it is also appealing when used with tiles.  This patter is achieved by laying tiles or bricks vertically end to end, and starting the next row at the center of the tile below it, creating a stagger but cohesive look.
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This look can create a very industrial vibe, add authenticity, but also accentuates the horizontal lines that can subtly widen a narrow room.  In a twist, this pattern can be applied vertically to provide something different and can emphasize the height of your space by making the walls seem taller.  

​Cobblestone – This pattern takes the herringbone style, and replaces two rectangular tiles with four small square tiles after every fourth tile placement, this layout is suited to more traditional styles

Windmill – This design is very similar to the Weave’s 2nd style.  Four rectangular tiles are arranged around a square tile in the center.  It can look busy but is good for a shower or as a border.​

Patterned Tiles – a clever layout can be costly and time-consuming, instead, a stylish design set in a traditional grid can be that visual impact.  Encaustic tiles have been around for centuries, and are gaining popularity, a patterned tile adds instant interest to a room.

Chevron – This is a popular pattern and is very similar to herringbone.  The difference is the two long pieces, this patter has the shorter end of the tiles lined up to form a mitered 45-degree joint. Sometimes the tiles are specifically cut to achieve this shape, but most often you will have to cut them which can create a lot of waste.

​1/3 offset – This pattern is similar to the “stretcher bond”, but instead of placing the tile in the center of the one below it, each tile in this pattern is offset to a 3rd of the length of the tile below it - This creates a staggered diagonal effect and works amazing with  wood-looking or other plant tiles.  Some tile will require to be installed in this style.

Versailles (French) – This elegant pattern uses a combination of square and rectangular tiles to create a puzzle-like, repeating design.  This looks best with natural stones like travertine.  The mix and match tile sizes draw subtle attention to the floor without distracting from the space.

Diagonal (also known as Diamond) – This is not really a pattern, but more of a layout technique.  And is similar to the straight pattern, just turn the tiles to a 45-degree angle.  This is a perfect way to make your floors appear wider and looks great on walls and backsplashes.  

Pinwheel (hopscotch) – This pattern also follows the same style as the Windmill, only using smaller square tiles at each corner of a larger square. This mimics the look of spinning pinwheels.  This pattern is made for floors, especially ceramic tiles and in smaller bathrooms.
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This subtle pattern allows you to incorporate accent colour or accent tiles into the room which helps some colours from other rooms to flow through the whole house. 

Herringbone – this shape is achieved by laying both large or small rectangular tiles in an L-Shape with your two tiles, these L’s will nestle next to each other for a simple repeating pattern creating that well known V-shape. 
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This is a classic layout and is perfect for hallways or outdoor paths as the points act like arrows directing you. 

English Bond/ English Cross Bond – If the cobblestone is too much, try alternating rows of rectangular and square tiles.  Place the square tiles on center with the rectangle tiles, or to create the English Cross Bond, stagger the pattern the same as the stretcher bond layout.

Random – This one is my personal favorite, and works best with multiple colours and patterns.  Get creative with this layout and don’t use too much of a pattern, the possibilities are seriously endless!

​Experiment with 3 or more colours to make a big impression – Hexagon tile, square rectangles, hexagons, diamonds or rhomboids tiles, there are even some tiles that come with multiple sizes, colours, and shapes that can be combined.  

Basket Weave (Geometric, weave) – There are two ways to achieve this style, both deliver a soft pattern and can be used in modern, traditional, or transitional styles.  Adding tiles with a strong pattern or a strong linear look can create a bolder weave.

1.    Use Rectangular tiles and place two tiles laid next to each other to form a square.  Then use two more rectangular tiles and following first set are laid at 90 degrees to the first one and so on.  The horizontal and vertical tiles should alternate on the following rows.  This tricks the eye to think that the tiles are woven over and under each other like a basket.  This pattern is also similar to the herringbone layout but avoids all that extra cutting material.

2.    This design can also be achieved by using rectangular tiles and adding small square tiles.  Place the first rectangular tile in a vertical position, place the next rectangular tile in a horizontal position and center it against the vertical tile.  Repeat this pattern and don’t forget to alternate on the following rows.  If the tiles have been positioned correctly, there should be small square openings throughout, place the small square tiles in these gaps.  For best results use dark colour squares, this will resemble the over-under stitching motion of a woven basket.  

​There are so many options, colors and styles to choose from, and we offer a free in-home consultation!  Let us help you pick the perfect tile for your space, Visit us at 716 1st ave South, Lethbridge AB.