Tile Pattern Guide: Find the Right Layout for Your Space

Simple, symmetrical, and often used in classic applications, square tile patterns offer clean lines and timeless charm.

Grid

Tiles are laid in straight rows and columns—think of a perfect checkerboard without the color contrast. This layout gives a clean, modern feel and is often used on floors or backsplashes where simplicity is key.

Brickwork Square

Tiles are staggered horizontally in each row, similar to brickwork. This pattern softens the grid look and adds movement while still maintaining symmetry.

Brickwork Vertical

This variation staggers the tiles vertically instead of horizontally, creating the illusion of added height—perfect for walls where you want to draw the eye upward.

Diamond

Square tiles are turned at a 45° angle to form a diamond layout. It’s a simple twist on the grid that adds a bit of dynamic energy to a surface.

Checkerboard

Alternating two colors (commonly black and white) in a grid layout, the checkerboard is a bold and eye-catching pattern that’s perfect for vintage-style bathrooms, kitchens, or entryways.

Rectangular tiles lend themselves to a wider range of layouts. Whether you want linear structure or a more complex flow, this category gives you plenty of creative freedom.

Linear Layouts (Grid Horizontal & Corridor Horizontal)

In these patterns, rectangular tiles are laid in straight, side-by-side rows—either aligned perfectly (grid) or in alternating rows (corridor). These styles are excellent for a clean, modern finish and work especially well with long tiles that mimic wood or stone.

Offset Patterns (Standard Brickwork & Narrow Staggered)

Offset (also called running bond) is one of the most popular layouts for subway tile. It staggers each row by half the length of the tile for a classic brick-like appearance. Narrow staggered variations shift the alignment by a third or a quarter of the tile’s length, creating a more refined and rhythmic look.

Vertical Brickwork

This variation flips the offset pattern vertically, drawing the eye upward and helping a wall appear taller—ideal for showers or accent walls.

Herringbone

In a herringbone pattern, tiles are laid at 45° or 90° angles in a zigzag layout. It’s a high-impact pattern that adds energy and sophistication to floors or backsplashes, particularly with long, narrow tiles.

Basketweave (Horizontal & Vertical)

This woven-looking pattern alternates horizontal and vertical pairs of rectangular tiles to create a “basket” effect. It adds texture and visual depth and works beautifully in both traditional and transitional spaces.

These layouts use two tile sizes or shapes, offering more complexity and design flexibility. They’re great for statement floors, detailed backsplashes, or feature areas.

Alternating Patterns (Standard, Horizontal, Vertical)

These layouts swap between two tile sizes, colors, or orientations. Whether alternating directions or materials, they can create balance or add subtle variety without overwhelming the design.

Basketweave Horizontal

A variation of the standard basketweave, this pattern uses two types of tiles—often a small square paired with a longer rectangle—to mimic a woven texture. It’s more intricate than the single-tile version and ideal for decorative floors.

Brickweave

This combines a classic brick layout with interwoven tile sizes or orientations. The result is a rich, layered effect with lots of movement.

Herringbone Inserted

This is a herringbone layout that incorporates a different tile size or material inserted at regular intervals. It’s ideal for creating focal points or borders within a patterned area.

Windmill

This pattern uses one small square tile at the center, surrounded by four rectangular tiles to create a shape resembling the blades of a windmill. It forms a repeating cross-like motif that adds a sense of symmetry and detail to a space. Windmill layouts work well in traditional or transitional interiors, especially with contrasting grout to highlight the pattern.

Pinwheel

In this layout, a small square tile is “spun” within a larger square made of four bigger tiles, creating a subtle but dynamic effect. It’s often used with two different tile sizes and is a great way to break up monotony while maintaining a structured layout. Pinwheel patterns are ideal for floors in kitchens, hallways, or bathrooms where you want gentle movement without overwhelming the space.

Hopscotch

Also known as the Versailles pattern, hopscotch mixes large and small square tiles in a repeating sequence. It’s a great fit for rustic or European-style interiors, especially when using natural stone or tumbled tile.

Cobblestone

Designed to resemble hand-laid stone paths, the cobblestone layout pairs multiple tile shapes to create a more random, organic feel. It works best in outdoor or transitional spaces where a natural flow is desired.