11 Layout Patterns for Your Ceramic Tiles
You just checked “Choosing ceramic tiles” on your project to-do list? Great! Now’s the time to choose the installation layout for your ceramic tiles. Whether your tiles are meant to be installed on the floor or on the wall, the tile arrangement will make a big difference on many aspects of your project—financial costs, ease of installation, visual effect in the room (to make a room look higher or wider for example) or overall interior design. So, here are 11 tile layouts you could go with!
1. Stack Bond
Horizontal Stack
Vertical Stack
The stack bond, either vertical or horizontal, consists in neatly putting your tiles in a straight line. It is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to do, since less cutting is required, thus less waste. It also blends beautifully in minimalistic, modern and contemporary decors.
The stacked installation requires the use of X tile spacers.
2. Alternating Half, Also Called Brick Set
If you want an arrangement that is a little less straight, you can create a brickwork pattern by alternating your tiles every other row. This is called the alternating half layout, the offset or even the staggered brick. You can do it with both square or rectangular tiles by always putting the edge of your tile right in the centre of the one below. Simply make sure that the spacing between your tiles remains the same throughout the installation so every two rows are perfectly aligned.
This tile arrangement is perfect in any decor.
🛠 Important note!
- This tile layout is recommended for tiles 12 inches long or less only.
- The brick set (both half and third) requires T tile spacers.
3. Alternating Thirds or 1/3 Offset
This tile layout looks a lot like the arrangement described at #2. This time, instead of alternating halves, we have alternating thirds on every other row, meaning that your second row of tiles offsets by one third the tiles on your first row. In other words, the left edge of your tile must be aligned to the first third of the tile below. Remember to make sure that the spacing between your tiles remains the same throughout the installation.
This 1/3 offset tile installation is also perfect in any decor.
The alternating arrangement (both half and third) requires T tile spacers.
4. Stair Step Thirds, or Bevelled Installation
Stair Step Thirds
Not To Be Confused With Alternating Thirds
The bevelled layout, or stair step thirds, also requires offsetting your tiles by one third every new row. However, unlike the 1/3 offset for which the pattern alternates every other row, this tile layout spacing alternates on multiple rows, creating a uniform step design.
5. Diagonal or Diamond
The diagonal or diamond pattern layout uses square tiles lain at a 45-degree angle, turning the squares into diamonds. This is a great way to make your room look wider.
To tile your room using the diamond layout, you must use a specific method based on the room’s diagonal line. The first tile must be lain right in the centre of the room, from where you will continue the diagonals in straight lines until you reach the wall.
6. Chevron
All design lovers know the chevron layout pattern. Very similar to the Herringbone layout (described at #7), the chevron is a very original way to tile your floors or walls. The idea is to line up your tiles to form a 45-degree V shape, which creates a true visual impact in the room. However, this is also a costly and fastidious installation pattern since it requires a lot of cuts, thus creating a lot of waste.
🛠 Important note!
This tile layout cannot be done with any tile (unless you cut every edge to fit). You must use specific tiles designed with angled edges specifically for this pattern.
7. Herringbone, An Emblematic Tile Layout
Traditional (pointing up and down)
Diagonal (pointing sideways)
The Herringbone pattern is a unique and impactful design element. Made up of V-shaped rows using rectangular tiles at a 45-degree angle, this layout makes your room appear wider if you choose to lay your V-shaped pattern pointing sideways (diagonal herringbone) or higher if pointing up and down (traditional herringbone). There is also the 90-degree herringbone, which you can create by installing your tiles vertically and horizontally.
This tile arrangement requires patience, rigour and a lot of precision. Plus, if you want to highlight the graphic effect of this tile design, don’t hesitate to choose a contrasting grout colour.
Don’t mistake the herringbone layout with the chevron pattern (described at #6). They do look a lot alike.😉
8. Double Herringbone
For the double herringbone, simply use two tiles on each side of your V shapes. Eye-catching design guaranteed!
9. Hexagonal
If you choose hexagonal tiles, then the hexagonal layout is no question. To know more, read our blog article to know how to incorporate hexagonal tiles in all the rooms of the house.
10. Basket Weave
This tile layout has the same benefits as the stack bond: easy to install and cost effective. The result, however, is more dynamic and distinctive while remaining classic and timeless. The basket weave pattern is also a very interesting option for a hallway, let’s say, since it reduces the illusion of length. When combined with hardwood slats, this arrangement can create a beautiful artwork in the room.
🛠 Important note!
Make sure the size of your tiles allows you to create this pattern. Try it beforehand with tile samples or ask one of our experts in store for advice.
11. Random Pattern
The random layout says it all: you get to lay your tiles the way you see fit without a distinct pattern. It is often used with wood-like ceramic tiles to recreate the installation of hardwood floors, but it can also be used with patterned tiles or tiles with strong colour variations.
Feel free to get creative by randomly laying out your tiles, creating cute patterns or even writing words or numbers that have a special meaning to you. The result will be unique and original, that’s for sure.
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As you can see, your renovation project requires many important decisions that go beyond choosing your tiles. You must also select the best way to install your ceramic tiles on the floor or the wall according to your budget, space and taste.
Next step (if not already done!): choose your grout colour. Don’t hesitate to contact our experts to get the best advice.