Herringbone, Brick, or Stacked? Choosing the Right Tile Pattern
One of our favorite things about tile is that the exact same tile can look completely different depending on how it's installed.
Seriously.
Take a simple white subway tile. Install it one way, and it feels traditional and timeless. Turn it another direction, and suddenly it feels fresh and modern. Add a herringbone pattern, and it becomes a statement piece.
That's why choosing a tile pattern is just as important as choosing the tile itself.
If you're planning a kitchen backsplash, bathroom, or shower, here are some of the most popular layouts we love and where they tend to work best.
Brick Pattern: The Tried-and-True Classic
When most people picture subway tile, this is probably what comes to mind.
The brick pattern, sometimes called a running bond, offsets each row by half a tile and creates that familiar look that has stood the test of time.
We Love It For:
- Kitchen backsplashes
- Farmhouse kitchens
- Traditional bathrooms
- Spaces that need a timeless feel
There is a reason this pattern has been around for so long. It simply works.
Straight Stack: Clean, Simple, and Modern
If you love clean lines and a more contemporary feel, stacked tile might be the perfect fit.
Instead of offsetting each row, the grout joints line up vertically and horizontally, creating a crisp, organized look.
We Love It For:
- Modern kitchens
- Contemporary showers
- Large-format tile
- Minimalist spaces
Sometimes less really is more.
Vertical Stack: A Small Change That Makes a Big Difference
One of the easiest ways to put a fresh spin on classic subway tile is simply to turn it upright.
Vertical tile has become increasingly popular over the last several years, and it's easy to see why.
We Love It For:
- Shower walls
- Kitchen backsplashes
- Smaller bathrooms
- Spaces with lower ceilings
Because your eye naturally follows the lines upward, vertical layouts can make a room feel taller and more open.
Herringbone: Our Favorite Way to Add Personality
There is something special about a herringbone pattern.
It feels custom without being trendy and adds movement without overwhelming the space.
We Love It For:
- Shower niches
- Fireplace surrounds
- Kitchen backsplashes
- Feature walls
If you're looking for a way to make a simple tile feel a little more interesting, herringbone is always a beautiful option.
Chevron: Similar, But Different
Chevron often gets confused with herringbone, but the two are actually different.
Chevron creates a continuous "V" pattern, giving it a more formal and symmetrical appearance.
We Love It For:
- Statement walls
- Luxury bathrooms
- Modern spaces
Chevron tends to feel polished and elegant, while herringbone has a softer, more relaxed look.
Basketweave: A Nod to Tradition
Basketweave patterns have been around for generations, and honestly, we are glad they never disappeared.
They bring a sense of charm and character that feels right at home in traditional spaces.
We Love It For:
- Bathroom floors
- Powder rooms
- Historic homes
- Vintage-inspired spaces
Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.
Large Format Tile Creates a Seamless Look
While patterns are fun, sometimes simplicity steals the show.
Large-format tile creates fewer grout lines and allows the tile itself to become the focal point.
We Love It For:
- Showers
- Bathroom floors
- Open-concept spaces
- Contemporary homes
The result feels clean, spacious, and easy to maintain.
Don't Be Afraid to Mix Things Up
One of our favorite ways to add interest is by combining patterns.
For example:
- A stacked shower wall paired with a herringbone niche.
- Large-format walls with mosaic shower floors.
- A simple backsplash with a decorative accent behind the range.
- Brick-laid subway tile paired with patterned floor tile.
Mixing patterns adds personality without making a space feel busy.
A Few Things to Consider
Before deciding on a pattern, think about how you want the space to feel.
Do you want something classic and timeless?
Clean and modern?
Bold and eye-catching?
The good news is that there is no wrong answer.
The "best" pattern isn't necessarily the most complicated one. In fact, some of the most beautiful spaces we've seen use simple layouts that let the materials speak for themselves.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a tile pattern can feel like a small detail, but it has a huge impact on the finished space.
The right layout can make a room feel larger, add character, or create a timeless look you'll love for years to come.
And if you're feeling overwhelmed by all the options, don't worry. That's completely normal.
The good news is that there are very few wrong choices. Whether you love the timeless look of a brick pattern, the clean lines of stacked tile, or the personality that herringbone brings, the best pattern is the one that makes your house feel like home.
After all, tile isn't just about filling a space. It's about creating one you'll enjoy living in every day.