Installing herringbone tiles is one of the most effective ways to add movement, elegance, and timeless character to your home. While the pattern looks intricate, with the right preparation and a clear guide, homeowners and DIY enthusiasts can achieve a professional finish. Whether you’re updating a kitchen splashback, renovating a bathroom, or refreshing a living area, mastering the herringbone layout can transform an ordinary space into a striking focal point.
This guide explores everything you need to know—how herringbone tiles work, why they’re trending in 2025, ideal design ideas, the best materials, and a complete installation process from start to finish.
What Are Herringbone Tiles?
Herringbone tiles are rectangular tiles arranged in a 90-degree, zig-zag pattern. The name comes from the resemblance to a herring fish’s skeleton. Unlike simple stacked or brick layouts, herringbone creates directional flow that draws the eye, making any surface feel more dynamic and intentional.
Herringbone tile layouts work beautifully with:
- Ceramic and porcelain subway tiles
- Marble rectangles
- Timber-look tiles
- Mosaic strips
- Elongated rectangular tiles
Because the corners meet in a repeated V-shape, the pattern provides dimension and movement that instantly elevates a room.
Why Herringbone Tiles Are Trending in 2025
Tile trends in 2025 emphasise character, craftsmanship, and subtle luxury. Herringbone achieves all three effortlessly.
1. The Perfect Blend of Modern and Classic
Herringbone is centuries-old, yet its clean lines work perfectly in contemporary spaces. That versatility makes it one of the most appealing tile layouts of the year.
2. A Stylish Alternative to Basic Layouts
With so many homes choosing stacked or brick patterns, herringbone stands out—without feeling loud or overpowering.
3. Enhances Space Perception
The zig-zag direction creates movement that visually expands a narrow hallway, small bathroom, or compact kitchen.
4. Works With Nearly Any Material
From sleek porcelain to warm timber textures, herringbone adapts beautifully to a broad range of materials and aesthetics.
These benefits have made herringbone one of 2025’s most requested tile designs in both new builds and renovations.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Herringbone Tiles
Installing herringbone tiles requires more planning than standard layouts, but the results are worth it. Below is a clear, beginner-friendly guide that still meets professional standards.
1. Plan the Layout
Before touching a single tile, proper planning is crucial.
- Measure your wall or floor area.
- Mark the centre point—this prevents the design from being uneven or leaning to one side.
- Dry-lay a few tiles on the ground to visualise the pattern.
With herringbone, the starting point determines the entire pattern. Most professionals begin at the centre and work outward.
2. Create a Reference Line
Use a chalk line or laser level to create a perfectly straight guide. This acts as the spine of your herringbone pattern.
A precise reference line prevents the design from gradually shifting off-centre—which is one of the most common issues in DIY installations.
3. Mix Your Tile Adhesive
Choose the correct adhesive based on your tile material and surface:
- Standard tile adhesive for ceramic and porcelain
- Flexible adhesive for timber-look tiles
- Marble-safe adhesive for natural stone
Spread the adhesive evenly using a notched trowel. Only apply enough adhesive for a small section at a time to prevent drying before tiles are placed.
4. Begin Laying Tiles at the Centre
Place your first two tiles in the classic “V” formation, one pointing left and one pointing right. These two tiles anchor your entire pattern.
Make sure:
- They align perfectly with your reference line
- Each tile meets at a precise right angle
- You use spacers to maintain consistent gaps
Once the first pair is set, continue building the zig-zag outward.
5. Continue the Pattern Slowly and Steadily
Herringbone requires attention to detail. Work row by row, keeping tiles level and evenly spaced.
Helpful tips:
- Use tile wedges for slight adjustments
- Check alignment frequently with a straightedge
- Wipe off excess adhesive immediately
Take your time—rushing can cause uneven joints or pattern drift.
6. Cut Tiles for Edges and Corners
Herringbone patterns always require tile cutting, especially along edges.
You may need:
- A manual tile cutter for ceramic
- A wet saw for porcelain or marble
- Tile nippers for tight angles
Precise cuts ensure crisp finished edges, and a border tile can create a neat frame if preferred.
7. Allow Tiles to Set
Let the adhesive cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Trying to grout too early can cause tiles to shift.
Usually, drying takes 12–24 hours.
8. Apply Grout
Choose your grout colour based on the effect you want:
- Light grout: fresh, bright, clean look
- Dark grout: bold, high-contrast, highlights the pattern
Spread the grout with a rubber float, working diagonally across the tiles to avoid pulling it from the joints.
Wipe tiles with a damp sponge to remove haze, being careful not to pull grout out of lines.
9. Seal (If Necessary)
Marble and some natural materials require sealing before and after grouting. Porcelain tiles usually don’t require sealing, but check your manufacturer guidelines.
10. Enjoy Your Perfect Herringbone Finish
A well-installed herringbone pattern adds craftsmanship and character that instantly elevates a room. Your space will now feel more dynamic, stylish, and custom.
Design Ideas for Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Living Rooms
Kitchens
Herringbone works beautifully as:
- A splashback behind the stove
- An entire feature wall
- A breakfast bar front panel
Popular kitchen materials include glossy subway tiles, matte porcelain, and marble mosaics.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms benefit from herringbone’s sense of flow and luxury. Consider:
- Herringbone shower walls
- Floor-to-ceiling tile features
- Timber-look herringbone flooring
- Contrasting grout for dramatic effect
The pattern visually expands small bathrooms.
Living Rooms
In living areas, herringbone tiles—especially timber-look—create warmth and sophistication.
- Feature fireplace wall
- Floor tiles laid in herringbone
- Entryway transitions
They provide durability while giving the same charm as real wood flooring.
Popular Patterns, Materials, and Colours
Herringbone Variations
- Classic 90-degree herringbone
- Diagonal (45-degree) herringbone
- Double herringbone
- Mini mosaic herringbone
Best Materials
- Porcelain (durable and cost-effective)
- Natural stone (luxury, timeless)
- Ceramic (easy installation)
- Timber-look tiles (warmth with durability)
Trending Colours for 2025
- Matte white
- Charcoal
- Deep green
- Latte and warm beige
- Terracotta tones
- Soft sage
These colours pair perfectly with brushed gold, black, and brass accents.
Pros and Cons of Herringbone Tiles
Pros
- Creates high-impact design
- Makes spaces appear larger
- Versatile across rooms
- Elevates home value
- Timeless aesthetic
Cons
- More complex installation
- Higher labour cost
- Requires more tile cutting
- Pattern drift can occur if not aligned properly
Despite the challenges, the final look is well worth the effort.
Styling Tips for a Professional Look
- Use contrasting grout to highlight the pattern
- Keep surrounding décor simple if tiles are bold
- Choose longer tiles for a modern aesthetic
- Mix herringbone with straight layouts for balance
- Add warm lighting to enhance texture and movement
These small choices can elevate your installation from DIY to designer-level.
