Tile Pattern Layouts: Your Guide to Classic & Creative Designs

Tile isn’t just about color or finish—it’s also about how you lay it down. The right tile pattern layout can totally transform a space, making it feel larger, more dynamic, or simply more you. Whether you're working with square or rectangular tiles, there’s a whole world of options beyond straight lines. Let's break down some of the most popular—and impactful—tile patterns to spark your creativity

Basketweave Pattern

The Charm of Tradition with a Twist

Basketweave patterns create a woven effect by alternating rectangular tiles in a grid. This layout works beautifully on floors and backsplashes, adding movement and texture while still feeling timeless. For a modern spin, try a high-contrast grout or mix matte and glossy finishes

Bedroom with black subway tile in basketweave pattern on top half of wall, gray wall on bottom half, wood flooring, and a bed with gray covers.

Coffee bar with white rectangle tile in basketweave pattern, white bar stools, white countertop, and various coffee supplies.

Brick Joint (or Running Bond)

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Effortlessly Casual and Always Cool

Think of this as your classic subway tile style—tiles are staggered so each joint hits the center of the tile above and below it. This layout is ideal for creating a laid-back, lived-in vibe that feels effortless. Use it vertically for a fresh take or go oversized to give it a modern edge.

Kitchen with gray rectangle stone look tile on backsplash, gray stone look rectangle tile on floor, and white cabinets.

Close up of wood look floor tile, glass table, and pitcher of water on table.

Herringbone Pattern

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Eye-Catching and Elegant

Made by laying rectangular tiles at 45-degree angles in a zig-zag pattern, herringbone is the perfect mix of drama and sophistication. It draws the eye, which makes it great for feature walls, bathroom floors, or even fireplace surrounds. Want to really turn heads? Try it in a bold color or with a contrasting grout.

Bathroom shower with navy rectangle subway tile on shower wall, white rectangle subway tile on shower wall, white square mosaic tile on shower floor, and silver accents.

Kitchen with stone look gray herringbone mosaic on backsplash, floating wooden shelves, light gray cabinets, and a white countertop.

Diagonal (or Diamond) Layout

Make Any Space Feel Bigger

By simply turning square tiles 45 degrees, you can give your space a whole new feel. Diagonal layouts create visual depth and make rooms feel more open—especially in smaller bathrooms or galley kitchens. It’s a subtle trick with a big payoff.

Bathroom with marble look square tile in diagonal pattern on floor, marble square tile on walls, white tub, and wood cabinets.

Sitting area with beige rectangle stone look floor tile, large windows, and two white chairs.

Straight Lay Pattern

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Clean, Modern, and Versatile

It doesn’t get more straightforward than this. Tiles are lined up edge-to-edge, creating a clean grid. But don’t mistake simple for boring—this layout is perfect for showing off bold colors, textured finishes, or oversized tile formats

Close up of white rectangle tile in straight pattern, bar soap in bowl, white towels, and loofahs.

Close up of wall with white and beige subway tile, wooden table, and small plant on wooden table.

Grid Offset (1/3 Offset)

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The Designer’s Favorite for a Reason

A subtle twist on the brick joint, the 1/3 offset staggers tile joints by one-third of the tile length instead of half. It gives a more natural, less rigid look—especially with wood visuals or stone-look tiles. Think rustic elegance with a modern sensibility.

Entry space with wooden floors, white walls, round mirror on side, and gray accents.

Patio with white stone look rectangle floor tile, swinging couch, wicker table, and view of coast in background.

Checkerboard Pattern

Playful with a Touch of Vintage

Alternating two tile colors in a square layout creates a timeless checkerboard effect. Great for kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, this pattern adds instant personality. For a fresh spin, try softer tones or even pastels.

Dining room with white and black checkered floor tile, red chairs, wooden dining table, and beige terrazzo look rectangle tile on back wall.

Mosaic tile used as coasters, wood tile under, and a coffee on one of the coasters.

Stack Bond Pattern

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Contemporary and Structured

With tiles perfectly aligned both vertically and horizontally, the stack bond pattern screams modern. It’s ideal for clean, architectural looks, especially when using large-format tiles. For extra visual interest, pair this layout with bold tile colors or metallic accents.

Dining room with beige rectangle tile with diamond pattern on back wall, wood table, wood chairs, and plant on side.

Mix and Match Patterns

You Don’t Have to Pick Just One

Sometimes the most interesting spaces come from combining tile patterns. Try a herringbone feature wall with a straight lay floor, or a basketweave border around a field of diagonally set tiles. It’s your space—mix it up!

Entry way with wooden floors, gray penny round mosaic on center of floor and stair steps, white walls, and black pot with tree.

Dining room with gray stone look rectangle tile, pinwheel tile in middle creating a tile rug, white dining chairs, and wooden dining table.

Final Tile Tips

There’s no right or wrong way to lay tile—only the one that feels right for your space. Whether you’re leaning into timeless elegance or looking to make a bold statement, your tile pattern layout plays a huge role in the overall feel of a room. So, take your time, get creative, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

Need help visualizing your favorite pattern? Explore our Tile Pattern Guide for even more inspiration, tips, and layout diagrams to bring your vision to life. Because at the end of the day, your space should feel like you—just with really great tile.