If you’re like most of my clients (juggling work, family, and a to-do list that never ends) you probably don’t have time to research backsplash tile patterns for hours on Pinterest. You just want something that looks good, feels like you, and won’t cause you any grief during install.
I totally get it. As a designer (and mom), I know how overwhelming home decisions can feel when your time is limited. That’s why I always try to simplify things and help you choose options that are beautiful, timeless, and something you’ll love.
When it comes to tile, ‘how’ you lay it can make just as much of a difference as the tile itself. And while there are dozens of patterns out there, these are the ones I keep coming back to…..because they work. They’re practical, pretty, and they add just the right amount of personality.
Here are my Top 10 Favorite Tile Patterns and Why I Love Them.
1. GRID (STRAIGHT SET)
What is it? Tile that is laid in a grid pattern. All tiles line up with each other horizontally and vertically.
Why I love it: It’s clean and simple, feels fresh, minimal, and with the right tile selection, it still has personality. It’s perfect for a relaxed but refined look. I like choosing a tile with subtle variation (like zellige handmade or glazed ceramic tiles).
2. BRICK LAY (RUNNING BOND)
What is it? Tile that is installed in a brick pattern. This is probably the most common layout you’ll see with subway tile.
Why I love it: It’s familiar, classic and timeless and works with almost any home style, making it super versatile.
3. HORIZONTAL OFFSET
What is it? Tile that is staggered horizontally in thirds, quarters or halves for a modern, layered look.
Why I love it: It adds interest without being too busy. It feels both casual and refined.
4. VERTICAL OFFSET
What is it? Similar to the horizontal offset, this tile pattern is staggered vertically in thirds, quarters or halves for a modern, layered look.
Why I love it: It’s unexpected, adds movement and helps to create more height in a space.
5. HERRINGBONE
What is it? The herringbone tile pattern is a zigzag layout created by laying rectangular tiles in alternating 45-degree angles to form a series of layered “V” shapes. It gets its name because it resembles the skeleton of a herring fish.
Why I love it: It’s dynamic, elegant, timeless and always in style.
6. CHEVRON
What is it? The chevron pattern is a sleek, modern take on herringbone. It features tiles cut at an angle (usually 45 degrees) and laid so the ends form a perfect point — creating a seamless, continuous zigzag across the wall or floor.
Why I love it: It offers clean lines and symmetry for modern appeal.
7. CORRIDOR
What is it? This one’s a bit less common, which is part of why I love it. It uses long rectangular tiles laid in vertical sections outlined with an horizontal tile.
Why I love it: It’s unexpected, beautiful and perfect for transitional interiors.
8. CHECKERBOARD
What is it? Square tile laid in a grid or diamond pattern with alternating contrasting tile.
Why I love it: It makes a statement, is bold, classic and works beautifully in traditional or transitional homes.
9. VERTICAL STACK
What is it? Rectangular tile that is stacked vertically.
Why I love it: It feels modern and minimalist, and it works well when trying to create more height in a space.
10. BASKETWEAVE
What is it? The basketweave tile pattern mimics the look of woven fabric. It’s created by alternating sets of rectangular tiles laid in perpendicular groupings (eg. three rectangular tiles laid horizontally next to, three rectangular tiles laid vertically and then repeated).
Why I love it: There’s something charming and old school about this pattern. It works beautifully in modern farmhouse, traditional and transitional designs.
Final Thoughts
No matter how beautiful a tile is, the way it’s laid can completely change the story it tells. These 10 patterns are my go-to favorites — whether I’m designing for calm simplicity, subtle movement, or a bold statement. If you are feeling stuck or just want to save time by getting someone to tell you what works, I’d love to help. Contact me for a design consult here.
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Until next time, happy decorating!
Certified Interior Decorator | Virtual Interior Designer
Orangetree Interiors
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