If you’re looking for a tile design that blends timeless elegance with modern personality, herringbone tiles are one of the most stylish choices for 2025. Their iconic zig-zag layout adds movement, texture, and sophistication—perfect for transforming kitchens and bathrooms into beautifully curated spaces. Whether you love crisp, contemporary interiors or warm, classic design, herringbone tiles work effortlessly across styles.
In this complete designer guide, we explore how to use herringbone tiles in kitchens and bathrooms, including layout ideas, colour trends, materials, pros and cons, and the most effective ways to style them for a modern home.
Why Herringbone Tiles Are Trending in 2025
Herringbone tiles have been used in architecture for centuries, but the pattern has made a strong comeback in modern homes. Designers love it because it strikes the perfect balance between subtle detail and bold visual interest. The V-shaped layout naturally draws the eye across the space, making rooms feel larger, more open, and more dynamic.
Here’s why they’re especially popular in kitchens and bathrooms:
- They add texture without overpowering the room
- Their directional pattern enhances both small and large spaces
- They work on walls, floors, splashbacks, and feature areas
- They suit a range of materials—porcelain, ceramic, marble, and even glass
- They complement both minimalist and traditional interiors
Whether you want a standout splashback or a soft, elegant bathroom wall, herringbone tiles deliver a designer-quality finish every time.
Herringbone Tile Ideas for Kitchens
Kitchens are one of the best places to use the herringbone pattern. The layout instantly elevates splashbacks, feature walls, and even floors.
1. Kitchen Splashback Herringbone Tiles
A herringbone splashback creates an eye-catching backdrop behind your cooktop, sink, or benchtop. It works beautifully with:
- Glossy ceramic tiles for a sleek, reflective look
- Handmade-look tiles for texture and warmth
- Matte tiles for modern, understated interiors
The pattern helps break up flat surfaces and adds movement to the kitchen, especially in all-white or neutral colour schemes.
Designer Tip:
Use contrasting grout to highlight the pattern. For example, pair white tiles with light grey grout for a soft but defined finish.
2. Full-Height Splashback or Feature Wall
Instead of stopping at the cabinetry, extend herringbone tiles all the way to the ceiling. This creates a stunning design moment and makes the kitchen feel taller and more architectural.
This style works best when using:
- Slim rectangular tiles
- Neutral, earthy colours
- Matt or satin finish
It adds luxury and makes the kitchen feel custom-designed.
3. Herringbone Kitchen Floors
Wood-look porcelain herringbone floors are one of 2025’s biggest interior trends. They provide the warm, inviting feel of timber without the worry of moisture or scratches.
Benefits for kitchens:
- More durable than timber flooring
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Adds a high-end European aesthetic
If your kitchen is spacious or part of an open-plan living area, a herringbone floor visually connects each zone of the room.
Herringbone Tile Ideas for Bathrooms
Bathrooms benefit incredibly from herringbone tiles because the pattern enhances small spaces, adds texture, and creates spa-like sophistication.
1. Herringbone Shower Walls
The shower is the perfect place to feature a herringbone layout. Whether you use glossy white tiles or deep emerald green porcelain, the pattern creates a luxurious focal point.
Try it on:
- The main shower wall
- Inside a shower niche
- Floor-to-ceiling tiled shower zones
Pro Tip:
Choose large-format tiles for a bold feel or small mosaic-style tiles for a delicate, detailed look.
2. Vanity Splashback
A herringbone splashback behind the bathroom vanity instantly elevates the room. It works beautifully with timber cabinetry, stone basins, and black or brass fixtures.
Best tile options:
- Matte ceramic tiles
- Textured, handmade-look tiles
- Soft pastel or earthy tones
This is also an affordable way to bring high-end design to smaller bathrooms.
3. Bathroom Feature Wall
If your bathroom has a bathtub or an alcove, consider using a herringbone pattern as a feature wall. This creates depth, luxury, and a spa-like atmosphere.
Neutral colours like beige, stone grey, and off-white make the pattern subtle and calming, while bold colours like navy or forest green create a dramatic statement.
Popular Herringbone Layouts for Kitchens & Bathrooms
The herringbone pattern can be customised in several ways depending on your design goals.
1. Classic 45-Degree Herringbone
Tiles are laid diagonally, creating a dynamic zig-zag. This is the most visually striking layout.
Best for:
- Splashbacks
- Shower walls
- Feature walls
2. Straight 90-Degree Herringbone
This modern twist aligns the tiles horizontally or vertically, creating a clean architectural rhythm.
Best for:
- Bathroom floors
- Minimalist kitchens
- Full-height walls
3. Double Herringbone
Two tiles are placed next to each other to create a bold, chunky pattern.
Best for:
- Large bathroom walls
- Statement kitchen floors
- Luxury spaces
4. Diagonal or Vertical Herringbone
Creative orientations can shift the perspective of the room:
- Vertical herringbone: adds height
- Horizontal herringbone: widens small rooms
- Diagonal herringbone: adds movement and softness
Best Materials for Herringbone Tiles
1. Ceramic
Perfect for splashbacks and walls. Affordable, easy to clean, and available in endless colours.
2. Porcelain
Excellent for wet areas and floors due to durability and water resistance.
Use porcelain herringbone tiles for:
- Showers
- Bathroom floors
- Kitchen floors
3. Natural Stone
Marble, travertine, slate, and limestone add natural luxury.
Stone works best for:
- High-end bathroom feature walls
- Spa-style showers
- Premium kitchen splashbacks
4. Wood-Look Tiles
A top trend for kitchen and bathroom floors in 2025. They mimic real timber but withstand moisture and wear.
5. Glass Tiles
Great for brightening darker bathrooms or adding shine to kitchen splashbacks.
Trending Colours for 2025
1. Soft Warm Neutrals
Beige, cream, sand, and taupe continue to dominate as homeowners move toward calming, natural palettes.
2. Earthy Greens
Sage, olive, and eucalyptus tones bring nature-inspired tranquillity to kitchens and bathrooms.
3. Deep Blues
Navy and teal create luxurious, moody atmospheres—especially in shower areas.
4. Charcoal & Black
Modern, sophisticated, and perfect for minimal or industrial-style interiors.
5. Glossy White
Bright, timeless, and ideal for small spaces, glossy white herringbone tiles remain a top choice.
Pros and Cons of Herringbone Tiles
Pros
✔ Adds instant visual interest
✔ Enhances small spaces
✔ Works with nearly any interior style
✔ Creates luxury and sophistication
✔ Highly versatile for floors and walls
Cons
✖ Higher installation cost
✖ Can appear busy if tile colours are too bold
✖ Requires precise tile cutting
✖ Natural stone needs sealing and maintenance
Modern Styling Tips for 2025
1. Pair with Natural Materials
Use stone, timber, and organic textures to create a grounded, calming space.
2. Experiment with Grout
Contrasting grout makes the pattern bold; matching grout softens it.
3. Mix Matte and Glossy Finishes
This adds depth and balances the visual texture.
4. Use Lighting Strategically
Under-cabinet lights, pendant lights, and LED strips highlight the herringbone angles beautifully.
5. Keep the Surroundings Simple
Let the tile pattern be the hero by choosing minimalist fixtures and cabinetry.
FAQS
Yes, herringbone tiles are excellent for small spaces because the pattern creates movement and pulls the eye outward, making the room feel bigger. Vertical herringbone layouts can add height, while horizontal versions expand narrow rooms. Using lighter colours and glossy finishes helps maximise this effect, especially in compact bathrooms and kitchens.
Generally, yes. The herringbone pattern requires precise alignment and additional cuts, which means more labour time. A skilled tiler ensures the angles remain consistent and the layout flows smoothly. While installation costs are higher than standard layouts, the final result looks custom-designed and significantly enhances the overall aesthetic.
The most popular sizes for herringbone tiles are 75×150mm, 75×300mm, and 100×400mm. Smaller tiles deliver intricate detail, ideal for splashbacks, while medium and large tiles create modern, clean lines perfect for floors and full-height walls. The tile size should complement the scale of the room and the desired visual effect.
Absolutely. Herringbone tiles work beautifully on kitchen floors, bathroom floors, splashbacks, and feature walls. When using them on floors, choose porcelain or stone for durability. For walls, ceramic and glass tiles are excellent options. Many homeowners even extend the same tiles across multiple surfaces for a cohesive design.