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Effective tiling layout options

 With 2025 fast approaching, you may be considering some updates or changes you could make to your home or property. The tiling is one of the most common changes to make, with this being able to transform the look and feel of the entire space. The layout of the tiles is one of the most important decisions to make when it comes to tiling your home, along with the colour and the style. But what are the most effective tiling layout options? And how can you make the right choice for your space?

What are the popular and effective tiling layout options for any space?

There are a number of different and highly effective layout options for tiling in any space. These include:

  • Diagonal tiling layouts
  • Brick bond tiling layouts
  • Basket weave tiling layouts
  • Herringbone tiling layouts

Diagonal tiling layouts

By installing square tiles at an angle, you can create a stylish and effective diagonal tiling layout that can bring a number of advantages and benefits to your tiled space. These advantages include:

  • Increasing the sense of space- Because the tiles are rotated on an angle, diagonal tiling can help to draw the eye to the corners of the space which helps smaller spaces feel larger. This can be very effective for cloakroom or en-suite bathrooms, as well as for small feature spaces like shower enclosures or splashbacks.
  • Timeless- This tiling layout is not associated with a tiling trend, or used as part of a passing trend. In fact, it’s been used for many years, without fading out of popularity. So you wont have to worry about the longevity of your diagonal tiling as this is an option that is here to stay.
  • Drawing attention- Diagonal tiling creates a pattern that is unusual and interesting, and this means that attention is likely to be drawn to whatever tiling feature you create. You could even consider using a different grout colour to allow the tiles shape, and layout, to really stand out and catch the eye.

Brick bond tiling layouts

The brick bond tiling layout is a tiling layout that involves using rectangular tiles or subway tiles with a height that is at least half the size of the width. To create this tiling layout, you need to lay one row of tiles in a straight lay layout, and lay the next row at a 50% offset. This means that when laying horizontally, the centre of the tile above, will be positioned directly over the join between the two lower tiles, similar to a brick wall. There are several advantages to choosing this tiling layout. These include:

  • Create a unique tiling feature- The brick bond tiling layout is a unique tiling layout that will attract attention to different features in your room. From the shower enclosure or splash-back in the bathroom, to the kitchen wall tiling, there are a number of ways to use this tiling layout to create a dramatic and stunning tiling feature.
  • Vertical or horizontal- This tiling layout is versatile and can be applied horizontally or vertically depending on your preference. This provides more creative scope for combining tiling layouts and styles within the same room.
  • Suitable for contemporary and traditional style properties- The brick bond tiling layout can suit more traditional design preferences, especially when used as wall tiling. However, this can also be a stunning tiling layout for contemporary kitchens.

Basket weave tiling layouts

The basket weave tiling layout is a complex arrangement of rectangular or subway tiles. To create this, you need to be able to lay two or more tiles alongside each other, to make a square shape. Assuming you lay these first tiles horizontally, you then need to lay the next tiles vertically, alternating the angle each time you lay a new set of two or more tiles. So, what are the advantages of opting for this type of tiling layout? Well, there are several, including:

  • Increasing visual interest in any room- The basket weave tiling layout is a visual and tactile design that can be very visually appealing.
  • Versatile tiling layout- The basket weave tiling layout is incredibly versatile. This tiling layout can be applied to full floors and walls, which can be a stunning addition to any traditional or rustic kitchen. Or alternatively, they can be used in smaller areas, like feature walls or splash-back zones. This can draw attention to the design, while adding character and depth to your room.

Herringbone tiling layouts

The herringbone tiling pattern is a classic layout where rectangular tiles are arranged in a zigzag pattern, creating a distinctive V shape. This is created by installing rectangular tiles that are laid at 45 degree angles to form the repeating V pattern. The benefits of this type of layout include:

  • Aesthetic appeal- The zigzag pattern adds texture and sophistication, making spaces feel dynamic and elegant. This timeless design complements a wide range of materials, such as ceramic, wood, and stone, offering versatility for floors, walls, and splashbacks.
  • Improving the perception of space- The directional nature of the pattern draws the eye along its lines, making small or narrow areas, like hallways and bathrooms, appear larger and more open. 
  • Adaptability- The herringbone pattern allows for customisation, as this can be applied with contrasting grout colors, mixed patterns or colours, or varying tile sizes. All of this means that you can create a unique design for your space, and this can be adapted to different interior styles, from contemporary to rustic.

For more information or advice, get in touch with the team today, here at Tiles 2 Go. We are Preston’s leading tiling professionals. From kitchens and bathrooms, to hallways and living rooms, we have a range of tiles to suit any home, and any style.