Different Tile Patterns: 7 Layout Ideas

When you are selecting new tiles for your interior design project, it is absolutely crucial to also take their layout pattern into consideration and of course, ensure this information is accurately communicated to your Tiler. Tile layout patterns can either be specified and shown in your Designer’s or Builder’s drawings and documentation to ensure that all trades working on your project are all on the same page or, your layout preferences can be communicated to your nominated Tiler on site prior to laying the tiles themselves.

Tile pattern and layout designs are incredibly varied so it is especially important to properly communicate your preferences to your Designer, Builder and Tiler to ensure your expectations are met. Thanks to the many material and shape variations available in tile designs, you are sure to find a tile combination that is perfectly suited to your own unique style and project, from the more traditional stacked and vertical stacked layouts to the more modern scattered and basket weave layouts.

Stacked Tile Layout

A stacked tile layout uses the tiles to create a ‘grid-like’ pattern, with each tile sitting directly on top of the tile below it. The tiles are ‘stacked’ over one another, setting a very structured and geometric scene in your design that can work especially well in more modern or contemporary styled interiors. When selecting your tile grout, it is important to consider whether or not you want to accentuate the grid pattern of the stacked layout or create more of a seamless finish. A contrasting coloured grout will draw more attention to the grid layout whereas a complementing or matching coloured grout will create more of a seamless finish making this style more suited to smaller spaces where too much visual clutter can detract from the overall design experience.

Vertical Stacked Layout

Most popular with rectangular shaped tiles, a vertically stacked tile layout flips the traditional rectangle shape on its side and runs the tiles vertically up the wall. This tile layout will once again look right at home in a modern or contemporary styled interior design project. This particular layout style provides the additional benefit of creating the illusion of added space in the room, effectively adding a sense of height to your walls. Using a vertical stacked layout, running the tiles up the walls will draw the eye upwards, allowing the ceiling to appear higher and create the perception of added height, making this style of layout perfectly suited to homes with lower ceilings.

Caption: Creating a stacked or vertically stacked tile layout doesn’t necessarily mean you are restricted to choosing rectangular shaped tiles; any elongated tile shape will also do the trick! These picket style wall tiles are laid vertically to help create the illusion of additional height in the space as the pattern draws the eye upwards in the room.

Staggered (or Brick Bond) Tile Layout

A traditional and timeless tile laying style, a staggered or brick bond layout is achieved using square or rectangular shaped tiles that can be laid in slightly staggered rows. This style of tile layout is normally seen used with the ever popular subway tiles, creating a delightfully timeless aesthetic in any interior design project, whether you are selecting your new kitchen splashback tiles or bathroom floor tiles.