Herringbone sets rectangular tile at right angles in a zigzag, each piece meeting the side of the next. It has been used for floors and walls for centuries.
The feel: Rich, detailed and a little dramatic. It brings pattern without adding color.
Try it in the Shower BuilderInstant price
Where Herringbone works best
- Shower floors in small herringbone mosaic
- Back walls and accent walls in 3x6 or 4x12 tile
- Niche backs and feature panels
- Bathroom floors in wood-look or stone-look plank tile
What we like and what to know
What we like
- One tile and one color make a full pattern
- Draws attention to a wall without competing with the fixtures
- Looks good in white, in color and in wood-look porcelain
What to know
- The most cutting of any layout, because the edges of the wall need angled cuts to finish
- The tile has to be very square, and the layout lines have to be exact
Tile sizes that suit this design
3x6 Subway · 4x12 Subway · Herringbone Mosaic
How we install it
Herringbone is laid from a center line with a string or laser. We dry-fit the first rows, mark the pattern lines on the wall and cut the edge pieces last, so the pattern stays centered.
Plan it before you decide
The Shower Builder lets you try layouts, accent bands, stripes, frames, niches and slabs in any combination and shows a 3D model as you go. Pine handles all pricing personally at the consultation — he’ll take great care of you.
Questions about this design
What is the difference between herringbone and chevron?
In herringbone the tile ends are square and sit against the sides of the next tile. In chevron the tile ends are cut at an angle so the points meet in a continuous V.
Is herringbone good for a shower wall?
Yes, as a back wall or accent. On a full shower it is a lot of pattern, so many people use it on one wall and a calm layout on the others.
Related designs
Chevron · Running Bond (Brick) · Vertical Brick Offset · XL Feature Panel
All tile sizes and designs · Custom tile and walk-in showers · XL porcelain slab showers · Completed work
Based in Mableton, proudly serving Austell and Metro Atlanta.