We will use tiles in bathrooms and kitchens that are exposed to a lot of water. Waterproofing is the functional aspect of tiled surfaces. But tiling, when done well, can make a room look better. This is the aesthetic aspect of tiled surfaces. And it is the whole point of décor. The way we arrange tiles can completely change the way a room feels, making it appear more spacious, brighter, or just more attractive. This applies to walls, floors, and even small tiling jobs like stove splashbacks. And it is most effective when working with the other element of the room’s décor.
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As Sydney’s premier tiles supplier we are proud to see homes and commercial buildings renovated and improved with our range of tiles and materials. As well as floor and wall tiles, we supply bathware, wall panels and a range of timber flooring options. Contact us for quality service, competitive prices, and quick delivery.
Dynamic & Modern Patterns
These are not a type of tile. Rather, these are ways of arranging tiles to form a pattern.
Herringbone
Herringbone arranges rectangular tiles in a zigzag design, creating a “V” shape that draws the eye across the surface. The diagonal flow of herringbone makes narrow rooms appear wider and adds movement, which works well in hallways, kitchens, and feature walls. Often it is one colour, and quite effective even with plain white tiles. But mixed colours can achieve effective results.
Chevron
Similar to herringbone, but instead of rectangular tiles with 90-degree edges the chevron uses tiles with ends cut at an angle. This means the ends of the tiles fit together in a continuous “V”. This gives a more precise and symmetrical effect, more formal and contemporary. Chevron is effective when you want to elongate a space or create a striking statement floor.
Vertical Stack
Another use of rectangular tiles, in this case they are simply stacked in neat vertical columns. This has the effect of pulling the eye upward, making the ceiling appear taller. It is often used in bathrooms and backsplashes for a clean, modern appearance.
Diagonal
Laying square tiles at a 45-degree angle can make a small room feel larger by visually widening it. This pattern also helps disguise walls or floors that are not perfectly square.
Classic & Traditional Patterns
Brick Bond (Running Bond)
This is one of the most familiar layouts, the same pattern seen in a brick wall. It has each horizontal row of tiles offset halfway across the row above. This timeless, slightly rustic look works in almost any setting. Used with lighter shade tiles it can open up a space, while darker tone tiles can add depth.
Offset Brick Bond (Running Bond)
There is no rule to say that rows of horizontal tiles need to be offset by 50%. The 50% offset is appropriate for the corners of brick walls, because it allows the corners to fit together with minimal fuss. But a flat wall can have the tiles offset by 33%, or by 25%.
Checkerboard
By tiles of two contrasting colours we create a grid, which is a bold visual effect. Classic black and white checkerboard floors remain popular in kitchens and entrances because they suit many different home decors. The black and white grid can also work well on bathroom walls, and looks very clean. Softer dual colour combinations can give a subtle but pleasing effect.
Basketweave – Rectangular
This uses rectangular tiles to imitate the texture of woven fabric. Three rectangular tiles are placed vertically in a square, followed by three rectangular tiles placed horizontally. This introduces visual interest without being overwhelming and can add a sense of tradition to bathrooms or living areas.
Basketweave – Mixed
This has rectangular brick shaped tiles in a 45-degree criss-cross pattern, with the spaces between filled with smaller squared tiles. This can create an almost 3D effect if the rectangular tiles are bold and the square tiles more subdued.
Unique & Creative Patterns
Hexagon
Hexagonal tiles create a honeycomb effect that can feel modern or vintage, depending on the colours and finishes chosen. Smaller hex tiles add detail, while larger ones provide a clean geometric look.
Mosaic
By using tiny tiles of various sizes and shapes we can create complex patterns or images on a wall or floor. This allows for unlimited creativity, and examples of this date back to ancient times. Mosaics can be used for a feature wall, oven splashbacks, or decorative borders. They will add colour, pattern, and texture in compact areas, but they can feel cluttered if overused.
Fish Scale
This pattern, also known as scallop tiles, resembles the overlapping scales of fish. It provides a softer, organic look where a touch of playfulness is welcome in the bathroom or kitchen.
How Tile Patterns Influence the Appearance of Space
The orientation of tiles and their pattern can affect how we perceive room size:
- A horizontal layout makes a narrow room look wider.
- Vertical layouts will make ceilings appear taller.
- Diagonal or zigzag patterns create movement, helping a compact room feel more open.
- Large-format tiles with fewer grout lines give the impression of more floor or wall space. Rectified tiles are well suited to this.
These effects make tile choice not only decorative but also practical in shaping how comfortable a room feels.
Coordinating Tiles with Décor
The impact of tile patterns extends beyond the tiles themselves. They should work in harmony with the rest of the room:
Colour palettes: Match tiles to existing tones in walls, furniture, or cabinetry for cohesion. For contrast, choose tiles in a complementary colour to make them stand out.
Grout choice: A grout that blends with the tile creates a seamless look, while a contrasting grout highlights the pattern. White works in most cases, but consider a coloured grout if you are looking for a different but attractive décor.
Textures and finishes: Glossy tiles reflect light, brightening darker spaces. This can work well next to a mirror and clear lighting to create a more open feel. By contrast, matte finish tiles add warmth and reduce glare, giving a more calming effect.
Scale and proportion: Busy patterns are best suited to larger rooms, while simpler layouts work better in smaller spaces.
Practical Considerations
Beyond appearance, functionality plays a role in pattern selection:
- High-traffic areas benefit from simpler layouts with fewer grout lines, which are easier to keep clean.
- Feature walls or splashbacks can handle intricate or bold patterns since they cover smaller areas.
- Outdoor spaces often use textured or cobblestone-like patterns to provide grip and durability.
Final Thoughts
Tile patterns do much more than cover a surface. The right choice can alter a room’s proportions, brighten a darker area, or serve as a design feature that ties together the entire décor scheme. From the timeless checkerboard to the playful fish scale, patterns allow homeowners to combine style with function.
When planning your renovation or new build, consider not only the tile material and colour but also the way the tiles are laid. A carefully chosen pattern can transform an ordinary room into a space that feels open, balanced, and inviting.
