20 Must-Know Subway Tile Layouts From Familiar to Fresh
Discover classic and creative ways to arrange this versatile tile to suit your space and aesthetic
Subway tile is a chameleon, able to adapt to nearly any style. From the familiar brick pattern to more unusual arrangements, the designs possible with a single color and shape of rectangular tile can span traditional, modern and everything in between. Keep reading to learn the names of classic layouts and their variations — and get inspired for your own tiling project.
Running bond is a classic choice for traditional and farmhouse-style kitchens and baths. Depending on the tile size and finish, as well as the grout color and width, this layout can complement Craftsman, contemporary, Victorian, midcentury modern, industrial and cottage-style homes as well.
Used on a wall, the horizontal design can subtly widen the appearance of a room, making it a particularly good choice for narrow spaces. Running bond is also forgiving, requiring few complicated cuts and allowing for slight tile variations and imperfect alignment.
Although there’s a lot of movement in the pattern, because this tile layout is so common, it doesn’t call attention to itself — which can be an asset or a drawback, depending on the effect you’re trying to achieve.
Used on a wall, the horizontal design can subtly widen the appearance of a room, making it a particularly good choice for narrow spaces. Running bond is also forgiving, requiring few complicated cuts and allowing for slight tile variations and imperfect alignment.
Although there’s a lot of movement in the pattern, because this tile layout is so common, it doesn’t call attention to itself — which can be an asset or a drawback, depending on the effect you’re trying to achieve.
2. Staggered Running Bond
Staggered running bond is a variation on the classic running bond. It staggers each row by one-third, one-quarter or another fraction of a tile’s length instead of the traditional half.
This layout offers a dynamic, staggered yet still orderly look that adds subtle interest to walls. The one-third offset is a particularly effective choice if you’re installing white or solid-color subway tile in a transitional-style bathroom or kitchen and want a little twist on the classic pattern.
Tiling tip: The wider the grout line — and the greater the contrast between grout and tile — the more pronounced the pattern. For a clean, subtle look, choose rectified (precisely cut) tiles for straighter edges and narrow grout lines matching the tile color. For an earthier feel, try handmade tile with texture and color variation.
Staggered running bond is a variation on the classic running bond. It staggers each row by one-third, one-quarter or another fraction of a tile’s length instead of the traditional half.
This layout offers a dynamic, staggered yet still orderly look that adds subtle interest to walls. The one-third offset is a particularly effective choice if you’re installing white or solid-color subway tile in a transitional-style bathroom or kitchen and want a little twist on the classic pattern.
Tiling tip: The wider the grout line — and the greater the contrast between grout and tile — the more pronounced the pattern. For a clean, subtle look, choose rectified (precisely cut) tiles for straighter edges and narrow grout lines matching the tile color. For an earthier feel, try handmade tile with texture and color variation.
One-quarter offset is a bolder, more modern-looking variation on the brick pattern. Just like it sounds, it staggers the rows at one-quarter of a tile’s width. This layout tends to be most effective when using elongated subway tiles, such as 4-by-12 or 2-by-8 instead of the more traditional 1:2 proportion. It also requires careful installation so the joints align perfectly, which can result in higher installation costs.
For a more eclectic look that actually requires imperfect alignment, subway tiles can be installed in a random offset pattern, in which the distances are varied. It can be tricky to get a pleasing overall look with this layout, so your tiler may need to lay out the pattern on the floor before picking up a trowel.
For a more eclectic look that actually requires imperfect alignment, subway tiles can be installed in a random offset pattern, in which the distances are varied. It can be tricky to get a pleasing overall look with this layout, so your tiler may need to lay out the pattern on the floor before picking up a trowel.
3. Vertical Running Bond
Rotate the horizontal brick pattern by 90 degrees and — presto! — you get the vertical running bond pattern. The simple change in orientation results in a look that veers much more contemporary or midcentury modern than the traditional horizontal brick pattern.
Just as the horizontal running bond pattern can widen a room visually, vertical running bond can create the illusion of taller walls and ceilings. This layout tends to be more eye-catching than its horizontal sibling, making it ideal for statement walls.
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Rotate the horizontal brick pattern by 90 degrees and — presto! — you get the vertical running bond pattern. The simple change in orientation results in a look that veers much more contemporary or midcentury modern than the traditional horizontal brick pattern.
Just as the horizontal running bond pattern can widen a room visually, vertical running bond can create the illusion of taller walls and ceilings. This layout tends to be more eye-catching than its horizontal sibling, making it ideal for statement walls.
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4. Vertical Staggered Running Bond
This variation rotates the running bond vertically and staggers each row by one-third or one-quarter of a tile’s length for a rhythmic, linear effect. Vertical staggered running bond offers the same aesthetic benefits as the horizontal version, with the added advantage of making walls appear taller.
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This variation rotates the running bond vertically and staggers each row by one-third or one-quarter of a tile’s length for a rhythmic, linear effect. Vertical staggered running bond offers the same aesthetic benefits as the horizontal version, with the added advantage of making walls appear taller.
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5. Diagonal Running Bond
Tilting the running bond pattern by 45 degrees creates a striking diagonal pattern. Whether offset by half, one-third or one-quarter, diagonal running bond adds personality, movement and surprise. This pattern can also make square rooms feel more spacious and less boxy.
Tiling tip: Patterns that require precision, create extra work and waste from angled cuts, or both can raise installation and material costs, so plan your budget accordingly.
Tilting the running bond pattern by 45 degrees creates a striking diagonal pattern. Whether offset by half, one-third or one-quarter, diagonal running bond adds personality, movement and surprise. This pattern can also make square rooms feel more spacious and less boxy.
Tiling tip: Patterns that require precision, create extra work and waste from angled cuts, or both can raise installation and material costs, so plan your budget accordingly.
6. Horizontal Stacked
The horizontal stacked layout — also called grid pattern or stack bond — aligns tiles directly on top of each other, forming a clean, orderly grid. Its simplicity and symmetry suit contemporary, minimalist or retro-inspired spaces, while the long horizontal grout lines help visually widen a room.
Stacked subway tile delivers the cleanest look when set by a skilled installer, especially when paired with precisely cut rectified tile for straighter lines.
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The horizontal stacked layout — also called grid pattern or stack bond — aligns tiles directly on top of each other, forming a clean, orderly grid. Its simplicity and symmetry suit contemporary, minimalist or retro-inspired spaces, while the long horizontal grout lines help visually widen a room.
Stacked subway tile delivers the cleanest look when set by a skilled installer, especially when paired with precisely cut rectified tile for straighter lines.
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7. Vertical Stacked
The vertical stacked variation is — you guessed it — the stacked pattern rotated vertically. Like the horizontal version, this layout is clean and modern, plus it has that magical room-heightening effect common to all vertical layouts.
Tiling tip: Interruptions by outlets, plumbing and wall edges are more noticeable in vertical layouts than in horizontal layouts, so plan placement carefully.
The vertical stacked variation is — you guessed it — the stacked pattern rotated vertically. Like the horizontal version, this layout is clean and modern, plus it has that magical room-heightening effect common to all vertical layouts.
Tiling tip: Interruptions by outlets, plumbing and wall edges are more noticeable in vertical layouts than in horizontal layouts, so plan placement carefully.
8. Offset Vertical Stacked
Offsetting vertically stacked tiles by half a tile’s width adds movement and softens the gridlike look while keeping it modern. Staggered joints also help conceal minor tile, wall and installation imperfections better than a strict grid.
Small tiles and high-contrast grout can make this pattern look busy over large areas, but it’s another great choice when you’re looking to make a statement with simple white or solid-color subway tile.
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Offsetting vertically stacked tiles by half a tile’s width adds movement and softens the gridlike look while keeping it modern. Staggered joints also help conceal minor tile, wall and installation imperfections better than a strict grid.
Small tiles and high-contrast grout can make this pattern look busy over large areas, but it’s another great choice when you’re looking to make a statement with simple white or solid-color subway tile.
See why you should hire a professional who uses Houzz Pro software
9. Horizontal Corridor (Framed Stack)
The relatively uncommon horizontal corridor, or framed stack, variation features long, horizontal rows of stacked subway tiles framed above and below by rows of the same tile rotated 90 degrees. The field and border tile orientations can be swapped — vertical field with horizontal border tiles, or vice versa — depending on the desired visual effect.
The layout visually expands the width of a space, while the contrasting border breaks up large expanses of tile. The result is added interest without sacrificing the clean, orderly look of a stacked design.
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The relatively uncommon horizontal corridor, or framed stack, variation features long, horizontal rows of stacked subway tiles framed above and below by rows of the same tile rotated 90 degrees. The field and border tile orientations can be swapped — vertical field with horizontal border tiles, or vice versa — depending on the desired visual effect.
The layout visually expands the width of a space, while the contrasting border breaks up large expanses of tile. The result is added interest without sacrificing the clean, orderly look of a stacked design.
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10. Vertical Corridor
A vertical corridor layout follows the same principle, but the contrasting border breaks up the field tiles in vertical bands.
In either variation, when all the tiles are the same color, the effect is subtle but stylish. Using a contrasting color for the border tiles makes the corridor effect more prominent.
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A vertical corridor layout follows the same principle, but the contrasting border breaks up the field tiles in vertical bands.
In either variation, when all the tiles are the same color, the effect is subtle but stylish. Using a contrasting color for the border tiles makes the corridor effect more prominent.
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11. Horizontal Single Basketweave
The basketweave tile pattern is created by alternating small groups of subway tiles horizontally and vertically to mimic the look of woven fabric. It became popular in the early 20th century, alongside the classic running bond layout. While the latter has dominated backsplashes in recent years, basketweave remains a timeless choice, prized for the texture and depth it adds to floors as well as backsplashes.
In the horizontal single basketweave variation, each group typically is composed of three subway tiles with 1:2 proportions: a pair stacked horizontally next to a single vertical tile to create a rectangle. The layout can be tricky to visualize, so zoom in on the photo to see it clearly.
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The basketweave tile pattern is created by alternating small groups of subway tiles horizontally and vertically to mimic the look of woven fabric. It became popular in the early 20th century, alongside the classic running bond layout. While the latter has dominated backsplashes in recent years, basketweave remains a timeless choice, prized for the texture and depth it adds to floors as well as backsplashes.
In the horizontal single basketweave variation, each group typically is composed of three subway tiles with 1:2 proportions: a pair stacked horizontally next to a single vertical tile to create a rectangle. The layout can be tricky to visualize, so zoom in on the photo to see it clearly.
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12. Vertical Single Basketweave
The vertical variation of the single basketweave pattern also typically uses groups of three subway tiles, but in this layout, the pair is stacked vertically and a single horizontal tile is placed on top or bottom.
The vertical variation of the single basketweave pattern also typically uses groups of three subway tiles, but in this layout, the pair is stacked vertically and a single horizontal tile is placed on top or bottom.
While three tiles is typical for the single basketweave, the number of tiles in each stack can vary. A 1:4 proportioned tile, for example, might consist of six tiles per rectangular block.
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13. Double Basketweave (Parquet or Crosshatch)
In the double basketweave — the most familiar version of this classic layout — each group typically consists of four tiles: two stacked pairs placed next to each other to form a square, alternating orientation to create the woven look. The layout adds rich texture to floors and backsplashes and works equally well in vintage, contemporary and transitional spaces.
In the double basketweave — the most familiar version of this classic layout — each group typically consists of four tiles: two stacked pairs placed next to each other to form a square, alternating orientation to create the woven look. The layout adds rich texture to floors and backsplashes and works equally well in vintage, contemporary and transitional spaces.
A 1:2 tile ratio allows two stacked tiles to form the squares characteristic of the double basketweave pattern. However, with other dimensions, more tiles may be needed to achieve the correct proportion — for example, three 3-by-9-inch tiles or four 2-by-8-inch tiles. Larger groupings produce a bigger, bolder woven effect.
Typically, the stacks run parallel to the floor and walls in a gridlike pattern. Rotating them 45 degrees so the squares appear as diamonds would create yet another compelling variation.
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Typically, the stacks run parallel to the floor and walls in a gridlike pattern. Rotating them 45 degrees so the squares appear as diamonds would create yet another compelling variation.
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14. Classic (45-Degree) Herringbone
The herringbone pattern, named for the bones of the herring fish, was used for ancient Roman roadways because of its strength and durability. Today, its elegance and versatility make it a popular choice for backsplashes, floors, fireplace surrounds and accent walls.
Herringbone naming can be confusing, so be sure to show your installer pictures of exactly which look you have in mind before starting a project. But the foundation of all herringbone layouts is two rectangular tiles meeting at a 90-degree angle to form an “L” shape. Linked together, these tiles create a broken zigzag pattern.
In a classic herringbone layout, the tiles are oriented in a 45-degree angle from the wall, and the “arrows” of the zigzag point up and down. The design adds movement and texture to a surface, and it can create the illusion that a space is larger than it is.
The herringbone pattern, named for the bones of the herring fish, was used for ancient Roman roadways because of its strength and durability. Today, its elegance and versatility make it a popular choice for backsplashes, floors, fireplace surrounds and accent walls.
Herringbone naming can be confusing, so be sure to show your installer pictures of exactly which look you have in mind before starting a project. But the foundation of all herringbone layouts is two rectangular tiles meeting at a 90-degree angle to form an “L” shape. Linked together, these tiles create a broken zigzag pattern.
In a classic herringbone layout, the tiles are oriented in a 45-degree angle from the wall, and the “arrows” of the zigzag point up and down. The design adds movement and texture to a surface, and it can create the illusion that a space is larger than it is.
Tile dimension and grout color make a big difference in the look of the herringbone pattern, affecting whether it reads as classic and subtle or modern and daring. A large-format or elongated tile creates a more understated look than a standard 3-by-6 tile, especially when paired with a similarly colored grout.
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15. Straight Herringbone (90-Degree, Stacked or Stepladder)
When the tile edges run parallel to the walls or floor and the arrows point toward the corners, it’s usually called the straight herringbone variation. The look is more modern than that of the classic 45-degree angle. In a two-color arrangement, the playful, step-like pattern that gives this style one of its nicknames is especially distinct.
An upside to this layout is that it usually requires fewer intricate cuts than the classic herringbone pattern, which can reduce installation and material costs.
Tiling tip: For a balanced, professional-looking tile installation, begin your layout from the center of the floor, backsplash or shower wall and work outward. This minimizes awkward slivers of tile at the edges. On walls, set a level wooden batten to support the second row, then install the bottom row last. This ensures perfectly straight lines even if the floor isn’t level.
When the tile edges run parallel to the walls or floor and the arrows point toward the corners, it’s usually called the straight herringbone variation. The look is more modern than that of the classic 45-degree angle. In a two-color arrangement, the playful, step-like pattern that gives this style one of its nicknames is especially distinct.
An upside to this layout is that it usually requires fewer intricate cuts than the classic herringbone pattern, which can reduce installation and material costs.
Tiling tip: For a balanced, professional-looking tile installation, begin your layout from the center of the floor, backsplash or shower wall and work outward. This minimizes awkward slivers of tile at the edges. On walls, set a level wooden batten to support the second row, then install the bottom row last. This ensures perfectly straight lines even if the floor isn’t level.
16. Horizontal Herringbone
When the arrows of the herringbone point side to side, the eye travels accordingly, which visually expands the width of a space. This layout is aptly called the horizontal herringbone — although it’s occasionally referred to as vertical herringbone, so always provide visual references to your installer to avoid confusion!
When the arrows of the herringbone point side to side, the eye travels accordingly, which visually expands the width of a space. This layout is aptly called the horizontal herringbone — although it’s occasionally referred to as vertical herringbone, so always provide visual references to your installer to avoid confusion!
17. Double Herringbone
In this modern variation of herringbone, two tiles are stacked before being laid in the zigzag pattern. The doubled units create a bold, braid-like effect that feels both graphic and dimensional. Double herringbone can be installed diagonally, straight or horizontally, each producing its own vibe.
In this modern variation of herringbone, two tiles are stacked before being laid in the zigzag pattern. The doubled units create a bold, braid-like effect that feels both graphic and dimensional. Double herringbone can be installed diagonally, straight or horizontally, each producing its own vibe.
Herringbone can also be formed with stacks of three or more tiles, provided the units remain rectangular rather than square. Otherwise, the layout shifts into basketweave territory.
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18. Herringbone-Bond Hybrid
This emerging variation of the herringbone layout doesn’t yet seem to have a widely agreed-upon name, but it’s showing up more as designers experiment with new ways to make subway tile look original. It begins in one corner with the classic herringbone “L” and gradually transitions into vertical and horizontal bond patterns along a diagonal. To be fully visible, the pattern requires a large surface area, such as a large shower or feature wall.
This emerging variation of the herringbone layout doesn’t yet seem to have a widely agreed-upon name, but it’s showing up more as designers experiment with new ways to make subway tile look original. It begins in one corner with the classic herringbone “L” and gradually transitions into vertical and horizontal bond patterns along a diagonal. To be fully visible, the pattern requires a large surface area, such as a large shower or feature wall.
19. Chevron
Chevron is often mistaken for herringbone, but the two are not the same. In a chevron layout, each tile is cut at an angle (usually 45 degrees), or mitered, so the ends meet in a clean “V” shape. This creates a sleek, pointed pattern with a strong sense of direction. In herringbone, by contrast, full rectangular tiles are laid so that the end of one butts against the side of another. Like herringbone, chevron can be installed vertically, horizontally or at a 45-degree angle.
The chevron layout is often chosen for backsplashes or feature walls where the desired result is linear and orderly, with the movement of herringbone but a cleaner, less busy look.
Chevron is often mistaken for herringbone, but the two are not the same. In a chevron layout, each tile is cut at an angle (usually 45 degrees), or mitered, so the ends meet in a clean “V” shape. This creates a sleek, pointed pattern with a strong sense of direction. In herringbone, by contrast, full rectangular tiles are laid so that the end of one butts against the side of another. Like herringbone, chevron can be installed vertically, horizontally or at a 45-degree angle.
The chevron layout is often chosen for backsplashes or feature walls where the desired result is linear and orderly, with the movement of herringbone but a cleaner, less busy look.
20. Mixed Patterns
The final entry in our list is not a single layout per se, but rather a category of tile installations created by combining multiple layouts of the same subway tile. This can mean blending classic patterns, such as framing a diagonal herringbone panel behind a range within a straight herringbone backsplash. It can also mean using different layouts on adjoining surfaces, such as using vertical bond on the foot and head walls of a tub and basketweave on the back wall. Or it could even mean transitioning between patterns across one continuous wall or floor, similar to the herringbone-bond hybrid pictured previously.
The takeaway is that with just one color and size of subway tile, plus some creativity, the possible layouts and looks for your tiling project are virtually limitless.
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The final entry in our list is not a single layout per se, but rather a category of tile installations created by combining multiple layouts of the same subway tile. This can mean blending classic patterns, such as framing a diagonal herringbone panel behind a range within a straight herringbone backsplash. It can also mean using different layouts on adjoining surfaces, such as using vertical bond on the foot and head walls of a tub and basketweave on the back wall. Or it could even mean transitioning between patterns across one continuous wall or floor, similar to the herringbone-bond hybrid pictured previously.
The takeaway is that with just one color and size of subway tile, plus some creativity, the possible layouts and looks for your tiling project are virtually limitless.
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Browse home design photos
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Running bond, also known as brickwork, offset or half-bond, is the layout most people picture when they hear “subway tile.” Tiles are set horizontally in rows, each offset by half a tile’s length from the row above and below. While subway tiles come in many colors and sizes, the iconic image is white 3-by-6-inch rectangles in a staggered brick-like pattern, famously used in New York City subway stations.
Tiling tip: Tile layout names aren’t standardized, which can present opportunities for miscommunication during installation. Show photos of your desired design to your installer to ensure you’re on the same page.
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