If you’re looking to add sophistication, timeless appeal, and a touch of geometry to your renovation, herringbone mosaic tiles are an excellent choice.

Whether you're updating your kitchen, bathroom, hallway, or laundry, herringbone tiles have the ability to create depth and character while maintaining a classic style. The distinctive zigzag pattern of these tiles can make any room feel more dynamic and visually interesting.

Herringbone mosaic tiles have a longstanding history in design, often seen in traditional hardwood floors, but they’ve evolved in recent years to become popular in tiling for both walls and floors. The flexibility and adaptability of herringbone layouts make them suitable for a wide range of spaces, from modern, minimalist interiors to rustic, vintage-style rooms.

What Are Herringbone Mosaic Tiles?

Herringbone mosaic tiles consist of small rectangular tiles arranged in a distinctive zigzag pattern, mimicking the "bones" of a fish.

The tiles are generally mounted on mesh sheets for easier installation, ensuring consistent spacing and alignment. This pattern creates a visually dynamic effect that draws the eye across the surface, adding texture and depth to any room.

The unique arrangement of the tiles adds an elegant yet energetic feel, whether it's used on the floor or as a feature wall. The versatility of herringbone mosaics allows them to complement a variety of design styles, from traditional to contemporary and everything in between.

Size and Layout of Herringbone Tiles

The most common size for individual tiles in herringbone mosaics is approximately 75 x 150 mm, though other sizes are available.

The tiles are usually mounted on mesh sheets, typically around 300 x 300 mm, which simplifies installation.

While traditional herringbone patterns use rectangular tiles in a 2:1 ratio (two units long for every one unit wide), modern variations can also use larger tiles or even mixed sizes for a more contemporary look.

Depending on the scale of your space, larger tiles can offer a more streamlined appearance, while smaller tiles can create a more intricate, detailed effect.

For smaller spaces, such as powder rooms or laundry areas, it’s best to stick with smaller tiles (around 75 x 150 mm) to maintain a sense of proportion and avoid overwhelming the space.

For larger rooms, you might opt for longer tiles (up to 100 x 200 mm) to reduce the number of grout lines and make the pattern more expansive.

Where Herringbone Tiles Work Best

Herringbone mosaic tiles are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of spaces throughout your home.

In bathrooms, they work well both on floors and walls. On the floor, herringbone creates a stylish yet durable surface, while on the walls, it adds texture and dimension. It’s especially effective in shower areas, where it can conform nicely to slopes and drain layouts.

In the kitchen, herringbone tiles are a fantastic choice for creating a statement backsplash. The pattern draws attention and creates visual interest without overwhelming the room.

In hallways, entryways, and living spaces, herringbone mosaic tiles can be used to add character to otherwise simple floors, giving the space a sense of movement.

Laundry rooms and mudrooms are other great areas for herringbone mosaics. These spaces often get heavy use, so the durability of porcelain or ceramic herringbone tiles makes them a great fit.

Installation and Considerations

Installing herringbone mosaic tiles requires a bit more precision than standard square tiles due to the angled layout. Make sure your surface is clean, smooth, and level before beginning installation. If you’re tiling a floor, you may need to apply a waterproofing membrane to prevent moisture buildup and protect the tiles from potential water damage.

Most herringbone tiles come mesh-mounted, making installation easier and faster, but it's still important to check the alignment of each sheet and adjust as necessary to ensure that the pattern flows correctly. You may need to cut tiles along the edges or around fixtures, so it's worth having the right tools on hand, such as a tile cutter or wet saw.

Grouting is a crucial part of the process. Choose a grout colour that complements your tile choice. Light grout can create a softer, seamless look, while darker grout will emphasise the pattern.