Hexagon, Herringbone, or Subway: Choosing a Tile Shape and Layout

Hexagon, Herringbone, or Subway: Choosing a Tile Shape and Layout

Tile 101 · Design Guide

The shape you choose says just as much about a room as the color or material does. A hexagon floor reads modern and playful. A herringbone layout feels elevated and intentional. A classic subway pattern feels clean and timeless. Here's a quick guide to the most popular shapes and layouts, and where each one really shines.

Classic Subway: Timeless and Endlessly Versatile

Simple rectangular tile laid in an offset or stacked pattern is one of the most enduring looks in tile design, and for good reason — it works in nearly any kitchen, bathroom, or backsplash and pairs effortlessly with almost any color or finish. Browse our square and rectangular tile to build your own subway look.

Hexagon: Modern Geometry With Range

Hexagon tile brings a graphic, honeycomb-like pattern that reads modern in a small mosaic and bold in a large-format floor tile. It's a favorite for bathroom floors and statement backsplashes alike. Explore our hexagon tile collection.

Herringbone: Elevated Movement

Herringbone arranges rectangular pieces in a V-shaped zigzag that adds a sense of motion and craftsmanship to any floor or wall. It's a wonderful way to make an otherwise simple tile feel custom and elevated. See our herringbone tile collection.

More Shapes Worth Exploring

Once you've mastered the basics, there's a whole world of pattern to play with.

Chevron

A crisp, pointed V-pattern that feels sharper and more architectural than herringbone.

Basketweave

An interlocking pattern that adds classic, woven texture to floors and walls.

Picket

An elongated, pointed shape that gives a fresh, modern spin on a classic layout.

Fish Scale

Soft, scalloped curves that bring playful texture to an accent wall or backsplash.

Explore Every Shape in One Place

Use our shape filter to browse the full range and find the layout that fits your vision.