Favorite Herringbone Looks for Cement Tile

From Ancient Roads to Modern Homes: The Timeless Appeal of Herringbone Cement Tiles

The world of interior design is no stranger to the captivating allure of patterns, and one that consistently stands out for its elegance and visual interest is the herringbone pattern. When combined with the durable and stylish nature of cement tiles, the herringbone layout offers a design statement that is both timeless and refreshingly modern. Let's delve into the rich history of this pattern and explore how it can transform your space, especially when using versatile subway-style cement tiles.

Table of Contents

• A Pattern Woven Through History
• Herringbone: A Creative Twist on Classic Subway Tiles
• Different Herringbone Layouts
• Herringbone FAQ's
• The Impact of Size and Color in Herringbone Cement Tile Design
  • Tile Size
  • Tile Color and Finish

• • • Single Color
    • High-Contrast Color
    • Contrasting Grout
    • Multiple Colors/Ombré
    • Patterned Cement Tiles

• Bringing Herringbone Home with Cement Tiles

Avente's Rustic Bone 4"x12" Cement Tiles were used for this mudroom. Credits: Design: Studio McGee  Builder: Killlowen Construction  Photo: Lucy Call

A Pattern Woven Through History

The herringbone pattern boasts a lineage that stretches back to the Roman Empire. The Romans, renowned for their engineering prowess, utilized this interlocking V-shaped arrangement, "Opus spicatum" or "spiked work," to construct incredibly durable and stable roadways. Examples of these ancient paved roads still exist, a testament to the pattern's inherent strength.

But the herringbone's journey didn't stop at infrastructure. Its distinctive zig-zag motif, reminiscent of the bone structure of a herring fish (hence its name), found its way into other cultures and applications. Ancient Egyptians incorporated it into exquisite jewelry for the elite, while early Italian and Irish artisans wove it into textiles, creating durable and visually appealing fabrics.

The pattern saw a significant resurgence during the European Renaissance, particularly in architecture. Filippo Brunelleschi famously employed a herringbone brick-laying technique in the construction of the dome of the Florence Cathedral, a feat of engineering and design. From these grand architectural statements, the herringbone pattern gradually transitioned into interior flooring in the 16th century, becoming synonymous with luxury and sophisticated design in grand European estates.

Herringbone: A Creative Twist on Classic Subway Tiles

Subway tiles, typically rectangular and often seen in a simple offset brick-like pattern, are a beloved classic in their own right. However, arranging these familiar tiles in a herringbone pattern injects a fresh, dynamic energy into any space. It creatively elevates a simple material, transforming it from a utilitarian backdrop into a captivating focal point.

Whether gracing a kitchen backsplash, a bathroom floor, or an accent wall, the herringbone pattern with cement subway tiles adds a sense of movement and depth. It draws the eye and creates a sophisticated visual texture that can complement various interior styles, from traditional to contemporary. The angles and interlocking nature of the pattern provide a more intricate and engaging look than a standard running bond, making it a popular choice for those seeking a classic and distinctive design.

Different Herringbone Layouts

There are four basic herringbone layouts. The traditional herringbone is laid at a 45-degree angle from the counter or specified floor edge. The double herringbone uses two tiles laid parallel to widen each bone. The diagonal herringbone is the traditional pattern rotated 90 degrees. Finally, the straight herringbone places the tiles 90 degrees to the counter or specified floor edge. Straight and Diagonal patterns are great for a backsplash where you want to draw attention to shelves or a custom range hood above the line of sight. These two layouts are more modern and work well in contemporary homes. The herringbone can work well in a narrow galley kitchen floor, making it appear larger and creating a sense of flow.

This rendering of a kitchen backsplash for an Avente Tile client shows a double herringbone layout, using Mission Sand 2"x 8" tiles.

Herringbone FAQ's

What is herringbone tile?

A herringbone tile is a thin rectangular or subway tile laid at an angle to create the classic pattern. Most rectangular tiles can be laid as herringbone tiles. The pattern requires that the width of the tile must be equal to or less than half of the length. Most of our flooring and wall tiles look great in a herringbone pattern.

The Impact of Size and Color in Herringbone Cement Tile Design

The beauty of using cement tiles in a herringbone pattern lies in its versatility, which can be further enhanced by playing with tile size and color.

Tile Size

The dimensions of your cement tiles will significantly influence the overall look of the herringbone pattern.

• • Smaller Tiles: Using smaller rectangular cement tiles, such as a classic 2x4 or 3x6 inch subway tile, can create a more intricate and detailed herringbone pattern. This can be particularly effective in smaller spaces or as a detailed backsplash, where the complexity of the pattern can be appreciated up close. Smaller tiles can also make installing the intricate pattern slightly easier to manage. 

• • Larger Tiles: Opting for larger format rectangular cement tiles will result in a bolder, more contemporary take on the herringbone. The elongated lines and wider zig-zags can make a space feel more expansive and dramatic. This approach works well for larger floor areas or statement walls.

Tile Color and Finish

Cement tiles are celebrated for their rich color possibilities and characteristic matte finish, which can beautifully accentuate the herringbone pattern. The natural variation in color provides a rich, organic feel.

• Single Color. A monochromatic herringbone design, perhaps in a classic white, soft grey, or even a deep, moody hue, allows the pattern to be the star. The play of light and shadow across the angled tiles creates subtle visual interest.

The color variation in the Mission Sage 2"x8" gives this herringbone installation a rich, varied, organic feel that is sophisticated but simple.

A deep, moody blue, Mission 2"x 8" Navy, was the color of choice for this herringbone tile installation.

Mission Charcoal Gray 2"x8" Cement Tiles provide a grounded and neutral backsplash for this kitchen installation.

• High-Contrast Color. A classic high-contrast design of black and white never goes out of style and provides.

When alternated, high-contrast colors emphasize the zig-zag or chevron pattern, as they are on this outdoor entry walk. Black-and-white herringbone is a classic choice that works with many different architectural styles.

• Contrasting Grout. A grout color contrasting with the cement tile can further emphasize the herringbone pattern, making each tile pop and highlighting the geometric intricacy. Remember that cement tiles are porous, and grout can permanently stain them. Use a light gray grout or test a non-staining grout for a color of your choice before installing.

Grout can be used to contrast cement tiles, as shown here. However, be sure you have tested the grout to ensure it does not stain the tile. Mission Black 2"x 8" tiles were paired with light gray grout to achieve this look.

• Multiple Colors/Ombré. For a more daring and artistic statement, consider using cement tiles in various complementary colors or shades to create an ombré effect within the herringbone layout. This can add a unique, custom feel to your design, transitioning from light to dark or blending different tones for a truly eye-catching result. The inherent color variations in handmade cement tiles can also add to this dynamic effect.

This rendering for a customer's kitchen backsplash illustrates how different colors can be used in a random layout. The Mission colors used are 45% French Blue, 45% Gray, and 10% Blue Asia.

This rendering was an alternate design using a gradient or Ombré effect using French Blue, Gray, and Sky Blue. 

• Patterned Cement Tiles. While plain herringbone tile is often used, you can explore subtly patterned rectangular cement tiles within the herringbone layout for a more layered and eclectic look. Care should be taken to ensure the patterns complement rather than compete. We also offer 2"x8" Cement Tiles in a colorful patchwork or grayscale option for a bold and eclectic look.

Pattern, pattern, everywhere! For a bold and eclectic look, consider a herringbone pattern using our 2"x8" Colorful Patchwork tiles, as shown here. The colorful effect is fun and unique!

Bringing Herringbone Home with Cement Tiles

Whether aiming for understated elegance or a bold design statement, the herringbone pattern using cement tiles offers many possibilities. Its rich history lends a sense of enduring style, while the ability to customize with different sizes and colors allows for a truly personal touch. From the ancient Roman roads to the heart of your modern home, the herringbone pattern continues to be a testament to the power of strong design and timeless appeal. Consider it for your next renovation or design project and watch as this classic pattern weaves its magic into your space.

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A rendering created for a kitchen backsplash project using Mission Sage 2"x8" in a traditional herringbone pattern.