Named after the intricate bone structure of a herring fish, Herringbone is a classic pattern that has reached all facets of design. Herringbone patterns are often used in interior design, and can be found in almost any design element–A rug, your favorite throw pillow, wood flooring, curtains, and our favorite–tile.
Whether you're working on a bathroom floor or a kitchen backsplash, herringbone tile adds timeless character to any design. Below are 7 of our favorite ways to get creative with herringbone tile in the kitchen.
1.) Classic White Herringbone Subway Tile Backsplash
If you're a sucker for classics, Herringbone in a simple white tile color and a crisp white grout line is your best bet. Although this look is commonly seen in traditional kitchens, it works just as well in contemporary and modern designs. Choose a classic 2 x 4 or 3 x 6 size for a traditional look. Or try a 2 x 8 size for a herringbone pattern that shows off its wild side.
Learn the 6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Tile Backsplash
Tile Shown: 2x8 White Wash // Design: Delaware River Cabinet Co. // Image: Craig Donaldson
2.) Neutral Herringbone Kitchen Backsplash
For a more contemporary look go for a slightly cooler neutral, such as a light gray. This color tone works well with any design style, however, we think it looks best in contemporary kitchens. The kitchen below chooses a misty gray hue in a sleek 2 x 6 size.
Paired with fresh white cabinets, the space feels clean and contemporary with just the right amount of texture, dimension, and personality.
Tile Shown: French Linen 2x8 // Design & Image: Zigzag Studio Design
3.) Dark and Graphic Herringbone Backsplash
Despite its traditional roots, a herringbone tiles kitchen can go modern in a heartbeat. Simply add a dark moody color such as a charcoal gray and contrast it with a lighter grout line. The color will make the layout feel modern while the grout line emphasizes the overall herringbone pattern, adding graphic appeal to your space.
Tile Shown: 2x8 Tempest // Design: Aimee Lagos // Image: Paul Kirkeby Photography
4.) Colorful Herringbone Backsplash
Herringbone and color were meant for each other. Well, we think so at least! Although the pattern is often seen in neutrals, it works just as well as a vibrant pop of color in your kitchen.
Try a refreshing splash of blue the way the kitchen below has done with a herringbone accent bordered by a classic offset pattern. The rest of the kitchen remains neutral, allowing the tile color and details to become the focal point of the space.
Tile Shown: 3x6 Aegean Sea
5.) Vertical Herringbone Tile Layout
Tired of the traditional herringbone layout? Flip it! By laying your herringbone tile backsplash in a vertical arrangement you create an effortless contemporary aesthetic.
Try the layout in a 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 size to elongate the pattern, making it feel even more contemporary. A vertical herringbone is the easiest way to add a fresh design element to your kitchen that doesn't feel overdone.
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Tile shown: 2x6 White Wash; Image: Marty Crosley
6.) Large Format Herringbone Tile Backsplash
A large tile size can have a major impact on a herringbone pattern, and the great thing is you won't need as much tile to cover your backsplash! For a modern take on the traditional pattern, try a herringbone backsplash in our Essentials 3x9.
The neutral color palette and the large format size make Essentials a worthy contender for your next herringbone tile project.
Tile Shown: 3x9 Pearl // Design: Fireclay Tile Design Assistance // Image: Hira Siddiqui
7.) Brick Herringbone Backsplash
A herringbone brick backsplash adds a touch of timeless charm and rustic elegance to any kitchen and works seamlessly with a variety of design styles, from farmhouse and industrial to contemporary and eclectic.
You can see the beautiful details of the brick's surface coming through the white glaze in this kitchen installation.
Tile Shown: White Mountains Brick // Design: Anita Yokota // Image: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
Love this look? Order free samples now. Need some help? Simply call, chat, or fill out our Design Assistance Form and one of our talented Design Consultants will get back to you shortly.
