Tile Layout – What type of designs are there?
Undoubtedly, if you start doing some research on tile, you’ll see there is an unlimited number of choices on the type of tile you choose. They can be square, rectangular, polygons, circular, the list goes on. Even more daunting is the number of finishes for the tile you can choose from like, porcelain with designs, gloss finishes, natural stones, glass-based, etc. finally once you get overwhelmed, then you must choose the layout of the tile itself!
Here, we will be addressing the tile layout as it is commonly neglected. Most owners focus on the shape, material, and style and then have so wiped us from decision fatigue, they forget about the layout. But the layout helps compound all of your hard work picking out the tile and grout!
Why Does Tile Layout Matter?
A good tile layout can help make a plane tile look spectacular or it can make a spectacular tile look “O.K.” the devil is in the details and the right layout matters. There have been spectacular designs with traditional subway tile that transform the appearance and then there is just “subway tile.”
Moreover, if an intricate tile style/type is chosen, the wrong layout can create too much complexity and be overwhelming. A good example would be a printed tile with a painted design. Doing more than just a square layout might cause too much “business” in the pattern and create an eyesore.
Why put in hours of labor and research to have just a “good” looking tile. A little help with your designer, contractor, or leg work on the internet can go a long way.
Tile layout types
There are countless types of tyle layouts due to the many shapes there are out there! However, below is a brief list of the different types of tile layouts. Many of these designs can be manipulated or rotated to create a truly unique and eye-catching design. Also, for true mastery and showpiece, combining these different layouts in a holistic design will create that level appearance.
Linear/Straight
½ Lap (Subway)
1/3 Lap
Herringbone
Chevron
Basket Weave
Next Steps to Nailing Down Your Design
Great tile layouts call attention to different aspects of the space. For example, a kitchen backsplash might have a half-lap tile layout while the backsplash above the range might be chevron. This calls attention to a new area without overwhelming the whole kitchen. Another example might be choosing a darker color like in the photo below where your dining room table will sit.
Mixing simpler layouts with smaller complex layouts or changes is a great option to bring alive the great architecture and home in on the finer details.
Changes in tile layout, type, and color can also be used to channel the flow of the room. Rectangular patterns should be directed in the way in which the room should flow. A hallway should have a tile with long planks parallel with the hallway. To express height, run the tile vertically instead of horizontally on a wall. Also, choosing a different color tile will call out the direction of the room. Your eyes will follow such patterns leading you to think the room is longer, wider, or point you in the direction of importance.
Landing the right design will make your next bathroom, kitchen, or another tile job into an iconic showpiece. You’ll want to show it off to everyone or, maybe hide the beauty for you and your family! In either case, let’s finish the design work by creating a truly unique tile layout that will put the icing on the cake you have worked so hard to create.
If you are looking for a reliable contractor in the greater New York Area, then you need to reach out to us today!
031