What is a Herringbone Tile Layout?

A herringbone layout is a pattern where rectangular tiles are laid at 45-degree angles to each other, alternating direction to create a V-shaped zigzag pattern. The name comes from the resemblance to the bones of a herring fish.

It's one of the most popular feature tile layouts we see in Australian bathrooms right now. It adds movement and visual interest to a surface without requiring a decorative tile, just a standard rectangular tile laid in a different pattern. We see it used most often on shower walls, bathroom feature walls, and kitchen splashbacks.

The tradeoff is that herringbone requires more cuts than a standard brick or stacked layout, which means more wastage and more time for your tiler. We'd suggest adding at least 15 percent wastage when ordering tiles for a herringbone layout.

See rectangular tile options suited to herringbone at the Buildmat Selection Centre.