How straight, offset, herringbone, diagonal and stacked layouts look, what they ask of the installer and how to choose one.
A layout is the way tile is arranged on a surface. A straight lay lines tiles up in a grid. An offset or running bond shifts each row, a diagonal turns the grid on a slant, a stacked lay lines tiles up vertically and a herringbone or chevron arranges rectangles in a zigzag. Each pattern has a different feel: calm, classic, dynamic or dramatic. Each also asks for different amounts of cutting, planning and time.
Choosing a pattern means thinking about the room, the tile shape and the budget. Long planks look best with a modest offset of about a third, while square tile suits a straight or diagonal lay. Homeowners in Nashville love herringbone for its richness, and we plan it carefully because every cut shows. We dry-lay a section, set lines from the most visible spot and balance cuts at the walls so the pattern looks intentional.
A clean grid with minimal cuts.
Rows shifted for a classic brick look.
A grid turned to widen a room visually.
Vertical lines for a modern look.
A zigzag with a rich, custom feel.
A preview before mortar goes down.
Tub SurroundsTub surround tile that covers the wall around a bathtub with waterproofed backing, clean corner details and a…Explore 
Niches and BenchesShower niche and bench installation with waterproofed framing, sloped shelves and tile layouts that line up so storage…Explore 
Kitchen Floor TileKitchen floor tile installation that stands up to dropped pans, spills and heavy foot traffic while matching cabinets…Explore 
Wood-Look TileWood-look plank tile floors that give you the warmth of hardwood with the water resistance and durability of…Explore 
Pattern FloorsHerringbone and pattern floors in tile, including chevron, basket weave, offset and mixed-size layouts that add a custom…Explore 
Entry TileEntryway and foyer tile that makes a strong first impression and handles mud, water and heavy traffic, with…Explore 
Whole-House TileWhole-house tile flooring that carries one tile through kitchens, halls and living areas for a seamless look, planned…Explore 
Kitchen BacksplashesKitchen backsplash installation in subway, handmade-look, glass, stone and patterned tile, planned around outlets, windows and cabinets for…Explore Plan your layout, pick a size or ballpark a budget.
Tile Layout StudioSet your room, pick a tile size and a pattern such as straight, offset, diagonal or herringbone and see a top-down plan with full and cut tiles, then send the plan to us.Try it 
Tile Size and Format PickerPick the space and the conditions to see which tile format, grout joint and finish usually fit, with notes on flatness and grip.Try it 
Tile Project Budget PlannerPick a shower, floor, backsplash, patio or repair project, set the area and add allowances like leveling, waterproofing and heated floors to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it A straight lay has the fewest cuts. Diagonal and herringbone need more cutting and time.
Patterns need more than a straight lay. We calculate it for your layout.
Rectangular tiles with a ratio of about two to one or more work well.
Comparison guidePorcelain, Ceramic and StoneHow the three main tile families differ in density, water absorption, wear, care and the looks they offer.Learn more 
Comparison guideShower Waterproofing ComparedHow sheet membranes, liquid membranes and traditional liners differ in installation, details and what each asks of the…Learn more 
Comparison guideGrout Types ComparedHow cement-based, epoxy and urethane grouts differ in stain resistance, flexibility, color, working time and cost of care.Learn more 
Comparison guideTile Size and Grout LinesHow mosaics, standard tile and large-format tile change the look, the grout lines, the installation and the cleaning.Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will measure, check the surfaces and give you a clear written estimate.
