Discover Herringbone Tiles for Bathrooms by Bowman Bathrooms
Herringbone tiles have become a design staple in modern British bathrooms, offering a visually engaging alternative to more traditional tile layouts. With their distinctive zigzag look, herringbone tiles create texture, movement and a refined finish that works across a wide variety of bathroom styles. At Bowman Bathrooms, we offer a carefully selected range of tiles suitable for herringbone installation, helping you achieve a striking design that’s both practical and enduring.
What Are Herringbone Tiles?
Herringbone tiles refer not to a particular type of tile, but to the unique pattern in which tiles are laid. The herringbone layout is created by placing rectangular tiles at a 45-degree angle in a staggered zigzag pattern. The result is a timeless design that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, even to the most modest bathroom.
Although classic herringbone wall tiles and herringbone floor tiles are often associated with wood or parquet flooring, this pattern also translates beautifully to ceramic, porcelain, and stone bathroom tiles. It’s now widely used in both traditional and contemporary bathrooms throughout the UK!
Popular Uses of Herringbone Tiles in Bathrooms
Feature Walls and Vanity Backsplashes
Herringbone tiles are ideal for creating a feature wall in a bathroom, whether behind the sink, the bath, or along an entire length of wall. The dynamic lines of the herringbone pattern naturally draw the eye, making it a compelling focal point. Many clients opt for gloss herringbone tiles in soft colours for a clean, reflective surface in vanity areas.
Shower Walls and Enclosures
One of the most sought-after uses for herringbone tiles is in walk-in showers and shower enclosures. Using herringbone tiles for the shower back wall creates a sense of luxury and breaks up the space with elegant geometry. If you’re looking for herringbone shower tile ideas, this is one of the most impactful approaches you can take.
Bathroom Flooring
Although more intricate to install, laying floor tiles in a herringbone pattern really adds a sense of craftsmanship and character to a bathroom. Whether it’s natural stone or wood-effect porcelain, the pattern offers subtle visual interest that works particularly well in long, narrow spaces.
Half-Wall Tiling
A popular design trend is to tile halfway up the bathroom wall in a herringbone pattern, topped with a painted wall or decorative trim. This approach combines practicality with visual detail, protecting lower wall areas while maintaining a light and airy aesthetic.
Herringbone Tile Trends in 2025
The classic herringbone layout continues to evolve, with new tile shapes, finishes and colours providing homeowners with fresh ways to personalise their bathrooms. At Bowman Bathrooms, we stay on top of these developments to bring you on-trend ideas and high-quality products.
Slimline Tiles
Narrow, plank-style tiles are being used more frequently to create tight herringbone patterns, which give a refined and elongated effect. These are particularly effective in smaller bathrooms where the pattern adds length or height, depending on orientation.
Bold Colours and Contrasting Grout
Coloured herringbone tiles such as deep blue, emerald green or rust tones are growing in popularity. When paired with a contrasting grout, such as white or dark grey, the zigzag design is accentuated even more, adding drama to any space.
Textured and Matt Finishes
For those on the lookout for a more natural or organic feel, textured and matt finish herringbone tiles are proving popular. These tiles often resemble natural materials like stone or wood and help to soften the formality of the pattern while maintaining visual interest.
Mixed Material Look
In some designs, herringbone patterns are being created using mixed finishes – such as gloss and matt – or alternating colour tones within the same palette. This creates a layered effect that adds sophistication without being overly bold.
Things to Consider When Choosing Herringbone Tiles
The beauty of the herringbone pattern lies in its precision and symmetry, but it does require careful planning. Before choosing your tiles, it’s important to consider the following:
Tile Shape and Size
Rectangular tiles are the basis of any herringbone layout. Standard metro tiles (200 x 100 mm) are often used, but slimmer or longer planks (such as 300 x 75 mm) can make the pattern appear more refined. The choice of tile size will greatly influence how dramatic or subtle the effect appears.
Layout Orientation
The direction in which the herringbone pattern is laid can also change the perception of the space. A vertical herringbone layout can make ceilings appear higher, while a horizontal layout elongates the wall. Diagonal orientations add energy and a modern twist.
Grout and Edging
Precision is crucial in a herringbone layout. Tile spacing and grout lines need to be consistent to maintain the clean angles that define the pattern. Choosing the right grout colour will affect the overall look.
Find Your Ideal Herringbone Tiles with Bowman Bathrooms
At Bowman Bathrooms, we specialise in delivering beautiful, functional bathrooms with lasting appeal. Our knowledge of bathroom-specific tile design and installation ensures we can help you get the most out of your chosen herringbone tiles!
Carefully Curated Tile Selection
We offer a wide selection of tiles suitable for herringbone layouts, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone and wood-effect finishes. Our range includes both classic and modern colours, sizes and finishes that complement a variety of bathroom styles.
Precision Installation Services
Our experienced installation team has the skill to lay herringbone tiles with precision and care. We understand that this pattern demands accuracy, and we take the time to ensure clean lines, sharp angles, and lasting durability in every project.
Tailored Advice and Design Support
From the initial consultation to design planning, we guide you through every step of your bathroom renovation. Whether you’re creating a full feature wall or a subtle herringbone floor, our team is on hand to help you choose the right materials and layout for your space.
Visit Us Today
Herringbone tiles offer a perfect balance of timeless charm and modern edge. Their ability to add pattern, texture and movement to bathroom spaces makes them a popular choice for homeowners looking for something a little different. Whether you’re drawn to sleek, contemporary finishes or warm, classic tones, Bowman Bathrooms can help you achieve a look that’s tailored to your taste and built to last.
Visit our showroom or get in touch with our expert team to explore our range of herringbone bathroom tiles and begin your journey to a bathroom that combines elegance with enduring quality.
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