Straight Herringbone Pattern: The Kitchen Upgrade You Never Knew You Needed

Straight herringbone pattern with a kitchen backsplash in the traditional pattern
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Straight Herringbone Pattern: The Kitchen Upgrade You Never Knew You Needed

Straight herringbone pattern with a kitchen backsplash in the traditional pattern
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This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.

If you’re a fan of modern design and love to keep up with the latest trends, then you’ve probably heard about the herringbone pattern. From flooring to backsplashes, this classic zigzag pattern has taken the kitchen design world by storm and it’s not hard to see why. 

If you’re looking to add a creative spark to your kitchen the straight herringbone pattern might be for you. Keep reading to find out how great it can be and why it may be the perfect addition to your kitchen that you never knew you needed.

What is the Herringbone Pattern?

So, what exactly is the herringbone pattern? Well, the herringbone pattern is a classic design that looks like a zigzag or a V-shape pattern. It can be created in a variety of ways, but the most common way is by laying rectangular subway tiles or planks at a 45-degree angle to create a series of interlocking V-shapes. This creates a unique, diagonal pattern that adds a sense of movement and interest.
Herringbone pattern example on a kitchen backsplash tile

Using The Straight Herringbone Pattern In a kitchen

The herringbone pattern can be used in your kitchen in lots of fun ways! You could use it on your flooring, backsplash, walls, and even on countertops to make them look more interesting. It’s perfect for adding a touch of style to any kitchen space!

Backsplash

Traditional herringbone style pattern on backsplash tile in a modern kitchen
The herringbone pattern is a popular choice for a kitchen backsplash in modern kitchen design. A herringbone backsplash can be tailored to fit almost any kitchen design style, from traditional to contemporary and it can be made from a variety of different subway tile materials like ceramic, porcelain, or even wood. It also has the ability to be customized to fit a lot of different color schemes.

One of the more popular uses of the herringbone pattern is using the “straight herringbone pattern”.
Straight herringbone tile image for use on a kitchen backsplash

Because it is laid out at a 90 degree angle instead of a 45 degree angle, the straight herringbone pattern has the ability to make a bold statement, or it can be used more subtly with smaller subway tiles and muted colors, which is something that we absolutely love.

We have seen this pattern used to span the entirety of a backsplash wall and we’ve also seen it used in smaller sections to create a focal point in the kitchen. Both ways can look great depending on your style and situation.

Renovated kitchen with herringbone tiles and a modern faucet

One of the things that make this pattern style so versatile is that just like many traditional tiling options there are so many different materials to choose from.

If you like traditional ceramic subway tiles then you’ll have plenty of options, if you’re a porcelain or marble person then there are options for you as well.

Needless to say, each material has its own unique characteristics that can enhance the overall look and feel of your kitchen, and its versatility its something that should be considered when thinking about using this pattern in your own kitchen.

Scroll down to the “Difference between the Herringbone Pattern & Chevron Pattern” section to see other variations of the straight herringbone pattern that can also be used to create interesting looks in your kitchen.

Kitchen Walls

Kitchen walls with backsplash tile spanning the whole wall

In addition to being used as a backsplash, herringbone tiling can also be used on kitchen walls. This is a great way to break up boring plain walls and make them look interesting.

That’s perfect if you want to draw attention to a specific area or feature décor pieces.

The same materials that can be used for backsplashes can also be used on walls and offer the same visual impact.

Also It can also be used on either an entire wall or just a section of a wall.

Kitchen Floors

Area of a kitchen floor using the herringbone pattern with tile material

Using herringbone patterns on the floor is another way to add visual interest to your kitchen. It adds texture and can break up the look of boring floor space by adding a pop of color and an interesting pattern.

If you’re hesitant about going full-on herringbone with your flooring because you feel that it would be a bit too much, you can always make it a focal point of the room by choosing a smaller specific area to feature the pattern.

There are plenty of flooring options available too, from classic wood to modern plank-style tiles, ceramic and more. With so many materials to choose from, you should definitely be able to find the perfect match for your kitchen style.

Why Use the Straight Herringbone Pattern In My Kitchen?

The straight herringbone pattern can look amazing in a kitchen, giving it a modern yet timeless look, but whether or not it’s good for you and your kitchen can be a tricky question to answer if you’re trying to envision it in your own home.

There are 3 great reasons why this pattern should be considered for your kitchen – subtlety, easier installation, and extra pop.

Subtlety

The straight herringbone pattern is an excellent way to add some creative flair to your kitchen without going over the top. The pattern’s subtlety is the key to making it “just enough” for your kitchen to stand out without overwhelming the space.
Using a straight herringbone tile backsplash or on your kitchen floor can also be a great way to break away from a traditional pattern, like the vertical stack or offset patterns that are commonly seen on a kitchen backsplash. This pattern can add texture and depth to a space while still keeping it simple and elegant.

Easier Installation

The straight herringbone pattern is one of the simpler layouts of the herringbone family and is easier to layout than other more complex patterns.

The straight herringbone pattern consists of only straight 90 degree edges, making it a great option for DIY warriors. However, it’s important to note that while the straight herringbone pattern is considered “easier,” it’s not necessarily easy.

Keep in Mind:

The herringbone tile pattern is unique and looks great when done correctly but can be challenging to achieve the desired look. As the saying goes, “anything worth having doesn’t come easy,” and that applies to all herringbone tile patterns.

So, if you’re planning to lay subway tile in the herringbone pattern yourself, just take your time, pay attention to detail and have patience, patience, patience.

Extra Pop

It can really add an extra pop and be a point of interest! You can use it on the floor or as a backsplash, and even play around with different colors or tile/plank sizes to really draw attention to an area. The pattern creates a sense of movement and depth, and its unique shape makes it a showstopper.

Difference Between the Herringbone & Chevron Patterns

Chevron Pattern vs the herringbone pattern comparison chart

If you’ve been keeping up with interior kitchen design trends, you might have noticed that many of the most sought-after tile designs today can be classified into two main categories: the chevron and herringbone patterns. Despite their visual similarities, these two patterns have unique differences that are important to understand if you’re looking to incorporate them into your kitchen decor.

So, what’s the difference between the two patterns? Let’s take a little closer look at each pattern to see how they differ.

Herringbone

A classic subway tile design that has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. This pattern is created by using equal-size tile rectangles, arranged in a staggered zig-zag design at either a 45 or 90 degree rotation.
Neutral color herringbone tile with a mounted faucet
Unlike the chevron pattern, which uses angled subway tiles to create a continuous “V” shape, the herringbone tile pattern uses rectangular subway tiles that are laid out in a staggered fashion. This results in a broken or staggered pattern that gives the design a unique and eye-catching look.

Herringbone Backsplash

Kitchen backsplash tiles on a modern kitchen

Herringbone Backsplash

Gold faucet with a backsplash design in the herringbone style layout on a wall

Herringbone Floor

Kitchen floor with a design pattern that is unique

Herringbone Floor

Some Advantages For Your Kitchen:

• You can lay a herringbone tile pattern floor or backsplash using standard rectangular subway tiles that can be easily found at any hardware or home improvement store. Unlike other patterns, herringbone doesn’t require specialized subway tiles or cutting to specific measurements.

• The herringbone pattern is a well-established way to lay floor and subway tiles that is both easier to install compared to other design patterns, and it allows for more customization options to express your creativity.

• You can vary the width and height of the rectangles, adjust the angle of the pattern, or even use contrasting colors to create a custom look that perfectly fits your design style. Plus, because it’s a common pattern, more experienced tile layers may consider it easier to install than more complex patterns, which could save you time and money in labor costs.

Chevron Pattern

The chevron pattern is another popular subway tile design that has been making waves in modern kitchens. This pattern uses two identical rectangular subway tile blocks that meet, making a symmetrical zigzag pattern.
Chevron style pattern quick fact example
Just like the herringbone tile pattern, the chevron pattern is often used in kitchen backsplash designs and hardwood flooring. However, to create the chevron pattern, a diagonal cut is made at the edge of each rectangle so that each tile meets in a “V” shape instead of being staggered. This creates a continuous and uninterrupted v pattern that adds a sleek and stylish touch to any room.

Chevron Backsplash

Chevron pattern tile layout used on a wall backslpash in a modern kitchen

Chevron Backsplash

Chevron Floor

Chevron pattern floor planks that a homeowner can install

Some Advantages For Your Kitchen:

• The chevron tile pattern has the ability to highlight a focal point of a room. By using contrasting colors or textures, you can draw the eye to a particular area or feature, such as an accent wall, kitchen island, or stove backsplash.

• You can customize the chevron pattern by using multiple subway tile colors. For example, you could use a light color for the base and a darker shade for the tip of the “V”, or alternate between two or more colors for a more eclectic look. This allows you to create a unique design that reflects your taste and personality.

• Simply put, the chevron pattern looks cool. Its sleek and modern design makes it a popular choice for contemporary kitchens. By using the chevron pattern as your kitchen backsplash or flooring, you can instantly upgrade the look and feel of your space and impress your guests.

Conclusion

The straight herringbone pattern is a versatile flooring or subway tile design that can add a dose of creativity to your kitchen and has the ability to be customized with different subway tile sizes and colors.

The herringbone tile pattern allows you to showcase your kitchen backsplash, highlight a beautiful piece of wall art, or add flair to your kitchen floor.

A herringbone tile backsplash pattern is a great choice to give your kitchen an extra spark. So when planning your next kitchen project tiling project, consider incorporating this stunning pattern for a unique touch.

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