Herringbone Backsplash vs Subway Tile

That Timeless Look or a Modern Twist? Decoding Your Backsplash Style

The tile backsplash is so much more than a protective surface; it’s a core part of your home's design. It’s a place where you can express your style, whether that means opting for a look that is bold or something more understated. The debate between a herringbone backsplash vs subway tile is one we see all the time, and for good reason. Both are fantastic, but they create a very different look and feel.

One, the herringbone pattern, is all about symmetry and movement, giving you an opportunity to have a design that really gets attention. The other, the classic subway tile, has long been a go to for its quiet confidence and ability to pair with almost any style. So, which kind of approach is right for your project? Let's get into the details that will help you decide.

The Surprising Truth: It Starts With the Same Tile

Here’s something that might surprise you: a herringbone tile and a subway tile are often the exact same tile. The magic isn't in the tile itself, but in the layout. Both styles use rectangular tiles.

Subway Tile

This refers to the classic straight layout. The rectangular tiles are laid horizontally, typically in an offset pattern, like you’d see in brickwork. This pattern is prized for its clean lines and orderly grid, a look that has helped shape kitchen and bathroom design for over a century.

Herringbone Pattern

This is the dynamic zigzag layout. To get this look, the rectangular tiles are laid at an angle (usually 45 degrees). The end of one tile meets the center of the tile next to it, creating a repeating "V" shape. This herringbone design creates immediate visual interest.

So, this isn't just a question of which tile to buy; it's a question of what pattern you want to create on your wall.

The Case for Clean Lines: The Classic Subway Tile

If you prefer the clean look of a traditional space, you can’t go wrong with a subway tile backsplash. Its classic appeal is its greatest strength. A subway layout doesn't have to be boring; it can be the perfect choice for homeowners who want to put more focus on other parts of the room, like stunning marble countertops or custom cabinets.

A subway tile’s straight layout can also make a smaller space feel larger and more open, giving it an airy feel. Because the pattern itself is simple, you can easily get creative in other ways. You can go for a high-contrast look that pairs well with modern hardware by using a dark grout color with a light tile. This will accentuate the pattern. Or, if you want a more seamless surface, a matching grout color lets the tile material itself become the star.

This classic look becomes a sophisticated neutral when you use a beautiful material. A subway tile backsplash in a natural stone like marble or limestone, or a high-gloss ceramic, adds timeless charm and texture without feeling overwhelming.

The Eye-Catching Option: The Herringbone Backsplash

If you do want to add a bit of edge to the space, a herringbone backsplash is an excellent way for you to do just that. This pattern is a modern take that can instantly turn your wall into the room's main attraction. It’s definitely a bold move, but one that pays off in character.

The herringbone layout creates movement and depth in a way a straight layout doesn't. The zigzag pattern draws the eye and makes the entire surface feel more energetic. This is why it's a great way to add interest without using a bright color.

This look works best when you want the backsplash to be a central part of the design, like an accent wall behind a stove that extends all the way to the ceiling, or for entire shower surrounds. Even though it's a strong pattern, it can also feel very sophisticated. A herringbone style in a material with natural color variations, like travertine or marble, beautifully highlights the stone's texture and adds a luxurious element to the room.

What to Think About When You Decide

Your decision will likely come down to a few key details. You should take into consideration the tile, the grout, and the room as a whole.

Does Tile Size Matter?

Yes, it makes a big impact on the overall feel. For a herringbone layout, longer, more narrow rectangular tiles will create a more dramatic, pronounced "V" shape. Smaller tiles will give you a tighter, more intricate pattern. With a subway tile layout, larger format tiles will have fewer grout lines and lend updated style, while a smaller tile size feels more traditional.

The Power of Grout Color

Grout lines can completely change the way the pattern is perceived.

For Subway Tile: As we mentioned, a contrasting grout puts focus on the grid and the pattern. A grout that matches the tile can blend into the background, letting the material's finish (like the gloss of a ceramic or the veining of marble) show through.

For Herringbone Tile: Grout is even more critical here. A contrasting grout will make the zigzag layout pop, which is a look that is bold and graphic. If you happen to like the pattern but want it to feel softer, use a grout color that is similar to the tile. You still get that beautiful texture, but it won't be the first thing your eye settles on.

Your Cabinets, Countertops, and Overall Space

Consider how the backsplash pattern will interact with everything else. Do you have ornate cabinets and countertops with a lot of movement? A classic subway tile might be the perfect choice to balance the impactful design. Are your kitchen or bathroom cabinets simpler, with solid-colored countertops? A herringbone backsplash can be a much needed 'wow' moment, adding a fun, playful pattern to an otherwise basic space.

The Choice of Material

The material you select will define the style. A polished glass tile will look very different from a honed limestone. Porcelain tiles, which can offer realistic textures, are a carefree choice for busy kitchens. Natural stone, like marble, travertine, or quartzite, adds an organic, one-of-a-kind quality to any pattern. These are all beautiful choices that can find a material that works for your home.

Our Vision: Finding the Pattern That Speaks to You

So, back to the big question: herringbone backsplash vs subway tile. Which one is right for you?

We believe the perfect choice is the one that feels right for your home and your style. A subway tile backsplash creates a timeless look, whether your style is contemporary or traditional. It’s a backdrop that lets the rest of your space shine and can grow with your style over time. A herringbone backsplash is your chance to make a statement. It serves as a striking focal point, creates contrast, and gives your room a custom, designer feel.

Whatever kind of look that you're going for, we are here to help you make it a reality. We are passionate about tile and its many colors and forms. At Artistic Tile, we're proud to offer an incredible selection of materials, from natural stone slabs and mosaics to porcelain and ceramic tiles, that can be laid in either of these beautiful patterns. We invite you to explore our collections and find the tile that will inspire you.