Herringbone vs chevron is a common design dilemma we hear in the tile world. With a similar shape and pattern, it can be tricky to determine which option is best for your space.
Choosing between herringbone and chevron can seem challenging at first, but with a clear understanding of the key differences, making an informed decision becomes much easier. We’ll explore the unique characteristics of both patterns, installation differences, and design ideas, helping you navigate the decision-making process with confidence.
Explore Mercury Mosaics’ collection of ceramic herringbone tile.
Herringbone Tile Pattern
The herringbone tile pattern is a classic, elegant design achieved by arranging rectangular tile, often subway tile, in a zigzag pattern. Unlike a chevron pattern where the ends of the tile are cut at an angle, a herringbone tile pattern maintains the rectangular shape. The ends of the tiles line up against one another at right angles, creating a pattern that resembles the bones of a herring fish (hence the name).
2"x6" Herringbone Tile - Blue Opal | 2"x6" Herringbone Tile - Deco White, White
Chevron Tile Pattern
The chevron tile pattern is a more modern, fresh design achieved by diagonally cutting rectangular tile at the ends to allow for an unbroken zigzag pattern. Instead of a full rectangle with four right angles, chevron tiles look like they are on a tilt with their ends coming to a sharp point. This precise shape allows chevron tiles to fit together in a continuous V, evoking more of a sense of flow and movement than herringbone. Alternatively, this pattern can also be achieved using diamond tiles, which create the same dynamic effect with a different approach to installation.
Medium Diamonds in Chevron Pattern - Black, Satin Black, Steel.
Interior Design and Build - Studio Grey Design
Photographer - Alyssa Lee Photography
Style Differences
When considering a chevron tile pattern vs herringbone tile pattern, it really comes down to your personal style and the feeling you want to create. Both options bring fresh energy and striking design, but herringbone provides more of a traditional, textured look while chevron gives off more of a sleek, contemporary feel. While the difference between herringbone and chevron might seem subtle, the impact they each have on a space is distinct.
Herringbone Style
With its interlocking zigzag design, the herringbone style offers a structured, textural look while maintaining a sense of movement. This timeless, elegant pattern effortlessly elevates any space, whether used for a shower, backsplash, or floor. But while herringbone is often considered the more classic choice, it can also make a bold statement - play with colors and layouts to create a fresh, modern twist that suits your style.
Chevron Style
Chevron tile delivers a sleek, modern look with a more dynamic sense of movement due to its unbroken V pattern. Chevron tile works great for showers, backsplashes, and floors, adding an eye-catching statement to any space. Its modern design, clean lines, and sense of symmetry are loved by those looking for a trendy and refined look.
Medium Diamonds in Chevron Pattern - Deco White
Interior Design by Surfside Home Co
Photography by Stetten Wilson
Explore Mercury Mosaics’ tile samples to experience the look, and feel the difference between our numerous tile shapes and patterns.
Installation Differences
Although herringbone and chevron tiles seem similar, the installation process differs due to the core shape of the individual tiles. With herringbone, the tiles are standard rectangles laid at right angles, requiring no additional cuts. Chevron requires a bit more precision with tiles cut at precise angles to form the V shape. With either option, careful planning and thorough installation are a must for achieving a flawless result.
Herringbone Installation
Herringbone tile installation is done by connecting the ends of your rectangular tile at right angles to one another. Although this process is simpler than chevron installation due to the standard shape, proper alignment is still critical to achieve the perfect herringbone pattern, especially if you are working with multiple colors. While it takes some patience, the herringbone tiling process is made even more feasible with our interlocking tile sheets.
2"x6" Herringbone - Satin Black, Navy, Steel, Custom Color.
Chevron Installation
Chevron tile installation is slightly more complex and time-consuming than herringbone. The signature V-shaped pattern relies on 45-degree angles, which may require extra cuts if working with standard rectangular tiles. Pre-cut chevron tiles can simplify the process, but careful alignment is still essential to maintain the continuous flow of the design. Whether tackling the project yourself or working with a professional, plan ahead for corners and transitions, and ensure grout lines remain consistent for a polished, seamless finish.
Tile Design Ideas
Both herringbone and chevron patterns have the power to transform any space, whether you are looking for subtle elegance or modern sophistication. Some common applications include showers, entryway or bathroom floors, kitchen backsplashes, and even accent walls. However, there are numerous creative tile design ideas for herringbone and chevron. For even more ideas, check out our tile inspiration gallery, which allows you to browse by room and filter by shape to help visualize the possibilities and make designing even easier.
Herringbone Tile Ideas
Herringbone tile adds depth and sophistication, whether as a bold statement or a subtle accent. Handmade ceramic tiles enhance the texture of herringbone, creating even more visual interest. There are endless possibilities for herringbone tile designs, making the unique shape perfect for any project. Try a classic white or grey backsplash, an accent above the stove, or a herringbone tile floor for a sense of movement and elegance in entryways or bathrooms. Even in small doses like a fireplace surround or bathroom backsplash, herringbone tile makes a big impact by adding depth and style.
Chevron Tile Ideas
The use cases for chevron mirror herringbone, but its clean and continuous lines naturally create a more contemporary feel. Floors, backsplashes, and wall accents alike will benefit from the boost of sleek, modern energy that chevron offers. Try dark, moody tones for drama, bright neutrals for an open and airy feel, or playful colors for a fresh, charming touch. Whether subtle or bold, chevron always delivers a high-end, polished look.
From floor to ceiling, find inspiration from Mercury Mosaics gallery of handmade tiles to brighten any space.
Choosing Chevron vs Herringbone Pattern
Both chevron and herringbone elevate a space with their stunning, geometric designs, but their style and structure set them apart. Herringbone tile has a timeless, elegant feel with its classic interlocking pattern, while chevron offers a sleek, modern look with its precise, continuous lines. When debating herringbone vs chevron, consider the atmosphere you want to create. Herringbone suits a traditional, refined aesthetic, while chevron makes a bold, high-end statement. Whatever you choose, both patterns are sure to bring depth, movement, and character to any space.
Mercury Mosaics Herringbone Tile
At Mercury Mosaics, handcrafted ceramic tile is our passion and our purpose. We believe that tile made by hand offers a level of quality and beauty that mass-produced options simply can’t match. Each piece is hand-cut, glazed, and kiln-fired in our Minneapolis factory, resulting in a rich texture and character that sets it apart.
Browse our tile lookbook to see herringbone and other tile designs in real homes and businesses across the country. With a wide range of colors, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your style.
Ready to get started on your next tile project? Reach out today for a free design consultation either by phone or in person - we can’t wait to help transform your space!
