Best Herringbone Tiles for Australian Homes: Materials, Colours, and Layout Trends

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Herringbone tiles have become one of Australia’s most beloved design trends, and it’s easy to see why. They offer an effortless blend of elegance, movement, and timeless style that elevates any room—from contemporary city apartments to classic coastal homes. In 2025, herringbone isn’t just a trend; it’s a long-term design choice that adds personality and architectural depth to your home.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know: what herringbone tiles are, why they’re a top choice for Australian homeowners, the best materials and colours, trending layouts, design tips for every room, and a full list of pros and cons to help you make the right decision.

What Are Herringbone Tiles?

Herringbone tiles are rectangular tiles laid in a repeating V-shaped pattern that resembles the skeleton of a herring fish. This arrangement creates a sense of movement and visual flow that immediately enhances any surface—whether it’s a splashback, floor, feature wall, or shower area.

Because of its versatile geometric angles, the herringbone pattern suits a wide range of interior styles:

Modern minimalist
Hamptons-inspired homes
Scandinavian interiors
Urban industrial designs
Coastal and beach-themed spaces

The pattern is visually interesting without feeling overwhelming, making it a well-balanced choice for both small and large rooms.

Why Herringbone Tiles Are Trending in Australia in 2025

Australian homeowners are embracing herringbone tiles more than ever in 2025 due to several key design and lifestyle trends.

1. Perfect for Compact Homes and Open Living Spaces

With more Australians moving into townhouses, apartments, and compact homes, herringbone tiles help create the illusion of space. The directional layout subtly guides the eye, making rooms appear larger and more open.

2. Works Across Interior Styles

Whether you’re updating a modern apartment in Sydney or a coastal retreat in Queensland, herringbone blends seamlessly into different décor themes. It can look classic with marble or modern with matte porcelain.

3. Highly Customisable

From tile size to grout colour, material to layout angle, herringbone offers endless customisation. Homeowners love the freedom to tailor the pattern to suit their personal aesthetic.

4. Strong Resale Appeal

Real estate agents consistently report that buyers perceive herringbone features as premium finishes. The pattern adds a layer of craftsmanship that boosts property value.

5. Timeless Beauty

Unlike some trends that quickly feel dated, herringbone remains stylish decade after decade. The pattern has historical roots yet feels modern in contemporary architecture.

Design Ideas for Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Living Rooms

Kitchens

Herringbone tiles can instantly turn an ordinary kitchen into a showpiece. Popular applications include:

Splashbacks: A classic white or marble-look herringbone splashback adds movement without overpowering the space.
Pantry walls: Create a boutique, high-end pantry aesthetic.
Kitchen island front panels: Use timber-look herringbone tiles for added texture.

For modern Australian kitchens, matte porcelain tiles in warm neutrals are trending because they pair beautifully with timber cabinetry and stone benches.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms benefit hugely from the visual flow of herringbone. Whether you’re renovating a compact ensuite or a spacious main bathroom, herringbone can expand the room’s feel.

Consider incorporating it into:

Shower walls
Floor-to-ceiling feature walls
Bathroom floors
Vanity splashbacks

Soft greys, classic whites, and light timber-look tiles are popular for bathrooms, especially when paired with brushed nickel or matte black tapware.

Living Rooms

Herringbone floors are trending strongly in Australian living rooms, especially in homes aiming for a warm, Scandinavian or European-inspired aesthetic.

Popular ideas include:

Timber-look porcelain herringbone flooring
Mid-tone oak herringbone for a cosy feel
Darker, walnut-toned tiles for a moody, premium look
Herringbone feature walls behind fireplaces

Because porcelain is water- and scratch-resistant, it offers the beauty of timber without the maintenance.

Popular Patterns, Materials, and Colours for 2025

Herringbone Patterns

1. Classic 90-Degree Herringbone

The most traditional pattern; ideal for both walls and floors.

2. 45-Degree Herringbone

Adds modern diagonal movement; great for splashbacks or feature walls.

3. Double Herringbone

Uses two tiles per V-shape, creating a chunkier, bolder effect.

4. Mini Herringbone Mosaic

A fine-textured look perfect for bathrooms and smaller areas.

Best Materials for Australian Homes

Porcelain Tiles

The top choice for Australian homeowners due to durability, water resistance, and suitability for indoor/outdoor transitions. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic living areas.

Ceramic Tiles

Affordable, lightweight, and available in endless colours. Best suited for walls and splashbacks.

Timber-Look Tiles

Give the warmth of wood with the durability of porcelain. Ideal for living rooms, hallways, and open-plan spaces.

Natural Stone (Marble, Travertine, Limestone)

Luxurious and unique, natural stone herringbone tiles create a premium finish. Best for feature walls or low-moisture areas unless sealed properly.

Trending Colours in 2025

1. Warm Neutrals

Beige, latte, and oatmeal tones are making a comeback due to their calming and natural look.

2. Soft Greys

Elegant and modern, these work perfectly with minimalist or contemporary homes.

3. Deep Greens and Forest Tones

A bold choice for kitchens or bathrooms that adds depth and personality.

4. Classic Whites

Timeless, fresh, and versatile — perfect for creating bright and airy spaces.

5. Charcoal and Black

Ideal for sophisticated, dramatic design themes.

Pros and Cons of Herringbone Tiles

Pros

Enhances visual flow and opens up small spaces
Adds a high-end, handcrafted look
Works with modern and traditional interiors
Suitable for both floors and walls
Highly customisable with grout and tile choices

Cons

More complex and time-consuming to install
Requires more cutting and planning
Labour costs may be higher for professional installation
Mistakes in alignment can be noticeable

Despite the higher level of detail involved, the payoff is a stunning, dynamic surface that elevates your home.

Styling Tips for a Perfect Herringbone Finish

1. Use Contrasting Grout to Highlight the Pattern

Dark grout with light tiles makes the pattern pop, while matching grout creates a softer, seamless look.

2. Pair Warm Tiles With Natural Materials

Timber, rattan, brushed brass, and stone all complement herringbone beautifully.

3. Keep Surrounding Decor Minimal

Let the tile pattern be the hero by balancing it with simple cabinetry and neutral colour palettes.

4. Choose Longer Tiles for a Modern Look

Elongated tiles (e.g., 75x300mm) create a sleek, contemporary effect.

5. Mix Layouts for Visual Balance

Combine herringbone on one wall with stacked or brick patterns elsewhere to avoid overwhelming the space.

FAQS

Are herringbone tiles suitable for small Australian homes?

Yes, herringbone tiles are excellent for small homes because their directional pattern draws the eye outward, giving rooms a more open and spacious feel. This makes them perfect for compact bathrooms, narrow hallways, and small kitchens. With lighter colours and the right grout, herringbone can create a brighter, more expansive look.

What is the best material for herringbone floors in Australian climates?

Porcelain timber-look tiles are the top choice for Australian climates. They offer the beauty of natural wood with superior resistance to heat, humidity, and moisture. They won’t warp, fade, or scratch as easily as real timber, making them ideal for busy family homes, open-plan living areas, and coastal environments.

How do I choose the right grout colour for herringbone tiles?

Choosing grout depends on the effect you want. If you prefer a subtle, seamless look, select grout that matches the tile colour. To highlight the herringbone pattern, use contrasting grout—white tiles with charcoal grout or beige tiles with cream grout are popular pairings. Always test a small sample before committing.

Can herringbone tiles increase my home’s resale value?

Absolutely. Real estate professionals often note that homes featuring herringbone tiles feel more luxurious and thoughtfully designed. The pattern gives the impression of high craftsmanship and timeless elegance, which appeals to buyers. Investing in quality materials like porcelain or marble can significantly enhance the long-term value of your property.