13 white subway tile herringbone backsplash ideas designers love

why designers keep coming back to herringbone

herringbone has been around for thousands of years, first appearing in ancient roman road systems and later in european parquet floors. that architectural heritage is a big part of why designers consider it a perfect choice for today’s kitchens. the pattern’s interlocking structure creates a sense of rhythm and movement that feels both orderly and expressive, giving your backsplash subtle dynamism.

because herringbone is built on clean, geometric lines, it pairs beautifully with nearly any material, from refined ceramic to artisanal zellige. it’s an excellent choice for designers and homeowners who want visual sophistication with a timeless backbone — and a solid choice when you’re trying to elevate a simple white tile into something more intentional.

herringbone is adaptable, too: lay it vertically for height, horizontally for flow, or at a 45-degree angle for extra energy — each direction shifts the mood while preserving the pattern’s classic integrity.

13 white subway tile herringbone backsplash ideas designers love

given how versatile the herringbone layout can be, it would be impossible to count the ways herringbone can grace the kitchen backsplash. but we can think of 13 tried-and-true options, each one a thoughtful design choice that’s rooted in craftsmanship.

1. classic horizontal herringbone with glossy white subway tile

if you’re all about subway tile but want to add a healthy dose of rhythm, a herringbone layout could be just the thing for the kitchen backsplash. choosing a grout color that closely matches the tile will keep the look somewhat subdued, while opting for a contrasting grout will make the pattern pop. (you decide how much.)

this approach is a great way to create clean lines and timeless elegance in modern and traditional kitchens alike. subway tile isn’t your only white tile option, either. for a fresh spin, consider opting for weathered white zellige or glazed brick tile instead.

2. vertical herringbone with narrow-cut tiles

most people imagine herringbone in the horizontal, creating a zigzag effect that very closely resembles a chevron. (there is a difference between the two, by the way.) but the herringbone layout can also be turned 180 degrees to create a vertical installation. oriented this way, the pattern draws the eye upward — a bonus if your kitchen is home to an impressive range hood or beautiful shelving. this look tends to elongate a space, too.

there’s also an in-between option: rotating a horizontal herringbone pattern 45 degrees to create more of a basketweave or stair-step effect. whichever option you go with, this approach is bound to introduce subtle contemporary contrast.

3. mini herringbone for small kitchen spaces

mini herringbone is the perfect choice for compact kitchens because smaller tiles naturally add intricacy and texture. the tighter pattern introduces fine-grained movement that feels elevated rather than busy, giving even the most modest footprint a sense of intention and architectural polish.

with mini formats available in a variety of colors and types of tile — from artisanal zellige to calacatta viola marble — you can tailor the look to suit your style. white keeps things airy and bright, while subtle variations bring softness and nuance. (just be sure your contractor blends and blends the tile — and then blends some more.)

4. white-on-white: glossy tile with white grout

often the best grout color for white tile, white grout is a great choice when you want a backsplash that feels soft, seamless, and quietly luxurious. by eliminating contrast, the surface reads as a continuous plane of light — a refined, glow-boosting backdrop that designers reach for when they want the kitchen to feel brighter and more expansive.

this approach works with a variety of colors and types of tile, but it truly shines with standard subway tile sizes or artisanal options like zellige, where subtle texture and tonal variation add depth without interrupting the serene effect. if you're creating an elevated yet understated aesthetic — or want a finish that’s clean and cohesive — look no further than white on white.

5. contrasting grout for a graphic pop

contrasting grout is a great option when you want the herringbone pattern to stand out with bold, graphic definition. dark or colored grout outlines each tile, turning the interlocking layout into a striking visual feature that adds structure, rhythm, and personality to the kitchen.

whether you choose charcoal, warm taupe, or a more adventurous hue, contrasting grout brings clarity to the layout while celebrating a classic subway tile pattern. with white tiles, in particular, the effect is crisp and high-impact.

not sure about taking this bold of an approach? you can always focus on a smaller area like a coffee niche or kitchen island, where the power of grout can really shine.

6. elongated subway tile in a diagonal layout

that diagonal appracoh we mentioned earlier? elongated subway tile laid on the diagonal is a perfect choice for creating dynamic movement and a sense of visual expansion. the longer format naturally catches the eye, and when it’s set at an angle, the pattern introduces a gentle sweep across the backsplash that feels energetic yet refined. designers love this approach for adding directionality — the diagonal layout guides the gaze upward and outward.

this idea works beautifully with a variety of shades and types of tile, from crisp white ceramic to creamy artisanal brick. different hues can emphasize the pattern even more, while classic white keeps things light and open. no matter the finish, the elongated shape makes for a truly modern subway tile backsplash.

7. handmade tiles for texture and movement

handmade tiles are a perfect choice for bringing depth, character, and artistry to a this tile layout. each piece carries subtle variations in tone, texture, and surface undulation, creating a pattern that feels alive — full of movement and organic charm.

available in a variety of colors and types of tile, handmade options make even a classic white palette feel layered and intentional, while different shades and hues add nuance and richness. if you're drawn to a backsplash with soul and craftsmanship, artisanal tile is a solid choice — explore our collection of handcrafted selections to find the perfect match for your project.

8. framed herringbone for a statement backsplash

framing a herringbone pattern with a tile border is a great way to create a statement backsplash with clear visual structure. the border acts like an architectural frame, grounding the pattern and drawing attention to the movement and rhythm of the herringbone itself.

whether you choose a subtle tone-on-tone frame or a contrasting color, a framed layout works beautifully with a variety of colors and types of tile. it’s an excellent choice for making the herringbone pattern feel curated, especially if the pattern is confined to just a particular space.

9. rustic meets refined with matte finish tiles

matte finish tiles are the perfect choice for adding soft, understated elegance to a herringbone backsplash. the gentle, non-reflective surface tones down the pattern’s sharp geometry while enhancing the space’s texture, allowing the layout to feel approachable and warm. it’s especially effective when exploring different shades of white tile.

available in a variety of colors and types of tile, matte finishes let the herringbone pattern shine subtly without competing with other elements in the kitchen. for homeowners seeking a more rustic kitchen backsplash that feels grounded, textural, and intentionally designed, matte tiles are a shoo-in.

10. stacked meets herringbone: mixed pattern installations

mixing stacked and herringbone layouts is an excellent approach for creating visual contrast or defining zones within a kitchen. by pairing the orderly, linear feel of stacked tiles with the dynamic movement of herringbone, designers can introduce texture, rhythm, and a sense of intentional layering.

this technique works well for highlighting areas like a cooking zone, sink, or feature wall, subtly guiding the eye while maintaining cohesion across the kitchen. available in a variety of types and shapes of tile, mixed-pattern installations allow you to experiment with different colors, finishes, or tile sizes.

11. floor-to-ceiling herringbone for bold impact

floor-to-ceiling herringbone is a surefire way to make a truly architectural statement. extending the pattern from countertop to ceiling (and from floor to ceiling where possible) amplifies the sense of movement and rhythm, creating a striking focal point that feels intentional and elevated. designers often use full-height installations behind ranges or along entire walls to turn a functional surface into a design feature that anchors the space.

this approach works beautifully with a variety of tile types, from classic white subway to glazed brick and terracotta. if your project calls for drama and sophistication, consider this bold technique.

12. open shelf pairing with white herringbone tile

pairing open shelving with a white herringbone backsplash keeps the tilework front and center while adding functional design depth. the shelves provide storage and display space without obscuring the pattern, allowing the movement and texture of the herringbone to shine. designers often use this approach to balance utility with visual interest.

whatever type of tile you choose, herringbone maintains its soft, refined impact even when paired with wooden or even metal shelving. this combination is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a kitchen that feels open, curated, and purposeful.

13. integrated range hood with seamless tile continuity

extending herringbone tile across and around a range hood creates flow and cohesion in the kitchen design. by continuing the pattern in an uninterrupted manner, designers ensure that appliances feel integrated rather than tacked on, turning functional elements into part of the overall architectural statement.

whether using classic white subway tile or something else entirely, integrated tile continuity is an excellent choice for homeowners planning a kitchen where every element feels connected and thoughtfully arranged.

choosing the right white subway tile for a herringbone layout

selecting the right white subway tile is key. consider size first: smaller tiles enhance intricacy and texture in compact spaces, while elongated formats create dynamic movement and visual expansion. finish is equally important — glossy tiles reflect light for a luminous effect, matte tiles add subtle texture, and artisanal variations introduce depth and character. with a variety of tile materials available, this is a versatile a look that feels both intentional and elevated.

tips for a seamless herringbone installation

successful herringbone installation starts with careful layout planning. mapping the pattern before setting tiles ensures symmetry and balance, while consistent grout spacing maintains clarity and structure. of course, it’s always crucial to partner with an experienced and skilled tile setter — especially when working with artisanal tiles, where subtle variations in size or texture require expert handling to preserve the pattern’s rhythm and integrity.

final thoughts on white herringbone tile for the backsplash

history tell us that herringbone tile layouts have been around for centuries, and for good reason. from mini tiles in small kitchens to full-height installations, contrasting grout for graphic impact, or artisanal tiles for texture and depth, the pattern adapts beautifully to a variety of spaces and room layouts.

ready to bring your (or your client’s) herringbone vision to life? explore our curated tile collection for a bespoke selection of colors, finishes, and artisanal options.