Tile Shapes: Selecting the Best Fit for Your Next Project

Tile Shape Guide By NT Pavers

Table of Contents

When you are about to create your interior or exterior of the house, you will find a wide range of tile shapes, sizes, patterns, styles, colors, and materials. This will enable you to create the stunning look of your dreams. But it can be daunting and confusing as well. If you are new to exterior or interior design, things can be more complicated.

However,  this post will guide you through the different shapes of tiles to help you make an informed decision and find one that complements your design vision.

Keep reading the following for more information.

volokas interior porcelain tile (1)

Guide About Tile Shapes

Here is our simple yet thorough guide regarding the tile shapes.

  • Square Tiles

Square tiles are one of the most common yet popular tile designs for both interior and exterior. They have never gone out of fashion to date. These tile shapes are available in different formats from tile mosaics to large format slabs in square shapes. Large-size square tiles will work great for both smaller and larger spaces. If you use this tile size for smaller space then large size with little grout lines will make the space appear large. Depending on the installation, they can even give the floor or wall a unified look. 

Square Tiles for Bedroom -Tile Shape By NT Pavers

  • Rectangular Tiles

Rectangular tiles come in different shapes and styles from long blocks and planks to board sizes. These tiles are generally used for wood-effect tiles. Porcelain rectangular tiles make a room look longer when they’re installed straight, or parallel to the walls. They expand the impression of space if they’re placed parallel to short walls, even in small rooms. You can also use them to accent the amount of light in the room by aligning them with the light coming from a window.

  • Herringbone Tiles

Herringbone Tile - Tile Shapes
Herringbone

 

This tile design is popular for creating movement and fun through it’s design. This tile design is created with rectangular tiles in a zig-zag pattern. If you want to create a movement and look in design, then herringbone tile is perfect for you. These tiles look relatively modern, and the style is evergreen. They can be used in any house area, from the bathroom wall tile to the kitchen backsplash. If you want a more contemporary but traditional touch for your tile shape, then this tile shape is perfect.

  • Chevron Tiles

Chevron Tile - Tile Sizes
Chevron

Chevron tiles resemble herringbone tiles, but their ends are cut in an angular design to create that V look. This gives the chevron tiles a unique appeal and unique style. Chevron can create stunning wall or floor tile designs that add sophistication to any room. If you are looking for a blend of modern and traditional looks, chevron tiles shouldn’t be overlooked.

  • Arabesque Tiles

 

Arabesque - Tile Shape
Arabesque

This style is inspired by the Middle Eastern interior, where pointy tips and rounded corners are prominent. The Arabesque pattern is famous for its beauty of symmetry and repetition. It has a long history in home designs in Middle Eastern construction, from homes to extravagant places. Modern design for the tile is more focused on modern sophistication. It often creates a monochromatic look with a similar color palette to the traditional ornamental look.

  • Hexagon Tiles

 

Hexagon Tile Shape
Hexagon Tile Shape

Hexagon tiles have been around for centuries. They have 6 corners and come in infinite sizes so that you can install them anywhere despite the room size. To date, these are a popular choice for modern homes. Their six-sided shape creates a striking visual geometrical tile pattern, perfect for floors, backsplashes, or shower walls. Both small and large mosaic tile sizes are available to create more intricate designs. Any room can benefit from classic hexagon tiles because they’re versatile.

  • Subway Tiles

 

Subway Tiles - Tile Shape
Subway Tiles

Subway tiles are famous for their simple and minimalist design. They will remind you of the subway where they are usually installed. They have a unique and timeless charm.  Due to their clean design, classic subway tiles have long been an increasingly popular choice in interior and exterior design. From modern kitchens and bathrooms to traditional family bathrooms, they are suited to any space. They feature ceramic tile, stone, and glass finishes that provide easy maintenance solutions.

Why Do Tile Shapes Matter?

  • Diamond Tiles

 

Diamond Tiles- Tile Shape
Diamond Tiles

Diamond-shaped tiles have become a fun part of modern tile installation techniques. These tiles can create a more luxurious and contemporary look in any space installed. It is possible to get creative with its shape, as a single piece may resemble a diamond, but six triangles can create hexagon shapes. You can make your desired or inspired design to create modern, traditional, or a blend of both designs. The only limit is your imagination. They can add character to any space.

  • Pinwheel Tiles

 

Pinwheel - Tile Shape
Pinwheel – Tile Shape

These tiles can create a dynamic look by combining small square tiles with larger ones in a rotating pattern. This playful design works great in any setting, from modern to traditional spaces. These tiles are excellent for floors, kitchen backsplashes, or feature walls. The pinwheel pattern adds an unexpected twist, perfect for homeowners who want something different but still timeless.

Pinwheel Tile Tile Shapes by NT Pavers

  • Basket Weave Tiles

 

Basket weave Tiles - Tile Shape
Basket Weave – Tile Shape

If you are looking for an aesthetically pleasing and timeless look, then basket weave tiles are just suitable for you. Both small square and rectangle tiles are used to create the texture of woven baskets. It also makes a sense of movement in the design. They are well suited for small areas such as bathroom floors or shower walls. This design is perfect for those looking for a warm touch or a Mediterranean-inspired look.

  • Picket Tiles

 

Picket Tile - Tile Shape
Picket – Tile Shape

This is a type of hexagon-style tile but has a more falter and elongated look. This unique tile style has a particular name. The name is inspired by the look of the picket fence. A group of pickets may look ordered and symmetrical, but they still have that ornamental beauty to offer. Picket tiles are perfect for both wall and floor designs. For a more creative look, add some colors to the grout to add an artistic flare with picket tiles.

  • Wood Plank Shaped Tile

Wood Look Porcelain Tile

These days, tile manufacturers can manufacture tiles that are close to their inspiration. You are not limited to matt finish tiles only. If you want a natural rustic look of wood, you can opt for wood plank tile. This shape is perfect if you don’t want that glossy and traditional tile look. It looks and feels like natural wood. You can install them in herringbone style or traditional wood plank style for a more realistic wood look. They will give the look and impression of painted wood.

Tile Shapes Explained: Selecting the Best Fit for Your Next Project - Iroko Wood Porcelain Tile By NT Pavers

  • Fish Scale Tiles

 

Fish Scale - Tile Shape
Fish Scale – Tile Shape

These tiles are also known as the mermaid tiles. They are a more fun and eye-catching option for backsplashes and bathrooms. You can create a softer and calmer look with its rounded tops and curved sides. You can install them differently, from rows to fan patterns, to create a more stylish and playful look. Fish scale tiles are suitable if you want a more whimsical look for your interior design.

  • Circle Tile & Penny Round Tiles

 

Penny Round Tiles
Penny Round Tiles – Tile Shape

These tiles are evergreen and will never go out of style. They are also called circle tiles. They have a simple round shape that is usually arranged in sheets. Penny tiles are best suited to create detailed backsplashes or tile flooring. They are available in different tile colors and finishes. These circular tiles are perfect for curved walls or to create texture on any wall. You can make a more vintage appeal yet chic look with this.

  • Brick Tiles

 

Brick Tile Shape
Brick Tile Shape

These tiles can provide a more industrial and rustic feel. They are a fantastic choice, from compact space to even luxury lofts. The wall tiles are covered in thin slices of brick, adding texture and warmth. They’re great for creating a living room or kitchen feature wall. Heat and weather resistance make brick tiles a good choice for exterior and interior surfaces.

Wall Tiles

  • Octagon Tiles

 

Octagon Tile Shape
Octagon Tile Shape

Octagon tiles are uniquely shaped tiles that are often combined with contrasting dot tiles. These tiles can create a visually engaging and timeless pattern for any setting. They have a long history of being used in homes, primarily in the Victorian era. They are still a popular choice for bathroom floors and walls, entryways, and kitchens. Octagons combined with small contrasting pieces make for a dynamic and elegant look.

Why Do Tile Shapes Matter?

Your tile shape selection is essential in creating a more stunning yet practical design. Some popular tile patterns, such as herringbone patterns, may seem busy and unsuitable for compact spaces. Similarly, some designs, such as basket weave designs, may not look good in such space. This is why choosing the right tile shape will help you create a design that isn’t just gorgeous and practical. So, you should consider your tile shape accordingly. Talking to experts such as NT Pavers will help you decide the right tile shapes and tile sizes. Make sure to choose the one that will suit your vision and space.

Why Do Tile Shapes Matter? - NT Pavers, NJ Natural Stone Suppliers

 

Bottom Line

Tiles can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any setting. From traditional to contemporary, each house has its distinct personality that can quickly be brought out with the right tile selection. These tile shapes will give you an accurate idea of how to use them. However, you have the freedom to be creative to bring your vision to life. If you aren’t sure about your choice, then go to the pros and discuss it with them. They will provide you with the best solution for your design selection. Contact us today to explore patterns that never repeat and find the perfect tile layout for your space.

About the Author

NT Pavers Team

NT Pavers delivers premium natural stone and porcelain pavers, perfect for patios, driveways, and outdoor spaces. Specializing in durable and stylish materials like travertine and marble, NT Pavers transforms landscapes into elegant and functional areas.