How to Lay Tile in Your Custom Home

When it comes to designing your custom home, every detail matters. An often overlooked element that can truly transform your space is choosing how to lay tile. Along with a variety of tile shapes, sizes, and patterns, the multiple tile laying options to choose from each create a different style. Therefore, it’s important to select your method based on the overall look and feel you want to create in the space.

As custom home builders, we know that details like this can truly make or break a home, and we’re here to help guide you through the process. From classic patterns to creative arrangements, here are our most recommended ways on how to lay tile that can elevate the interior design of your home.

1. Bricklay (or Traditional Subway)

Embrace the timeless appeal of the bricklay pattern, a classic choice that adds a touch of sophistication to any space. This layout is perfect for subway tiles, creating a clean and structured aesthetic that stands the test of time. It can also work well for square tiles that have less optional variation of movement. If you want a classic, timeless choice this is the one for you!

2. Horizontal Stacked

For a sleek and modern look, opt for the horizontal stacked layout. This arrangement works exceptionally well with larger tiles, providing a clean and seamless look that suits contemporary interior designs and thrives off of clean, straight lines. If your home is all about sleek lines this will be the perfect added touch!

3. Vertical Stacked

Flip the script with the vertically stacked pattern. This variation brings a fresh perspective to traditional subway tiles, elongating the lines and drawing the eye upward. It’s a great choice for creating the illusion of higher ceilings and works well on a variety of tile sizes. I like this best for homes that can feel a little small and cramped. If you can’t extend your ceilings structurally, do it visually!

5. Vertical Offset

For a dynamic and visually appealing design, consider the vertical offset layout. This pattern involves staggering the rectangular tiles both vertically and horizontally, creating a sense of movement that adds energy to your space and is suitable for a wide range of styles.

4. Basketweave or Crosshatch

Known by either name, this style can help to add a touch of intricacy to your space. The basketweave or crosshatch layout involves alternating between horizontal and vertical tile pattern placements, resulting in a woven effect that adds visual interest and texture. This can be a fun, unexpected way to add a bit of interest to any living space!

6. Combo Stacked or Running Board

Combine the vertical and horizontal tile stacked patterns for a unique and eye-catching design. This combo creates a modern and artistic feel, especially when used as a running board or accent in specific areas of your home and works well with many types of tile.

7. Herringbone

Bring a sense of sophistication and luxury to your space with the herringbone pattern. This arrangement involves laying the tiles at a 45-degree angle, creating a distinctive V-shaped pattern that adds visual intrigue to your floors or walls. This can be a fun way to liven up any room!

Love this post? Make sure to check out our blog on choosing flooring for your custom home for more expert remodeling ideas!

What Tile Should You Use

Once you’ve selected the method of how to lay the tile that best suits your space, it’s important to choose the right tile to work with. Below are a few of the brands we love working with, and we know you will too!

• Tile Shop
• Bedrosians
• Emser

See for Yourself

Explore these creative ways on how to lay tile, and let your custom home reflect your unique style and personality. If you need visual examples of each pattern, head over to our Instagram post to get the full picture.

Your home’s interior design journey, and all the little details that go with it, are as unique as you are!

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