Small Bathroom Herringbone Tile Floor Ideas: Creative Ways to Use Herringbone Tiles in Small Bathrooms

One time, I installed herringbone tiles in a small bathroom and accidentally laid the first few rows in the wrong direction. It turned into a week-long puzzle—but when it was done, the pattern looked so lively that the client thought I’d done it on purpose! That’s when I realized that in tiny spaces, bold designs can become the star of the room. In this post, I’ll share 10 ideas from my projects to inspire your own small bathroom floor plan.

1. Classic White Herringbone

White tiles in a herringbone pattern instantly make a small bathroom feel larger and brighter. The zigzag movement creates visual depth without clutter, and it pairs beautifully with almost any wall color. In my last project, I used glossy white marble look porcelain, and the client’s tiny ensuite felt almost twice as big—especially after we mapped it out in a room planner first.

save pin

2. Matte Gray Modern Look

For a contemporary vibe, matte gray tiles in herringbone are unbeatable. They hide water marks, give a grounded feel, and add sophistication. Just make sure your grout color blends well to keep the flow balanced. It’s a safe choice if you often redecorate around it.

save pin

3. Bold Black Statement

Black herringbone tiles make a dramatic statement even in limited square footage. I love how they contrast with light cabinetry—it’s striking but cozy. The only caution: keep lighting warm so the space doesn’t feel too stark.

save pin

4. Wood-Look Warmth

Porcelain wood-look tiles in herringbone add warmth and texture, perfect for a spa-like feel without worrying about water damage. They’re a bit trickier to cut for the pattern, but worth it for the inviting result.

save pin

5. Glossy Aqua Pop

Aqua or teal tiles instantly breathe life into a small bathroom. I once paired glossy teal herringbone floors with white subway walls—it felt like a boutique hotel. This idea especially sings in coastal-style homes or where you want energy.

save pin

6. Marble Vein Elegance

Marble-pattern tiles, whether natural or porcelain, bring luxury without overwhelming the space. In compact bathrooms, the herringbone breaks up large veins beautifully, adding movement. I often plan these layouts using a free floor plan creator to avoid waste on expensive cuts.

save pin

7. Two-Tone Play

Using two different colors of tiles in alternating herringbone pattern creates a playful yet refined look. It’s especially nice in family bathrooms, though sourcing perfectly sized matching tiles can be a challenge.

save pin

8. Micro Tile Detail

Small-format tiles in herringbone can give a mosaic effect. They’re fantastic for adding texture underfoot, though installation is more labor-intensive. In tiny bathrooms, this detail helps the floor become a subtle piece of art.

save pin

9. Soft Beige Neutral

Beige tiles provide warmth without stealing attention from other features. Great for rental properties where you want a neutral base. I did a project like this and found that simulating the result in a kitchen layout planner works surprisingly well, even for bathrooms.

save pin

10. Pattern Border Highlight

You can frame the herringbone area with a border tile in a contrasting color. It defines the pattern and adds a custom feel—just watch out that the proportions don’t shrink the perceived floor area.

save pin

FAQ

Q1: Is herringbone tile good for small bathrooms?

Yes, it adds visual movement and can make the space feel larger. The angled lines trick the eye to follow the pattern, expanding the perceived area.

Q2: Which tile size works best?

Medium-sized tiles (3x12 inches for example) are ideal—they're large enough to show the pattern, small enough to fit in tight spaces without excessive cuts.

Q3: Does herringbone waste more tile?

It can lead to more offcuts than straight lay patterns. Planning carefully reduces waste and cost—especially with pricey materials.

Q4: How do I choose grout color?

Match grout to your tile for a subtle look, or contrast for extra emphasis on the pattern. Just note that strong contrast may require more cleaning attention.

Q5: Is installation more difficult?

Yes, herringbone layout requires precise cuts and consistent spacing. Hire an experienced tiler to avoid misalignments; this tip is echoed in Home Improvement Expert Magazine (2023).

Q6: Can I DIY herringbone floors?

It’s possible with patience and practice, but time-consuming. Perfect for experienced DIYers, challenging for beginners.

Q7: Are there budget-friendly options?

Ceramic or vinyl tiles with printed herringbone designs offer the look without complex installation.

Q8: What style does herringbone suit?

It fits both modern and traditional styles—choose tile color and finish to match your decor for best results.