Imagine you find that perfect piece for your project — that material that is really going to make your space shine and light up your heart with excitement. You think that you have done all that you need to do, but then the question of how you want to lay it out comes and you feel the pressure of decision-making coming sweep over you.
Well, worry no more; we’ve got you covered. Layout is one of the more important parts of the design process due to its significant effect on the final look. There are countless ways to deploy creativity at this phase of the project, and we want to make sure that you consider all your options. Let’s dive into some ideas to help you love that layout!

The Basics
First, let’s consider the basics. First, there are field tile layouts. These can range from the classic 50/50 brick joint to something more intricate like a basketweave or directional herringbone. The image above show cases some of the more popular layouts of field tile from which to choose, Each having its own unique impact on aesthetic. A straight stack can lean toward amore modern aesthetic, while an offset falls into the more traditional range. You can opt change the direction of these patterns; for example, consider running a brick joint vertical to extend the visual of the walls, or try brick jointing a subway vertically on the short end if you want to really get creative. Certain mosaics can even have different visual differences when mixing up the layout. Turn it on a diagonal and see what happens!

Soldier course top and bottom with a trim piece

Framed out walls with trim
for dimension.

Inlay main floor and shower floor inside boarder with a base board around
main floor area

Inlay shower walls with large tiles inside and small outside of frame

Layout change on top half of walls, from brick to herringbone separated
with trim

Herringbone inlay main floor and shower floor
Let’s Get Creative
Next, let’s get into the nitty gritty of designing with layout. When working with a blank slate, you can do some incredible things just by getting crafty. One plane does not need to have the same layout all the way through. Try implementing different install patterns with the use of trim pieces. Perhaps the lower half of the wall will get a brick joint pattern and the top half will get that same tile laid in a herringbone pattern, separated by a classy trim piece. This is a wonderful way to generate an elegant look. There are endless options when you start to play around in this sandbox of design. Take a look at some of the sketches above that showcase just a hand full of ways you can play with pattern.
Down to the Details
The fine details of layout can put the finishing touches on a design and tie everything together. Trim moldings can be used in a variety of ways beyond just finishing pieces. Running a solid course as the bottom row of the wall, topped with a decorative molding and then a classic layout above it, is one way to polish off a design. Or, add a base board to the perimeter of the main floor area or chair rail at the top of a wainscot to add dimension to the room. Think about bordering an area with one tile size and then inlaying an exciting pattern inside that border. Finally, don’t forget about your ceiling! Changing direction or layout on a ceiling can really make a space pop.
Below is a gallery to help you get inspired to love that layout!










Ultimately, these ideas can be overwhelming and create some unwanted stress on what is supposed to be an incredibly fun process. That where the experts at Coast Tile can step in and help you unlock all the remarkable possibilities. These are just a few ideass to ponder as you approach your next project. Set up an in person or virtual consultation here, and let’s start making your decorating dreams come true!
Blog By: Kyle E. Eisele
Coast Tile & Marble Supply
(609)646-9346
3168 Fire Rd.
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
