Tile Shapes: A Complete Guide to Beautiful Design

Looking to introduce geometric flair into your home? Lines, form, and angles play a huge role in the world of tile. Adding these wall and floor adornments to your design scheme means knowing the options available to you. Whether you’re updating the kitchen backsplash, bathroom flooring, or fireplace surround, it’s helpful to explore the most classic tile shapes.

Browse Apollo Tile’s comprehensive tile range and you’ll see that we have a tried-and-true selection of nine shapes. From classic squares to vintage-inspired penny rounds to whimsical scallops, the possibilities for how you can arrange any given tile cut are endless. Learn from this guide the different tile shapes and how they can be incorporated to create a look that dazzles every time you enter the room!

1. Square Tile Shape

See your installation come together with square tile! Whether your aesthetic is traditional and refined, modern and avant-garde, bold and playful, or falls somewhere in between, you’ll love the versatility that comes with this century-old shape. Our square tiles, be it mesh-backed mosaics or individual cuts measuring 4x4, 5x5, and 12x12 inches, make for the ideal backsplash or an accent wall in a luxurious walk-in-shower.

The clean and simple lines of four-side tile shapes can serve as a jumping-off point for interesting arrangements. Lay square wall and backsplash tile in a brick bond pattern and you get a more casual aesthetic. This involves staggering the edge of the tile to the midpoint of the one above and beneath it.

Alternatively, you can give this simple shape a contemporary twist by letting the tiles sit stacked to create orderly intersecting lines. Grid pattern, as it is known, is favored for its flexibility to mix and match colors or textures. You can’t go wrong with ever-so-iconic Zellige tile in a stacked grid—which beautifully highlights its lustrous glaze and tonal variation.

The possibilities don’t stop there. A diagonal flooring pattern is what wins with square ceramic tiling shapes. Small or large tiles are laid at a 45-degree angle to attain a more dynamic visual effect. The white and black diagonal checkerboard is a coveted choice that can define your space while adding a whole new dimension. To take it up a notch, you can experiment with pinwheel pattern, which is a mosaic of dainty and medium-sized square tile shapes that form a catchy design.

Tiles to design with:

• Silken 3.94 in. x 3.94 in. Glossy Blue Ceramic Square Wall and Floor Tile showcases a stunning undulated surface that catches and reflects light. In a grid pattern, the tile’s uneven edges are accentuated to create an authentic look that standard tiles simply can’t match. Its deep blue coloring pairs nicely with white grout for a striking contrast.
• White 12 in. x 12 in. Honed Marble Tile is a testament to marble’s timeless elegance. A matching pencil tile trim is available so you can create a seamless transition between two different tile shapes and patterns.

2. Rectangle Tile Shape

While it’s undeniably hip to be square, rectangle tile is yet another classic tiling shape that can get a little adventurous. It is adaptable to all styles and decorative preferences—and versatile in layout.

Subway tile is one of the most popular rectangular shapes due to its ability to transcend time and trends. The standard size is 3x6 inches, but you’ll find a broad range of elongated dimensions in 2x8, 3x12, 4x12, and 4x16 inches. Most common in the 1/2 and 1/3 running bond pattern, where tiles overlap and grout lines become offset.

If you want to put a contemporary spin on subway ceramic tile shape, a zigzag herringbone pattern brings a sense of movement to walls and floors. Turn subways on their heads and you conceive a vertical straight stack bond with a clean, structured effect. Laid on walls, it draws the eye upwards and gives an illusion of more height. Stacked horizontally, rectangular subway tiles exude excellent geometrical symmetry which gives more width to narrow walls.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention large format tile. Coming in 12x24, 12x36, 16x48, 18x36, 18x48, and 24x48 inches, bigger rectangular tiling shapes result in fewer joins and, in turn, impart an effect of visual continuity. Large-scale rectangular porcelain is well-suited for high traffic flooring thanks to its robustness. To add to this, bigger tile shapes and patterns can enhance a sense of space in small rooms.

In recent years, long, rectangular plank shape has started to steal the spotlight, especially with tile that looks like wood. The elongated form can be boldly intriguing, all while making an interior appear grand, particularly if the same tile flooring travels throughout the entire home.

Tiles to design with:

• White 3 in. x 12 in. Polished Glass Subway Floor and Wall Tile can combine a horizontal stack and a herringbone pattern, using a matching transitional pencil trim to separate the two orientations. The contrasting black grout only adds greater depth to the glass wall installation.
• Splendor 23.7 in. x 47.25 in. Polished Brown and Gray Porcelain Rectangular Wall and Floor Tile proves that bigger can sometimes be better. That’s all thanks to its no-nonsense, consistent appeal. The pronounced veining rises to the “architectural” look favored in contemporary homes.
• Beige 5.9-in W x 35.4-in L Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile is the perfect choice to stretch and open up a compact kitchen or bath space. Its shade variation will add even more interest to any décor scheme.

3. Picket Tile Shape

Ever wondered what the key to crafting a one-of-a-kind interior is? Decorative panache reigns with picket tile shapes! This modern alternative to traditional subway ceramics features a thin, elongated middle with ends that come to a point, giving it the shape of a picket fence. Our offerings include peel and stick tile mosaics and individual pieces that can be installed in horizontal or vertical grids to add impactful character.

Tiles to design with:

• Piquet 2 in. x 10 in. Matte Blue Ceramic Picket Wall and Floor Tile is the answer to achieving refined style. It has a tonal palette and touchable texture that are sure to create a visual moment in any room it inhabits.
• Piquet 2 in. x 10 in. Glossy Gold Ceramic Picket Wall and Floor Tile serves as a focal point that lends rich decadence to both traditional and modern interiors.
• Copper Picket Honed Metal Peel & Stick Backsplash Tile – 12 x 12 in. is our customers’ favorite and a brilliant pick for rental properties. It mimics the appearance of metal and sits well on kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls for a design that truly shines.

4. Penny Round Tile Shape

Tired of four-sided geometric tile shapes and patterns? Penny tile brings understated dimension to walls and floors. Named for their small, round form resembling the shape of a coin, these beauties wink to classic décor but fit just as easily in modern themes. You’ll love them as a shower floor tile: they’ll instantly embolden the bathroom and provide extra traction underfoot. As a bonus, penny round tiling shape allows for customized patterns and will readily combine with pretty much any type of tile.

Tiles to design with:

• Cirkel 0.75 in. x 0.75 in. Glossy Blue Porcelain Penny Round Wall and Floor Tile pairs well with crisp white furnishings to evoke a lively coastal vibe.
• Piquet 2 in. x 10 in. Glossy Gold Ceramic Picket Wall and Floor Tile serves as a focal point that lends rich decadence to both traditional and modern interiors.
• Anchor Gray 11.7-in x 11.7-in Polished Metal Wall Tile transforms the mundane to memorable with its high shine and gleaming metallic quality. The mosaic sheets can be installed as a whole or cut in strips to add detailing to larger wall tiles.

5. Hexagon Tile Shape

Hexagon tile shapes create a honeycomb effect with an inherent edginess. These six-sided accents can be found in mosaic designs or large formats that create a sense of expansiveness in petite rooms. Timeless as it is, the hex tile shape truly is a match for any décor style you have in mind.

Tiles to design with:

• Terra Mia 8.1 in. x 9.25 in. Matte White and Black Porcelain Hexagon Wall and Floor Tile is the type of shape that delivers on visual splendor, allowing you to give your home the updated look it deserves.
• Piquet 2 in. x 10 in. Glossy Gold Ceramic Picket Wall and Floor Tile serves as a focal point that lends rich decadence to both traditional and modern interiors.
• White & Gold Hexagon Metal Peel & Stick Backsplash Tile – 11.6 x 11.5 in. gives a strong aesthetic that will captivate your guests. Ideal for a dramatic entryway wall, bathtub surround, or any vertical spot that could use the slightest touch of oomph.

6. Arabesque Tile Shape

In some cases, too many straight lines can result in visual coldness. This is where intricate tile shapes and patterns take on the leading role. Featuring ornate interlaced lines, arabesque tile balances shapely forms by introducing graceful movement. It can be added as a floor-to-ceiling wall spread or flooring design to develop a room's persona. Our arabesque tiles are available in marble stone and are meticulously crafted to create a visual language that is both symbolic and decorative.

Tiles to design with:

• 11.2 in. x 11.2 in. Polished White Calacatta Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile embraces rhythmic repetition of curved lines and will turn things up a notch wherever you decide to place it. Pair with contrasting grout color to further amplify the intricacy of the shape.

7. Scallop Tile Shape

As coastal and Hamptons-inspired décor trends continue to take over home interiors, rounded-edge scallop tile, also known as mermaid or fishscale, is rising to the forefront to elevate simple spaces into tranquil retreats. These curvilinear tile shapes draw inspiration from gently scalloped shells and serve as the ideal accent for intricate wall and floor appliques.

Tiles to design with:

• Majeste 10.8 in. x 11.3 in. Glossy Gold and White Glass Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile will make your space come alive with natural symmetry and a sense of fluidity.
• Chiffon White 11.8-in x 11.8-in Polished Natural Stone Scale Patterned Wall Tile offers a more subtle off-white shading. Its whimsical quality is sure to turn the status of your living space from bland to oh-so inviting.

8. Star and Cross Tile Shape

Moroccan star and cross tiles are experiencing a renaissance and weaving their way into modern settings. Here, two different tile shapes, star and cross, interlock into a structured, graphic pattern. Whether monochrome or multi-colored, exotic cross and star works just as well for interiors that aren’t heavily Mediterranean or Moorish-influenced, and it comes in small and bigger ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Tiles to design with:

• Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Glossy White Ceramic Star-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile and Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Glossy White Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile combine to create a soothing yet lavish wall statement.

9. Floral Tile Shape

On the other end of the scale, we find organic tile shapes and patterns that capture the magic of unspoiled, lush landscapes. A good example would be floral tile. These botanical motifs can soften and add to the visual flow of rooms with lots of sharp angles. Better yet, they evoke a cocooning effect in areas where we spend the most time like living rooms and bedrooms.

Tiles to design with:

• Beige 11.8 in. x 12 in. Leaf Polished and Etched Marble Mosaic Floor and Wall Tile boasts a gorgeous display of wooden motifs. The leaf design inspires a feeling of relaxation.
• Gray and White 11.7-in x 15.2-in Polished Natural Stone Marble Pinwheel Patterned Floor and Wall Tile allows you to rework the nuances and tactile sensations of the natural world into your own space. It can be laid on infinite surfaces, including shower walls, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and patio floors.

10. How Does Tile Shape Influence the Perception of Space?

Backsplash and floor tile shapes and patterns help create interest, balance, and harmony. In the same breath, they can set the direction for how you decorate your space.

• Angular tile shapes, such as squares and rectangles, establish a sense of order. On the other hand, ornate tiling shapes like florals add softness and comfort to the room. Size, too, impacts visual perception. Large flooring tile shapes exhibit dominance while smaller shapes convey a feeling of intimacy.
• When not done right, shape can also cause discordance. Smaller tiles, say hexagon mosaics, can look chaotic as flooring in expansive rooms. Bigger shapes of 24x48 inches can make a tiny room seem more compact, and a large one stark and uninviting.
• Lastly, sticking to the same straight lines and angles can make the room feel predictable and one-dimensional, while varying tile shapes and patterns helps break up monotony and makes interiors more dynamic.

To sum it up, it’s important to consider the aesthetic and mood you want to achieve, as well as the area you wish to draw attention to. This way, you can select tiles that complement the look you envision for your home.

Conclusion

Now that you’re acclimated with the different tile shapes and names, we bet you feel ready to tackle your next tiling project! The shapes we’ve shared above are a hallmark of some of the best interiors, each with its unique characteristics. No matter your decor preference, choosing any one of these tile shapes will impart long-lasting flair and functionality.

Ready to select kitchen or bathroom tile? Explore our online collection today to find the ideal shape, size, and style. If you see something you love, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on purchasing!

FAQ

1. What tile shape is best for high-traffic areas?

Any shape of porcelain tile is fitting for high-traffic areas. It’s a robust and dense material that can withstand wear and tear from bustling footsteps and falling objects.

2. How do tile shapes define different design styles?

Classic square and rectangle tiling shapes embody an orderly and masculine look, hexagons a modern sensibility, and florals, arabesques, and scallops a chic quality. Depending on how you decorate, all shapes can easily adapt to various interior styles.

3. What shapes of tiles make a bathroom look bigger?

Large square, rectangle, and hexagon tile shapes can add a feeling of openness to confined bathrooms. Make sure the wall tiles are never bigger than floor tiles so as not to disrupt the balance and proportional look of the room.

4. What tile shapes and patterns are currently trending?

Geometric shapes are classic and always on trend. Juxtaposing different tile patterns makes rooms more intriguing to the eye.

5. Which is better: stacked or staggered rectangle tile pattern?

This depends on the look you’re going for. Staggering square and rectangle shapes results in a classic finish while a stacked tile pattern has a modern and edgy twist to it.