Stacked Vs. Offset Tiles: The Ultimate Tile Layout Debate

Published: January 2, 2024

Updated: January 2, 2024

If you’ve spoken with any realtor in the last decade, they would stress to you the importance of having updated bathrooms in your home to positively influence property values. Choosing a bathroom tile layout for your next update lends a hot debate. Should my tile layout be stacked, offset, or a combination of both styles? The best part of the answer is that it completely depends on your personal style, but discovering what that is can feel equally overwhelming.

You’ll observe various tile patterns, colors, and layouts within this gallery of photographs. Our favorite interior designers and dedicated readers have supplied their humble opinions based on what they have had in their homes, observed on social media, and experienced in the bathroom renovation process. There is so much ingenuity and creativity involved in tile installation, and we hope that you realize just how fun and fulfilling making these choices can be.

Stacked Marble Floor Tile

PHOTO:

playa_interiors

There’s a reason that stacked tile was the most prominent choice for most homeowners and tile installers before the last five years. It presents a clean and organized look in a bathroom, especially when two separate tiles are used on the walls and the floors.

Interior designer Ellen Matthews sheds light on this topic. “Choosing between offset and stacked tile patterns depends on the desired aesthetic and space size. Stacked tiles create clean lines and work well in modern spaces,” she notes, underscoring the suitability of stacked tiles for contemporary designs. On the other hand, she adds, “Offset tiles add visual interest and suit traditional designs.”

The decision goes beyond just the pattern. “Consider the tile size, grout color, and overall design style when making your decision,” Ellen advises.

Offset Gray Subway Tile Backsplash

PHOTO:

home.with.lily

As free-standing tubs are installed in place of dated drop-in tubs, the surrounding walls need a tile covering to protect them from water damage. A modern neutral selection is a shiny gray subway tile in gray that displays an offset, horizontal pattern. Suzanne, one of our contributing voices, states her opinion on patterns and believes tile should be “offset on walls, grid on floor.” We love your thinking, Suzanne!

Blending Decades With Shower Tile

PHOTO:

jencardarellidesign

Two different decades of design are happening in this bathroom, a common element in homes that are dated and require renovation. According to Ellen, “stacked looks more up-to-date to me,” referring to tile on walls and floors. Because mid-century designs are growing in popularity, the dark green tile on the floor of the shower basin works very well when paired with the vertically stacked subway tile on the walls.

Muted Green Vertically Stacked Shower Tiles

PHOTO:

theoldmaltkiln

If you’re committed to a colorful tile that doesn’t feel too bold, stick with a tile color that is cohesive with the beadboard or trim surrounding the remaining wall space. The vertical shiplap wainscoting adds just enough color to complement the varying tones of olive green in the stacked vertical tile displayed in the shower cavity. This look is timeless, modern, and fluid.

Neutral Offset Tile Floor Pattern

PHOTO:

rainesrestoration

Kelly believes it is possible to add a little bit of flair to a neutral bathroom with very gentle tones. She asks her commentators, “Does it have a lot going on? If so, stick with stacked. Is it subdued? Maybe add a little movement with staggered,” referring to the tile colors and patterns found in a bathroom. This staggered tile in this tan and beige bathroom engages just the right amount of visual interest for my taste in a modern farmhouse.

Offset Tile With Contrasting Grout

PHOTO:

sammychamp2

“If you had slightly different colors I would say stack, but all one color, I would do offset,” states Elizabeth, a dedicated reader. Since this bathroom is bathed in black and white, you can really make white subway tile pop with black grout. The offset pattern hides imperfections in the actual installation and creates a brick-like appearance that is both utilitarian and contemporary.

Combining Offset and Herringbone Tile

PHOTO:

landjdesignandrenovation

When I feel chic and sparkly, I always look for the most impressive patterns and colors to decorate my interior. This bathroom is neutral, yes, but it isn’t overly simplistic. A herringbone pattern was laid on the front wall of the shower in varying tones of white, gray, and beige. The texture is incredibly moving, but it would look overwhelming across the entire shower. Adding an oversized white tile in an offset pattern mutes the extravagance of the herringbone tile.

Classic Stacked Square Tile

PHOTO:

girlgonecity

There is an incredible level of ingenuity happening in this bathroom due to the selective elements that have been updated over time. It is apparent that the wall and floor tile are original, but with the inclusion of matte black paint and wood accents, the result is a contemporary look that emphasizes the classic features. Myranda, a design enthusiast, explains that for “smaller square tiles I prefer stacked,” and I couldn’t agree with her more, especially in an older home.

Marrying Two Styles

PHOTO:

homemade_home94

Because multiple decisions are involved in selecting bathroom tile, having a guide that explains what vibes well together between walls and floors can be incredibly helpful. If you feel overwhelmed or stuck, “Maybe do the opposite of the floor!” exclaims Ansley, referring to pattern selection for your walls. It is clear how attractive this offset beveled white wall tile is against the veiny, stacked tan flooring.

Offset Vertical Blue Tile for Walk-in Shower

PHOTO:

sweethomesarkisians

Based on many of the designs we’ve seen, vertical tile tends to be used in a stacked pattern, and horizontal tiles tend to be offset. If originality is your goal, consider implementing an offset vertical pattern on your shower walls. A distinctive design like this is highlighted when using a colorful tile similar to this cool blue with shiny nickel fixtures.

Stacked Stick-on Tile

PHOTO:

making_meadowview

In the last few years, homeowners have searched for a budget-friendly option to freshen up their bathroom floor tiles. Lucky for them, stick-on tiles saved the day and inspired many modern updates. These mosaic black and white tiles are easy to lay on your own and are equally as simple to remove when you’re ready for a change. To showcase a patterned tile to its best advantage, use a stacked layout to avoid it seeming too busy.

Combining Tile Colors and Patterns

PHOTO:

ourhouseonthecrescent

Sometimes, tile just speaks to you, and allowing creativity to flow within your designs produces a gorgeous result. Why limit yourself to one print or style when you can blend them to design a look all your own? Consider using an offset pattern on the wall to highlight the subtle shades in the individual subway tiles and a grid pattern on the patterned floor tile. If that doesn’t vibe with your style, you could switch them and do a stacked pattern on the wall and an offset layout on the floor.

The beauty of selecting and laying new tiles is that the possibilities are endless, and the examples shown here barely skim the surface of an intentional and unique bathroom aesthetic. Richly colored tiles and bold patterns are in vogue but don’t turn your back on a classic, timeless design. No matter what you choose, make sure it reflects your personality and style above all else!