What direction should herringbone pattern point?

10 years ago

We chose some wood like porcelain tile to be laid in a herringbone pattern. Should they have been laid with the points coming out from the front door? Below is a picture from the front door. Do the tiles look sideways? They never asked how we wanted it directed, I think they just chose to make it look good for the main part of the floor which is fine but maybe they could have separated the "areas" with a strip or two of tile laid straight. That way when looking from the front door the points would be towards the door and then the strip could delineate the foyer from the living areas where the pattern could stay as it is. Thoughts? I'm I being hyper-critical? Maybe I'm just upset that they didn't ask, and I had no idea that this was something I need to tell them.

Featured Answer

annkh_nd

10 years ago

In my amateur opinion, I think it looks fantastic! I like that there isn't a distinction between the foyer and the living room - I feel drawn into the living area, where a change in direction at that point might feel like a barrier, and less welcoming.

Comments (7)

rpk1
Original Author
10 years ago
Just received this response from the tile vendor "They install it this way because if you do it straight on the door, you notice any imperfections in the walls, doorways, etc. That straight line wonÃ¢ÂÂt look straight anymore to the visual eye."

Does that sound legit?
glennsfc
10 years ago
Yes, they are correct.

Herringbone patterns are tricky, because the pattern does have a certain 'direction' to it. This layout seems pleasing and correct to me. And, unless you're inserting a border or other design element in another room area, breaking up a herringbone pattern with a transition and changing direction is the wrong thing to do.

However, it could have been turned 90 degrees and not been a problem with the walls and such, but would have visually narrowed the hallway. I assume the points in the room in the background run lengthwise in the room, is that right?

I think the installer's choice is what I would have suggested.

This post was edited by glennsfc on Tue, Oct 1, 13 at 15:24
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rpk1
Original Author
10 years ago
Thank you, glennsfc, yes, the points run lengthwise in the main living area.

I appreciate the feedback annkh!

I feel so much better!
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
10 years ago
That floor is spectacular! Really stunning!
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
10 years ago
Would you please share with us the brand and style name of your tile? Looks like the installer is doing a very good job.
rpk1
Original Author
10 years ago
Hi beverly27, thank you for the compliment! We struggled to find the perfect wood tile, not too fake, not too slippery, etc. We ended up with Havana in Tobacco Brown by Meditiranea. It was grouted in a color a little lighter than I would have chosen but I think they may have done that to set off the pattern? Can't wait to move in!