A Stone Tile With Movement
The tile is a marble-look stone in cream, taupe, beige and soft gray, with natural veining that changes from piece to piece. Rectangular tiles set in a herringbone pattern give the surface a steady zigzag rhythm, and tight grout joints keep the stone itself front and center. From across the room the wall reads as soft texture. Up close, you can see the variation in every tile.
Herringbone is a classic layout that never feels busy when the colors are this gentle. It adds energy to a wall without competing with the rest of the room, so it works in a kitchen and beside a fireplace alike. If you’re thinking about a similar look, our tile page is a good place to start.
The Kitchen Backsplash
In the kitchen, the herringbone runs behind the gas cooktop and under the upper cabinets on either side of the stainless hood. White shaker cabinets, brushed-metal pulls and a white countertop give the stone a clean frame. The same tile shows up again on the far wall by the refrigerator, so the backsplash feels continuous rather than limited to one spot. A navy island with an X-brace panel and seeded-glass pendants add color and character in front of it.
The Fireplace Surround
Across the great room, the fireplace uses the same tile around a black insert. A thick light-wood mantel sits on top, with black horizontal paneling above it, and white built-ins with white counters sit on both sides. The tile wraps the sides of the fireplace box as well as the front, so it looks like a solid stone feature from any angle.
Because the backsplash and fireplace match, your eye moves easily from one end of the room to the other. Neither surface outshines the other.
Warm Floors, Cool Cabinets
A honey oak hardwood floor gives the whole great room a warm foundation. That warmth contrasts with the cool tones of the white kitchen cabinets and built-ins. The stone tile bridges the two, because its cream and taupe pick up the floor’s warmth and its soft grays echo the cabinetry.
Built by Alterra Design Homes
This new-construction home was built by Alterra Design Homes in Fitchburg, WI. Choosing finishes during a build is a chance to plan surfaces that work together from the start, and this home is a good example of that kind of planning. You can see more of our work in the area on our Fitchburg flooring page.
The Craft Behind Herringbone
Herringbone takes careful planning. The layout has to be centered and squared before the first tile goes up, so the zigzag runs straight and the cuts at the edges look even. On the fireplace, the pattern has to carry around the corners of the box so the front and sides line up cleanly. Professional installation is what makes a pattern this detailed look effortless.
To keep stone tile looking its best, visit our flooring care page. You’ll find tile care guides there for floors, showers and tubs, and backsplashes.
Start Your Own Project
Thinking about matching surfaces in your own home? Our design consultations are free. You’ll leave with design recommendations and clear next steps, and we’ll follow up with a quote after a free in-home measure. Visit our Madison showroom on the Verona Frontage Road inside the Design Mart at 5117 Verona Rd, Madison, WI 53711, call (608) 274-2500, or contact us to get started. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments are optional. FLOOR360 has been locally owned and operated for more than 25 years, and we’d love to help with your next project.
