Elongated hexagon tile backsplashes are a popular and modern take on the classic hexagon tile trend. With their stretched shape, elongated hex tiles create a sleek and contemporary aesthetic perfect for modern kitchens and bathrooms.
What Are Elongated Hexagon Tiles?
Elongated hexagon tiles, sometimes called stretched hexagon tiles, have a shape that is longer than a traditional hexagon tile. While a standard hexagon is symmetrical with all six sides being equal in length, an elongated hex tile has two parallel sets of longer sides and two sets of shorter sides perpendicular to them. This creates a narrow diamond-like silhouette.
The elongated hexagon shape brings visual interest with its uniqueness. The parallel longer sides draw the eye vertically or horizontally, creating the illusion of a slightly larger space. This makes elongated hexagon tiles ideal for small spaces like galley kitchens where you want to make the room appear bigger.
Elongated hex tiles are available in a variety of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, glass, marble, and stone. The size of each tile can range from small mosaics to large-format tiles 12 inches or more across. This versatility suits them for both backsplashes and full wall applications.
Benefits of Elongated Hexagon Backsplash Tiles
There are many reasons to consider using elongated hexagon tiles for a kitchen or bathroom backsplash:
Sleek, Contemporary Look
The stretched hex shape has a refined, sophisticated appearance that pairs well with modern décor. The parallel edges and clean lines create a minimalist, almost futuristic aesthetic. Elongated hex tiles make a gorgeous and current alternative to ubiquitous subway tile backsplashes.
Adds Visual Interest
While still neutral enough to pair with many styles, the unique silhouette of elongated hex tile backsplashes adds appealing visual texture. The eye follows the diamond-like shapes, which are more interesting than traditional geometric tiles like squares.
Versatile Placement Options
One major perk of stretched hexagon tiles is that they can be installed in many different orientations. Laying them vertically draws the eye up, while horizontal placement emphasizes the width of the space. Diagonal and chevron patterns are also eye-catching. This versatility allows for customized designs.
Contemporary Edge on a Classic Shape
For those who like the look of traditional hexagon tile but want a modern twist, elongated hexagons are perfect. The stretched shape gives new life to the classic hex trend in an unexpected way.
Large and Small Format Options
Elongated hexagon tiles come in a wide range of sizes, from tiny mosaics to extra-large 12-inch tiles. This flexibility of scale allows for designing truly custom backsplash looks. Go bold with big honed marble hexes or intricate with petite handmade ceramic mosaics.
Works with Many Design Styles
While they pair beautifully with contemporary and modern décors, elongated hex tiles can also work with traditional spaces. Their geometric shape and availability in classic materials like marble, subway tile, and penny tile means they can fit with many aesthetics.
Choosing Elongated Hexagon Tiles
Several factors to consider when selecting elongated hexagon tiles for your space:
Color/Pattern
Elongated hexagon tiles come in every color of the rainbow and myriad patterns. Choose colors that coordinate with your overall kitchen or bath design. Neutrals like white, gray, and beige work well for versatile backsplashes. Bold or colorful hexagon tiles can make a statement. Patterns like moroccan fish scale hexes add ornate visual texture.
Material
Common elongated hex tile materials include ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, and stone. Porcelain is durable, affordable, and comes in lots of colors. Marble has a timeless elegance. Mosaics made of glass, ceramic, or stone are also popular. Pick a material suitable for wet areas like backsplashes.
Size of Tiles
Petite mosaic elongated hexagon tiles can be as small as 3/4 inch across. Large format tiles can be 12 inches or longer across. Smaller tiles create busy patterns with lots of grout lines while larger tiles have a smoother look. Balance your design goals and budget when choosing sizes.
Finish and Texture
Elongated hexagon tiles come in glossy, matte, polished, and tumbled textures. Smooth, shiny finishes have visual pop while textured surfaces like tumbled marble add charming rustic appeal. Consider the texture that best suits your backsplash goals.
Accent Tiles
Adding rectangular, square, or diamond accent tiles in coordinating colors or materials can add even more customized style to an elongated hexagon backsplash. Accent tiles create zones, framing effects, or display space for special pieces.
How to Design With Elongated Hexagon Tiles
There are many exciting ways to incorporate elongated hexagon tiles into kitchen or bathroom backsplash designs:
Vertical Staggered Pattern
Installing elongated hexagon tiles in vertical columns offset from one another creates appealing diamond staggered shapes. This pattern works especially well in narrow spaces. Contrasting grout colors can accentuate the zig-zag effect.
Horizontal Bands
For a streamlined look, lay elongated hex tiles in horizontal bands or “courses” along the backsplash area. This showcases the directional nature of the elongated shape. Horizontal bands help widen the look of the space.
Stacked Layouts
Stacking elongated hexagon tiles with the points aligned vertically is a traditional, tailored look. Utilizing brick-like offset rows adds interest while keeping the overall formation clean and geometric. This works great with glass, marble or stone hex tiles.
Diagonal Patterns
Laying elongated hexagon tile backsplashes in diagonal designs adds great visual motion. Diagonals draw the eye across the space in an angular direction that’s more dynamic than straight vertical or horizontal patterns. Chevrons are a variation on angled arrangements.
Paired With Subway Tiles
Pairing elongated hexagon tiles with classic rectangular subway tiles can create a cool juxtaposition of shapes. Subway tile “frames” for hexagon backsplash accents generate defined display spaces to highlight the unique hexes.
As Accents and Insets
Using elongated hexagon tiles as a mini backsplash, column detail or focal feature framed with other shapes like squares is an artistic choice. Insets of elongated hex tile designs can create charming vignettes within a larger backsplash.
Mixed With Other Geometrics
Blending elongated hexagon tiles with other geometric shapes like triangles, diamonds or octagons can ramp up the visual interest even more. Taking multi-geometric designs to an artistic level is a big current trend.
Focal Point With Range Hood
Make a kitchen range hood an architectural focal point by framing it with elongated hexagon tiles laid vertically, horizontally or diagonally. Bold oversized tiles work best for this eye-catching look.
Morphing Chevron Patterns
For serious visual impact, an elongated hexagon tile backsplash can gradually morph from horizontal stripes to chevrons, creating exciting dynamic movement. Contrasting grout lines enhance the perspective-bending effect.
Installing Elongated Hexagon Tile Backsplashes
Some best practices to get a quality installation with elongated hexagon tile backsplashes:
- Use a professional installer experienced with hexagon tile layouts for a gorgeously executed design. The unique shape and precise geometry of hexes requires skill.
- Plan the layout and measurements carefully. Know the exact position of each tile before you begin. Leave room for accent pieces and design features.
- Have extra tiles on hand, especially with mosaics. Custom elongated hexagon tiles can have high wastage rates during cuts, so extra inventory ensures you don’t run short.
- Follow all manufacturer’s instructions for substrates, underlayments, adhesives, grout types, and sealing. Use products compatible with the tiles.
- Make sure the substrate is properly prepared so tiles adhere smoothly. Any unevenness will be glaringly obvious.
- Use tile spacers for consistent spacing and alignment of the hexagon shape. Meticulous joint lines create the desired geometric effect.
- Account for the direction of light source to highlight the 3D nature of the tiles. Illumination from the upper left casts attractive shadows.
- Grout carefully using diagonal motions across the hexes to compact joints and create clean consistent lines. Use a grout release agent to minimize staining.
- Seal and maintain the grout over time per manufacturer directions to prevent discoloration or hazing. Re-seal as needed.
Elongated Hexagon Tile Backsplash Ideas
Here are some inspiring ways to incorporate elongated hexagon tiles into kitchen and bathroom backsplash designs:
Modern Marble and Brass
Extra-large marble hexagon tiles laid horizontally offer beautiful texture and movement. Brushed brass accents and fittings coordinate beautifully with the grey and white veining.
Geometric Moroccan Fish Scale Mosaic
Intricate ceramic mosaic elongated hex tiles arranged in a fish scale pattern create serious visual impact. The smaller scale allows for detail work on a curve or focal area.
Bold and Colorful Contrast
Vibrant forest green hexagons provide an energizing pop of color against sunny yellow squares. The high contrast design makes the hexagon shape stand out beautifully.
Hexagon Frame Surrounds Square Tiles
Equally sized elongated hexagon perimeter tiles frame an interior grid of white square subway tiles. The framing effect artfully showcases the inner tiles.
Horizontal Band Insets with Octagons
Thin horizontal bands of ivory hexagon tile contrast with wider bands of rectangular ivory octagon tile for textural intrigue. Crisp white grout lines finish the modern look.
Honed Travertine Stone Hexes
Organic texture defines these elongated honed travertine hexagon tiles with subtle linear veining. The honed matte finish allows their natural beauty to shine.
Black Hexagon Tile Fireplace Surround
Sleek black elongated hexagon tiles laid vertically in a herringbone pattern make a striking surround for this modern gas fireplace. The dark color amplifies the drama.
Mixed With Blue Moroccan Zellige
A whimsical blend of handmade terracotta zellige tiles and blue ceramic elongated hex mosaic tiles creates eclectic Mediterranean style. Distressed edges increase charm.
Contemporary Sophistication with Gold Accents
Creamy off-white porcelain elongated hex tile backsplash is paired with thin bricks of glossy grey and white tile. Glam gold metal mosaic hexagon inserts amp up the elegant style.
Hexagon Tile Backsplash FAQs
What are some pros and cons of elongated hexagon tile backsplashes?
Pros include the contemporary style, many orientation options, versatility with materials and sizes, and adding visual interest. Cons can be complexity of installation and higher waste.
How durable are elongated hexagon tiles?
It depends on the material. Porcelain provides the most durability. Natural stone requires more sealing. Ceramic and glass mosaic hexes have moderate durability for backsplashes when properly sealed.
Do hexagon tile backsplashes work in traditional style kitchens?
Yes, classic materials like marble, penny tile mosaics, or beveled subway hexagon tiles can look very traditional. A brick pattern in hexagon subway tiles has an appealing vintage look.
Can I install a hexagon backsplash tile myself?
It’s possible for DIYers with tiling experience, but the intricate geometry of hexagons makes professional installers well worth the investment for flawless results.
How are elongated hexagon tiles made?
Porcelain, ceramic and stone hex tiles are made from molds then fired. Glass mosaic hex tiles are cut individually then mounted on sheets. Some are handmade tiles with rustic edges.
How do I clean and care for a hexagon tile backsplash?
Use mild non-abrasive cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals. Re-seal grout and tiles periodically per manufacturer directions. Avoid excessive moisture buildup behind the tiles.
Conclusion
With their distinct elongated shape and modern vibe, elongated hexagon tiles make an eye-catching and current alternative to standard backsplash materials. Their versatility suits many aesthetics from ultra-contemporary designs to rustic or traditional styles. Creating artistic zig-zag patterns or combining with other shapes and materials unlocks lots of creative possibilities. A professional install is recommended to perfectly execute the geometry and details of elongated hex tiles. With the right design, elongated hexagon backsplashes can add a sculptural, elegant dimension to any kitchen or bathroom.
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