Why is herringbone flooring so popular?

Herringbone patterns have increased in popularity due to the increase in classic finishes to homes and the improved manufacturing process in laminates and click-fit luxury vinyl. Thanks to the variety in wood shades and patterns, it combines a natural material look with extra visual interest. There are many styles and shades to choose from and the results are spectacular adding a touch of elegance to your home.

What does houndstooth mean?

Houndstooth is a two-toned, broken check pattern using mainly two colours. The print was originally inspired by the uneven shape of a dog’s teeth and was worn by shepherds in Scotland as a form of ancient camouflage. Worn by the wealthy in the 1930’s, houndstooth has a timeless appeal that will never go out of style.

Herringbone Flooring

Q: Is a herringbone floor more expensive?

If you would like a herringbone floor pattern in wood, due to the production process for herringbone planks, it will often be slightly more expensive than a larger, standard sized floor. The small planks and cuts at the perimeter of a room will mean there is more wastage than a standard plank installation. A minimum of 20% additional material would need to be ordered for wastage. When laying the floor, the planks must be precise to keep the pattern uniform and that takes a little more time so increases the cost. However, herringbone patterns are also available in sheet vinyl form where there will be less wastage and does not take any longer to fit than a standard vinyl, still achieving the desirable effect.

Q: Are herringbone floors worth it?

There is nothing grander or more elegant than a herringbone floor. Whilst being slightly more expensive you can be sure the herringbone pattern will achieve the ‘wow’ factor and impress your visitors. It not only brings opulence and luxury to any room, but the pattern also creates the illusion of movement, making a room appear larger, so it would be a great choice for smaller or narrower rooms.

Q: What's the difference between herringbone and parquet?

The word ‘parquet’ is the umbrella term used to describe a variety of patterned flooring. Parquet floors are recognised by their small planks that run in diagonal patterns and there are plenty of different designs and styles for you to choose from. Herringbone is a specific flooring pattern and it’s available in wood, laminate, vinyl, LVT and carpet.

Q: What does herringbone mean? Why is it called herringbone?

The herringbone pattern is the most popular form of parquet flooring, first developed in the Roman era as the perfect arrangement for road building. Romans discovered the roads were more stable when the bricks were laid in the herringbone pattern. It was first used in flooring back in the 16th century and remains just as popular today. The pattern is called herringbone due to its visual similarity of the bone structure of a herring fish. It’s a type of pattern made up of rectangles at right angles to one another, creating a staggered zig-zag design.

Herringbone is the traditional, timeless and distinctive pattern, known and loved for its elegance and uniformity. It has recently re-entered the spotlight as a fantastic option for flooring that blends the traditional and ultra-modern seamlessly, Read more

Carpet

A timeless classic, herringbone carpet is available in natural wool or sisal.

Herringbone Carpet

Laminate

Find the V-shaped pattern in a wide range of colours, hues, styles and materials.

Herringbone Laminate

Luxury Vinyl Tiles

Our luxury vinyl floor tiles will create an inviting and attractive space in your home.

Herringbone LVT

Vinyl

Yes, it’s possible for your flooring to be practical yet pretty.

Herringbone Vinyl

Style Inspiration

How to choose your floor colour

When it comes to choosing a colour for your floor, there are several things to consider. Our helpful guide will give you the best tips.

How to match your floors to your furniture

Our guide takes you through the latest looks and inspire you with some great combinations to try.

How to measure a room

Tape measures at the ready! Our helpful guide will teach you how to measure your room like a pro.

How to measure the stairs, hallway and landing

What's a riser? And where is the nose?! Follow our simple 10 step guide to learn how to accurately measure your stairs.

Cosy living room ideas

Whatever the size of your room or style of your home, we’ve got lots of great ideas and tips. Read on for our best cosy living room ideas.

What is the best flooring for kitchens?

From vinyl to laminate and more, we help you find the best type of flooring for kitchens.

Carpet Care Guide

Keep your carpet feeling soft and looking fabulous with our handy cleaning tips.

Laminate and LVT Care Guide

The best thing about laminate and LVT flooring is it's so easy to care for! Check out our cleaning hacks for smooth flooring.

Vinyl Care Guide

Does your vinyl need some TLC? Our expert cleaning tips will leave it looking as good as new.