Herringbone Patterns: Styles You’ll Love

Fancy giving your home floor a real talking point? Herringbone flooring isn’t just visually striking—it comes in a wonderful array of pattern styles to suit every taste and space. Here’s a rundown of the most popular types

1. Traditional Herringbone

This is the classic zig-zag design everyone knows and loves. Rectangular blocks are laid side-to-end at right angles, creating that iconic V-shape. It’s perfect for bringing timeless elegance—think Georgian townhouses and stately manor halls.

2. Skinny & Extra-Long Herringbone

Want drama? Go skinny! Using narrower and longer planks turns the traditional pattern into sweeping, graceful arrows across the floor. It’s perfect for spacious rooms or even feature walls where you want to make an architectural statement.

3. Double Herringbone

This variation doubles up the planks—two blocks together before the next turn. The result is a chunkier, more eye-catching pattern that adds depth and richness. It’s ideal for open-plan spaces needing a bit more definition.

4. Herringbone with Square Insert

Mix in a square block after each zig-zag for a geometric twist. It breaks up the repetition and adds a playful rhythm to the floor. You can also slot in a border of squares around the edge to frame the pattern and make it pop.

5. Block Basket-Weave

This pattern stitches squares—usually 4×4 blocks—together, alternating direction like woven fabric. It’s elegant and softer than herringbone, giving a handcrafted, cosy feel that’s ideal for living rooms or bedrooms.

6. 5-Block Basket-Weave with Square Insert

A twist on basket-weave—five blocks form a square, then a single block offsets them. The result? A balanced, quilted look that still feels dynamic and layered. Clever and gorgeous.

7. Art & Craft Basket-Weave

This one channels Arts & Crafts movement vibes—clean, simple and symmetrical. It’s restrained but warm; if you appreciate subtle elegance, it’s a top pick.

8. Straight Lay

The easiest of the lot: rectangles placed side-by-side, straight across, giving a brick-style effect. It’s understated but has a directional quality that guides the eye. A calmer, more relaxed cousin of herringbone.

9. Straight Lay with Square Insert

Like straight lay, but with squares punctuating the rows. It’s a softer way to introduce pattern if you love symmetry but want a bit of flair.

10. Diagonal Herringbone

Turn everything 45°, and you get diagonal herringbone. It’s bold, striking and a bit dramatic—perfect if you want your floor to lead the way, literally pointing toward key areas like a fireplace or entrance.

Why so many options?

Because flooring isn’t one-size-fits-all. Room size, furniture style, layout and vibe all influence your choice:

• Pattern scale: Skinny herringbone feels intimate; oversized blocks are grand.
• Visual flow: Diagonal patterns guide the eye across the room.
• Style match: Basket-weave brings craftsman charm; square inserts add a modern twist.
• Installation: Some patterns require serious precision—worth calling in the professionals.

Materials & Formats

These patterns can be created in solid or engineered wood—oak being a favourite— and even replicated in laminate or LVT versions with click locks for easier install. Engineered herringbone is particularly handy with underfloor heating and won’t swell in humid areas.

Choosing what’s right

1. Measure the space. Large rooms can host grand patterns; cosy spaces may suit narrower formats.
2. Think about texture. Wider boards showcase grain, skinny ones emphasis geometry.
3. Border or no border? Framing your floor with a border emphasises the center pattern; skipping it opens and simplifies the look.
4. DIY or pro? Simple straight lay is DIY-friendly—but intricate inserts and diagonal layouts often need expert installation.

Flooring Factory has a great range of herringbone flooring at affordable prices. Their website shows they beat high street prices without cutting corners on quality. With delivery in just 3–5 days, they’re a solid choice if you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all your flooring needs.

Final Word

Herringbone flooring isn’t just one thing—it’s a canvas for creativity and style. Whether you stick with the classic, spice it up with a square insert, or go all out with basket-weave, there’s a pattern to suit your home’s personality. Choose carefully, install with care, and your floor won’t just be underfoot, it’ll be the star of the show.