Herringbone Flooring

What is Herringbone?

Herringbone flooring and chevron rank among the oldest, most timeless parquet patterns. Both designs arrange equal-sized wood pieces into a clear zig-zag layout.

In herringbone, installers cut planks into perfect rectangles, then stagger the boards so the end of one meets the side of the next. By contrast, chevron relies on angled cuts. Craftsmen cut each plank on a bevel so the “zig” meets the “zag” along one straight axis.

Herringbone – Past and Present

Herringbone flooring likely started in Europe as the first parquet style. The idea felt natural: turn straight planks at an angle and echo the zig-zag brickwork seen in churches and civic buildings for centuries.

In 1539, Italian craftsmen installed one of the earliest documented herringbone floors in France. French patrons invited them to work locally; the team designed and produced that landmark project. Today, simpler plank floors dominate many interiors. Even so, MR FLOOR still treats herringbone as a benchmark of timeless beauty.

When you choose a pattern, let your taste lead. Pick herringbone for a lively, textured feel. Or select chevron if you prefer strict structure and perfect symmetry.

Related guides#

See our newer Melbourne guides: How Much Does Herringbone Flooring Cost to Install in Melbourne?.