Herringbone vs Chevron: The Battle of Patterned Timber Floors
When Pattern Becomes Personality
In the world of timber flooring, few styles make a statement quite like herringbone flooring and chevron flooring. These two iconic patterns have stood the test of time, gracing everything from grand European estates to modern Australian apartments. While they may appear similar at first glance—both featuring a zigzag motif—their differences in geometry, installation, and visual impact are significant.
Whether you’re planning renovations, choosing between engineered timber, hybrid flooring, or laminate flooring, or simply trying to decide which pattern suits your aesthetic, understanding the nuances of herringbone and chevron will help you make a confident, stylish choice.
Let’s explore the design, practicality, and personality of each pattern—and discover which one is the perfect fit for your space.
What’s the Difference Between Herringbone and Chevron?
| Feature | Herringbone Flooring | Chevron Flooring |
| Pattern Geometry | Rectangular planks laid in a staggered zigzag | Planks cut at an angle to form a V-shape |
| Visual Effect | Dynamic, textured, traditional | Sleek, symmetrical, modern |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate | High (requires precise angle cuts) |
| Timber Waste | Lower (uses standard planks) | Higher (angled cuts produce more offcuts) |
| Cost | Generally more affordable | Typically more expensive |
Though both patterns create a sense of movement, herringbone flooring offers a broken zigzag that feels organic and layered, while chevron flooring delivers a clean, continuous V-shape that elongates and refines a room.
Herringbone Flooring: Timeless Texture and Character
Herringbone flooring is created by laying rectangular planks in a staggered zigzag pattern, forming a dynamic and textured surface that adds depth to any room.
Why Choose Herringbone?
- Adds visual interest and a sense of craftsmanship
- Works beautifully with oak flooring, blackbutt, and spotted gum
- Available in engineered timber, laminate, and vinyl plank
- Easier to install than chevron, especially with pre-cut boards
- Ideal for renovations where you want to introduce heritage charm
Best Pairings:
- Engineered flooring Grand Oak for a refined European aesthetic
- Laminate flooring or hybrid flooring for a cost-effective herringbone look
Herringbone is perfect for those who want a floor that feels both classic and creative.
Chevron Flooring: Sleek, Symmetrical, and Sophisticated
Chevron flooring features planks cut at precise angles (usually 45° or 60°) and joined to form a continuous V pattern. The result is a clean, directional flow that adds elegance and structure to a space.
Why Choose Chevron?
- Offers a modern, symmetrical aesthetic
- Creates a sense of movement and luxury
- Ideal for minimalist, architectural, or high-end interiors
- Often used in engineered timber or engineered flooring Grand Oak collections
Best Pairings:
- Spotted gum or oak flooring for bold, natural grain
- Vinyl plank or laminate flooring for a chevron look on a budget
Chevron is the go-to for those who want their floors to make a bold, design-forward statement.
Design Impact: Texture vs Flow
Both patterns bring movement and sophistication—but in different ways.
- Herringbone adds texture and rhythm, making it ideal for traditional or transitional interiors
- Chevron creates a streamlined, directional flow, perfect for modern, minimalist spaces
Herringbone feels more layered and organic, while chevron feels architectural and refined
Your choice will influence how a room feels—whether grounded and classic or elongated and contemporary.
Installation Complexity and Cost
Patterned floors require precision, and that affects both time and budget.
- Herringbone flooring uses standard rectangular planks, making it more accessible for DIYers or budget-conscious projects
- Chevron flooring requires angled cuts and meticulous alignment, increasing labour time and material waste
Expect higher installation costs for chevron, especially with solid or engineered timber
Pre-cut pattern boards in laminate, hybrid, or vinyl plank can simplify installation for both styles.
Durability and Maintenance
Both patterns are available in durable formats, but material choice matters.
- Chevron flooring in engineered timber or engineered flooring, Grand Oak offers excellent stability and moisture resistance
- Herringbone flooring is widely available in laminate, hybrid, and vinyl plank, making it ideal for high-traffic or pet-friendly homes
Both are easy to maintain—just sweep, vacuum, and mop with a suitable cleaner
Choose a finish that suits your lifestyle: matte for hiding scratches, gloss for a polished look.
Room Suitability and Visual Tricks
Patterned floors can dramatically alter how a room feels.
- Herringbone adds visual width and texture, making it ideal for narrow hallways or compact rooms
- Chevron creates a directional flow, elongating spaces and drawing the eye toward focal points
Both patterns work beautifully in open-plan living, but chevron is especially effective in creating a sense of grandeur and symmetry
Use blackbutt, spotted gum, or oak flooring tones to enhance the natural feel of the pattern.
Style, Longevity, and Resale Value
Both patterns are timeless—but they appeal to different tastes.
- Herringbone flooring has a rich history dating back to Roman roads and French palaces. It’s a classic choice that never goes out of style
- Chevron flooring is more fashion-forward, often seen in luxury interiors and boutique hotels
Both can increase property value, especially when installed in high-quality engineered timber or engineered flooring, Grand Oak.
If you’re renovating for resale, herringbone may have broader appeal, while chevron makes a bold design statement.
Pattern with Purpose
When it comes to patterned timber flooring, both herringbone and chevron offer timeless beauty, architectural interest, and the power to transform a space. The choice between them isn’t about which is better—it’s about which speaks to your style, your space, and your story.
SUMMARY
Choose herringbone flooring if you want a floor that feels rich in history, texture, and warmth. Opt for chevron flooring if you’re drawn to clean lines, symmetry, and a modern edge. Both patterns are available in a wide range of materials—from engineered timber and oak flooring to laminate, vinyl plank, and hybrid flooring—so you can achieve your dream look at any budget.
Whether you’re working with blackbutt, spotted gum, or engineered flooring, Grand Oak, these patterns elevate your interiors from ordinary to extraordinary. So go ahead—make your floor the foundation of your design vision.