Both chevron and herringbone flooring are timeless styles derived from classic parquet flooring. While they may look similar at first glance, there are key differences between the two patterns. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right style before you order and have your new flooring installed.
The chevron flooring pattern has been around for centuries, dating back to Ancient Greece and the Middle Ages. This style is created by cutting wood planks at a diagonal angle and placing them together to form a consistent V-shaped zig-zag pattern.
Chevron wood flooring offers a modern, stylish, and flowing design that works beautifully in both contemporary and Scandinavian interiors. For example:
Use light pine or white-painted chevron flooring to achieve a clean, minimalist Scandinavian look.
Mix different wood colors for a striking statement floor in large rooms.
Chevron flooring isn’t limited to wood – you’ll also find it in homeware designs like cushions, rugs, and textiles.
Herringbone flooring dates back even further, first seen in Ancient Rome in road construction and in Ancient Egypt in jewelry design. Unlike chevron, herringbone planks are cut straight with 90-degree angles. The boards are laid so their ends overlap, creating a more staggered zig-zag pattern.
Herringbone is one of the most popular flooring styles in homes due to its elegance and heritage look. You’ll often find it in:
Living rooms, using wood or engineered wood for a warm, classic effect.
Bathrooms, using tiles or stone in herringbone layout for unique flooring.
Driveways and patios, where brick herringbone patterns are commonly used.
By choosing different plank widths, lengths, and finishes, you can customize the effect of your herringbone floor. For example, Gulcarpet’s luxury vinyl Finesse Collection features smaller, narrower herringbone planks for a vintage parquet look – perfect for achieving a Parisian interior design style
Plank Cuts: Chevron flooring planks are cut at a diagonal angle, while herringbone planks are cut at a 90-degree angle.
Patterns: Chevron creates a clean, continuous V pattern, while herringbone creates a staggered zig-zag effect.
Room Impact: Chevron flooring can make a room feel wider and more modern, while herringbone adds classic depth and sophistication – especially in large or traditional homes.
Both chevron and herringbone flooring require skilled installation. They are generally more expensive to fit than straight plank flooring because:
Boards need to be cut precisely at either diagonal or 90-degree angles.
The layout must be measured carefully to align the patterns.
Different flooring fitters may charge differently for chevron vs herringbone installation.
At Gulcarpet, we offer a professional flooring fitting service to ensure your chosen pattern is installed perfectly.
Chevron Flooring → Creates a V-pattern, modern and stylish.
Herringbone Flooring → Creates a staggered zig-zag pattern, elegant and traditional.
Both are more expensive to fit compared to standard straight flooring.
Chevron planks are cut diagonally; herringbone planks are cut at 90 degrees.
Available in laminate, engineered wood, and luxury vinyl options at Gulcarpet.
Explore our Gul Carpet Inspiration Hub for the latest interior trends, carpet styling tips, and expert guides to make your flooring project effortless and enjoyable.
Find your perfect carpet with Gul Carpet—where quality meets style. Whether you’re decorating one room or an entire home, our expert team is here to help you every step of the way.
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