Some floors do their job quietly. Others make a statement without even trying. Herringbone flooring falls into the second camp. It has a way of catching your eye and holding your attention, all while staying effortlessly cool.
I once stepped into a brownstone in Singapore and completely forgot the view, the high ceilings, and even the exposed bricks. My eyes went straight to the floor. That soft, rhythmic pattern pulled me in. It felt rich and lived-in, like it had stories to tell.
If you are thinking about adding it to your home, you are in great company. Herringbone is having a moment, but truthfully, it never really went out of style. Before you start picking planks or browsing samples, let’s walk through what you really need to know.
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Herringbone is a pattern, not a type of wood. It’s created by placing rectangular planks in a repeated V layout where each end meets another at a right angle. The result is a floor with subtle movement and an eye-catching flow.
This look has been around for centuries. It started with Roman roads, then made its way into European castles and stately homes. That mix of history and geometry gives it a refined, timeless feel.
What makes it really stand out is how it interacts with light. As the sun moves through the day, the pattern shifts with it, catching highlights and shadows that give the floor a bit of a glow. It is understated magic.
One of the best things about herringbone is how adaptable it is, especially in SIngapore. It fits just as easily in a modern apartment as it does in a vintage townhouse.
A friend of mine installed pale oak herringbone in her sleek, open-concept loft. The rest of the space was quiet and minimal, but the floor gave it personality without trying too hard. Another client put rich walnut herringbone in a home with arched doorways and plaster walls, and it looked like it had been there forever.
No matter the setting, herringbone adds a sense of intention. It says, someone thought this through.
There are a few style variations worth considering.
Not sure what would look best in your space? Our experts are eager to help you figure it out with a free consultation.
Let’s talk about what your herringbone floor is actually made from. This choice affects how it looks, how it wears, and how much it costs.
Pricing for herringbone flooring can vary a lot depending on the material and the complexity of the installation.
Here’s a general idea:
Keep in mind that because of the pattern, you may need more material than you would with a traditional layout. It’s smart to order about ten percent more than your measured square footage to cover waste from cuts and mistakes.
Disclaimer: Prices may vary depending on market conditions, suppliers, brands, and specific project requirements in Singapore.
Wood might be the most talked-about choice, but it is not your only option. Tile and brick can be just as beautiful, and in some spaces, even more practical.
Herringbone tile works wonders in kitchens and bathrooms. It brings that same movement and structure to a room, but with materials that handle moisture and mess with ease. Porcelain and ceramic are top picks, and they pair beautifully with underfloor heating if you want a warm step in the morning.
Brick in a herringbone layout is perfect for spaces like mudrooms, sunrooms, or patios. It feels grounded and full of texture, and it wears well over time. There’s something about brick that brings a little charm and warmth that wood sometimes can’t.
This part matters more than you might think. Choosing the right material is just as important as the pattern.
Solid hardwood is the traditional pick. You can refinish it multiple times and it has a weight and texture you can feel. Oak and walnut are classic choices, each with its own personality and color.
But solid wood has its challenges. It is sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. It takes longer to install. And depending on the wood, it can get pricey.
Engineered wood is a smart alternative. It has a real wood top layer but a more stable core underneath. It handles humidity better and installs more easily over different surfaces. If you live in a climate with shifting seasons or want something more forgiving, engineered wood is worth considering.
Herringbone is actually a type of parquet, which simply means flooring arranged in a geometric pattern.
The difference is in the size. Herringbone parquet usually uses smaller pieces, which lets you create tighter, more intricate designs. This works especially well in smaller spaces like entryways or home offices. You get all the style, without overwhelming the room.
That said, installation is a little trickier. Because the pieces are smaller and the pattern is more detailed, it takes a steady hand and a good installer. If it’s done right, though, the payoff is huge.
Let’s talk about money for a second. Real wood herringbone looks amazing, but it can stretch your budget quickly. Between the material and the skilled labor needed to lay it properly, the cost adds up.
Laminate has become a popular alternative. Many brands offer click-together herringbone planks that are easy to install and surprisingly realistic. If you need something durable, low maintenance, and more affordable, laminate is worth looking into.
I once worked with a landlord who used laminate herringbone throughout a rental property. It looked great, held up to foot traffic, and still looked fresh a year later. Sometimes practicality wins without losing the look.
Image Source: Kite Flooring
Start with a neutral backdrop. Light or mid-toned walls, simple curtains, and soft rugs all help bring attention to the floor without fighting for it. Choose furniture that adds depth through texture instead of pattern.
Lighting can make a big difference too. Floor lamps or natural light that sweep across the surface help show off the angles and grain. It is like putting a spotlight on something already beautiful.
If your heart says herringbone but your wallet says “let’s calm down,” vinyl could be your new best friend.
Luxury vinyl planks come in all sorts of finishes, many of which are made specifically for herringbone layouts. They are water-resistant, easy to clean, and surprisingly soft underfoot. They are great for basements, laundry rooms, or anywhere you want something stylish and low-maintenance.
One couple I worked with used herringbone vinyl in their family room. It handled kids, pets, and popcorn spills like a champ. And it still looked great long after the project wrapped up.
Herringbone flooring is a design choice with staying power. It brings depth and character to a room in a way that only a few of other flooring styles can match.
Yes, it takes more effort. Yes, it asks for a little more planning. But the result is worth it every single time.
If you’re ready to bring that kind of character to your space, check out Floor Melody. From wood to vinyl, we offer you the styles and the team to make your dream floor a reality.
So explore your options. Find the material that works for your space and your life. Work with someone who knows how to install it well. Our experts are eager to help you figure it out with a free consultation.
And then get ready for those quiet compliments when guests walk in, glance at the floor, and say that one little word you want to hear.
“Beautiful.”
