Why Herringbone Flooring Is Everywhere Right Now (And How to Pull It Off)

Why Herringbone Flooring Is Everywhere Right Now (And How to Pull It Off)

Scroll through any Irish interior design account right now and you'll see it: herringbone floors in kitchens, hallways, living rooms, even bathrooms. What was once associated with grand Georgian townhouses has become the most popular flooring trend across all home styles and budgets.

Here's why it works — and how to get it right without the price tag of real parquet.

What Is Herringbone Pattern?

Herringbone is a V-shaped zigzag pattern created by laying rectangular planks at 45-degree angles, with each plank's end meeting the side of the next. The result is a dynamic, interlocking pattern that draws the eye along the floor. It's named after the spine of a herring fish, which the pattern resembles.

It's one of the oldest flooring patterns in European architecture, used in Roman roads and French châteaux alike. The reason it's endured for centuries is simple: it looks exceptional.

Why Has It Become So Popular?

A few things have converged to make herringbone the trend it is today:

• Laminate technology has made it accessible. You no longer need to pay for hand-laid solid wood parquet. Herringbone laminate planks click together just like standard laminate — same installation, fraction of the cost.
• Open-plan living has become the norm in Irish homes. Herringbone creates a strong visual anchor in large open spaces where a standard plank floor can feel plain.
• Social media has driven a broader appetite for distinctive interior choices. Herringbone photographs beautifully and consistently performs well in home design content.

Where Does Herringbone Work Best?

Hallways

This is the classic location and for good reason. Herringbone in an entrance hall sets the tone for the whole home immediately. Even a narrow hallway is transformed by the pattern — the zigzag actually makes a space feel wider.

Living Rooms and Open-Plan Spaces

In a large room, herringbone adds visual texture and interest that a plain plank floor can lack. In an open-plan kitchen/diner/living area, it creates a sense of intentional design throughout the space.

Kitchens

Herringbone laminate in an Aqua or moisture-resistant finish is a strong kitchen choice — the pattern adds character to what can otherwise be a very functional, utilitarian room.

Home Offices

A herringbone floor in a home office makes the room feel more considered and finished — important if you're working from home full-time and spending significant time in that space.

What Colours Work Best?

The most popular herringbone choices in Ireland right now are:

• Light grey and greige tones — versatile, contemporary, makes spaces feel larger
• Warm honey and natural oak — classic and timeless, suits both modern and traditional interiors
• Smoked and dark oak — dramatic and rich; works best in rooms with good natural light
• Pale, bleached tones — very popular in Scandinavian-influenced interiors; gives a clean, airy feel

A useful rule: if your walls and furniture are neutral, you can go bolder with the floor colour. If your room already has strong colour, a more natural or warm-toned herringbone will complement rather than compete.

Herringbone vs. Chevron — What's the Difference?

They look similar but they're not the same. In herringbone, the ends of planks meet the sides of adjacent planks, creating a staggered zigzag. In chevron, the planks are cut at an angle so their ends align to form a perfect V. Chevron is slightly more formal and geometric; herringbone is more classic and rustic. Both are available at Kidd Flooring.

Is Herringbone Laminate Hard to Install?

It's more involved than straight-lay laminate — there are more cuts, more waste, and the layout requires more planning. That said, it's absolutely achievable as a DIY project if you're comfortable with laminate installation generally. If you'd prefer a professional installer, we're happy to recommend one.

One important tip: herringbone requires more material than a straight lay due to the angled cuts. Add 10–15% extra to your measured area when calculating how much to order.

The Bottom Line

Herringbone has earned its popularity. It adds character, depth, and a sense of quality to any room — and with laminate options starting at very accessible prices, it's no longer reserved for high-end renovations.

Browse the herringbone range at Kidd Flooring — available in multiple colourways and AC ratings to suit every room in your home.