Herringbone flooring – a brief history
The history of herringbone flooring dates back to ancient times. The first graphic representations of the pattern now known as herringbone come from that period.
Herringbone appeared in the form of decorative motifs on everyday objects and ceramic elements. However, many long centuries had to pass before herringbone flooring became popular and desirable in interiors.
Herringbone flooring was popularised in the 16th century by the King of France, and later it conquered European salons, becoming a symbol of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and luxury. Installing herringbone flooring was very time-consuming and expensive, which meant that only wealthy Europeans could afford it.
Over the following centuries, herringbone flooring continued to appear as an interior finishing element. Over time, it underwent numerous transformations that gave it new and distinct forms.
Despite the passing years, the herringbone pattern still enjoys recognition and popularity. It is the hottest trend of the season. Wherever it appears, it inspires and impresses.
Herringbone flooring – what should you pay attention to?
Classic herringbone is a very expressive pattern in itself and therefore needs a calm setting to truly stand out. Properly incorporated into an interior design, it attracts attention and delights. However, to achieve a classy effect, it is worth carefully planning the arrangement by combining herringbone flooring with the other design elements in such a way that they create a cohesive whole together.
Sometimes people say that classic herringbone flooring suits every interior, but that is not entirely true. Unfortunately, small and narrow rooms are not well suited to a herringbone pattern. Herringbone flooring needs space to present its beauty.
Herringbone in a very small room will not look impressive. The effect may even be the opposite. If you dream of herringbone flooring, it is better to use this elegant pattern in a living room or lounge, where it can fully reveal its charm.
Herringbone – different installation methods
Recent decades have shown us that herringbone boards are a timeless way of finishing a floor, one that will certainly give the entire interior an original character and continue to impress for many years to come!
Classic herringbone – a pattern for every interior
Classic herringbone is the most traditional pattern, often also referred to as English herringbone.
Classic herringbone is installed using elements of the same size in such a way that the shorter side of one element meets the longer side of another element at a right angle. The classic herringbone pattern was especially fashionable in the 1970s and 1980s. Herringbone floors decorated old apartments and townhouses. Herringbone flooring in its modern form can also be laid using elements arranged in different ways. Herringbone flooring can be laid according to the pattern shown above.
Herringbone flooring: when is it worth choosing?
Herringbone suits various interiors, but the final effect depends largely on the shades, size, and visibility of the grain and knots in the panels.
Herringbone flooring is a popular finish in old townhouses, suburban residences, as well as apartments and houses inspired by retro and vintage styles. Light shades are an excellent option for smaller rooms, while darker tones can be used comfortably in spacious interiors.
Classic herringbone – what interior style?
In recent years, herringbone flooring in the leading role has made a major comeback, proving that classic elements always return when it comes to interiors.
Light, beige, and almost grey shades of herringbone flooring in a minimalist version will be the perfect background for minimalist, Scandinavian, and boho interiors, while darker walnut shades beautifully emphasise the character of modernist and contemporary interiors.
Some herringbone flooring grades feature very distinct knot and grain patterns that create an almost aged effect. These are an ideal option for retro or vintage-style rooms.
Contemporary design is dominated by eclecticism, which combines different styles and conventions and focuses on bold pairings. Classic herringbone as flooring is a perfect complement to an eclectic interior.