Herringbone Flooring: The Ultimate Guide to Herringbone LVT, SPC & Laminate Flooring
Few flooring styles have the instant impact of herringbone flooring.
Distinctive, elegant and surprisingly versatile, the classic herringbone pattern has moved far beyond traditional parquet floors. Today, you can achieve the same statement look with modern herringbone LVT, herringbone vinyl flooring and SPC herringbone flooring – bringing together beautiful wood-effect finishes with the durability and practicality busy homes need.
And if you're wondering whether herringbone flooring is still in style, the answer is a definite yes.
In fact, herringbone continues to be one of the most searched-for flooring styles in the UK in 2026. From warm natural oak and timeless timber tones to contemporary greys and dramatic dark wood effects, there are now more ways than ever to make the herringbone look work in your home.
At KWIK Floors, our collection of waterproof herringbone luxury click vinyl flooring has been designed to give you that premium parquet-inspired look without many of the maintenance demands associated with traditional wood flooring.
Thinking herringbone? Explore our full Herringbone Flooring Collection and order FREE flooring samples to see your favourite shades at home.
What is herringbone flooring?
Herringbone flooring is a distinctive flooring pattern created by laying rectangular planks in an interlocking zig-zag arrangement. The end of one plank meets the side of another, creating the instantly recognisable repeated pattern.
The design has its roots in traditional parquet flooring and has been used in interiors for centuries. However, you no longer need solid or engineered wood to create it.
Modern options include:
- Herringbone LVT flooring
- Herringbone vinyl flooring
- Herringbone SPC flooring
- Herringbone click flooring
- Herringbone laminate flooring
- Engineered wood herringbone flooring
- Traditional wood parquet flooring
This means homeowners can get the sophisticated appearance of oak herringbone flooring while choosing a material better suited to modern lifestyles.
Our herringbone SPC click flooring, for example, combines realistic wood-effect surfaces with a rigid waterproof core, integrated underlay and click installation system.
So you can have the look – without having to live like you're scared of your floor.
Is herringbone flooring still in style in 2026?
Absolutely.
Herringbone flooring remains one of the biggest flooring and interior design trends in the UK in 2026.
Its longevity comes down to versatility.
Traditional natural oak herringbone can complement period properties, country kitchens and classic interiors, while pale oak, grey and dark wood-effect herringbone flooring can create a completely different contemporary look.
It works particularly well with:
- modern neutral interiors
- natural and biophilic design
- contemporary kitchens
- period properties
- Scandi-inspired interiors
- rustic and farmhouse schemes
- boutique hotel-inspired interiors
- maximalist rooms
- minimalist spaces
- open-plan living
The pattern itself is traditional. What makes it feel current is the colour, texture and way you style it.
And that's good news if you're investing in a new floor. Herringbone isn't simply a pattern that appeared overnight on social media – it's a design with history behind it.
Herringbone LVT vs herringbone laminate flooring: what's the difference?
If you've been searching for herringbone flooring UK, you've probably encountered both herringbone LVT and herringbone laminate flooring.
They can look similar online, but they're not the same product.
What is herringbone laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring usually uses a wood-based fibreboard core topped with a decorative printed layer and protective surface.
Modern laminate can provide an attractive and cost-effective wood appearance, and there are now plenty of herringbone laminate designs available.
However, water resistance varies considerably between products. Traditional laminate flooring can be vulnerable to moisture if water reaches its core or joints.
What is herringbone LVT flooring?
LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile.
It's a broad category of resilient flooring designed to recreate finishes such as wood and stone while offering easier maintenance and excellent everyday durability.
You'll encounter both glued-down and click LVT products, as well as rigid-core versions.
What is SPC herringbone flooring?
SPC is a type of rigid-core luxury vinyl flooring.
At KWIK Floors, our herringbone SPC flooring combines the classic pattern and realistic appearance of timber with a stable rigid core and waterproof construction.
That makes it particularly attractive for households looking for herringbone flooring for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and busy family spaces.
If you're currently comparing laminate flooring, LVT flooring and herringbone vinyl flooring, don't judge on appearance alone. Think about where the floor is going, exposure to moisture, installation, maintenance and how your household actually uses the room.
Can you get waterproof herringbone flooring?
Yes. Waterproof herringbone flooring is available – and it's one of the biggest advantages of choosing SPC herringbone flooring.
All KWIK Floors SPC flooring is 100% waterproof, making it a practical alternative to traditional timber and many laminate products.
That opens up the herringbone look to rooms where real wood hasn't traditionally been the obvious choice, including:
- kitchens
- bathrooms
- utility rooms
- entrance halls
- cloakrooms
- open-plan kitchen/diners
Spilt a drink? Muddy footprints? Wet paws? Everyday kitchen splashes?
No panic.
Simply wipe your floor clean as part of your normal maintenance routine.
For a warmer natural look, try Sugar Oak Herringbone Luxury Click Vinyl Flooring, combining honey oak tones with realistic wood grain and subtle knot details.
What is click herringbone flooring?
Click herringbone flooring uses interlocking joints that allow individual pieces to connect without traditional glue-down installation.
This is particularly useful with herringbone because of the number of individual pieces required to create the pattern.
KWIK Floors' luxury click flooring uses precision locking technology designed to create secure joins and simplify installation.
Our herringbone ranges also feature integrated acoustic underlay, meaning that in most suitable installations you won't need to purchase and install a separate underlay.
The result?
Classic parquet-inspired style + modern flooring technology.
Is herringbone flooring difficult to install?
Herringbone requires more planning and precision than standard straight plank flooring.
The pattern needs to remain aligned across the room, so getting the starting point right is important.
Click herringbone systems make the process much more accessible than traditional parquet installation, but don't confuse "click" with "no preparation required".
Before starting, you should:
- Check the manufacturer's installation instructions.
- Make sure your subfloor is clean, dry, level and suitable.
- Allow the flooring to acclimatise where required.
- Measure the room carefully.
- Plan your centre line and pattern.
- Calculate cuts around walls and obstacles.
- Follow the required expansion-gap guidance.
- Regularly check alignment as the floor progresses.
If you're not confident fitting herringbone flooring yourself, we'd always recommend using an experienced flooring installer.
A beautifully laid herringbone floor is worth getting right.
Does herringbone flooring make a room look bigger or smaller?
This is one of the most common questions about herringbone flooring.
And the answer is: it can help create the impression of greater space when the pattern, colour and direction are chosen carefully.
The repeated diagonal movement naturally draws your eye through a room, which can give a sense of depth and movement.
For smaller rooms, consider a lighter herringbone flooring such as pale oak, natural timber or subtle grey.
For larger spaces, warm and darker shades can make an incredible statement without necessarily overwhelming the room.
Our Lesedi Oak Herringbone Luxury Click Vinyl Flooring, for example, features light natural oak tones that can help create a bright, airy finish.
For something cooler and more contemporary, Azure Grey Herringbone Luxury Click Vinyl Flooring combines the classic pattern with sophisticated grey wood-effect tones.
Which direction should herringbone flooring run?
There isn't one universal direction that works in every room.
As a general design principle, consider the room's:
- longest sightline
- main entrance
- focal point
- natural light
- adjoining spaces
- shape and proportions
In a hallway, you may want the herringbone pattern to lead the eye down the length of the space.
In a living room, you might use the direction to draw attention towards a fireplace, feature wall or large window.
In an open-plan kitchen/dining/living area, consider how the pattern will appear across the entire space rather than treating each zone separately.
Before installation, dry-lay a small section if possible. It can help you visualise how the pattern and colour will work with the room.
What are the best herringbone flooring colours for UK homes?
There's no single "best" colour – which is exactly why herringbone is so versatile.
At KWIK Floors, we currently offer 10 herringbone flooring designs, ranging from pale contemporary finishes and natural oaks through to warm timber shades, greys and dramatic dark flooring.
Light and natural oak herringbone flooring
Natural oak remains one of the easiest flooring colours to style.
It works beautifully with:
- warm whites
- creams
- taupes
- sage green
- natural timber
- linen
- rattan
- stone
- terracotta
- black accents
Take a look at Amazon Oak and Sugar Oak if you're drawn towards natural wood-effect interiors.
Amazon Oak Herringbone Luxury Click Vinyl Flooring offers a beautifully balanced warm oak look with realistic grain and subtle natural knotting.
Warm and traditional oak herringbone
If you're creating a cosy interior, farmhouse kitchen or period-inspired scheme, look towards richer oak tones.
Shop Sherwood Oak Herringbone for deeper oak colouring, authentic grain and natural knot detailing.
Warm flooring can work particularly well with burgundy, forest green, navy, antique brass, warm neutrals and earthy colours.
Grey herringbone flooring
Grey flooring hasn't disappeared – it's simply becoming more considered.
Rather than creating an entirely grey room, use grey herringbone flooring as a sophisticated base alongside warmer furnishings, natural timber and soft colour.
Azure Grey provides a cooler contemporary look, while Gran Canaria Herringbone is another option for a modern neutral interior.
Dark herringbone flooring
Want drama?
Dark wood-effect herringbone can create a striking, luxurious interior, particularly when contrasted against lighter walls or used as part of a boutique hotel-inspired scheme.
Black Ash Herringbone is ideal for creating that bolder statement.
Can't decide?
Don't choose your flooring based purely on a screen.
Lighting, wall colours, furniture and even the direction your room faces can affect how a flooring colour appears.
That's exactly why we offer FREE flooring samples.
Explore all 10 Herringbone Flooring designs and compare your favourites in your own home.
Can herringbone flooring be used in kitchens?
Yes – waterproof SPC herringbone flooring is an excellent option for kitchens.
Kitchens need flooring that can handle considerably more than simply looking good.
Think:
- spills
- food
- muddy shoes
- children
- pets
- chairs being moved
- constant foot traffic
- regular cleaning
KWIK Floors herringbone SPC flooring is designed with everyday living in mind, combining waterproof construction with a durable, easy-to-maintain surface.
And visually, herringbone can completely transform a kitchen.
Pair natural oak-effect herringbone with painted Shaker cabinetry for a modern country look, or contrast contemporary cabinetry with warmer flooring to soften the overall scheme.
Can herringbone flooring be used in bathrooms?
Yes – waterproof herringbone SPC flooring can be used in bathrooms when correctly installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
It's one of our favourite ways to get the warmth and character of wood-effect flooring into a bathroom without installing real timber.
Herringbone can also add interest to a smaller bathroom or cloakroom where there may not be room for lots of decorative furniture.
For a lighter scheme, consider pale or natural oak.
For something dramatic, contrast Black Ash Herringbone against white sanitaryware, brass fittings or richly coloured walls.
Prefer warmth? Fireside Oak Herringbone can bring a much softer natural feel.
Can you use herringbone flooring with underfloor heating?
Yes. KWIK Floors herringbone SPC flooring is compatible with most water-based underfloor heating systems, provided the flooring and heating system are installed and operated within the manufacturer's requirements.
This makes SPC particularly attractive for contemporary renovations, kitchens, bathrooms and open-plan extensions where underfloor heating is increasingly popular.
Always check the specific flooring's installation guidance and your heating manufacturer's requirements before installation.
We've covered this subject in much more detail in our guide:
Can Click LVT (SPC) Flooring Be Used With Underfloor Heating?
How much herringbone flooring do I need?
Start by calculating the floor area:
Room length × room width = floor area in square metres (m²)
For example:
5m × 4m = 20m²
However, you shouldn't order exactly 20m².
Herringbone installation involves cuts around the perimeter and obstacles, so you'll need an additional allowance for cutting and wastage.
The appropriate amount will depend on your room shape, layout and chosen flooring, so check the individual product guidance and speak to your installer before ordering.
Rooms with lots of corners, alcoves, doorways or unusual angles may require a larger allowance.
And don't forget to keep a small amount of spare flooring after installation. Having matching planks available can be useful if a section ever needs attention in future.
Need help working out how much flooring to order? Get in touch with KWIK Floors and we'll be happy to help.
Is herringbone flooring good for homes with dogs and children?
It can be an excellent choice – providing you choose a flooring material designed for busy family life.
That's where SPC herringbone flooring really comes into its own.
KWIK Floors herringbone flooring is:
- waterproof
- scratch resistant
- stain resistant
- easy to clean
- low maintenance
- pet friendly
- child friendly
- designed for high-traffic areas
That means everyday spills, muddy paws and the general chaos of family life don't mean giving up the beautiful floor you actually want.
For more advice, read our Best Flooring for Homes with Dogs: The Ultimate Pet-Friendly Flooring Guide.
Herringbone flooring vs straight plank flooring: which should I choose?
Both can create beautiful interiors, but they produce very different effects.
Choose herringbone flooring if you want:
- a statement floor
- a classic parquet-inspired design
- visual movement
- a premium appearance
- flooring that becomes part of the room's design
Choose straight plank flooring if you prefer:
- a simpler aesthetic
- long uninterrupted lines
- a minimalist look
- potentially quicker installation
- larger-format plank options
Can't decide?
You don't necessarily have to.
Several KWIK Floors shades are available across our flooring collections, making it possible to explore different formats while maintaining a similar overall colour palette.
Browse our Herringbone Flooring and Luxury Click Vinyl Flooring collections to compare the looks.
Is herringbone flooring worth it?
If you love the pattern, absolutely.
Traditional herringbone has always been associated with premium interiors, but modern herringbone LVT and SPC flooring make the look far more practical for everyday homes.
You can combine:
timeless design + realistic wood effects + waterproof performance + easy maintenance + modern click installation.
For many homeowners, that's a very appealing combination.
Find your perfect herringbone flooring at KWIK Floors
Whether your style is light and Scandinavian, warm and traditional, cool and contemporary or dark and dramatic, there's more than one way to do herringbone.
Our current collection includes 10 herringbone designs, with shades ranging from natural and warm oak to grey and dark wood effects.
And there's more on the way.
A brand-new KWIK Floors herringbone collection is launching soon, bringing even more colours and designs to choose from.
So if you've been thinking about herringbone flooring for your next renovation, now is a very good time to start planning.
Why choose KWIK Floors?
- 100% waterproof SPC flooring
- Realistic wood-effect finishes
- Durable rigid-core construction
- Integrated acoustic underlay
- Easy click-lock installation
- Underfloor heating compatible
- Pet and family friendly
- FREE flooring samples
- Fast UK-wide delivery
- Click & collect available
- Shop online 24/7
Not sure which colour?
Order FREE samples of your favourites and see your new flooring in your own home before making your final decision.
Herringbone Flooring FAQs
What is herringbone flooring?
Herringbone flooring uses rectangular flooring pieces laid in an interlocking zig-zag pattern. Modern herringbone flooring is available in materials including LVT, SPC, laminate, engineered wood and traditional parquet.
Is herringbone flooring still popular in 2026?
Yes. Herringbone remains one of the UK's most popular flooring styles in 2026, working across contemporary, traditional, Scandi, farmhouse and luxury-inspired interiors.
Is herringbone flooring waterproof?
It depends on the flooring material. KWIK Floors SPC herringbone flooring is 100% waterproof, making it suitable for rooms including kitchens and bathrooms when correctly installed.
Is herringbone LVT better than laminate?
Neither material is automatically better for every home. However, waterproof rigid-core SPC herringbone flooring can offer advantages in moisture-prone areas where the water resistance of laminate products may vary.
Can you put herringbone flooring in a kitchen?
Yes. Waterproof herringbone SPC flooring is well suited to kitchens because it combines water resistance, durability and easy maintenance with a decorative wood-effect finish.
Can herringbone flooring go in a bathroom?
Yes. Waterproof SPC herringbone flooring can be suitable for bathrooms when correctly installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Can herringbone flooring be used with underfloor heating?
Yes. KWIK Floors herringbone SPC flooring is compatible with most water-based underfloor heating systems, subject to the relevant installation and temperature requirements.
Does herringbone flooring make a room look bigger?
The diagonal movement of a herringbone pattern can help draw the eye through a room and create a sense of depth. Lighter oak and neutral herringbone flooring can be particularly effective when creating a bright, open feel.
Is herringbone flooring hard to lay?
Herringbone requires more planning and precision than standard straight plank flooring. Modern click herringbone flooring simplifies the installation process, although careful subfloor preparation, measuring, alignment and cutting are still essential.
What colour herringbone flooring is best?
Natural and warm oak are extremely versatile, while pale oak can brighten smaller rooms, grey herringbone creates a contemporary look and dark wood-effect herringbone can produce a dramatic luxury finish. Ordering samples is the best way to compare colours in your own space.
Is herringbone flooring suitable for dogs?
Durable SPC herringbone flooring can be an excellent option for homes with pets. KWIK Floors SPC flooring is waterproof, scratch resistant and easy to clean, making it suitable for busy households with muddy paws and everyday spills.
Where can I buy herringbone flooring in the UK?
KWIK Floors offers a range of waterproof herringbone SPC and luxury click vinyl flooring online, with free samples and fast UK-wide delivery. Explore the full KWIK Floors Herringbone Collection here.
Need more help? Contact us here! We are always happy to help! Speak soon.