Chevron Flooring Explained: Pattern, Installation and Where It Works Best
Chevron flooring is frequently confused with herringbone, and while both use rectangular blocks laid in angular patterns, they produce distinctly different visual effects. Chevron has seen increasing specification in the UK residential market over the past five years, particularly in new builds and contemporary refurbishment projects where its clean, directional quality suits modern interior design.
How Chevron Differs from Herringbone
In herringbone, each block is placed at 90 degrees to the adjacent one, with the end of each block butting against the side of its neighbours. The result is a zigzag where each V-shape is formed by two blocks meeting at an angle without their ends touching.
In chevron, both the left and right blocks of each V are cut at an angle at their ends, so that the point of each block from the left row meets the corresponding point of the block from the right row exactly. The blocks actually touch at the V point, creating a clean, continuous line that runs across the full width of the floor. This produces a strongly directional pattern that drives the eye forward along the V axis of the room.
What Chevron Boards Look Like
Because chevron blocks are cut at their ends at an angle (typically 45 degrees for a standard chevron pattern), they require special manufacturing compared to standard square-end herringbone blocks. The angled ends mean more waste in production, which is reflected in the higher cost of chevron blocks compared to herringbone of the same species and grade.
The width and length proportions of chevron blocks are similar to herringbone: 70mm by 350mm and 90mm by 450mm are common specifications. However, the angle of the ends changes how the pattern reads, so it is worth seeing a physical sample of the actual block size and angle in the actual room before committing.
Where Chevron Works Best
Chevron suits large, open spaces where its strong directional quality is an asset rather than a challenge. In a long, wide hallway or an open-plan living and dining area, chevron running along the main axis of the space creates a perspective effect that makes the room feel longer and more dynamic. In smaller rooms or rooms with many changes in level and direction, chevron can feel overwhelming.
Chevron is predominantly a contemporary floor. Its clean, precise geometry suits modern interiors with simple furniture and an uncluttered aesthetic. In a period property with ornate cornicing and traditional furniture, chevron can look incongruous; herringbone is generally more appropriate in these settings.
- Chevron blocks have angled ends; herringbone uses square-cut blocks
- Chevron produces a clean V-point line; herringbone has butting-end joints
- Chevron costs more than herringbone: more waste in production
- Best for large, open contemporary spaces
- Not usually appropriate for period properties
- See a full-size sample in the room before ordering
Chevron flooring makes a strong design statement. In the right space, with the right proportions and finish, it is genuinely outstanding. In the wrong space, it can feel forced. Taking the time to assess it carefully in the actual room before committing is well worth doing.
