Herringbone vs Chevron Parquet: Understanding the Difference
Herringbone and chevron are the two most popular parquet patterns, and they are frequently confused with each other. Both use rectangular blocks laid at angles to create a geometric effect, but they are visually distinct and have different installation requirements. Understanding the difference helps you choose the pattern that is right for your space and your budget.
The Herringbone Pattern
In herringbone, each rectangular block is placed at 90 degrees to its neighbour. One row of blocks runs in one direction, the adjacent row runs perpendicular, and the pattern creates a continuous zigzag or arrow shape that never quite resolves into a single direction. The pattern has movement and energy; it draws the eye along its length.
Herringbone uses standard rectangular blocks with square-cut ends. The same blocks used in a herringbone layout could, in theory, be used in a straight-run plank floor. No special cutting is required for the blocks themselves; the pattern is created purely by the laying direction.
The herringbone pattern has been used in flooring since at least the sixteenth century and features in period homes, grand public buildings and contemporary interiors equally successfully. It is the more versatile of the two patterns and suits a wider range of room sizes and styles.
The Chevron Pattern
In chevron, each block is cut at an angle at both ends so that when two blocks are placed together, their ends meet in a perfect V or point. The overall pattern creates continuous V shapes marching up the floor in a single direction. Unlike herringbone, where the pattern zigzags, chevron creates a strong directional line.
Chevron requires blocks that are specifically cut with angled ends; standard square-end blocks cannot be used. The angle is typically 45 degrees, though other angles are possible. This means chevron blocks are more expensive than herringbone blocks because of the additional cutting, and the installation produces more waste from the angled ends.
Visual Differences
The easiest way to distinguish the two patterns: in herringbone, the end of each block butts against the side of the adjacent blocks. In chevron, the ends of adjacent blocks meet each other point to point. This creates a more structured, directional visual in chevron versus the more informal, dynamic feel of herringbone.
Chevron tends to look more contemporary and structured; herringbone reads as more classical and versatile. Both patterns work in both period and modern spaces, but chevron is more commonly seen in new build and contemporary refurbishment projects, while herringbone is equally common in period properties.
Installation Differences
Herringbone is simpler to install than chevron because it uses standard-cut rectangular blocks. The layout requires careful set-out (as with any parquet pattern) but the blocks themselves need no special preparation. Chevron installation requires precisely angled blocks and more careful alignment to ensure the V points meet correctly across the floor. Installation time and skill requirements are higher for chevron, which is reflected in higher fitting costs.
- Herringbone: blocks at 90 degrees to each other, square-cut ends, more versatile
- Chevron: blocks cut at angles, ends meet in V point, stronger directional line
- Herringbone: more classical, suits period and contemporary settings equally
- Chevron: more contemporary, stronger directional effect
- Chevron blocks cost more and generate more waste due to angled cuts
- Installation cost: chevron is typically more expensive to fit than herringbone
Both patterns are beautiful and both are worth considering for any parquet project. The choice between them is ultimately about which visual effect you prefer in your specific space. If in doubt, lay a physical sample of each in the room and live with both for a few days before deciding.
