The range
What makes a good herringbone floor
Herringbone has been laid in European homes since the 17th century and is now one of the most requested floors in Australian and New Zealand renovations. As the parquet trend has returned, so has herringbone. Three things decide how good it looks:
- Timber quality. In a pattern floor, every block is visible from several angles. Prime grade oak gives a calm, even look, so the pattern itself is the feature.
- Block proportion. Longer blocks (such as 820mm) give a bolder, modern zigzag; 710mm is the classic proportion.
- Set-out. A good installer centres the pattern on the main line of sight and plans the borders so cuts are even on both sides.
Herringbone vs straight floorboards
| Herringbone parquet | Straight floorboards | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Patterned, classic or contemporary | Linear, simple |
| Waste allowance | Usually higher (about 10–15%) | Usually lower (about 5–10%) |
| Installation | Glue-down, skilled set-out | Glue, nail or float depending on product |
| Labour cost | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | Feature rooms, period homes, high-end renovations | Large areas, budget-sensitive jobs |
Read the full herringbone flooring guide or compare herringbone vs chevron.
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Frequently asked questions
Is herringbone flooring still in style in 2026?
Yes. Herringbone has been a fixture of Australian and New Zealand renovations for more than a decade, and it's now treated as a classic rather than a trend. Natural and pale oak tones in matt finishes are the most requested looks. See oak flooring trends.
Does herringbone make a room look bigger?
Laid along the longest dimension of a room, herringbone draws the eye and can make a space feel longer. Larger blocks such as the 820mm size suit big open-plan spaces; the 710mm size suits most rooms.
How much does herringbone flooring cost in Australia?
Prices vary with species, construction and finish. As a guide, solid oak herringbone supply is commonly around $95/m² and up at retail, with herringbone installation labour typically $60–$120 per m² on top. See our herringbone flooring cost guide. Timbo partners will quote your project.
Can I buy Timbo herringbone direct?
Timbo supplies through partners. Find a partner for your home, or apply for a trade account if you're a flooring business.