Why herringbone floors are making a comeback in Stockport homes

By Nub News guest writer 15th Jul 2025

Herringbone flooring is gaining popularity in Stockport for its classic yet versatile design, enhancing both new renovations and period properties (Images - main: Nub News / inset: Secretum Mundi, Wikimedia Commons)
Herringbone flooring is gaining popularity in Stockport for its classic yet versatile design, enhancing both new renovations and period properties (Images - main: Nub News / inset: Secretum Mundi, Wikimedia Commons)

Flooring is one of the first elements that shape how a home feels.

Lately, across Stockport, more households have been choosing flooring styles that feel familiar but with a fresh twist. One pattern has been quietly returning to favour among homeowners looking for design with character: herringbone.

This flooring layout is being chosen for everything from new renovations to refreshed period properties. Its appeal lies in how well it fits with a range of interior styles while giving a distinctive edge that doesn't overpower a space.

What exactly is a Herringbone floor pattern?

A herringbone floor layout uses rectangular planks arranged in a zigzag configuration, where each piece meets another at a right angle. The resulting shape creates a V-like pattern that adds direction and rhythm across the floor. It is different from chevron, where the ends of planks are cut at an angle to create a continuous line. Herringbone's edges meet perpendicularly, giving a more traditional and structured feel.

This style was used initially in parquet wood flooring and has long been found in heritage properties. Today, it's available in a variety of materials including engineered wood, laminate, and even luxury vinyl tiles, making it more accessible and practical for everyday homes.

The term herringbone flooring often brings to mind classic styling, but it works equally well in homes aiming for a clean, minimalist finish or more industrial aesthetics.

How herringbone tiles are arranged (Image - Secretum Mundi / Wikimedia Commons)

Why are more people in Stockport choosing this flooring style?

Stockport homes come in all types, from Edwardian semis to modern flats. Many of these homes have features like narrower hallways or compact rooms, where design decisions matter more. Herringbone flooring provides a way to introduce detail and structure without needing many accessories or furniture.

More residents are looking for timeless finishes that can support multiple decorating styles. Instead of replacing floors whenever trends change, people now opt for durable patterns that offer long-term value.

This layout also performs well with different types of lighting. It highlights texture with natural and artificial light, especially with brushed or distressed finishes. Whether the aim is warmth or elegance, the pattern adapts well.

Installers around the Greater Manchester area have reported increased demand, suggesting this is more than just a passing interest. It reflects a stronger desire for well-designed flooring, without being fussy or high-maintenance.

What are the real benefits of this design?

The practical value of herringbone flooring goes beyond its appearance. The way the boards are arranged can make a narrow corridor feel more spacious or help a square room feel longer. That optical flexibility makes it useful in flats and older terraces, which are common across Stockport.

Cleaning and maintenance depend on the material chosen. Wood finishes offer warmth and natural variation but require care to preserve their finish. Laminate and vinyl versions replicate the appearance while being easier to clean and more resistant to spills or wear.

There is also a growing interest in luxury herringbone floor design among homeowners who want both quality and standout detail. It allows them to add personality to their home without needing bold colour or heavy features. Urmston Carpets has responded to this demand with several fitting and supply options throughout Manchester, including Stockport, helping residents choose a design that suits both space and lifestyle.

A Herrinbone parquet (Image - Anonymous Bob / Wikimedia Commons)

Should you get professional help for installation?

Herringbone isn't as simple to install as standard straight planks. Laying it correctly requires precision, especially when aligning the pattern throughout a full room or open-plan space. Without the right preparation, the design can look uneven or unfinished, which defeats the point of using such a layout.

Subfloor preparation is one of the most important steps. The surface has to be level, dry, and completely clean. Any small variation will be more visible once the pattern is laid down. That's why many people in Stockport are choosing to work with experienced fitters who understand this specific style.

Getting the starting point right is essential. If the pattern isn't centred or balanced, it can throw off the visual rhythm of the whole room. That's why measuring and pre-planning matter more than with simpler layouts. A professional approach ensures the floor feels cohesive from wall to wall.

(Image - Pazzo4562 / Wikimedia Commons)

Which styles and finishes work best in local homes?

Light oak and natural wood tones are proving especially popular across Stockport. They complement neutral walls and allow flexibility with future decor. These shades are being chosen for kitchens, living rooms, and hallways alike, creating flow from one area to another.

Darker woods, including walnut and espresso tones, are often used in more formal or modern interiors. These pair well with metal finishes and bold cabinetry. They're less forgiving with dust or scratches, so might be better for lower-traffic areas unless using a more durable material.

Finishes with a brushed or hand-scraped texture bring a lived-in feel and help reduce visible marks from daily use. This makes them ideal for busy homes with pets or children.

Plank size matters too. Narrow boards are more traditional, while wider ones feel more modern and relaxed. Matching the size to the proportions of the room creates better visual balance.

Across different households, the common trend is selecting materials matching aesthetic preferences and daily habits. For this reason, herringbone flooring continues to suit both new buyers and long-term residents upgrading existing spaces.

Thinking of upgrading your floors?

Herringbone flooring is gaining traction across Stockport for good reason. Aside from adding value, it offers a blend of visual appeal and adaptability that suits a variety of homes and room layouts. Unlike more generic flooring options, this layout provides subtle detail and an upgraded feel without being too bold or trendy.

With the right preparation and product, this flooring style brings structure and quality into any space. Herringbone remains a reliable and rewarding choice for a single room or an entire home.

(Herringbone Tiles image by Secretum Mundi, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0; Wood Herringbone Floor image by Anonymous Bob, public domain; Herringbone Living Room image by Pazzo4562, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0.)

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