Wood floors have an irresistible charm that instantly transforms any space into a cozy haven or a sophisticated retreat. On top of choosing the color, texture, or type of wood, here is a new way to spruce up the wood floor — wood floor patterns!

From timeless herringbone and chevron layouts to eye-catching parquet or basic horizontal strips, there’s a pattern out there to suit every taste and style.

However, not all patterns are made equal. Some are DIY-friendly, while others require you to break out your geometry kit and expertise. And we will tell you which of these 10 classic wood floor patterns are right for you. Let’s go! 

1. Horizontal Strip Patterns

Horizontal is the most class and arguably the most common wood floor pattern. It is popular for instantly making a room more spacious as it lengthens it. This pattern is also pretty easy and basic to install. Lay the planks parallel to the width or the longest wall of the room. You may also consider running the board in the direction of the light.

Other than solid hardwood, you can create this pattern with hardwood alternatives. Laminate and vinyl are excellent choices to create wood-like looks without breaking the bank. Horizontal patterns are one of the few wood floor patterns that work with floating floors as it is the industry standard — so you get an additional installation method option.

2. Diagonal Strip Patterns

As the name suggests, diagonal strip patterns are exactly what you’d expect — wood planks installed at a 45-degree angle to the edges of the room. This is another very basic and easy-to-install pattern, as it’s the same as a horizontal pattern but just at an angle. It can create an illusion of depth and open up a smaller room. 

You get the same options with materials and installation methods as horizontal strip patterns. However, one thing to keep in mind is that creating a diagonal pattern requires more cuts — which drives up the labor cost and even the amount of material used.

3. Random Width Patterns

These are just like horizontal patterns except for mixing up the different widths. This is one of the easiest patterns to create — regardless of whether you’re using a nail or glue-down installation. You can also use a click-and-lock together structure, but ensure all planks have the exact connecting mechanism. You can also use varying plank lengths to make the pattern even more random and interesting.

As mixed-width patterns or random patterns are becoming more popular, manufacturers are now offering readymade mixed-width wood planks — which makes the installation even simpler. You can also go for solid hardwood alternatives such as engineered hardwood, laminate, or even bamboo! You can also find click-together mixed-width wood planks that are ready to install to make the process even easier for you.

4. Herringbone Parquet

Herringbone parquet creates a rich yet understated look like no other. It highlights the intricacies of hardwood and brings attention to its texture. That is not to say you cannot create this beautiful pattern with other flooring materials. Engineered hardwood, bamboo, and luxury vinyl planks are no-so-bad at creating a herringbone parquet.

Herringbone parquets are surprisingly easy to install as all the pieces are cut in the same length, and it is pretty intuitive once you get a hold of the pattern. However, if you’re using solid hardwood, hire a professional because you don’t want to waste the planks with imprecise cuts. Also, we prefer shiny finishes in this pattern as it makes the light flow better.

5. Chevron Parquet

Before you think this is the same as herringbone, look again — see the difference? The planks create a 90-degree angle with each other in herringbone, while in chevron parquet, it comes down to 45. The biggest difference is that the chevron parquet creates lines that separate each column while the columns remain meshed in herringbone.

As you can see, the planks are cut at a 45-degree angle, which requires expertise to achieve. Also, you’re better off with nail or glue-down installation, as it is impossible to achieve this pattern in floating installation unless they are specifically made to do so. You must also plan the floors well before starting, especially the edges. So, this pattern is better left for professionals than DIYers.

6. Basketweave Patterns

Basketweave patterns are another classic wood floor pattern. The design option is virtually endless with this pattern. The basic idea is simple — use contrasting boards in an alternating configuration. The tone and size of each square are entirely up to you. The possibility is literally endless!

A two-tone basketweave pattern brings depth to the floor, while a single hue remains the safe bet. The checkerboard-style weave works well in any part of the house. However, this is not a pattern that is easy to create. You need to map out the placement of each piece well before cutting the planks and laying them.

7. Brick Patterns

So, picture this: imagine a wooden floor that mimics the look of a classic brick wall. Yeah, you heard me right. Instead of actual bricks, you’ve got rows of wooden planks laid out in a way that creates a brick-like pattern. It creates a look that is just edgy enough without standing out too much. So you don’t have to worry about it going out of style.

What’s so great about brick wood floor patterns is that they effortlessly blend that warm, natural feel of wood with the rugged, vintage appeal of bricks. It’s a perfect choice if you’re aiming for a cozy, lived-in aesthetic with a touch of urban edge. And here’s the best part: brick wood patterns come in various colors and finishes. You can use a rich, dark hue to create a dramatic look or opt for lighter tones to brighten up your space. Plus, you can play around with the width and length of the planks to customize the pattern to your liking.

8. Painted Wood Floor Patterns

Who said you can only create wood floor patterns by changing how you lay the planks? Why not bring out colors? And with colors, the possibilities are endless—so yay! 

The best part of painted wood floor patterns is that they work in any type of wood. Also, they are excellent for sprucing up beaten-up wood floors. Paint also acts as an additional layer of protection from scuffs and scratches. It gets better—painted wood floor patterns are affordable, and easy to design creative patterns, giving your floor a new look.

9. Versailles Patterns

Versailles pattern is undoubtedly the most elegant and intricate wood floor pattern. It adds a touch of sophistication to a place like no other. You are most likely to see this pattern in vintage-style places. But that’s no way to say that Versailles is out of style! In fact, it is one of the timeless patterns that make the wood floor the showstopper.

As you might already realize from its look, this is no job for a rookie. You need expertise in this specific pattern to create this complex yet classic pattern. Make sure not to accessorize a room too much where you use this pattern since it is already gorgeous on its own.

10.  3D Parquet

3D parquet is not a common wood floor pattern to witness—primarily because of the complexity of creating this pattern. However, once you see it, you will realize that the labor is totally worth it! This trippy design is bold, fun, and exceptional. Creating this pattern requires cutting and assorting the different shades and pieces perfectly—meaning you need to hire someone who knows what they are doing.

Another perk of 3D parquet flooring: you get to bring different textures and species into it. Can’t choose between classic golden brown and greyish tones? Why not incorporate both to create a timeless look? Utilize different textures to accentuate the 3D look even more.

So, which is your favorite wood floor pattern? Comment below and let us know!