7 Flooring Patterns for Hardwood Installations

Choosing the right pattern for your hardwood floor can completely transform a room, adding style, dimension, and personality. While the type of wood you select matters, how it’s laid out can elevate the entire feel of the space. If you’ve ever searched for flooring contractors near me, chances are you’ve already seen some of these patterns without even realizing it.

The right pattern isn’t just about looks, either. It can also affect how large or small a room appears and how easy the floor is to install or maintain. Below are seven classic and modern hardwood flooring patterns that can suit a variety of home styles, from traditional to contemporary.

1. Straight Pattern

This is the most common and simplest layout. Boards are installed parallel to each other along the length or width of a room. It’s clean, timeless, and efficient, making it ideal for homeowners who prefer a traditional look or are working with a smaller budget.

A straight pattern also works well in long, narrow rooms, helping draw the eye down the length of the space. It’s easy to install, and it wastes less material compared to more complex patterns.

2. Diagonal Pattern

With a diagonal layout, boards are placed at a 45-degree angle to the walls. This adds a sense of sophistication and movement that the straight pattern can’t quite match.

Though installation is more complex and can result in slightly more waste, the visual payoff is big. Diagonal floors can make square rooms feel more dynamic and interesting without overwhelming the space.

3. Herringbone

Herringbone is a pattern that’s been used for centuries, especially in European architecture. Planks are laid in a zigzag formation, with each piece meeting the end of another at a right angle.

This layout is great for formal spaces like dining rooms or foyers. It creates a woven, textured look that instantly adds elegance and refinement. Herringbone and chevron patterns are experiencing increased demand, with some contractors noting that these styles are selling faster than they can be produced.

4. Chevron

Often confused with herringbone, chevron patterns differ in how the planks are cut and arranged. In a chevron layout, the ends of the boards are cut at an angle so that they meet in a continuous V shape.

This gives the floor a sense of motion and energy. While it requires more precise cuts and is more time-consuming to install, the dramatic effect it produces can be well worth the effort for high-impact spaces.

5. Random Width

Instead of using boards of a single width, this pattern mixes boards of varying size, often narrow, medium, and wide widths combined. The result is a rustic, custom appearance that adds visual interest without appearing too formal.

Random width floors are especially popular in farmhouse or cabin-style interiors. They also make good use of leftover or reclaimed wood, which appeals to homeowners looking for sustainable or cost-effective options.

6. Basketweave

Inspired by traditional woven baskets, this pattern creates the illusion of planks overlapping one another in a grid-like layout. It’s an older design that has seen a resurgence in upscale homes and historic restorations.

Basketweave floors work best in small rooms or hallways where the pattern can shine without overwhelming the space. While it’s not as common, it delivers a lot of character and charm to the right setting.

7. Parquet

Parquet flooring involves arranging wood pieces in repeated geometric patterns, such as squares, triangles, or even more elaborate mosaics. It’s often associated with French châteaus or historic buildings, but it’s making a comeback in modern interiors.

Parquet floors offer a luxurious and artistic finish. However, they usually require skilled installers and careful planning. That said, they can turn a simple room into something truly memorable.

Choosing What’s Right for Your Space

Each of these patterns comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it helps to think through your goals before you commit. Are you after something timeless or more modern? Do you want to make a small space feel larger, or are you okay with a more dramatic effect that becomes the room’s focal point?

Installation complexity, budget, and wood waste are also important factors. While some patterns are DIY-friendly, others may require experienced hands. It’s always a good idea to consult a pro, especially when precision and alignment are key to the pattern’s success.

Don’t forget to consider how the flooring pattern will interact with natural light. In rooms with large windows, a pattern like diagonal or chevron can catch and reflect sunlight in ways that enhance the visual rhythm of the floor. On the other hand, in dimmer rooms or basements, simpler patterns like straight or random width can prevent the space from feeling too busy or dark. Also, think about furniture layout. Complex patterns can be partially hidden under rugs and large pieces, so use them where they’ll be most visible.

Aesthetic Meets Function

Beyond the visual element, flooring patterns can also have a practical effect. Diagonal and chevron patterns, for instance, can draw attention away from imperfections in walls or furniture alignment. Random width layouts can be more forgiving in older homes with subtle floor slope or uneven subflooring.

And then there’s the simple joy of walking into a space that feels considered and complete. Floors are one of the largest design elements in a home, yet many people overlook the impact of layout and pattern.

Final Thoughts

These 7 hardwood flooring patterns each bring something unique to the table. Whether you go with the timeless simplicity of straight planks or the dramatic flair of a chevron design, your floor’s pattern will shape how the entire room feels. Consider your home’s architecture, your personal taste, and the expertise required to get the look just right. When in doubt, a trusted contractor can help guide you through the process, so your finished floor doesn’t just look good, it feels like home.

Ultimately, your hardwood floor is a long-term investment, and the pattern you choose will set the tone for years to come. Take your time, gather samples, and if possible, mock up a small area before committing. It’s those small, intentional design choices that turn a house into a home people love to live in.