A herringbone floor is all about the details. Not just the colour or plank size, but the pattern itself. That’s where the elbow pattern comes in. This laying method is increasingly popular with herringbone floors – and for good reason. It looks sleek, creates calm, and lets the herringbone pattern truly shine. But what exactly is an elbow pattern? And does it suit your floor and interior? We’ll explain.
What is the elbow pattern?
The elbow pattern is a laying pattern for herringbone floors. You start from a corner of the room, rather than along the length or width. From that point, the pattern is worked outward, causing the herringbone pattern to rotate by 90 degrees and take on a different look.
What does an elbow pattern look like in herringbone?
With a herringbone floor laid in an elbow pattern, the pattern runs visually all the way to the wall. The strips are cut so that they finish neatly at a right angle to the wall. This creates a clean and calm result, without extra lines or borders. The effect is a modern appearance that makes the herringbone floor look less busy. Especially in rooms with clean walls, plenty of light or a minimalist interior, this pattern really comes into its own.

Double Herringbone pattern: just a touch more rhythm
Is the herringbone pattern not enough? Go for a double herringbone pattern. With this pattern, the herringbone detail is not repeated just once, but runs along the edge of the herringbone floor. This creates a subtle rhythm and a refined detail, without the floor looking busy.
The effect is slightly more playful than a standard herringbone pattern, yet still sleek and calm. The double herringbone pattern really comes into its own in larger spaces or open-plan kitchens. A top choice for those who herringbone with that little bit extra, without compromising on balance.
Why choose an elbow pattern?
A floor plays a major role in setting the atmosphere in your home. Whilst the classic herringbone floor is now a common feature in many interiors, an elbow pattern offers a slightly different look. You’ll see the same playful lines and luxurious effect as with herringbone, but with a character all of its own. This makes the floor feel both familiar and original at the same time. That is why this floor is also perfect for:
- A sleek, modern look
- Allows the herringbone floor to really shine
- Suitable for both large and smaller spaces
- A timeless character
The design feels contemporary without being overly trendy. It’s exactly the sort of detail you’ll still be happy with in ten years’ time.
Which floors can be laid in an elbow pattern?
The elbow pattern is suitable for various types of herringbone flooring. The look varies depending on the material, but the principle remains the same: a sleek pattern that brings calmness to the floor. Within the Floer range, all herringbone floors are suitable, whether you choose Dryback or Rigid Click Vinyl flooring, Hybrid Laminate or Hybrid Wood.

An elbow pattern works particularly well in:
- Modern Interieurs
- Scandinavian interior styles
- Minimalist homes
- New-builds and sleekly renovated houses
Do you have an interior with lots of details or striking features? Then the elbow pattern can actually provide balance and calm
Why is a herringbone floor suitable for an elbow pattern?
All herringbone floors are fundamentally suitable for an elbow pattern. This is because the pattern itself remains unchanged; only the laying direction is adjusted, as mentioned earlier. As a result, the floor remains technically the same and suitable for this method of installation. This means the elbow pattern can be applied to all different types of herringbone floors.
There is an exception for a double elbow pattern. This pattern is only possible with Herringbone and Whalebone Dryback Vinyl floors. As these floors do not have a click joint, the strips can be laid tightly against one another. With click floors, this is not technically possible.
In summary: a detail that makes all the difference
The elbow pattern is a subtle yet important choice for a herringbone floor. It creates a sense of calm, gives a modern look and allows the pattern to really come into its own. Whether you choose Vinyl or a Hybrid floor: an elbow pattern gives your herringbone floor a sleek and timeless look. Curious to see what this looks like in real life? Be inspired and discover which herringbone floor and laying pattern best suit your interior.