In last years, herringbone table and chevron patterned wood furniture has become very popular, and for good reason. These two patterns can create visual attractiveness in a space and offer a luxurious feel. But maybe you can ask where do these patterns come from? Both have curious stories which you can find in the next article.
A brief history of the Herringbone wood pattern
It's sounds a little fishy? Named for the resemblance to the bone structure of the herring fish skeleton, it dates back to the Roman Empire. Roman engineers discovered that by putting out rocks in a Herringbone-shaped pattern on a bed of gravel, they could construct a more stable stone road. This masonry was known as opus spicatum, a latin expression for “spiked work”. It was used by famous Filippo Brunelleschi for the dome of the Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore. Other old civilizations also liked this pattern, we can mention here the Egyptians - they used the design for jewelry of the rulers. Another use of the pattern was found in Ireland and in indigenous North American basketry.
Herringbone pattern became very popular throughout the 1600s in France, symbolizing luxury and elegance. First examples of wooden herringbone flooring can be seen at the Francis I Gallery - Chateau de Fontainebleau in 1539.
A brief history of the Chevron wood pattern.
The history of chevron pattern started in medieval heraldry and in Greek pottery and textiles. The word “chevron” appeared for the first time in the 14th century in English from the latin word "caprio", meaning “rafters,” - it refers to the pattern’s resemblance of two roof beams. It also became a way of identifying a certain rank in the military or police force in the Commonwealth and U.S.
Differences between Herringbone and Chevron table
For sure both patterns make a stunning table or bench design, but they do have their differences. Herringbone table wood pieces are rectangular and cut at a 90 degree. On the other hand chevron table wood pieces are cut at a 45 degree angle at the end and then fitted together at a point, creating somehow a zigzag pattern.
Chevron wood patterns can create a more modern and geometric feel, but herringbone can show a traditional effect in a space. You can chose either. But for sure you'll have a timeless hardwood table that adds warmth and character to your house.