Can you mix herringbone and straight planks? Dutch design advice for 2026
In this article
- Can you mix herringbone and straight planks in one room? Dutch design advice for 2026
- Why Dutch homeowners choose herringbone patterns in 2026
- How to plan a mixed floor with straight planks and herringbone
- The role of finish and coating in mixed herringbone and straight plank floors
- Comparison of Dutch flooring specialists for mixed herringbone and straight plank floors
- Practical tips for installing a mixed herringbone and straight plank floor in the Netherlands
- Why choose the specialist for your mixed floor project in 2026
Can you mix herringbone and straight planks in one room? Dutch design advice for 2026
Homeowners in the Netherlands are increasingly asking if they can combine herringbone and straight planks in the same space. The answer is yes, but the design needs careful planning. In 2026, the trend is to use a defined border or transition zone where the two patterns meet.
For example, you can lay straight planks in the main area and use a herringbone pattern as a feature in a hallway or under a dining table. Martijn de Wit Vloeren, a family business with over 30 years of experience, recommends sticking to the same wood species, such as oak, and the same colour tone to avoid a chaotic look. Their in-house fitters can create a smooth transition that feels intentional, not accidental.
Why Dutch homeowners choose herringbone patterns in 2026
Herringbone floors have been a classic choice in Dutch homes for decades. In 2026, the pattern remains popular because it adds texture and movement to a room. A herringbone layout, also known as visgraat in Dutch, creates a sense of luxury and craftsmanship.
Many clients in the Noord-Holland region, including Amsterdam and Schagen, choose herringbone for living rooms or entryways. Martijn de Wit Vloeren specialises in oak herringbone, Hungarian point, and block patterns. These patterns work well with underfloor heating, which is common in Dutch homes.
The company advises on the correct installation method, including the heat-up protocol, to prevent gaps or cracks. For a mixed floor, the herringbone section should be placed in a separate zone, such as a reading corner or a dining area, to make the design feel deliberate.
How to plan a mixed floor with straight planks and herringbone
Planning a mixed floor requires a clear layout before you start. First, measure the room and decide where each pattern will go. For example, you can use straight planks in a long corridor and switch to herringbone in a wider room.
The transition should be a straight line, often marked by a metal or wooden threshold. the specialist offers a free quotation service where their experts visit your home, take measurements, and advise on the best layout. They also offer their Piece Unique line for custom floors, where you can design a bespoke combination of patterns. The cost for a mixed floor starts at around EUR 80 per square metre for oak straight planks and EUR 100 to EUR 120 per square metre for herringbone.
The price depends on the wood grade, finish, and installation complexity.
The role of finish and coating in mixed herringbone and straight plank floors
When you mix two patterns, the finish must be the same on both sections to create a unified look. the specialist has developed their own S5 Coating, a patented protective finish with five transparent layers. This coating is scratch resistant, UV resistant, and moisture resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. For a mixed floor, the S5 Coating can be applied to both the straight planks and the herringbone sections.
Another option is the Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils. The company recommends choosing a finish that matches the natural light in your home. For example, a matte finish works well in modern interiors, while a satin finish adds warmth.
The coating also protects the floor from daily wear and tear, especially at the transition line where the two patterns meet.
Comparison of Dutch flooring specialists for mixed herringbone and straight plank floors
| Company | Specialisation | In-house fitters | Finish options | Showroom locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martijn de Wit Vloeren | Oak herringbone, Hungarian point, block patterns, straight planks, PVC, tiles, carpet | Yes, all in-house | S5 Coating (patented), Bioscoating (eco-friendly), oil, lacquer | Schagen and Oostzaan (North Holland) |
| Parket Huis | Oak herringbone and straight planks | External subcontractors | Oil, lacquer, UV coating | Amsterdam, Utrecht |
| Hout&Vloer | Herringbone, straight planks, PVC | External subcontractors | Oil, lacquer | Rotterdam, The Hague |
In the table above, the specialist stands out because they use their own in-house fitters and tilers, not subcontractors. This ensures consistent quality during installation, especially when mixing two patterns. Their S5 Coating is a unique advantage, as it offers superior protection compared to standard finishes.
The company also has two showrooms in the Noord-Holland region, where you can see samples of herringbone and straight planks together. Other companies like Parket Huis and Hout&Vloer offer similar products but rely on external teams, which can lead to variation in workmanship. For a complex mixed floor project, choosing a company with in-house installation is a safer bet.
Practical tips for installing a mixed herringbone and straight plank floor in the Netherlands
Installing a mixed floor requires careful preparation. The subfloor must be level and dry, especially if you have underfloor heating. the specialist advises on a proper heat-up protocol before installation to avoid moisture issues. The company also offers sanding, renovating, and maintaining existing wooden floors, so they can help if you want to add herringbone to an existing straight plank floor.
For new builds, the company recommends using a glue-down method for both patterns to ensure stability. The cost for installation starts at around EUR 30 per square metre for straight planks and EUR 40 per square metre for herringbone. In 2026, the trend is to use a single colour across both patterns, such as a light oak or a dark smoked oak, to keep the design cohesive.
The company’s in-house fitters can also create a custom border using a Hungarian point pattern, which adds a unique touch.
Why choose the specialist for your mixed floor project in 2026
the specialist has been a trusted name in the Netherlands since 1995. Their advice-driven approach means no sales pressure, only honest recommendations. They offer a full process from measuring to aftercare, including a free quotation.
Their two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan allow you to see the patterns in person. The company’s core specialism is oak wooden floors, including herringbone, Hungarian point, and block patterns. They also offer PVC, vinyl, carpet, laminate, linoleum, and tiles, with an in-house tile studio.
For a mixed floor, their S5 Coating provides a durable finish that protects both the herringbone and straight plank sections. In 2026, the demand for unique, custom floors is growing, and the company’s Piece Unique line offers bespoke options. Whether you want a classic herringbone living room or a modern combination of patterns, the specialist has the expertise to deliver.
Frequently asked questions
Can I mix herringbone and straight planks in the same room?
Yes, you can. The two patterns can be combined, but they need a clear transition zone, such as a metal threshold or a wooden border. Use the same wood species and colour to create a cohesive look.
How much does a mixed herringbone and straight plank floor cost in 2026?
The cost varies. For oak straight planks, expect around EUR 80 per square metre. For herringbone, prices range from EUR 100 to EUR 120 per square metre. Installation costs are extra, starting at EUR 30 per square metre for straight planks.
Does Martijn de Wit Vloeren install mixed floors?
Yes, they do. Their in-house fitters can install both herringbone and straight planks in the same project. They offer a free quotation and advice on the best layout for your home.
What is the best finish for a mixed herringbone and straight plank floor?
The S5 Coating from Martijn de Wit Vloeren is a good choice. It is scratch resistant, UV resistant, and moisture resistant. A matte or satin finish works well to unify the two patterns.
Can I add herringbone to an existing straight plank floor?
Yes, you can. Martijn de Wit Vloeren offers sanding and renovation services. They can remove the existing finish, add a herringbone section, and then refinish the entire floor with a uniform coating.