Can engineered oak herringbone flooring be restored?

In most cases, engineered oak herringbone flooring can be professionally sanded and refinished, provided the wear layer is thick enough. This removes surface scratches, stains and signs of wear, restoring the floor's original appearance. However, this work should only be carried out by a professional in order to ensure a high quality finish.

Can pet scratches be removed from engineered wood flooring?

Surface scratches and general wear caused by pets can usually be removed through professional sanding and refinishing.

Is engineered oak flooring suitable for underfloor heating?

Engineered oak flooring is an excellent choice for use with underfloor heating because its layered construction provides greater stability than solid wood, helping to minimise movement caused by changes in temperature and humidity.

Herringbone Flooring, London

Bespoke Herringbone & Plank Oak Flooring — Private Residence, Hampstead NW3

This landmark project in Hampstead NW3 spans an impressive 5,500 sq ft private residence arranged over four floors, prioritising the balance of elegance and everyday practicality. From the outset, herringbone flooring was selected for the home’s most formal spaces, helping to introduce a sense of heritage and presence that suits the property’s architectural scale and setting.

The entrance hallway and principal reception rooms are laid in bespoke Medium Smoked European oak herringbone, enhancing symmetry and drawing the eye through the space. In contrast, wide plank boards were installed in the kitchen/dining area, bedrooms, and connecting corridors, softening the atmosphere and creating a calmer, more contemporary flow for daily living.

To unify all four levels, the staircase was fully clad in matching solid wood timber, creating a continuity that ties the home together from top to bottom. The result is a cohesive yet dynamic flooring scheme that elevates the architecture while remaining perfectly suited to modern family life in NW3.

Floor Style:

Herringbone: 500 mm x 15/4 mm x 90 mm

Flooring Finish:

ONE638 Medium Smoked

Flooring Plank Size:

Planks: 180 mm x 15/4 mm (Lengths: 600-2200 mm)

Features:

Fully bonded onto a water-based underfloor heating system for efficiency, warmth, durability and comfort.

Project Gallery:

herringbone flooring London installation

Bespoke Wooden Flooring - Private Home Hampstead NW3

Materials and Approach

For the St John’s Wood luxury development, the flooring specification was anchored in prime grade European oak, milled into 120 mm × 11 mm × 800 mm chevron blocks to create a refined and architecturally striking foundation throughout the apartments.

The term “oversized chevron” refers to using larger-than-typical block dimensions in the classic V-shaped pattern, versus standard chevron formats that often use narrower or shorter pieces. Larger chevrons allow the natural character of the oak to read more clearly across each board, making the wood flooring feel less busy and more cohesive across wide living spaces.

We offer a bespoke timber flooring service that allows clients to work with our team to specify the exact tone, texture, finish and treatment that best supports their overall interior palette.

Process and Installation

The chevron floors were installed using a fully bonded adhesive method over a carefully prepared subfloor and existing underfloor heating, ensuring optimal heat transfer and long-term performance.

The engineered oak boards were acclimatised on-site to the controlled ambient temperature and humidity, stabilising moisture levels for a precise fit and the subfloor was meticulously checked for flatness and dryness before a compatible adhesive was applied.

View our installation page for more details.

Results

The completed installation delivers a striking yet timeless foundation that perfectly complements the contemporary interiors of these St John’s Wood apartments. Installed seamlessly over underfloor heating, the floor combines aesthetics with everyday comfort. The result is a cohesive, high-end living environment where craftsmanship underpins every element of the design.

If you’re planning a luxury residential project and would like to discuss bespoke timber flooring, contact our team today.

Chevron Wood Flooring FAQs

What is chevron flooring?

Chevron flooring is a parquet style where individual timber boards are cut at an angle so that they meet to form a continuous V-shaped pattern. Unlike herringbone, where boards are laid in a staggered zig-zag, chevron creates a clean, uninterrupted point at each join.

Can chevron flooring be installed over underfloor heating?

Yes, engineered chevron flooring is highly suitable for installation over underfloor heating when specified and fitted correctly. The subfloor must be properly prepared, moisture levels tested, and the boards fully bonded using the correct adhesive to ensure stability and optimal heat transfer.

How long does chevron flooring installation take?

Installation time depends on the size of the property, subfloor condition and the complexity of the design. As a guide, chevron flooring typically takes longer than straight plank installation due to the precision required for pattern alignment.

Is chevron flooring more expensive than standard plank flooring?

Chevron flooring is generally more labour-intensive to manufacture and install due to the angled cuts and precise alignment required. While this can make it a higher initial investment than standard plank flooring, it offers a distinctive, high-end finish that adds long-term value to a property.