Why Homeowners Still Love the Classic Herringbone Paver Pattern

Some design trends fade quickly, but the classics, like traditional white cabinetry or subway tile backsplashes, always find a way to remain relevant. Hardscaping has its own timeless staples as well, and the herringbone paver pattern is a perfect example. Its distinctive zigzag layout and interlocking design have made it a go-to choice for generations, offering both visual appeal and unmatched durability.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the herringbone pattern, how its interlocking design works, and why it continues to be a favorite among homeowners and contractors alike.

The Origins of the Herringbone Paver Pattern

Named for its resemblance to the bones of a herring fish, the herringbone pattern features rows of rectangular pieces arranged in a repeating V-shaped layout. Its roots trace back to the Roman Empire, where it was originally used by engineers to pave roads that could withstand everything from carts to marching armies.

Over time, the pattern has evolved to become a design staple, appearing not only in driveways and patios but in backsplashes and woven textiles. Beyond full-field installations, many homeowners also incorporate herringbone as borders or decorative paver rugs to add depth and dimension to their outdoor spaces.

How Do You Lay a Traditional Herringbone Pattern?

Laying a herringbone pattern is about getting the angles just right. If you’re planning to install this layout yourself, here are a few practical tips to help guide your approach:

For a 45-Degree Herringbone Pattern:

• Start by establishing a straight reference line using a string line or the border of your paver field.
  
• Place your first paver at a 45-degree angle along that line, using it as your anchor.
  
• Continue laying pavers in alternating directions to form the V-shaped pattern, keeping your angles consistent.
  
• Once all full-sized pavers are set, go back and cut your edge pieces to fill in any gaps along the perimeter.

For a 90-Degree Herringbone Pattern:

• Choose a straight edge or string line to establish your baseline, which is typically aligned with the direction of travel, such as the length of a walkway.
  
• Lay your first two pavers in an L-shape to establish the corner of the pattern.
  
• Continue laying pavers in alternating directions, extending the design out from the baseline.
  
• After laying all full-sized pavers, cut and fit edge pieces as needed to complete the design.
  

Whether you’re laying at 45 or 90 degrees, the key is to start with a reliable reference line, maintain consistent angles, and save any cutting until the end. Be sure to establish a solid border around the perimeter of your herringbone layout. This helps preserve the structural integrity of both the pattern and any cut pieces within the main paver field. Depending on the complexity of your design, it’s a good idea to consult a Unilock Authorized Contractor who can install these layouts more efficiently, saving you time and effort.

What Are Some Benefits of Laying a Herringbone Pattern?

So why has this pattern remained in style for so long? Here are a few reasons why:

• Exceptional Durability: Its interlocking design makes it one of the most durable patterns for driveways and other high-traffic areas.
• Resistance to Shifting: The crisscrossing layout helps lock pavers in place, making it more resistant to movement caused by freeze/thaw cycles, heavy loads, shifting tires, or natural settling.
• Visually Striking: The repeating zigzag pattern creates a sense of rhythm and movement in your outdoor space.
• Minimal Cutting in Some Layouts: The precise angles often result in fewer cuts, which tend to be more consistent in size compared to complex layouts that require varied, irregular cuts.
• Versatility: This pattern isn’t limited to patios and walkways. It’s also a favorite for interior applications, such as flooring, backsplashes, and even decking.

Popular Unilock Pavers for Achieving a Herringbone Patio Design

Now that we’ve covered why the herringbone pattern is a smart and stylish choice, let’s look at some Unilock pavers that are well-suited for bringing this classic layout to life:

• Copthorne®: Inspired by the look of European street pavers, Copthorne’s narrow profile and superior durability make it a natural fit for traditional herringbone layouts.
• Mattoni™: With a slightly longer format than Copthorne, these EnduraColor™ pavers reimagine the classic Roman brick to deliver an antiqued look that adds depth to your herringbone design.
• Town Hall®: Modeled after historic North American clay street pavers, Town Hall features substantial proportions and authentic color blending, making it an ideal solution for both traditional and permeable installations.
• Series™ 4” x 8”: Series delivers a sleek, contemporary look with a micro-pebbled surface created by exposing quartz and granite aggregates. The result is a speckled finish that only gets better with time and exposure to the elements, lending a refined edge to contemporary outdoor spaces. Plus, these pavers are manufactured with EnduraColor technology, helping the surface retain its vibrant color even longer.

The long-standing history behind the herringbone pattern, combined with its design flexibility and durability, makes it the ideal solution for creating outdoor spaces that stand the test of time. If you’re looking for ideas to kick-start your project, explore our Dream Gallery for real-world inspiration featuring Unilock paver products. You can also browse our full product lineup in the Catalog of Dreams, available at your local Outdoor Idea Center or landscape supplier. When you’re ready to bring your vision to life, fill out our Find a Contractor form to get matched with a trusted Unilock Authorized Contractor in your area.