Herringbone is an ancient pattern, made to mimic brickwork commonly found on church floors in 16th century France. It is the perfect floor pattern if you want something sophisticated and yet completely customizable. Herringbone can be short, wide, narrow, long, and of any combination of wood species, colors, or distresses. And all of that beauty can last for ages. In fact, the oldest known herringbone floor is from 1539. Not only does it add style and intrigue to a room, but it can create the illusion that a smaller or narrower space is bigger than it really is.