Herringbone dining table: the complete guide to this artisanal wood pattern

What is a herringbone dining table?

A herringbone dining table is a table where the wooden tabletop is constructed from short planks laid in a zigzag pattern – similar to a fish's skeleton. This pattern, also known as 'herringbone', has been popular for centuries in floors, tiles, and furniture. Applied to a dining table, it gives a unique, artisanal character that appears both classic and modern.

At Industrial Home, the herringbone dining table is one of our most beloved models. And for good reason: every tabletop is a handmade work of art where craftsmanship and durability are central.

The history and origin of the herringbone pattern

The herringbone pattern has a rich history. The Romans already used it for laying roads. In the Middle Ages, it became popular in cathedral floors and later in the parquet floors of French châteaux. It has proven to be a timeless pattern – from classic palaces to modern Scandinavian interiors.

For a herringbone dining table, the wooden elements are carefully laid at an angle – usually 45 degrees – creating the typical V-motif. This requires precision work from skilled carpenters.

Wood types for a herringbone dining table

The choice of wood type greatly influences the appearance of your herringbone tabletop. The most commonly used wood types are:

• Oak (white or red): the classic. Oak has a beautiful grain, is durable, and becomes more beautiful with age. White oak has a slightly warmer tone, red oak is somewhat darker and more robust.
• Walnut: dark, rich, and luxurious. Walnut has a special grain that stands out beautifully in the herringbone pattern.
• Nutwood: similar to walnut, slightly lighter in tone. Warm and elegant.
• Reclaimed wood: recycled wood with a patinated, authentic character. Each table is unique.

Finish: natural, oiled or lacquered?

The finish determines both the appearance and maintenance of your table. An oiled top has a matte, natural look but requires periodic maintenance. A lacquered top is easier to keep clean but less easy to touch up. At Industrial Home, we generally recommend an oiled finish for the most authentic look.

Which base suits a herringbone dining table?

The base is the ideal complement to the handmade tabletop. The most chosen combinations are:

• Steel U-leg or H-frame: industrial and sleek. The combination of raw steel and the artisanal herringbone pattern is a winning combination.
• Solid wooden leg: for a warm, classic look. Choose the same wood as the top or a complementary wood type.
• Cast iron base: sturdy and heavy. Fits perfectly with a rustic-industrial interior.
• Hairpin legs: slender metal legs for a retro-modern look.

Sizing: how big should your herringbone dining table be?

If you want to buy a herringbone dining table, the dimensions are crucial. Allow at least 60 cm width per person. A common guideline:

• 4 people: 140–160 cm long
• 6 people: 180–200 cm long
• 8 people: 220–240 cm long

Also consider the space around the table – at least 80 cm on all sides for comfortable walking.

Maintenance of a wooden herringbone tabletop

A solid wood tabletop requires some attention, but is easy to maintain. Use a damp cloth for daily cleaning and treat the top two to three times a year with a good wood oil. Avoid direct exposure to sun or a radiator to prevent cracking. With proper care, a herringbone dining table will last for generations.

Buy a herringbone dining table at Industrial Home

Our herringbone dining tables are handcrafted by experienced artisans. Each top is unique – the grain, color, and pattern are never exactly the same. That is the beauty of solid wood.

View our collection: herringbone dining tables. Want to know more about this special wood pattern and our specific models? Read all about it on our herringbone dining table information page. Do you want a custom-sized table? Contact us – we are happy to help you via our configurator.

What does a herringbone dining table cost? Price indication and choice factors

The price of a herringbone dining table varies greatly, depending on the wood used, the dimensions, and the base. A general indication:

• Entry-level (oak, standard size): €800 – €1,400 – good quality, functional but less custom work
• Mid-range (solid oak or walnut, custom-made): €1,500 – €2,500 – wide range, handmade, choice of base and finish
• Premium (walnut, reclaimed wood, exclusive base): €2,500+ – fully customized, luxurious wood types, artisanal craftsmanship

At Industrial Home, our herringbone dining tables largely fall into the mid- to premium segment. We believe that a good artisan piece of wood is an investment for life – not a piece of furniture you replace in five years.

5 tips for choosing the right herringbone dining table

1. Look at the direction of the pattern: classic herringbone runs diagonally relative to the table length; some makers lay it straight – choose what suits your taste.
2. Ask about the joining technique: good herringbone tops are joined with wooden dowels or glue; steel reinforcement in the top provides extra stability for larger sizes.
3. Assess the finish of the edges: straight edges give a modern look; a rounded or planed edge looks warmer and more classic.
4. Think about the base beforehand: the top and legs should be designed as a unit – decide on the base at the same time as the top, not afterwards.
5. Ask for a sample card: wood types always look different in reality than in photos. Request a sample before deciding on the wood type and finish.