This Retro Flooring Is Back — And More Timeless Than Ever

From thick, luscious carpets to intricate mosaics, there are loads of options for flooring in your home. Because of this, it can be a bit difficult to work out what to pick when redoing your space. Do you want to go bold, stay neutral, or find something in the middle? It can be helpful to turn to the past for inspiration when selecting flooring and consider classic patterns that have made an impact over the years. One retro flooring trend we are seeing in 2026 is the checkerboard style. 

This pattern has been around for centuries, with its iconic symmetry adding interest to European Renaissance palaces and 1950s diners in the U.S. throughout the years. It evokes different feelings in everyone, depending on their associations with it. For elder emos and millennials, the checkerboard pattern is synonymous with skate shoes and rucksacks. For others, it immediately feels elegant and refined, just like the grand castles and homes that used the design in entry halls throughout the eras. But why are people turning to this retro design more and more? Head of design at The Artemis Studios, Rebecca Lagos, told Homes and Gardens that its versatility is what makes it so popular. According to Lagos, "checkerboard can feel bold and modern when used in high-contrast applications, or soft and romantic when paired with more muted tones." Furthermore, as this pattern has been around for so long, it feels comfortable, friendly, and safe. It is something we have seen time and time again, and we know it, which gives it a timeless feel.

Although hardwood, neutrals, and bold, graphic maximalist tiles have all had their moment in recent years, there is something about checkerboard that excites designers and homeowners, and there are so many wonderful ways to use it.

Checkerboard flooring goes perfectly in kitchens, bathrooms, and entry halls, and can be used as the entire flooring or to divide a room into sections. For example, you may wish to install it in the cooking section of your kitchen and leave the dining and hangout area with neutral flooring. Little strips or sections of checkerboard patterning can also create an intriguing effect, for example, as a border around your bath.

When buying your new flooring, you should consider the size and layout of the checkerboard. Bigger checks feel bolder, whereas smaller ones create a cozy, vintage feel. It is usually a good idea to go for large patterns in large rooms and small ones in smaller rooms. Laying the pattern diagonally can widen a narrow space, so you may want to opt for this if you have a smaller bathroom or kitchen.

You can buy checkerboard in a range of materials, so have a think about the best flooring options for your needs and home. Porcelain, ceramic, or luxury vinyl tiles are good choices for bathrooms and kitchens, as they are moisture-resistant and easy to maintain. However, if you want to go for that upmarket, elegant look, you may wish to use marble or limestone for your checkerboard tiles. These do need a bit more attention over the years and will need sealing, but the stunning effect makes it worthwhile.

Checkerboard flooring fits perfectly into a range of interior design styles, from bohemian and maximalism to Scandinavian and mid-century modern. However, it is essential to consider the colors, patterns, and shapes in the room to ensure it is not too overwhelming when you put in your checkerboard flooring. It is generally a good idea to pick neutral and simple surroundings to ensure the space doesn't feel too busy. If you have checkerboard flooring in your kitchen, opt for a simple backsplash choice without a pattern and keep your kitchen cabinetry neutral. 

In terms of color, you may wish to match your checkerboard flooring with neutrals or complementary tones. Similar colors on the walls and furniture can create a warm, inviting space, with neutrals bringing balance to more out-there checkerboard tones. If you are bringing black-and-white checkerboard flooring into your home, creating a monochrome palette by matching it with white walls and black accents instantly oozes sophistication and opulence. However, you don't have to keep it toned down when it comes to checkerboard flooring. Matching your flooring with complementary colors can create a fun and vibrant vibe. For example, if you have blue and white flooring in your kitchen, adding pops of orange in the space can make a bold statement while still feeling cohesive. 

It is also helpful to consider the other materials in your space and ways you can balance out the striking checkerboard pattern. Natural wood, brass, and soft, neutral textiles can bring an element of coziness and warmth into a space, allowing your home to feel lived in and truly your own.