The checkerboard design is a timeless pattern that has been a popular feature in home decor for many years. It has a long history in design and is known for its high-contrast grid, reminiscent of a chessboard. The pattern has recently made a comeback and is being used in various forms, including paint, textiles, wallpaper and ceramics. Design experts believe that the resurgence of the checkerboard motif is due to its ability to bring a sense of nostalgia and visual interest to a space. It is a versatile pattern that can be incorporated into different aesthetics, from modern to eclectic styles. The checkerboard design is particularly popular for flooring, but it can also be used on walls, furniture and soft furnishings like curtains and upholstery.
See also: 30+ exquisite living room design ideas
Brief history of checkerboard design
Source: Pinterest/ZK
Checkerboard patterns, including plaid, gingham and buffalo check, have been popular in home decor for decades. One of the most notable examples of checkerboard flooring can be found in the Renaissance period, specifically the black-and-white marble floor of the Grand Trianon at the Palace of Versailles in France.
This exquisite palatial setting showcased the grandeur and sophistication of the checkerboard design. The black-and-white checkered floors added a touch of elegance and visual interest to the space, creating a timeless aesthetic that has inspired designers for centuries.
During the 1920s, black-and-white linoleum or ceramic tiles became a favourite choice for kitchen and bathroom flooring in American homes. The versatility and durability of the checkerboard pattern made it a popular choice for these high-traffic areas.
However, in recent years, solid-coloured and wood flooring has dominated the home decor scene, causing checkerboard floors to fall out of favour. The appeal of natural finishes and minimalist designs led to a decline in the popularity of black-and-white checkered floors.
But now, there’s a resurgence of interest in the checkerboard pattern. Design enthusiasts are rediscovering the charm and character that it brings to a space, and it’s making a comeback in various design styles.
Example of a checkerboard pattern in home decor
| Room | Checkerboard design |
| Kitchen | Black-and-white checkered tiles for a classic and timeless look |
| Bathroom | Linoleum floors with a retro-inspired black-and-white checkered pattern |
| Living room | Accent chair upholstered in a black-and-white checkerboard fabric |
| Entryway | Black-and-white checkered linoleum or ceramic tiles for a bold statement |
The checkerboard pattern offers a versatile canvas for creativity and expression in home decor. Whether it’s in the form of flooring, furniture or soft furnishings, the checkerboard design can add a touch of nostalgia and visual interest to any space.
So, embrace the timeless appeal of the checkerboard pattern and bring a sense of history and style to your home.
Incorporating checkerboard design in different spaces
Checkerboard design is a versatile pattern that can be incorporated into various spaces in your home, adding a touch of timeless charm and visual interest. Whether you’re looking to create a classic or contemporary aesthetic, there are several ways to incorporate checkerboard design into different areas of your home.
Kitchen floor tiles
Source: Pinterest/Design Sponge
A popular choice for incorporating checkerboard design is through kitchen floor tiles. Black-and-white checkered tiles in a high-contrast grid pattern create a striking and stylish look in any kitchen. The checkerboard pattern adds a sense of nostalgia, while the monochromatic palette compliments a variety of kitchen styles, from traditional to modern.
Painted check flooring
Source: Pinterest/Houzz
If you have hardwood floors, painting them in a checkerboard pattern is a creative and cost-effective way to incorporate this design. Choose contrasting colours that match your existing decor or create a playful look with bold and vibrant hues. Painted check flooring can instantly transform a room, adding warmth and personality.
Soft furnishings
Source: Pinterest/Amazon
Checkerboard design is not limited to floors and can be used in various soft furnishings throughout your home. Consider incorporating this pattern in curtains, rugs and upholstery. An accent chair upholstered in a checkerboard pattern can make a bold statement in a living room or bedroom, adding a touch of visual interest and creating a focal point in the space.
Kitchen backsplash
Source: Pinterest/The Interior Collective
In addition to flooring, the checkerboard pattern can also be used as a backsplash in the kitchen. You can achieve this look using tiles or opt for a peel-and-stick wallpaper alternative for a quick and easy update. A checkerboard backsplash adds depth and visual appeal to your kitchen, creating a unique and stylish backdrop for your cooking and dining area.
The checkerboard design is a versatile pattern that can be adapted to different spaces and aesthetics, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of timeless charm and visual interest to their interiors. Whether you choose to incorporate checkerboard design through kitchen floor tiles, painted check flooring, soft furnishings or a kitchen backsplash, this pattern is sure to create a stylish and inviting ambience in your home.
Checkerboard design in home decor trends
Source: Pinterest/ Melanie Jade Design
Checkerboard design has always been a part of home decor trends and it has gained popularity in recent years. One renowned brand associated with checkerboard patterns is MacKenzie-Childs, which has been using the Courtly Check pattern as a base for its designs since 1983. The Courtly Check pattern is hand-painted and features subtle shades of blue, green and purple mixed with black and ivory. This pattern became widely recognized with the introduction of enamel dinnerware and has expanded to include printed textiles and upholstered furniture.
In addition to the classic Courtly Check, MacKenzie-Childs offers pattern variations like Parchment Check, Royal Check and retired collections such as Honeymoon Check, Wittika Pickles and Wittika Peanuts. The checkerboard design can bring a retro vibe to a space with a black-and-white colour palette or it can be given a modern twist with earth tones or pastel colours. With the wide range of checkerboard items available, it’s easy to incorporate this trend into your home decor.
FAQs
What is checkerboard design?
Checkerboard design is a timeless pattern that features a high-contrast grid, reminiscent of a chessboard. It has been a popular feature in home decor for many years and can be incorporated into various elements, such as flooring, walls, furniture and soft furnishings.
Why has the checkerboard pattern made a comeback?
Design experts believe the resurgence of the checkerboard motif is due to its ability to bring a sense of nostalgia and visual interest to a space. It is a versatile pattern that can be adapted to different aesthetics, from modern to eclectic styles.
Where can checkerboard design be used in a home?
Checkerboard design can be incorporated into various spaces in your home. It is commonly used for flooring in the kitchen, with black-and-white checkered tiles being a popular choice. It can also be used on walls, furniture and soft furnishings like curtains, rugs and upholstery.
Are there any famous brands associated with checkerboard patterns?
One renowned brand associated with checkerboard patterns is MacKenzie-Childs. They have been using the Courtly Check pattern as a base for their designs since 1983. MacKenzie-Childs offers various pattern variations, including Courtly Check, Parchment Check, Royal Check and retired collections.
How can I incorporate checkerboard design into my home decor?
There are numerous ways to incorporate checkerboard design into your home decor. You can opt for black-and-white checkered tiles for the kitchen floor or paint hardwood floors in a checkerboard pattern for a touch of charm and nostalgia. Checkerboard design is also widely used in soft furnishings like curtains, rugs and upholstery. Additionally, it can be used as a backsplash in the kitchen with tiles or peel-and-stick wallpaper alternatives.
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