Checkerboard decor, with its bold geometric lines and classic two-tone colour scheme with alternating pale and dark squares, isn’t new. In fact, it’s been a staple design for centuries. This simple yet striking pattern has adorned everything from ancient floors to contemporary tabletops and its ability to seamlessly blend both vintage and modern aesthetics makes it an enduring favourite. Today, the checkerboard design is experiencing a revival, embraced by designers and homeowners alike for its timeless appeal and fresh versatility.
In this article, we’re exploring why the checkered pattern appeals, how it can be used in aesthetic room decor and offering some ideas of products you could buy to get this popular design style into your home.
The History of Checkerboard Design
The classic black and white checkerboard pattern has ancient roots, with examples found in multiple cultures throughout history. One of the earliest known uses of this design was in ancient Egypt, where checkered floors were laid in temples and the homes of the elite. The geometric regularity of checkerboard tiles was not only aesthetically pleasing but also symbolically significant, often representing balance and order. The pattern’s early presence in Egyptian art and architecture speaks to its longevity and adaptability across civilizations.
In medieval Europe, checkerboard floors became a common feature in castles, monasteries, and churches. The black-and-white grid conveyed a sense of grandeur and stability, offering a dramatic visual contrast that suited the opulence of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The traditional pattern eventually made its way into more humble settings, adorning the floors of inns and taverns.
Checkerboard floors were popular in Georgian houses, and the Victorians couldn’t get enough of them! They were particularly common in hallways and corridors, where they added interest to otherwise plain and utilitarian spaces.
During the 1950s in post-war America the monochromatic color palette of the checkerboard pattern became iconic in domestic spaces. It was especially popular in kitchens and diners, where black-and-white checkered linoleum floors evoked the clean, efficient aesthetic of the era. The rise of the “retro” diner look, with its chrome barstools and neon lights, solidified checkerboard flooring as a symbol of mid-century modernism. Its practical appeal—easy to clean and durable—made it a favourite among families, and its association with nostalgia kept it relevant in pop culture long after.
Checkerboard in the Home: Then and Now
Checkerboard decor has long been synonymous with checkerboard tile flooring, especially in kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms. In the past, its usage was often confined to the floor due to the large, geometric shapes and grid-like nature of the pattern. Floors became a natural canvas for this bold design, but today checkerboard patterns have come up off the floor and are marching through the rest of the house!
Designers have begun incorporating the pattern in new and unexpected ways. From statement furniture, room accessories and textiles, to wall art, lampshades, crockery and other home decor pieces, the checkerboard motif is being reimagined for modern interiors.
This is a strong, geometric pattern, so use it with caution. Steer away from going all-out checkerboard, or the result will look very busy, and instead explore ways of it using it as room accents or statement pieces. For a less visually distracting effect, choose muted colours rather than strongly contrasting ones, and stick to one main colour palette. Or, for a modern twist, it looks great paired with softer designs such as florals.
Checkerboard Designs For Your Home
As you can see, checkerboard designs can make a big impact in home decor, which is why they’ve seen a surge in popularity. You don’t need to hire an interior designer to help you get the look in your abode, there are plenty of products to buy that can can help you embrace the checkered pattern trend easily and effortlessly.
Here are some of our favourite checkerboard room decor finds to inspire you!
Checkerboard square framed canvas art, Aureous
Checkerboard prints offer a great way of getting the visual interest of the checked design into your home. This artwork pairs a strong pattern with visually soothing colours, so it will draw the eye without dominating the room. Available in a choice of framed and unframed in various size options, prices start at £90 for a 24″ by 24″ unframed canvas from Aureous.
Checkerboard large scale flatweave rug, Jonathan Adler
Graphic glamour mixed with classic charm – this large checkerboard flatweave rug (183cm by 274cm) is the perfect companion to existing illustrious decor in a living room. Complete the look of your living space with the versatile bold black and white pattern. Was £2,160 now £1,620, available from Sweetpea & Willow.
Lismore checkerboard child’s pillowcase, La Redoute Interiors
This checkerboard design is finished with pretty striped ribbon. Easy to live with and maintain,it’s made from 100% cotton of which 30% is recycled. The checkerboard pattern is repeated on both sides and the pillows are finished with a striped ribbon detail. £12 for one pillowcase, available from La Redoute Interiors.
Checkerboard cushion, Bon Bon Fistral
This handcrafted corduroy checkerboard cushion cover (50cm by 50cm) features a zip closure and inner cushion. Adopting the popular checkerboard pattern is an easy way to inject a vibrant look into a monochrome interior. £59, available from Bon Bon Fistral.
Charcoal and natural checkerboard table lamp, Rockett St George
This unusual fabric lamp doesn’t compromise on the wow factor. Created in-house by the Rockett St George team, the design features an on-trend checkerboard print in muted, neutral tones. The perfect proof that neutrals need not be boring, the pattern alternates between blocks of natural beige and rich charcoal grey. £65, available from Rockett St George.
Diamond checkerboard rug, Rose & Grey
Introduce natural tones and textures into your space with this diamond checkerboard rug. The rug consists of neutral tones made from jute and cotton, making no compromises on durability and softness. Its small size (90cm by 60cm) is ideal for your hallway, bedroom or underneath a small coffee table. £68, available from Rose & Grey.
‘Checkmate’ checkerboard wallpaper, Sorbet Dreams
Bring a unique, modern style to any wall with the ‘Checkmate’ checkerboard wallpaper in bubblegum and pistachio on a white background. This pastel checkerboard pattern is perfect for a fresh, contemporary look. Instantly elevate any space with this stylish, unforgettable pattern. £105 per 10m roll, available from Sorbet Dreams.
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