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What is Parquet Flooring?
Parquet flooring is a type of wooden flooring that uses smaller strips of wood to create a pattern. These patterns are laid in angular but regular tessellations (shapes that fit together), such as chevrons. It's made from either solid or engineered wood. Due to its heritage and history, it deserves a section in its own right.
Why Choose Parquet Flooring?
The most obvious reason for choosing a parquet floor is its showstopping aesthetic. In fact, parquet was first introduced to the Palace of Versailles to wow French courtiers.
Due to the pattern, it means that there is little to no cross-grain expansion which increases its durability. As parquet can be made from either solid or engineered wood, the pros and cons of these materials also transfer. In short, whilst they look the same on the outside, engineered floors are tougher, but solid wood floors can last longer. See our full guide on the differences between solid and engineered wood.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
Parquet wood floors are very easy to clean and maintain. All you need to do to maintain your parquet floor is to show it some TLC. This means giving it a regular sweep and vacuum and then protecting it by not using wet mops, abrasive materials, and dragging furniture across it.
What Rooms are Parquet Flooring Suitable For?
Parquet flooring has a stunning impact on spaces. Due to its ornate nature, it lends itself to rooms that see the most footfall. For this reason, parquet is ideal for entryways and hallways, living rooms, and dining rooms.However, because parquet is wood, the humidity in the room needs to be between 40-60% to prevent the wood from either drying out and shrinking or expanding when humidity is too high. This means it is not a good option for high humidity rooms, such as bathrooms and utility rooms. If you are after a parquet floor in your bathroom, opt for a parquet-effect vinyl floor.
What are the Different Types of Parquet Pattern Available?
Parquet is an umbrella term for patterned wooden flooring. While parquet is a design, different styles are available within the parquet category. We offer three key styles including:
- Chevron: The chevron style uses a zigzag pattern that is laid at a 45-degree to create a true point in a V-shape. This creates a clean and sophisticated look.
- Herringbone: The herringbone style is similar to the chevron, however, because the end of the planks are fitted at a 90-degree angle the pattern is staggered rather than creating a Chevron V-formation. It’s ideal for adding a quirky twist to minimal rooms.
- Dutch: Rather than utilising triangular shapes like the Chevron and Her-ringbone, Dutch uses rectangles. To visualise the look think of a brick wall pattern. For these designs check out Kahrs collection.
What Colour Should I Opt For?
Whilst choosing a parquet design guarantees a wow factor, the colour of the parquet has a big effect on the ambience of a room.
- White and grey parquet flooring creates a modern twist on a classic design. Combining the contemporary beauty of these colours with the traditionality of parquet creates a sleek but monochromatic effect.
- Light and medium colours are the most popular for parquet flooring. These colours offer a Scandinavian purity that allows the parquet flooring to be noticeable but not overwhelming. Pair with a light colour scheme and clean line furniture.
- Dark colours are what parquet was traditionally laid in. Dark colours confer a statement look and offer a traditional and homely feel. Pair with dark paint shades for a bold but cosy aesthetic.
