Once reserved for royal estates, parquet flooring now adds a beautiful finished look to interior spaces in many modern homes and offices. The techniques used to create the mosaic patterns involve the placement of wood sections in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and finishes. The result is an interwoven look that can be simple or elaborate and varies in price according to materials, installation methods and design intricacies.

Parquet Flooring Features

Parquet hardwood flooring typically contains a geometric pattern that may be created using multiple types of wood cuts including oak, maple and pine to give a variegated appearance. Deeper shades of mahogany, cherry, hickory or other exotic blends may be added to create depth in the design. Many contemporary home owners choose bamboo or cork flooring because of the natural beauty of the material. Choosing several different stains and finishes within the pattern create contrast and add unique character.

One of the most common styles of parquet wood flooring is the herringbone pattern, a repetitive design that can be used in any room without concern about design placement. Many of the early parquet floors were subject to damage from moisture and humidity but the newer versions are both moisture and stain resistant.

Tips for Selecting Parquet Flooring

Parquet styles create an interesting floor that enhances other wood furniture or paneling. Wood colors should be coordinated with painted walls, baseboards or crown molding. The flooring works well if matched with interior walls covered in subtle papers such as grass cloth or bamboo, or textured walls finished in faux prints. Before choosing a floor style, consider trim colors, fabrics and accessories being used in the room to create a space that flows and is pleasing to the eye rather than overly busy with too many patterns.

Is Parquet Flooring Expensive?

Compared with other types of solid hardwood flooring, parquet styles often are less expensive. Many home improvement centers supply precut kits that feature ready to lay wood tiles with self installation instructions. Good quality flooring should fit together snugly without any gaps and have a smooth sheen and resilient finish.

Choosing Parquet Flooring for a Unique Look

Custom designed parquet floors create an impact if used in an entry hall or as the focal point within a room.   Usually with very difficult or complex patterned wood parquet flooring, it makes sense to hire a specialist to install it in your home.   Make sure you see previous finished work of those specialists as well as speak to a few of their former customers.  Any reputable hardwood floor installer would be happy to refer former happy clients.

In summary, whether the décor is contemporary or traditional, a parquet floor with rich wood tones and unique configurations will add lasting beauty to any home.