Unpacking Parquetry Flooring
What is parquetry flooring?
Timber parquetry is a stylish and timeless style of flooring used by architects and interior designers around the globe. The word ‘parquetry’ means ‘small, enclosed space’ and dates back to the 17th century where parquet floors were laid in the Palace of Versailles to replace rotting marble floors. Over the centuries, parquetry has continued to be a popular flooring choice due to its natural ability to radiate character, tradition and interest in every setting.
Parquetry flooring is used to describe pre-cut rectangular wood pieces assembled to create a pattern or mosaic-like effect on the floor. The size, shape and wood types can vary, making parquetry a great flooring option, regardless of your design aesthetic. Homeowners and builders alike love parquetry for its enduring beauty and potential to enhance any space.
For those searching for a sustainable wood flooring solution, why not consider standing out from the crown with parquetry flooring? Parquetry is usually made with engineered wood boards, which means they can be refinished and restored multiple times over the course of their long life. Solid (raw) parquetry is also available and is quite a trendy option, especially for their grand look in high end luxury homes.
There are countless reasons why laying parquetry flooring in the home is a great long-term decision. Not only is it pleasing to the eye, but it’s also versatile, with a wide range of style and pattern variations available. High-quality materials used and expert craftsmanship will add value when selling or renting your home. With little ongoing maintenance required, it’s perfect for homeowners or builders looking for stylish engineered timber without the upkeep. And the good news is, Back to Timber have a variety of different options for you to choose from, including in Chevron and Herringbone finishes.
The Difference Between Chevron and Herringbone Flooring
Both Chevron and Herringbone are types of parquetry flooring. While their history has made these floors synonymous with luxury, they have become more accessible in the last decade. There are several ways to tell Chevron and Herringbone apart, though both offer the same contemporary appeal.
In the simplest terms, Chevron is a ‘V-shaped’ parquetry design. The engineered timber is cut at 45 degrees and arranged in a zig-zag pattern. Each board neatly joins at the shortest edge of their trapezoidal shape, lending itself to a more consistent look and feel.
Herringbone is similar, but also unique. Herringbone uses rectangular blocks carefully positioned to create right angles in a ‘V-shape’. The planks are staggered with the straight edge of one plank aligned with the side of the next. A Herringbone pattern can add dynamic appeal to any room.
There are other parquetry styles that have been used historically. All consisting of small floorboards designed in interesting shapes. See the image below for more information.
Which Style of Parquetry is for Me?
The answer to this question lies in the type of property the parquetry floorboards are being laid, as well as the aesthetic you wish to achieve from your floorboards. Both Chevron and Herringbone designs are as beautiful as each other, combining history with contemporary flair. There is no doubt your floors will be a feature of the home should you choose to install parquetry floorboards. There are, however, certain things to consider when making this important decision.
The unique way Chevron timber floorboards are positioned make rooms feel more spacious. This is the why builders use Chevron flooring in small houses, apartments or commercial spaces. This Rhodes waterfront apartment is an example of the way Chevron can work to enhance a smaller room giving the illusion of space. It is an illusion so powerful that it’s used even beyond property – in clothing, linen and stationery. From a visual point of view, Chevron creates the feeling of movement and flow through the positioning of each board in an ‘arrow’. It is on-trend yet classic, certain to add value to your home and have a long-lasting impact on those who walk upon it. It can, at times, be less expensive than Herringbone and it also takes less time to install.
Herringbone can be considered a more sustainable approach, as it requires fewer cuts resulting in less wastage of wood. It is an appropriate option for homeowners searching for a more classic look than Chevron, which is quite modern. While Herringbone floorboards are more traditional, they still offer the same great visual interest. They are perfect for larger, older homes with bigger rooms. This Castlecrag waterfront home shows how the interior of larger houses can benefit from Herringbone flooring, creating warmth and homeliness.
Parquetry Flooring Options
Back to Timber has a wide range of different parquetry options available in Chevron or Herringbone designs. The flooring style is perfect because the floorboards can be engineered from timber in several different woods. No matter the wood you choose, or the parquetry style you like most, Back to Timber will guide you through the process, ensuring you beautiful floorboards for years to come.
Check out our engineered timber parquetry collections below.
If you have questions about these products or any other flooring products, please contact our friendly team. We’d love to hear from you!
Eco Flooring - BT Bamboo
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!