A Guide to Parquet Flooring: What is it and why do... | Spencer Thorpe Bloghttps://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/162115245459/a-guide-to-parquet-flooring-what-is-it-and-why-do#_=_ In this guide to parquet flooring we find out why its a perennial favourite and take a look at some beautiful new colours and designs which are suited to both traditional and modern homes. What is Parquet? Ash Grey Oak in Chevron design The origins of parquet flooring date back to the late 1600s in Versailles France. Handmade by cutting pieces of wood into small geometric shapes it emerged as an alternative to marble flooring with Louis XIV opting for parquet flooring in the splendiferous Palace of Versailles. In the 17th and 18th centuries it became increasingly popular in Western Europe. In the 20th century parquet flooring was initially popular in the UK but earned a bit of a bad design rap due to unsympathetic use in 70s and 80s housing treatments. Nonetheless its now having a huge comeback as parquet flooring remains a warm sturdy and versatile option for modern living areas. Hereshow to take parquet flooring back to its elegant and luxurious origins. Where can it be used? According to Jago Anderson Creative Director at parquet expertselement7 Parquet flooring can be laid anywhere in the house. For thinner spaces such as corridors and hallways extra care needs to be taken when fitting to ensure that both sides of the room are equal and balanced. Element7 does this by using a central spin and laying the floor out from that on either side. This ensures complete symmetry. Whilst herringbone has been the most popular design for many years we are seeing an increased demand for chevrons and mansion weaves. Traditional Parquet Da Vinci Panels style Traditional patterns for parquet are generally angular and geometric as opposed to marquetry which refers to wood floors that contain curved pieces. Derived from the original parquet de Versailles in which small diagonally laid squares are encased in a box of longer rectangular pieces most of the classic parquet patterns are variations on herringbone chevron or diagonally laid wood often in subtly mixed contrasting shades and grains. Traditionally it was laid using tongue and groove carpentry with no nails or glue used. To finish it is waxed and buffed to a high polish. Reclaimed Wood Parquet Reclaimed parquet flooring is typically lifted from old schools churches and other public buildings. Differences in areas of wear require that planks and pieces be cleaned and resurfaced before the pattern is laid. Oak teak and mahogany are popular hardwoods used for parquet; pine is a popular softwood. Reclaimed planks and squares can be laid to traditional patterns or for a more contemporary look in more distinctive patterns. Reclaimed parquet can add to a distressed aesthetic if desired but new products can also be engineered to achieve the look. These guys specialise in reclaimed parquet from schools and colleges for that sitting-crossed-legged-on-the-floor-for-assembly vibe. Reclaimed wood needs more work than new so be warned! But in return you will get a unique floor with an interesting history. Parquet flooring can be laid anywhere in the house Engineered Parquet Experts say modern heating and air conditioning systems subject wooden flooring to extreme changes in temperature and non-engineered parquet flooring may react badly. Engineered parquet ismade of layers of plywood that are bonded together to create a stable and solid core board. On top of this core board engineered wood flooring manufacturers place a layer of solid wood and its this layer of solid wood that makes engineered wood flooring absolutely real looking. This means that this flooring option can be used throughout the home even where there are moisture and temperature issues and under floor heating. Antique Grey Distressed Oak Panels Keep in mind that with engineered parquet as with everything you get what you pay for. Thats why its important to source engineered flooring from an experienced supplier and installer. The higher end firms have great ranges and showcase some spectacular floors made from engineered wood laid in traditional patterns hexagons mansion weaves and even free-form one of a kind designs. The beauty of wood its grain and colour highlighted by the intricate and often striking patterns of parquet is always a welcome element in any home. Weve come across element7 floors specified in so many of the beautiful interiors you see in the magazines and they floors that dreams are made on. And if you fancy going beyond the traditional herringbone pattern they can do that too. With time patience and a good kneepad you can lay a parquet floor yourself but if you want a floor to last a lifetime we saypremium materials and expert installation is definitely the way to go when choosing this classic floor treatment. You May Also Like Choosing a New Floor for a Family Home Flooring choices for open plan living Inside a Renovated Soho Loft Studio All images are courtesy of element7who produce a wide range of parquet styles and designs. Save The post A Guide to Parquet Flooring: What is it and why do we love it? appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/guide-parquet-flooring-love/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/162115064143