What Is Parquet Flooring? Designs, Types, and Benefits
March 31, 2025
Parquet wood flooring has been popular for quite some time now, all thanks to the many eye-catching and decorative patterns it has to offer. You can use parquet patterns in your kitchen or in any part of your house.
Due to its popularity, you may have heard about parquet floors but wonder what they really are. What is parquet wood flooring and what are the different kinds of patterns? Here’s everything you need to know:
What Is Parquet Flooring?
Parquet wood flooring is a type of flooring that’s made up of small wooden blocks or strips that are arranged in a geometric or decorative pattern. In simple terms, it consists of small strips of wood that are arranged into patterns.
Parquet flooring became popular throughout the 1600s in France and has since gained popularity all over the world. It remains popular today due to its distinctive aesthetics, durability, and classic style.
Popular Parquet Flooring Patterns and Designs
Parquet flooring is known for its intricate patterns and textures, which add depth and style to any room of your house. There are many types of parquet flooring patterns, but here are the most common and popular parquet flooring patterns:
Herringbone
Herringbone is the most popular parquet flooring pattern. It was named for its resemblance to the bone structures of the herring fish skeleton. The herringbone pattern dates back to Ancient Rome, where it was first used in road construction before becoming a popular flooring design.
Herringbone is a zigzag pattern using rectangular blocks or planks with straight ends. Because of its beautiful design, the herringbone pattern remains popular today. It never goes out of style.
Chevron
Second in pattern popularity is the chevron pattern. It’s similar to the herringbone pattern, but the ends of each plank are cut at a 45° angle to create a true V-shape.
In the chevron pattern, diagonal planks of the same size meet at a precise V-shape, creating a continuous, flowing effect. This pattern presents a more uniform look, and its advantage is that it can make rooms appear more spacious.
Mosaic (or Brick)
The mosaic pattern (or brick) is a classic style where thin wood strips of equal sizes are formed into one square, and squares are placed next to one another to form a pattern. This classic design adds visual interest and a timeless charm to any room.
Versailles
Parquet flooring has been around for centuries, and this pattern was famously used in the hallways of the Palace of Versailles. This design includes interlacing diagonals and square panels. It features a large central square that’s surrounded by smaller squares and triangles.
This pattern forms an intricate, interwoven design of squares and diagonals, adding an elegant, regal touch to interiors.
Basketweave
From the name itself, it’s a pattern that gives the appearance of a woven basket. In this design, rectangular blocks are arranged in a woven pattern. Wood planks appear to be interwoven under and over each other, making it look like a woven basket.
This pattern mimics the texture of a woven basket, with wood strips interlacing to create a dynamic, textured look. The basketweave pattern has different variations, which include the double basket weave and the square basket weave.
Checkerboard
True to its name, this pattern consists of alternating square wood blocks, creating a striking, uniform grid-like appearance. This is a good choice if you are going for a uniform look for your space.
Chantilly
Chantilly is another classic parquet pattern. Its design consists of a square border made of rectangular planks with the same cuts that surround an interlacing arrangement of plus-sign-shaped patterns. One of the great things about this pattern is that it adds depth and movement to your space, giving it a lively vibe.
Parquet Wood Flooring: Key Advantages and Benefits
Here are the advantages and benefits of choosing parquet wood flooring.
Wide Range of Patterns and Style
From the different parquet patterns listed above, you can tell that parquet flooring does not lack in style. Parquet flooring comes in a variety of designs and colours, allowing you to achieve a distinctive and elegant look for your space. Its intricate patterns create a striking visual appeal, making a lasting impression on visitors.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Parquet wood flooring does not just offer style and stunning designs; it offers durability as well. Parquet flooring can handle heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for busy areas. It can last for many years with little signs of wear and tear.
Some palaces from the old centuries still have their parquet floors, which further proves that it is long-lasting. It’s an ideal choice for high-traffic, busy households.
Ideal for Any Room
You can use it in any part of your house because of its durability and wide range of parquet styles. Its durability makes it suitable for high-traffic areas such as living rooms and kitchens. With various design options, parquet flooring complements any interior style.
Easy to Maintain
Parquet flooring is easy to clean. Regular sweeping, vacuuming, and dry mopping keep parquet floors looking pristine. And just like with other types of flooring, you can prevent scratches by placing rugs and mats over your parquet floors.
Allergen-Friendly Flooring
Parquet flooring does not trap dust or allergens, making it a healthier choice for allergy sufferers. Unlike some other flooring options, it resists dust accumulation and does not absorb allergens, ensuring cleaner indoor air.
Contact Nordic Homeworx for Flooring Advice
Parquet wood flooring is a good option if you’re looking for strong floors with a unique aesthetic. However, you may have more questions or concerns regarding parquet wood flooring.
At Nordic Homeworx, we have flooring consultants who will happily assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. We also have a wide selection of flooring options to choose from, and you can check out some of our work here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is parquet wood flooring real wood?
Yes, parquet flooring is made from real wood, typically hardwood species like oak, walnut, or maple. Some modern versions use engineered wood for added durability.
Can parquet flooring be refinished?
Yes, solid wood parquet can be sanded and refinished multiple times. However, engineered parquet can only be refinished a few times, depending on the thickness of the top wood layer.
Is parquet flooring suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?
Parquet flooring can be used in kitchens but requires proper sealing to protect against moisture. It’s not recommended for bathrooms due to high humidity levels.
Does parquet flooring scratch easily?
Like other hardwood floors, parquet can scratch if not properly maintained. Using furniture pads, rugs, and regular cleaning can help prevent damage.
How is parquet flooring installed?
Parquet flooring can be glued down, nailed, or installed as a floating floor with a click-lock system, depending on the type and manufacturer.
Can I install parquet flooring over existing tiles?
Yes, parquet flooring can be installed over tiles if the surface is even, clean, and dry. A suitable underlayment may be required for stability.
How do I clean and maintain parquet floors?
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris. Use a damp (not wet) mop with a wood-safe cleaner and avoid excessive moisture to prevent damage.
