Things to Know When Choosing Parquet Flooring

There are few interior design elements quite as impactive or handsome as parquet wood flooring. This fanciful touch provides an immediate lift wherever it is installed. And yet, many home owners and commercial property managers imagine that such an aspirational aesthetic is somehow off limits. Perhaps they assume that parquet flooring wouldn't suit the space or that the cost would be prohibitive. However, the exciting news is that neither needs to be the case. We are proud to be go-to experts for the very parquet flooring London property owners trust, and as such, we're happy to bust a few lingering parquetry myths!

Yes, historic city homes in England's capital—and indeed, right across the UK—are often host to beautiful parquetry that may have been in situ for decades, or could just as easily have have been installed recently with such skill that you'd struggle to know the difference. Some property owners favour the more traditional herringbone parquet flooring London homes often feature, while others can't resist some of the more contemporary and playful takes on chevron parquetry that often grace interior design magazines these days. Whichever the case may be, it is certain that parquet flooring remains as popular as ever, and just as timeless in its elegance. If you, too, dream of parquetry, read on to discover why there is truly nothing holding you back!

​Today's Parquet Flooring Is More Versatile Than Ever
When parquetry was first becoming a trend in London and beyond, it was always made from wooden strips affixed into square blocks in such a way that it was very sensitive to moisture. As beautiful as the results of this technique were, it meant that the wrong setting would cause such a floor to potentially bulge and collapse. Happily, today parquetry techniques have advanced so far that they stand up to moisture far better. In fact, so well that they can be installed at basement level and even in kitchens!

​Better yet, not only is sophisticated contemporary engineered parquet flooring suitable for more moisture-prone settings, but it can also be installed with ease over underfloor heating systems—realizing the true definition of decadence! Ultimately, whatever the setting and vision may be that you hold for your parquetry, Unique Bespoke Wood is ready to deliver. Our wide range of parquet flooring, including herringbone, chevron parquet, Versailles, and more, is available on both engineered and solid wood platforms, and our team are happy to guide you towards the perfect solution for your setting.

The Sky Is The Limit When It Comes to Design
If asked to envision a parquet floor, many would immediately see a romantic vision spring up in their mind's eye. Likely herringbone or chevron, cut at a 45º angle, with a decadently deep patina—perhaps that sounds familiar? While the traditional parquetry aesthetic is one that will never go out of fashion, there is so much more potential to explore. Not only can parquet flooring be realised in a variety of hardwoods, such as European Oak, European Walnut, or European Ash, but its aesthetic is only limited by your creativity.

For example, both herringbone and chevron parquetry can be realised with blocks set at angles ranging from 30 to 60 degrees—creating entirely different looks. It can also be manifested with playfully oversized blocks, up to a size of 20x200x2000mm, delivering an expansive contemporary vibe that visitors won't expect! Those feeling yet bolder can explore the idea of diverging from the classically chosen parallel alignment to setting the parquet pattern at a diagonal to the room. And of course, this doesn't even begin to touch upon the potential to create custom parquet blocks and patterns to the design of your choosing.


Beautiful Parquetry Isn't As Expensive As You Think
We often associate parquetry with splendour, and while the association is flattering, it creates the false impression that installing parquet wood floors is a particularly expensive endeavour. While this might have been true back in the day when every block was cut by hand without the benefit of modern tools, today, you may be surprised to discover that parquetry offers the opposite advantage.

You see, even though parquet flooring is comprised of the finest European hardwoods, the shorter size and lengths of the component blocks make them far easier to source and more cost effective. When this appeal is added to by the low maintenance properties of modern parquetry, its accessibility is impressive indeed.

You Can Choose From a Broad Range of Finishes
We mentioned some of the different types of hardwood favoured by Unique Bespoke Wood's parquet flooring London clients, but this doesn't convey the broad spectrum of finishes that can be applied to further enrich them! Each wood block can be treated through a variety of methods such as ageing, tumbling, brush and smoking techniques to create the texture you desire. From there, the highest quality eco-friendly oils and waxes provide spectra in terms of shade, warmth, and effect. Of course, we can also supply parquet floors in either pre-finished or unfinished form. The latter would support a traditional site-applied finish, which our team will be happy to apply!

When partnering with Unique Bespoke Wood to realise the hardwood floor of your dreams, you are choosing chevron parquet and herringbone parquet flooring UK specialists who consider each installation a true labour of love. Our dedicated team will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your exact vision becomes a reality. We always hold many options in stock, and what we don't stock we can always produce. We even offer a colour matching service for those who require it! For a comprehensive parquet flooring service in Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and beyond—that includes supply, fit, and everything in between—we are always ready to assist. Contact our team today to discuss making the parquet floor that you imagine a reality ready to enjoy!