Everything you need to know about French Parquet Flooring

Historical and classical are two words that come to your mind when hearing ‘french parquet flooring.’ However, you would be surprised that these floorings look quite modern and aesthetically chic. You can walk into a place and easily identify the flooring because it is so vibrant and eye-catching.

History, in short, and what does it mean?

The term parquet has been derived from parchet, a French word. It means compartments. The history behind its name dates back to the late 1600s. During this time, the flooring was used for the first time in the Palace of Versailles in France. Prior to installing the parquet flooring, the entire place had marbles on the floor. However, the shift took place because the maintenance of the traditional marble flooring was too high. Back in those days, the French parquet flooring was a sign of opulence because only the wealthy and noble could afford the costs of this flooring material due to the technical expertise required for installation.

Floors made of wooden inlays are known as parquet. The characteristic feature is that the wood is laid in a geometric pattern, for example, square motifs. Once the concept gained ground in France, it moved across all parts of Europe and later to all parts of the world. 

What is unique about French parquet flooring?

The special thing about this flooring type is that it is a decorative element adding valuably to the entire space. The main pattern comes with a decorative border in most cases, making it look like a built-in rug.

The other unique thing about the parquet flooring is that it can be made with any design or pattern. Checkerboards, mosaic, and herringbone are the most common designs.

Is parquet flooring popular in Australia?

In the pre-war era, this flooring pattern was quite popular in most parts of the world, including Australia. However, after the war, in many places, carpets, tiles, simple wooden floors, and concrete replaced French parquet flooring worldwide. ‘Fast forward to the present times – parquet flooring is witnessing a renaissance as many homeowners today, even in Australia, are ready to refurbish the flooring of their homes and offices with parquet. 

You can consult with a flooring specialist, especially a parquet expert, to understand how the timeless charm of parquet flooring can be rendered cost-effectively in your space in Sydney. There are options like Laminate Parquet Flooring that make the floor resistant to moisture, just the kind you would wish for the climatic conditions in Australia. Wooden parquet flooring can be an expensive affair. But, if you wish to retain the look of the original wooden parquet but need a budgeted investment, choosing engineered parquet flooring is the ideal solution.

A fact

The Boston Celtics Court, built-in 1952, had the famous parquet floor. Its rise to fame was how balls bounced off the wooden flooring pieces. 

Stay away from the urge to DIYing.

Until and unless you have the skills, it is best to leave French parquet flooring to experts. As mentioned earlier, it involves technical skills. The flooring pattern can be complex, the wooden tiles and the subfloor need to be acclimatized for some time, and there are many other complicated requirements. Best to leave the work to professionals!