Wood Flooring
Here at A1 Carpentry we specialise in therestoration of hardwood floors and the installation ofvarious hardwood and laminate floors. As well as traditional plank flooring we also have experience and expertise in parquet flooring. This more complex type of wood flooring includes herringbone, chevron, versaille panels and mansion weave.
Mansion weave
Mansion weave is less common due to its intricate design that requires more in depth knowledge and experience when laying. However here at A1 Carpentry we specialise in this type of flooring and would be happy to discuss any queries you may have.
Mansion Weave is one of the most intricate styles in parquet flooring. Dating back to 17th century France, it takes its name from where it originated in palaces and grand homes alike in addition to this it resembles a traditional weave pattern that was commonly seen in textiles from this period. For this style, the grain of wood runs in three directions made up of polygons and trapezoids that are tapered at one end. These shapes are arranged together to create an intricate and complex pattern that adds a level of sophistication to any room. A boarder can be added with or without a pinstripe to add character and definition.
Versaille panels
Versaille panels are intricate patterns of floorboards available for purchase in typically squares although can be purchased in rectangles and triangles also. These panels create a …
Chevron
Alike other styles of parquet flooring, chevron initially became gained popularity in 16th century France. At this time chevron was seen as a symbol of status and wealth, adorning the floors of ballrooms and dining areas. Chevron is a timeless pattern that due to its versatility of colours and wood types can be suited to most styles.
Chevron similar to herringbone is made up of planks laid in a zig-zag pattern however they are joined at a 90 degree angle. This diagonal wood pattern is particularly eye catching due to the way it reflects the light, creating a strong striping effect which can brighten and create an illusion of space within a room.
Herringbone
Herringbone is a style of parquet flooring that gains its name due to the resemblance to the bone structure of the herring fish. For this style of flooring wooden battons are cut into rectangles and laid into a staggered zig-zag pattern. Commonly this is laid in single rows however this can also be laid in double rows to create a more atypical look. The origin of herringbone dates back to the Ancient Roman Empire where builders discovered this arrangement of bricks gave more stability on their roads. Many of these roads constructed are still in use today, which shows the durability of the design. In the 16th century this design was copied and used for flooring firstly throughout France where it was a symbol of elegance and wealth. Alike the construct of roads this arrangement of planks gives great stability as the boards are interlocking which allows for limited movement once laid.
Herringbone is most commonly seen in high traffic areas such as hallways, lounges, sitting room and dining rooms although can be suited to any area of the home. A quality of parquet is the ability to create an illusion of space to elongate or widen an area where needed.
Plank
Plank is a traditional style floor that can come in solid or engineered boards. Plank is versatile due to the varying wood grain, colours, finishes, widths and lengths that can be chose from. This type of flooring would be suitable for any area in homes including bedrooms, halls, dining rooms and living areas. Choosing the direction of boards can help to create an illusion of space by drawing the eye in a particular direction.
Parquet
Parquet (pronounced ‘parkay’) is a timeless traditional style of flooring with origins that date back to the 17th century when it first became popular with European aristocracy. Due to the intricate design and complex installation, parquet was viewed as an extravagant demonstration of wealth. The hard wearing nature of hard wood increased its popularity and it became a replacement for marble flooring due to the low maintenance element it carried. Due to its durability and sustainability it can be placed in various areas of the home including those with higher footfall such as lounges and hallways. If you have a small or narrow space, parquet can play with perspective to help visually widen or elongate an area.
Parquet is an umbrella term for various designs however all include intricate wooden patterns made up of typically short wooden battens or shapes laid together to create a geometric mosaic. It makes a fantastic first impression and the wide range of colours and finishes means there is a parquet floor to suit your taste. This classic style can complement periodic properties but it can also bring a feeling of warmth and class to the minimalist style of contemporary homes.