EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PARQUET FLOORING

Parquet flooring has long been admired for its timeless beauty and intricate patterns. From the grand halls of French palaces to modern, design-led interiors, it continues to be a popular choice for homeowners seeking both elegance and durability. In this blog, we cover everything you need to know — from its rich history and design options to installation tips and how to care for it — to help you decide if parquet is the right fit for your space.

What is Parquet Flooring?

Parquet flooring is a style steeped in rich history and timeless elegance. It dates back to the 16th century when King Louis XIV of France commissioned elaborate wood designs for the Palace of Versailles, replacing cold stone with intricate timber inlays. These beautiful arrangements became a hallmark of grandeur and have since evolved through the ages into the versatile flooring options we know today. (If you are interested in reading more about the history of parquet flooring, check out our History of Parquet blog article!)

Modern parquet flooring is available in various layouts including herringbone, chevron, and cassette designs, allowing for creativity and personalization in any space. You can choose between solid or engineered formats, as well as unfinished or prefinished boards. With a vast array of colours and surface textures, parquet gives you the freedom to craft a floor that’s uniquely yours — whether you’re going for timeless elegance or contemporary cool.

How Much Does a Parquet Floor Cost?

The cost of parquet flooring can vary significantly depending on the materials and finish. Factors such as whether you opt for solid oak or engineered oak, the type of engineered board, and your chosen finish will all impact the price. In addition it is important to know that due to the intricate nature of parquet installation, the cost to install will always be higher compared with installing a plank floor.

At Strathearn, our parquet flooring starts from £68.50 + VAT per m². While the upfront investment can be higher than other flooring options, it’s worth remembering that parquet is designed to last decades. Choosing the right product from the start ensures long-term satisfaction and value.

How Do I Choose the Right Parquet Floor for My Project?

Choosing the right parquet floor comes down to a mix of aesthetic preference, lifestyle needs, and room function. For high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens, we recommend a natural-toned oak such as Dijon Marron or Stirling — both durable and versatile.

Want to make a bold design statement? Consider a Cassette pattern. We can offer any product from our Choice Collection in eight unique Cassette Designs, for truly show-stopping results.

For a Scandinavian-inspired look, a larger format herringbone (e.g. 730x120mm) in a white-toned finish like Dijon Blanc can bring light and calm to your space.

Unfinished oak, Herringbone, square edge 100x500m with bourbon oil tint

How Do You Fit a Parquet Floor?

Installing parquet flooring requires expertise and precision. Before fitting, the boards must acclimate to your room’s temperature and humidity, usually for several days. A level, dry, and solid subfloor is crucial — often involving plywood, chipboard, or screed to prepare the surface.

We strongly advise using a professional installer with experience in parquet, as the geometric patterns require careful alignment and skilled handling.

For more information regarding about oak flooring installation, take a look at our ‘Oak Installation Guidelines‘

Which Direction Should Your Parquet Flooring Be Laid?

The direction you lay your parquet floor can dramatically influence the look and feel of your room. A general rule is to run the pattern along the longest wall, helping to elongate the space and maintain flow.

However, if your room features architectural highlights or a key focal point, you might want to align the pattern to draw the eye there. Also consider how the parquet interacts with doorways.

Dijon Naturale Engineered Oak in a chevron format.

How Do You Look After Parquet Flooring?

Caring for your parquet flooring ensures it remains beautiful for years to come. Here’s how:

1. Get expert advice before buying — The right flooring depends on your lifestyle and the rooms in which it will be installed. A knowledgeable sales team should help guide your selection.
2. Let the finish cure — After installation, it’s common for your joiner to apply a final coat of oil. Do not clean the floor for at least two weeks, allowing the oil to cure fully. Cleaning too soon can damage the surface protection and lead to premature marking.
3. Use proper cleaning tools — We recommend a microfibre mop and the specific cleaner suggested by your flooring supplier to preserve the finish and avoid buildup or residue.

For a deeper dive into care, read our dedicated blog: “How to Clean and Maintain Your Oak Floor.”

The Right Parquet Floor For You…

Parquet flooring blends heritage, craftsmanship, and modern versatility. Whether you’re drawn to classic herringbone or bold cassette designs, the choices in wood type, size, finish, and layout allow you to tailor every detail. With the right care and professional installation, your parquet floor can last a lifetime, adding warmth, texture, and timeless appeal to your space.