Wood Floor Design Patterns
Hardwood flooring is so versatile and can be customized in almost every way. From the numerous species and countless variations of colors, you can truly create the home of your dreams. Another element to consider is the design pattern of the floor itself. You can be as traditional or as creative as you want. We thought we would share a few of the designs we have seen and installed over the years to give you some inspiration for your next home project.
#1. Horizontal Planks: the Classic Choice
When you think of hardwood flooring, this is probably the pattern you picture in your mind. Straight boards of equal width laid side by side. This is the most common wood floor design and one of the easiest to install. Just because it is one of the most common designs does not mean it is boring. You can create some of the most beautiful floors by choosing horizontal planks.
#2. Herringbone Parquet: Geometric and Intriguing
This pattern can be traced back to Roman roads and has been used in many high-end homes since the 1500s. While installing hardwood can be a Do It Yourself project, installing flooring in a herringbone pattern should be left to the professionals. Even just the smallest amount off, and you can end up with an unwanted ripple effect. When done right, these floors are absolutely gorgeous!
#3. Chevron Parquet: Modern and Classy
Somewhat similar to the Herringbone pattern, a Chevron pattern is also an excellent option for those who want to add an extra level of visual appeal to their floor. Each board is cut at a 45-degree angle, which is the difference between chevron and herringbone, cut at a 90-degree angle. Overall a chevron pattern elicits a slightly more modern feel, even though it can be found in the Palace of Versailles! And speaking of Versailles…
#4. Versailles Parquet Panel: Something Unique
Another pattern found in the Palace of Versailles is one that takes its names from the palace itself: the Versailles Parquet! Ever since King Louis XIV of France had it installed, the Versailles Parquet has been the epitome of style and class. It is known to grab attention with its alternating grain and weave patterns. Many people will either use varying colors of stain within or different types of wood to create the contrast that highlights the intricacy of the design. Generally inlaid within a square panel, this pattern is most often found in older high-end homes and estates. Although, it is not a stranger to newer, modern homes.
#5 Inlaid Border: Mixing It Up
Finally, we have the inlaid border, which is a decorative pattern set into the surface of a wood floor. An inlaid border can be made from wood or other materials, but it often consists of different colors to create a visually appealing contrast. The pieces of the design are meticulously cut and put together, like a jigsaw puzzle. This can be done on-site, or you can purchase inlaid borders that have been pre-fabricated for a more cost-effective option. Whether you choose manufactured or built on-site, a wood floor with an inlaid border will undoubtedly be a conversation starter for years to come.
If any of these patterns have inspired you, give us a call or fill out our consultation form for a free estimate!
