The Art of the Pattern: A Comprehensive Guide to Parquet Flooring
There is nothing quite like the geometric elegance of a parquet floor to transform a room from standard to spectacular. At Flooring Trade Ltd, we bring over 25 years of industry expertise to help you navigate the intricate world of patterned timber. Whether you are restoring a Victorian villa or designing a sharp, modern apartment, parquet offers a level of sophistication that straight planks simply cannot match.
What is Parquet?
Parquet is a style of flooring created by arranging small wooden blocks or "battens" into decorative patterns. While historically reserved for grand manors, modern manufacturing has made these stunning designs accessible for any project.
Solid vs. Engineered Parquet
At Flooring Trade Ltd, we supply parquet in both traditional and modern constructions:
-
Solid Wood Parquet: The traditional choice. Each block is a single piece of hardwood. It offers incredible longevity and the "authentic" feel of historic floors.
-
Engineered Wood Parquet: The modern professional’s favorite. These blocks feature a real wood wear layer (lamella) bonded to a stable plywood core. This construction is highly recommended for use with underfloor heating and provides superior stability against the London climate’s humidity shifts.
Finishes: Unfinished vs. Prefinished
We cater to both the "ready-to-go" retail market and the "bespoke" trade professional:
-
Prefinished Parquet: These blocks come already sanded, stained, and oiled or lacquered. Once they are laid, the floor is finished. This is perfect for quick installations and consistent coloring.
-
Unfinished Parquet: For the true craftsman. These raw timber blocks are installed, sanded on-site, and then finished with your choice of oils or stains. This allows for a completely bespoke look and a perfectly flush, seamless surface.
Iconic Patterns: Herringbone, Chevron, and Beyond
The beauty of parquet lies in the layout. We stock blocks specifically designed for:
-
Herringbone: The most popular choice. Rectangular blocks are laid at 90-degree angles to create a "broken" zig-zag.
-
Chevron: Blocks are cut at a 45-degree angle at the ends, meeting in a perfect point to create a continuous "V" or "arrow" shape.
-
Basket Weave & Dutch Patterns: Classic styles that add a woven texture to the floor.
A Specialized Classic: Mosaic Finger Flooring
For those seeking a mid-century modern aesthetic or a highly durable commercial surface, we are proud to offer Mosaic Finger (Five-Finger) Flooring.
These consist of small "fingers" of wood arranged in square panels. We supply these in:
-
Oak: For a bright, timeless, and incredibly durable finish.
-
Mahogany: For a deep, rich, and exotic aesthetic that brings warmth to any space.
Mosaic flooring is renowned for its strength and is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas where a unique, textured look is desired.
Why Source Your Parquet from Flooring Trade Ltd?
Parquet installation is an art form that requires precision. Because we started as flooring professionals over two decades ago, we don't just sell the wood—we provide the specialist adhesives, notched trowels, and high-end finishes required to ensure the pattern stays perfect for decades.
Based in London, we are your local experts for both the materials and the technical "know-how" of patterned flooring.









