PARQUET FACTS

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Parquet is from the French and means a small compartment.  It is a geometric mosaic of wood pieces used for decorative floors.

Parquet flooring is hardwood that is composed of many small pieces that form a  pattern. Parquet patterns pieces can be squares, triangles, rectangles and other shapes.  The most popular pattern is the Herringbone Pattern.

Because of the complex cutting and installation of the floor, only the wealthy could afford it until now.  

Parquet designs originated in Europe.  The most well know patterns come form 17th Century France.  Louis XIV used  Parquet patterns in his Palace of Versailles.  

Parquet Floors were poplar in the United States  until the 1960s but are making a big come back.  

Hardwoods contrasting in color and grain are often used.  Some examples are oak, walnut, cherry, maple, mahogany, Brazilian cherry.

Parquet floors are long lasting and require minimal maintenance.  They can be found in many rooms of the home - bedrooms, hallways, family rooms, dining rooms and foyers - anywhere a warm and homey feeling is wanted.  

Another popular place that Herringbone floors can be found are basketball courts.  One of the most famous of these is used by the Boston Celtics.  Other basketball courts are used by the Orlando Magic, Toronto Raptors, Charlotte Hornets and many others.

Another use for Parquets is to feature them on a wall.  Unique and beautiful patterns can be use to draw attention to a specific place in the room.  The Herringbone pattern is especially popular for this application.