A parquet flooring range that combines past and present

Parquet flooring has a storied history reaching back several centuries. Its origin is generally accepted to have taken place in late-16th century France, where artisans began to arrange blocks of wood in varying geometric patterns to be installed in the various chateaux around the country.

The earliest iteration of parquet flooring, known as ‘parquet de menuiserie’, was an intricate practice, involving meticulous craftsmanship in both woodcutting and installation – and resulted in the invention of an array of designs, including herringbone, chevron, basketweave, and others.

The sheer skill required to make parquet a reality meant it was generally reserved for only the most lavish spaces – members of the French aristocracy were the only ones with the resources to access the artisan craft. But as technology advanced in the early 20th century, new techniques and machinery were pioneered, making it easier and cheaper to produce, opening it up to the wider market.

And as engineered wood flooring became more widespread, parquet became even more durable, versatile and democratised. In 1943 Swedish company Kährs was awarded the patent for engineered lamella parquet flooring, a technique that pushed the craft forward again.

The Beyond Retro collection

A versatile offering

Each colour in the collection is completed with Kährs’ ultra matte finish – a unique lacquer that closely resembles the feel of an oiled floor – all while avoiding the associated maintenance that comes with an oiled floor. “You can feel the true nature of the wood with this lacquer,” says Denny. “We want it to be as authentic as possible.”

The versatility doesn’t end there. Customers have the option to utilise a 3-strip or single-strip plank version – and this is available with all six finishes.

“This means you have the option to mix and match different rooms with a different pattern, or even border a room with the single plank and have the centre as a parquet feature,” says Denny.

“The adaptability is something that we really want to emphasise – and I think we’ve done that.”

Learn more about the Wooden Floor Company and its flooring ranges.