Hardwood floors are available in a diverse array of colors and grain patterns. Consumers can also select from different profiles and plank widths, allowing for further customization of their flooring and helping to create a unique ambiance in their homes. Additionally, choosing one of the popular patterns for hardwood floors can refresh your living space by combining all these options into a beautiful finish.
Beyond Parquet Floors
Hugely popular in the 1960s and 1970s, parquet flooring originated in France hundreds of years ago and presents an intricate herringbone pattern. Although many vinyl and tile products aim to imitate this hardwood flooring pattern, nothing looks as good as the real thing. When installed by an experienced pro, parquet flooring adds impeccable style to your home.
The design of modern hardwood flooring has evolved beyond the traditional parquetry style. One particularly stunning option for larger spaces is the larger herringbone pattern. Imagine a long seam running through the center of your room, or along another designated line, with planks extending at 45-degree angles away from that seam in an oversized arrow pattern. This creates a striking visual effect that enhances the overall look of the room.
Colored parquet patterns are becoming increasingly popular in contemporary interior design. By combining light and dark wood stains within the traditional parquet pattern, you can achieve a three-dimensional effect on the floor. However, it’s important to exercise restraint; an overly busy floor can be distracting, especially in smaller spaces like hallways or foyers.
Basket Weave and Marquetry
An American answer to the French parquetry, basket weave hardwood floor patterns look just as you might imagine. Using short and often thin planks of hardwood, this pattern creates a woven look in small squares, combining into the look of textured beauty across a larger surface.
Consider this pattern for colonial homes and a more rustic appearance. Combine dark and light stains to echo the 3D effect mentioned above, and take this popular pattern to a whole new level.
Marquetry stems from Italy and leaves the design options wide open. Most marquet floors feature a wavy line, often used to accentuate a wall or window or to visually separate living spaces in an open-concept home. Some also offer mosaic patterns within or use a contrasting color within the wavy line to increase drama.
Inlaids and Medallions
One of the easiest ways to enhance the look of your hardwood floors is by incorporating patterned inlays and medallions as focal points. Common shapes for these designs include stars, circles, and ovals.
Whether you choose a matching color or opt for contrasting tones, these flooring details can effectively highlight a sitting area, add character to your entrance, or reflect a theme in the kitchen, home office, or dining space.
You can also create custom inlaid shapes and hardwood flooring patterns using smaller planks stained in different colors. An experienced hardwood flooring contractor can go beyond simple geometric patterns by employing marquetry techniques and rounded medallions, elevating your hardwood floors to a level of beauty that exceeds typical expectations.