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How to use Versailles Parquet Flooring
What is Versailles Parquet Flooring
Versailles Parquet Flooring is a specific pattern of wood flooring created from diagonal squares interwoven with rectangle slats framed by a square border to create a square panel.
Panels are traditionally made with solid unfinished 10mm thick oak (also known as overlay parquet) and held together with a temporary film or glued paper.
A modern approach is to make engineered panels on birch plywood with a thinner hardwood layer. Engineered panels are often prefinished with an oil or lacquer finish offering greater flexibility with colour finishes.
The size of the panels are approximately 100 x 100cm, a smaller variation of 70 x 70cm is possible
The elegant design is traditionally used with Oak but works equally well with other species such as Walnut, Teak and Elm.
History of Versailles Panels
The Versailles pattern emerged during the reign of Louis XIV, the Sun King, as a symbol of wealth and sophistication. The design was commissioned to replace marble floors, which were difficult to maintain. Wood offered a warmer, more practical surface while still allowing for elaborate design.
The pattern became famous because it was used in the Hall of Mirrors and other rooms within the Palace of Versailles. This established it as a signature style of royal and aristocratic interiors.
How to Use Versailles Panels in Interior Design
The design creates a sense of grandeur and is ideal for formal rooms, upscale homes and ballrooms.
Versailles parquet flooring can enhance the perception of space in a room through several design elements and visual effects. Here’s how it contributes to a more spacious feel:
Intricate Patterns and Visual Flow: The classic Versailles pattern features geometric designs that create a sense of movement and rhythm across the floor. This intricate layout can draw the eye throughout the room, making it feel larger by encouraging visual exploration. The continuous flow of the pattern can lead the gaze towards the walls, enhancing the perception of depth.
Light Reflection: Many Versailles parquet floors are finished with a matte or satin sheen, which helps to reflect natural light without creating glare. The way light interacts with the surface can illuminate the room and create an airy atmosphere, making it feel more open.
Use of Natural Wood Tones: Aged or natural finishes often used in Versailles parquet can complement a variety of colour schemes and reflect light beautifully. Lighter wood tones can brighten up a space, making it feel more expansive. Darker woods can also create a dramatic look that adds warmth while maintaining an elegant spacious feel.
When is it best to choose Versailles parquet flooring?
Versailles parquet panel flooring, known for its intricate and elegant patterns, is an excellent choice for various design scenarios. Here are some instances when you should consider using Versailles parquet flooring:
- Classic and Elegant Interiors: This style of flooring is ideal for traditional, classic, or French-inspired interiors. Its ornate designs add a sophisticated touch, making it perfect for spaces like dining rooms, ballrooms, or formal living residential Spaces**: If you’re designing luxury homes or upscale properties, Versailles parquet can elevate the overall aesthetic. Its intricate patterns and craftsmanship can enhance the value of a property, appealing to high-end buyers.
- Historical Homes: In renovations or restorations of historical homes, Versailles parquet flooring can help maintain the original architectural style. It complements period features and can be a beautiful addition to rooms that aim to preserve a sense of history.
- Large Open Spaces: The designs of Versailles parquet can help fill larger spaces visually. The patterns create a sense of depth and can enhance the grandeur of hallways, entryways, and open-plan living areas.
- Formal Event Spaces: For galas, or corporate events, Versailles parquet flooring can create an elegant backdrop that adds to the overall atmosphere, making it suitable for ballroom flooring.
- Customization Options: Many manufacturers offer custom options for Versailles parquet, allowing you to choose the wood type, stain, and finish. This flexibility can suit various design themes, from modern luxury to rustic charm.
Layout Direction
Panels can be laid parallel to walls or diagonally at 45 degree angle. Laying parallel to walls provides clean square alignment. However when choosing the layout direction, the shape of the room and pattern repeat needs to be considered. A diagonal layout works better with irregular shaped rooms. Diagonal layout will incur more wastage.
For larger spaces a dividing strip around the perimeter of the panels can be installed, providing further detail to the design
