Patterned Hardwood Flooring Ideas

Parquet

• Parquet flooring comes in a vast array of designs and types of wood. The pattern itself consists of square pieces --- wooden floor tiles are commonly used for parquet designs --- with designs laid out side by side to form a checkerboard-style pattern. The tiles range from ornate star-burst patterns to simplistic designs such as a basic basket-weave or finger-block design. This pattern can be laid with or without a border, depending on your personal style and the existing decor of the home.

Herringbone

• Herringbone or chevron patterns can be installed in a variety of ways, with or without a border to frame the look. Choose from a diagonal layout, a single-plank herringbone pattern or a double-plank herringbone pattern. Chevrons look equally elegant in any type of hardwood with a glossy finish. The herringbone pattern is generally installed parallel to the walls of your home. The diagonal pattern runs diagonal to the walls instead of parallel, but it requires a considerable amount of extra hardwood to complete the pattern.

Medallions and Inlays

• Use medallions and inlays to jazz up standard installations of hardwood floors. Medallions are available in a range of styles, sizes and materials to fit within any decor. Choices include wood, stone, metal and ceramic. Patterns include floral, stars, initials and compasses. Inlays can be customized and designed with your choice of pattern or motif, or you can choose from predesigned options. Inlays are large focal point pieces often used in foyers, hallways and kitchens. Ideas include family crests, family names, nautical patterns, botanical designs and logos.

Borders

• Wood borders are available in many patterns and designs. The border acts as a focal point in many rooms. For darker floors, create a contrast with lighter tones in the wooden border. Whether you choose corner pieces or a border to wrap the perimeter of the room, many options are available for borders in your hardwood floors. Designs include floral patterns, knots, stars, stripes, diamonds and a wide range of repetitive motifs. Another option is to include a stone border within the hardwood.