Parquet vinyl flooring is seeing a massive resurgence across the UK. In the early 20th century, the traditional parquet style waned in popularity, largely due to the arrival of new, fuss-free innovations. For a long time, homeowners veered towards simpler alternatives, viewing traditional timber as too expensive and laborious to maintain.
However, recent breakthroughs in manufacturing have changed the landscape entirely. Luxury vinyl has revived this glorious style, making it accessible to a much wider audience. Infused with greater resilience, ease of installation, and 100% waterproof properties, these floors are no longer just for the aristocracy.
Whether you are renovating a period property or adding character to a new build, here is everything you need to know about the geometric flooring revolution.
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- The History Behind the Parquet Vinyl Flooring Trend
- What Exactly is Vinyl Parquet?
- Popular Styles of Parquet Vinyl Flooring
- Advantages Over Traditional Timber
- Installation and Maintenance
- Why Parquet Vinyl Flooring Is the Perfect Choice for Modern Homes
The History Behind the Parquet Vinyl Flooring Trend
To appreciate modern parquet vinyl flooring, we must look back at its prestigious roots. The word ‘parquet’ comes from Old French, meaning ‘a small, enclosed space’. While geometric patterns like the ubiquitous Herringbone have existed since the Roman Empire (originally used in road building for structural stability), the parquet floor as a status symbol began in France.
In the 1620s, Marie de’ Medici installed an intricate parquet floor in her closet at the Luxembourg Palace. However, the trend truly exploded when King Louis XIV replaced the marble floors of the Palace of Versailles with wood parquet—specifically the Chevron pattern and the Panel de Versailles.
In Britain, parquet made its debut at Denmark House in London (now Somerset House) and the Queen’s Bedchamber at Ham House. For centuries, it was exclusively seen in grand mansions and chateaus. Thankfully, modern innovations have reignited interest in these striking designs, and this modern innovation has democratised the aristocratic look for every home in the UK.
What Exactly is Vinyl Parquet?
While traditional parquet consists of solid blocks of timber, parquet vinyl flooring (often known as Luxury Vinyl Tile or LVT/SPC) captures the same aesthetic using advanced materials. It replicates the intricate grain, texture, and warmth of real wood but eliminates the drawbacks.
At Pro-Tek™, our LVT collection is engineered with a rigid Stone Plastic Composite (SPC) core. This provides exceptional stability and durability, meaning the intricate patterns won’t warp or gap when exposed to moisture or temperature changes—a common issue with real wood blocks.
Popular Styles of Parquet Vinyl Flooring
When selecting your new floor, the pattern is just as important as the colour. Here are the main styles dominating the 2026 market:
Herringbone
By far the most popular style of parquet vinyl flooring, Herringbone is a classic that stands the test of time. Named because the pattern resembles the skeleton of a herring fish, it involves rectangular boards of equal size interlocked in a zig-zag pattern. The fluidity of this design can visually lengthen a room, making it a favourite for hallways and open-plan living spaces.
Chevron
Often confused with Herringbone, Chevron offers a different visual effect. In this style of vinyl design, the planks are cut at a 45-degree angle. When laid, they form a continuous ‘V’ shape, creating sharp, clean lines that point like an arrow. It is a slightly more contemporary, precise look compared to the woven effect of Herringbone.
Mosaic and Brick
A simpler form of parquet, the brick or mosaic style is achieved by arranging small strips of wood (usually two or four) to form a square panel. Each ‘brick’ is placed perpendicular to the next. While less common than Herringbone in the current market, it offers a distinctively retro, mid-century vibe.
Advantages Over Traditional Timber
Why are so many UK homeowners swapping real wood for parquet vinyl flooring? The benefits are clear:
- 100% Waterproof: Real wood parquet cannot be used in bathrooms or kitchens due to warping. Pro-Tek™ vinyl is completely waterproof, allowing you to run the same elegant Herringbone pattern from your hallway right through to your bathroom.
- Cost-Effective: Traditional parquet requires skilled master craftsmen to cut and sand blocks on-site, making it incredibly expensive. The vinyl alternative offers the same opulent look at a fraction of the cost.
- Durability: Real wood is prone to scratches, dents, and mildew. With a robust wear layer, vinyl is resistant to the chaos of modern family life, including pets and heavy footfall.
Installation and Maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of parquet vinyl flooring is the ease of life it offers.
Installation: Traditional parquet was a cumbersome affair involving adhesives and on-site sanding. Pro-Tek™ parquet vinyl flooring utilises a simple click-lock system. This allows for a “floating floor” installation that is quick, clean, and often achievable as a DIY project.
Maintenance: Forget the waxing, polishing, and sanding required by timber. Parquet vinyl flooring is incredibly low maintenance. A simple sweep and a mop are all it takes to keep it looking pristine, giving you more time to enjoy your home.
Why Parquet Vinyl Flooring Is the Perfect Choice for Modern Homes
If your décor aesthetic leans towards elegance but your lifestyle demands practicality, parquet vinyl flooring is the ultimate solution. It bridges the gap between the historic grandeur of Versailles and the functional needs of a busy 21st-century home.
With Pro-Tek™, you can choose from stunning oak hues or contemporary greys, all backed by a lifetime residential warranty. If you are ready to transform your space, explore our range of geometric vinyl flooring today and bring a touch of timeless luxury to your home.