Kitchens are now the heart of the home, while bathrooms are becoming more design-led. And parquet is no longer limited to 'safe' spaces.
Thanks to modern materials and manufacturing, parquet flooring has evolved from its traditional origins as solid wood. Now, it isn’t so much a case of can parquet work in bathrooms and kitchens. Instead, it’s about which type works best and where.
What is Parquet Flooring Today?
Traditionally, parquet flooring was made from solid wood blocks and arranged in patterns like herringbone or chevron. While undeniably beautiful, solid wood has one major flaw: its reaction to temperature and moisture.
That’s where its modern alternatives come in.
Parquet flooring isn’t limited to solid wood thanks to modern technology:
• Engineered wood parquet features a real wood veneer and is layered for stability.
• LVT parquet, also known as luxury vinyl tiles, are completely synthetic, mimicking the look of natural materials.
• Laminate parquet has a printed wood effect with a protective top layer.
Each option opens up new possibilities, especially in rooms where water, spills, and humidity are part of daily life.
Why Traditional Parquet Struggled in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Solid wood parquet and moisture have never been a good match.
The amount of humidity affects how much natural wood expands and contracts. Therefore, problems can easily occur in bathrooms and kitchens where steam, spillage, and temperature fluctuations are frequent.
It's easy to understand why solid wood would be problematic in these areas, from warping or swelling to gaps developing between blocks and long-term structural damage. However, that has been altered by contemporary building techniques!
Parquet in Kitchens: Where Engineered Wood Comes In
Kitchens demand flooring that can handle daily wear: from dropped utensils to the occasional splash of water. This is where engineered wood makes a difference.
Unlike solid wood, engineered parquet is built in layers. The top layer is real wood, while the core layers are designed to resist movement caused by moisture and temperature changes.
So why does it work in kitchens?
• Because of its increased stability, there is less expansion and contraction.
• In terms of aesthetics, it looks like real wood, which preserves its original texture and grain.
• Additionally, it works with underfloor heating, which is perfect for contemporary designs.
• That said, it’s not completely waterproof. Spills still need to be wiped up quickly and prolonged exposure to water should be avoided.
Used thoughtfully, engineered wood parquet brings warmth and character to kitchens!
Parquet in Bathrooms: Why LVT Changes Everything
Bathrooms are a different story. High humidity, frequent water exposure, and fluctuating temperatures makes them one of the toughest environments for flooring. Even engineered wood has its limits here.
But this is where LVT parquet comes into its own.
Luxury vinyl tiles are designed to replicate the look of real wood, including parquet patterns, while being completely waterproof.
So why does it work in bathrooms?
• There’s no need to worry about warping or swelling because of its waterproof and water-resistant designs.
• It requires little upkeep, which makes it stain-resistant and simple to clean.
• It's also more comfy than tile because it's warm underfoot.
Visually, LVT offers the same structured, patterned look as traditional parquet. Just without the maintenance concerns!
Is Parquet Worth It?
Parquet in kitchens and bathrooms isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends entirely on material.
• Solid wood parquet: unsuitable for both spaces
• Engineered wood parquet: suitable for kitchens with care and consideration
• LVT parquet: ideal for bathrooms and high-moisture areas.
The pattern and visual movement of parquet are what make it so appealing. Straight plank flooring frequently lacks structure, depth, and a feeling of architectural direction.
It can improve the entire area in kitchens, particularly in open-plan designs where the flooring flows from room to room. LVT parquet provides a means of adding warmth to bathrooms without sacrificing functionality.