Parquet Trends 2026: Patterns, Finishes & Wood Species Shaping Modern Interiors

Parquet trends in 2026 are all about floors with character: expressive patterns, natural finishes, and more conscious material choices. Many homeowners want parquet that not only looks beautiful, but also performs reliably in everyday life - this is why interest in stable multi-layer constructions and premium laying patterns continues to grow. Parquet works equally well in private homes and commercial spaces, combining strong visual impact with long-term value.

Which parquet patterns define a modern style?

Herringbone: lively, premium, timeless

• Herringbone parquet - such as Scheucher’s Multiflor.11 700 - remains one of the most popular laying patterns. Rectangular boards are installed in a staggered zigzag, creating movement and visual depth. It suits both classic and modern interiors and can make narrow rooms feel wider.
• French herringbone (Chevron): clean lines, modern architectural impact

In a chevron pattern, boards are cut at an angle and form a continuous V-shape. This creates a clear, directional line and a very architectural feel. Chevron is especially impressive in large, open spaces, where it guides the eye through the room.

How do light and dark wood tones influence the look of modern parquet?

Finish and color have a major impact on the overall feeling of a room:

• Light woods (e.g., natural oak or maple) make spaces feel brighter and more open and support a minimalist aesthetic.
• Darker tones (e.g., walnut or smoked oak) add warmth and elegance and give large rooms more visual “grounding.”

Well-chosen contrasts can enhance the design: a dark floor combined with light walls emphasizes architectural lines, while light floors make furniture and details feel lighter.

How do you choose the right parquet pattern for a modern home?

The best pattern depends on room size, sight lines, traffic flow, and furniture layout:

• Small rooms: Patterns can work well if the board format isn’t too large and the contrast isn’t too strong. A calmer grading often looks more harmonious.
• Large rooms: Patterns like chevron or herringbone add rhythm and structure - often without needing physical room dividers.
• Long hallways: A thoughtfully chosen laying direction can visually lengthen the space or make it feel wider.

French herringbone vs. classic herringbone: what’s the difference?

These terms are often mixed up - here’s the key distinction:

• Classic herringbone: Boards meet at a 90° angle. The result is a timeless zigzag pattern that works across styles - from modern to rustic.
• French herringbone: Boards have angled end cuts (e.g., 45°/60°). The pattern feels finer, more elegant, and especially representative.

What effect does chevron have in small and large rooms?

• Small rooms: The V-shape creates depth and can visually “stretch” hallways.
• Large rooms: Chevron adds movement and can help define functional zones without building walls or partitions.

Wood species and finishes: what works best for modern parquet?

Wood type and surface treatment influence durability, appearance, and maintenance needs. In modern projects, the following are especially popular:

Oak as the top choice

Oak is preferred because it is:

• very durable,
• naturally distinctive in grain,
• highly versatile for finishes (from natural to smoked).

Matte, smoked, and bleached finishes

• Matte: looks calm, reduces reflections, highlights natural texture.
• Smoked: deepens the color and emphasizes grain - ideal for bold, contemporary concepts.
• Bleached / lightly white-pigmented: creates a Scandinavian, airy look.

Why multi-layer parquet is so popular in 2026

Multi-layer parquet offers high dimensional stability and broad usability:

• often well suited for underfloor heating (follow manufacturer guidelines),
• more stable under changing conditions than solid wood constructions,
• more resource-efficient due to its layered build.

Professional installation & maintenance: keeping parquet beautiful long-term

Installation methods

• Full-surface glue-down: very stable, quieter underfoot, ideal for patterns and high-traffic areas.
• Floating installation: faster, no adhesive - useful depending on structure and system.

Care

Dry-clean regularly, damp mop lightly, and remove spills promptly. Felt pads and entrance mats help protect the surface. If needed, the finish can be refreshed depending on whether the floor is oiled or sealed.

Sustainability: what does “responsible” parquet mean?

Sustainability mainly includes:

• wood from responsibly managed forests,
• efficient use of material,
• durable products instead of short-lived solutions.

Conclusion

Modern parquet in 2026 combines design, everyday practicality, and material quality. Whether herringbone, chevron, or calm wide planks: with the right pattern, tone, and professional installation, you get a floor that performs long-term - both visually and technically.