How To update Parquet Floors
Q. We are thinking of getting a home with an open concept kitchen/dining area and living room. but what is with the parquet floor trend? If we get this home, our budget would be limited for the first year or so, as a result beyond using rugs to play down the floor, what else we can do to make this floor work with some kind of decor? Can it be painted or re-stained to a matte colour?
— Melanie
A. A foolproof way to bring parquet floors up to date is to strip and stain them a rich, dark walnut. choose a satin finish for an in-between matte and gloss. Dark wood floors always create a sense of luxury in a space, and your idea to add area rugs is great for injecting interest and contrast. Persian or oriental rugs in warm reds are great additions, especially in winter, and airy, straw-coloured wool or natural sisals will lighten up the space and add style in the summer or year-round. wood laminate flooring is another, less expensive alternative to real wood flooring and is available in lots of different finishes, like maple and cherry.