Restoring original parquet & herringbone floors in period London homes

One of the best surprises in an older London home is lifting a tired carpet to find original parquet underneath. Herringbone and block floors were laid in countless Victorian, Edwardian and 1930s properties, and even when they look beyond hope, they can almost always be restored.

Why original parquet is worth saving

Original parquet has a character, density and patina that new flooring simply can't replicate. Restoring it keeps the period feel of the home, adds value, and is far more sustainable than tearing it out. It's a floor that, once restored, can last another lifetime.

The problems we usually find

• Loose, lifting or missing blocks
• Old bitumen adhesive showing through
• Gaps where blocks have shrunk over the decades
• Layers of old, discoloured finish and polish
• Damage from previous carpet grippers or repairs

How we restore it

Parquet needs a careful, pattern-aware approach. We re-lay loose blocks, source and fit matching replacements for any that are missing, close gaps and re-establish the original pattern. Only then do we sand the floor back to clean timber and finish it. It's specialist work — more on our parquet repair service.

Herringbone, basketweave and borders

Whether it's a classic herringbone, a basketweave block floor or a parquet panel with a decorative border, the principle is the same: repair and restore the pattern first, finish second. You can see real examples in our work.

Finishing for a period look

For period floors we often recommend a hardwax oil for its natural, authentic finish — though a satin lacquer is a great durable option too. We'll match the tone to the age and style of the home.

Across London's period homes

We restore parquet and herringbone floors in period properties right across the capital, from Hampstead to Islington and beyond. If you've uncovered an original floor, send us a few photos and we'll tell you what's possible.