Period homes are one of the defining features of towns in Bath, Bradford on Avon, and the surrounding areas. From Georgian townhouses in Bath to charming stone cottages in the surrounding Somerset and Wiltshire countryside, these properties are full of character and historic detail.
One of the most important design elements in a period property is the flooring. The right wood flooring style not only enhances the beauty of the home but also respects its architectural heritage.
At Dible & Roy, we specialise in supplying and installing engineered wood flooring that compliments period properties across Bath, Bradford on Avon, Corsham, Frome, Devizes and the surrounding areas.
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for period homes because of its combined natural beauty of real wood with improved stability. Unlike solid wood flooring, engineered wood flooring consists of a top layer of genuine hardwood bonded to plywood layers beneath. This layered construction makes the flooring less likely to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, proving particularly beneficial in older properties.
Engineered wood flooring offers the appearance of traditional oak floors whilst providing excellent durability and compatibility with modern features such as underfloor heating.
Most engineered wood boards consist of a wear layer between 2mm – 6mm, allowing for sanding and refinishing over time if required, providing longevity for your flooring solutions. Find out more about Engineered Wood Flooring here.
Additionally, responsibility sourced wooden flooring is also a smart environmental choice. Wood is a renewable resource, and sustainable harvesting practices ensure minimal impact on our natural world. You can learn more about sustainable forest management here – https://fsc.org/en
Below are some of the most popular engineered wood flooring styles for period properties and why they work so well.
Herringbone Flooring
Herringbone is one of the most iconic flooring styles found in period homes. The pattern is created by laying rectangular wood blocks in a zigzag formation, producing a classic and elegant look.
This style is particularly well suited to Georgian and Victorian properties, many of which can be found throughout Bath and the surrounding villages. Herringbone flooring adds visual interest while maintaining a timeless feel that compliments original architectural features such as fireplaces, cornicing, and sash windows.
Best rooms for herringbone flooring:
- Entrance halls
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Open-plan reception spaces
Oak herringbone is especially popular thanks to its natural grain and durability, making it ideal for high-traffic spaces like hallways and living rooms.
Chevron Flooring
Chevron flooring offers a similar aesthetic to herringbone but with a more structured and contemporary feel. Each plank is cut at an angle, so the boards meet to form a continuous V-shaped pattern across the floor.
In larger period homes, chevron flooring can create a sense of flow and symmetry within large reception rooms or long corridors.
Why homeowners choose chevron:
- Creates a striking visual statement
- Works well in large rooms
- Adds elegance to formal spaces
This pattern works particularly well in homes where homeowners want to balance traditional architecture with a slightly more modern interior style.
Basketweave Parquet
Basketweave Parquet flooring is a more decorative pattern made from small wood blocks arranged to resemble woven strands. It was commonly used in Victorian and Edwardian interiors, giving rooms a refined and detailed finish.
This style can be a great option for smaller rooms such as studies, dining rooms, or snug areas, where it adds character without overwhelming the space.
For homeowners restoring period properties, basketweave parquet can be a beautiful way to reflect traditional craftsmanship.
Traditional Wide Plank Wood Flooring
Many older homes originally featured solid wood plank flooring, often made from oak or pine boards. Installing wide plank flooring can help maintain the authentic character of a period property.
This style is especially common in country homes and cottages, where wide boards create a warm, natural feel.
Wide plank flooring allows the natural beauty of the timber to take centre stage, with grain patterns and subtle colour variations adding depth to the room.
Benefits of plank flooring:
- Authentic period appearance
- Durable and long-lasting
- Works well in both traditional and modern interiors
Each board tells a story, making plank engineered wood flooring a sustainable and visually distinctive option.
Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Period Home
When selecting wood flooring for an older property, it’s important to consider several factors:
- The age of the property
Engineered wood flooring provides a stable and durable flooring option against properties with high temperature and humidity changes. - Room size and layout
Lighter shades can help reflect more light, and make a space feel airy, whereas darker shades in larger areas can create a striking feature. Wider planks and herringbone patterns can assist with elongating a room visually. - Existing architectural features
Complimenting your home’s original elements such as fireplaces, staircases, and mouldings with the right flooring choice, can help enhance the character of your property. - Durability and maintenance
High-traffic areas benefit from hard-wearing timbers like oak. Thicker wear layers will give the option for sanding and refinishing on multiple occasions if required in the future, preserving the longevity of your flooring.
Wood Flooring Specialists in Bath, Bradford on Avon & Beyond
At Dible & Roy, we have extensive experience working with period homes throughout Bath, Bradford on Avon, Frome and the surrounding Somerset and Wiltshire areas.
We offer:
- Expert advice on flooring styles suitable for historic properties
- High-quality engineered wood flooring options
- Professional installation tailored to period homes
Our team understands the importance of preserving the character of older properties while delivering flooring that will last.
Ready to choose your flooring?
Choosing the right wood flooring can transform a period home while maintaining its historic charm. Whether you prefer classic herringbone, elegant chevron patterns, or traditional wide plank boards, the right flooring will enhance the beauty and authenticity of your property.
If you’re planning a renovation or restoration project in Bath, Bradford on Avon, Frome, Corsham, Devizes, or the surrounding areas in Somerset & Wiltshire, the team at Dible & Roy would be delighted to help you find the perfect wood flooring solution. Give us a call on 01225 862320 or contact us here to start your wood flooring project!