The Maraetai Project – Harmonising Natural Beauty with European Elegance

In the heart of a picturesque coastal town in New Zealand, the Maraetai Project stands as a paragon of design that marries the tranquillity of ocean views with the sophistication of European elegance. Vienna Woods’ Foundation Collection was the chosen canvas upon which the narrative of a modern, airy, and light-filled space was painted.

Client’s Vision

The homeowners, avid lovers of the sea, desired a living space that not only offered uninterrupted views of the ocean but also invited the calmness and grandeur of the coast indoors. They envisaged a home where the barriers between the natural and built environment were effortlessly blurred.

Design Objectives

  • To create a space that reflects the coastal setting through material choice and design.
  • To ensure the flooring complements the home’s modern architecture and the natural light.
  • To source sustainable and high-quality materials that adhere to European standards.

The Design Process

Melanie Sa’u, an esteemed interior designer, approached this project with a vision to create a seamless flow between the natural exterior and the home’s interior. The use of Vienna Woods‘ engineered oak flooring was instrumental in achieving this. The Foundation Collection was selected for its wider planks and longer lengths, offering a contemporary look that mimics the expansive horizon of the ocean.

Solution and Implementation

The engineered oak’s natural grain and warm undertones bring the essence of the seaside indoors, offering a tactile and visual softness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp, modern lines of the furniture and cabinetry by Craftsman Cabinets. JMA Builders expertly installed the flooring to maximise the continuity from indoor to outdoor living spaces, enhancing the open-plan design that allows the homeowners to entertain guests with the backdrop of the ocean.

Outcome

The result is a stunning confluence of form and function; a home that stands as a serene retreat, where the sound of the waves complements the visual harmony of the interior. The engineered oak flooring, laid out in a pattern that directs the eye to the ocean, becomes a metaphorical and literal foundation for the home’s design ethos.

Product: The Foundation Collection // Empire Oak

Interior Designer: Melanie Sa’u

Vienna Woods Project Consultant: Miguel Uribe

Herringbone Inspiration

Explore our carefully curated gallery featuring an exquisite selection of Herringbone timber flooring installations. Each image showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and artistry we bring to every project at Vienna Woods. Beyond our completed projects, you’ll also discover a range of captivating Herringbone timber flooring options available for import, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space. Let these images serve as a source of inspiration for your next architectural or interior design endeavour. Trust Vienna Woods for unparalleled quality in Herringbone timber flooring – your first choice in New Zealand for premium, European-imported flooring solutions.

Delving into the Intricate World of Parquet Timber Flooring

Parquet timber flooring, an epitome of elegance in architectural design, has long been celebrated for its sophisticated patterns and artistic value. Originating from the rich cultural heritage of Europe, parquet flooring infuses spaces with an artistic legacy. In New Zealand, Vienna Woods is a pioneer in introducing an array of parquet styles, encompassing the widely admired herringbone and chevron to the more intricate, lesser-known designs.

One of the unique offerings at Vienna Woods includes flooring reclaimed from French train carriages, masterfully reworked into herringbone and chevron patterns by Antique Floors. This blend of history and artistry exemplifies the unique charm of parquet flooring.  The following is an example of reclaimed flooring in a Chevron style.

The Timeless Appeal of Herringbone and Chevron

Herringbone and chevron patterns stand out as two of the most coveted parquet styles. The herringbone design, known for its staggered zigzag of rectangular blocks, and the chevron pattern, with its wood pieces cut at 45-degree angles, offer both versatility and a timeless appeal. These styles have gained immense popularity across New Zealand, competitively priced alongside standard plank flooring. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that installation costs are significantly higher, often 50 to 100% more than standard planks, due to the intricate laying process required.

Moreover, these styles typically involve a higher wastage percentage compared to standard plank floors, owing to the specific angles and alignments. This aspect is vital for consideration in project planning and budgeting. 

Discovering the Diversity of Parquet Styles

Beyond herringbone and chevron, Vienna Woods presents a world of parquet styles, each offering distinct aesthetics and design possibilities:

  • Basket Weave: Characterised by wood planks that create a square pattern, resembling a basket weave. This style ranges from simple, single-strip designs to complex, multiple-strip patterns.
  • Versailles: Drawing inspiration from the Palace of Versailles, this pattern features large square tiles with interlocking diagonal squares, rectangles, and lozenges, adding a royal touch to interiors.
  • Chantilly: A simpler counterpart to Versailles, Chantilly consists of smaller squares and rectangles, crafting an elegant, woven appearance.  The image above is a good example of Chantilly.
  • Brick Pattern: This layout mimics the arrangement of bricks in a wall, with staggered rows of rectangular blocks, offering a clean, linear look.
  • Hexagon Pattern: A less common design involving hexagonal shapes, creating a visually compelling effect.
  • Mosaic Parquet: An artistic approach, using small wood pieces of varied sizes and colours to form a detailed, mosaic-like pattern with diverse geometric shapes.
  • Bordeaux Pattern: A blend of squares and lozenges, this pattern creates a star-like effect, often found in formal settings.

Each of these patterns embodies a unique charm, aligning seamlessly with the European heritage and high standards synonymous with Vienna Woods’ product range.

The image below is a example of some finishing options with herringbone patterns.  Often dark floors may use brass dividing bars as dividing line and herringbone floors often utilise a “picture frame” or boarder in matching standard planks.

A Journey Through Style and History

Parquet timber flooring is more than just a flooring choice; it’s a statement of style, a piece of history brought to life. With its diverse patterns and designs, parquet flooring caters to every preference, from the understated elegance of brick patterns to the intricate grandeur of Versailles. For those in New Zealand seeking unparalleled quality and aesthetics in flooring, Vienna Woods stands as the gateway to this exquisite world of parquet.

We invite you to explore our range and discover the perfect parquet style to complement your architectural vision. Visit the Vienna Woods website for an extensive look at our products and case studies, showcasing the beauty and versatility of our parquet styles. Embark on this journey with us and elevate your space to a new level of elegance and sophistication.

Cashmere in St Heliers

Introducing Cashmere, an exquisite engineered timber floor that will transform your home, like this one in St Heliers. With contrasting wall and floor timbers, Cashmere creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The addition of black accents adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the space. But the real showstopper is the beautifully crafted staircase, showcasing the beauty of the timber.

You’ll be amazed at how Cashmere can elevate the style and ambiance of your home. Don’t miss out on experiencing the modern, fresh, and brand new feel it brings. Speak to one of our consultants today and discover the perfect timber for your home.

Product: Vienna Woods // Baltic // Cashmere

Builder: Box Build

Vienna Woods Project Consultant: Razvan

European Oak Floors // Wings House // Borrmeister Architects

The ‘Wings House’ is a light filled and open family home in Halswell, Christchurch. With a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, this Oak floor complements the other wooden features of the home. Its warm light tone with dark character accents adds a touch of elegance and charm. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it is also hard-wearing, ensuring longevity and durability.

Talk to our consultant today and discover how our flooring can perfectly match your cabinets or furniture.

Photos: Sarah Rowland Photography

Design: Borrmeister Architects