Special
Hungarian point and herringbone pattern in LVT, PVC, and vinyl
HUNGARIAN ITALIANS SPLENDID VINTAGE INTERIORS AVAILABLE FOR THE MODAL FAIR In previous editions we’ve outlined how fashions from bygone days are emerging everywhere in the interior. As for floors, this certainly applies to the special fitting patterns herringbone and Hungarian point. Originally, they were very expensive wooden floor coverings, but now there are plenty of alternatives in the shape of PVC, vinyl, and LVT to give the look of centuries ago a new lease of life. We’ve explained the difference between both the original and modern versions on various occasions. We’ve not only clarified how synthetic alternatives have the asset of being remarkably thin (ideal for renovation projects), but also we’ve shown how easy they are to fit. These floors have a click system, so the fitting is a lot less time consuming. Perhaps the main thing is that the look equates so closely to the original that you have to pay really close attention to the floor to see the difference clearly.
What was the origin? What we’ve hardly covered, if at all, is the origin of these special design floors. You might think spontaneously of France, but nothing could be further from the truth. We have established that herringbone is the older of the two, with its origins in Italy, whilst it appears that Hungarian point certainly doesn’t come from Hungary. Its origins, too, lie in Italy. Before we go back a few centuries in time, let’s outline briefly what both patterns look like. First of all, it is noticeable how much they resemble each other, and yet that’s not really the case. Actually, in both cases you can speak of herringbone, whilst Hungarian point (also sometimes called Chevron) is then regarded as a variant.
Photo – Tarkett
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It boils down to the fact that both floors comprise wood pieces of the same size fitted synchronously in a zigzag pattern. Herringbone planks, like engineered parquet, are rectangular and may or may not fit each other with tongue and groove. In turn, Hungarian point is sawn mitred, so planks lie against each other to form a perfect point. Compare the look of that second floor with traditional sergeant stripes on the sleeve of a non-commissioned officer and you get a good idea.
