Hardwood Floors December 2024/January 2025

H&M Flooring Design Inc. Chicago, Illinois

CATEGORY DETAILS: Entries in this category include any parquet pattern installed into a flooring project. INSTALLATION METHOD: Glue Down FLOORING FINISH: Loba Finish FLOORING SHEEN: Invisible FEATURED CATEGORY BEST IN PARQUETRY

The project was almost complete, with most of the floor already laid. However, a 150-square-foot entry foyer leading to a spacious home office still awaited attention. Given free rein to design something exceptional for this

important area, Mariusz took the opportunity to

fully embrace his creative instincts. The idea for this unique yet simple design

SPECIES: White Oak PATTERN: Basketweave SQUARE FEET: 150

stemmed from a National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) class where Mariusz was inspired by Frank Kroupa, the former director of technical training for the NWFA. “Frank always encouraged us to constantly be on the lookout for creative ideas,” Mariusz recalls. After the class, Mariusz remembered seeing a beautiful pattern made of tile and stone. The elegance of that design stuck with him, and he knew that if he ever had the opportunity and the right space, he would adapt a similar concept using wood. With his friend placing full trust in his vision, Mariusz eagerly set out to bring his long-held idea to life. The result was a remarkable and unconventional irregular basketweave pattern that stood out from anything else he’d done before. Instead of straight lines, the character grade white oak pieces were curved, adding a distinctive touch to the space. The subtle curvature gave the design a charm that immediately captured attention upon entering the foyer. Every single piece of wood was cut meticulously by hand. Mariusz opted for simplicity in his tool choices, using only a jigsaw and an oscillating belt sander to achieve the necessary precision and control over each piece. His approach ensured that the wood’s natural character was highlighted throughout the entire pattern. Special care was taken with the character distribution in the oak, ensuring a visually

balanced appearance that emphasized the organic beauty of the material. To complete the look, Mariusz applied a natural finish, enhancing the wood’s inherent beauty. Three coats of Loba Invisible finish were used, providing a smooth, matte surface that complemented the unique design without overshadowing the craftsmanship. The result was a floor that not only reflected Mariusz’s dedication and artistry, but also delivered a personal and lasting gift that his friend would cherish for years to come.

the magazine of the national wood flooring association

81