What is Marquetry?

Not so long ago, marquetry flooring was confined to the very seriously rich only. If one wanted elaborate marquetry in one's Palace it was helpful to have free access to the coffers of a State or a Church!

The invention of the laser has democratized marquetry. It is still costly, but is now about 10% of the pre-laser cost.

Marquetry borders are often combined with plainer geometric parquet. This may be to enhance a plain floor or to trim budgets whilst still showing off an elaborate floor or purely as a choice of aesthetic.

Most of the following photographs are of the work of Berti of Italy, who have built a reputation second to none in the field of lasered marquetry.

Our Parquetry and Marquetry consultant, David Gunton, was responsible for identifying the timbers and patterns in the destroyed floor, drawing the new floor, making, fitting and finishing it.

"The Worshipful Company of Carpenters Special Award in Recognition of Outstanding Achievement in the Restoration, Re-Creation, New Design and Quality of Craftsmanship at Windsor Castle."

- the equivalent of an Oscar in marquetry!

To the left is a photograph of a superb marquetry floor which beautifully combines traditional motifs with modern floral images.

To the right is a photograph of a floor which is now in the Kremlin (not made by us). This floor is cleverly manufactured to be an access floor as well as a piece de resistance of the marquetieres' art.