As we get into 2015, we’re seeing the continued momentum of several hardwood floor trends that have become evident over the past several years.
Very dark hardwood floors
Really dark floors are an increasingly popular choice among homeowners who want a formal feel. Some people are even choosing black floors created using naturally black species such as Wenge. While not black, other species (e.g., American Black Walnut) have a natural dark color. And species that aren’t dark enough can be stained dark. Some species will never be ideal for a very dark look, but we can stain any wood (but not bamboo) as dark as desired.
Greyish colors
While many homeowners desire the striking appearance of dark hardwood floors, many others are going in the opposite direction—selecting grey, off-grey, or even white floors. As with the dark floors, this coloring can be achieved with the natural color of certain species (e.g., European White Oak) or through staining. The lighter coloring appeals to homeowners who want an open, breezy, casual ambiance.
Wider boards
Twenty years ago, the standard width of hardwood floor planks was just over 2” wide. Now, boards wider than 5” are common, and we’re seeing more and more homeowners go very wide with planks that are greater than 7”. These wider boards create a more casual feel than narrower planks.
Lower sheen levels
High-sheen floors have come to be seen as “plastic looking” in many people’s eyes, and so they’re selecting low-sheen floors that don’t have much reflection. Lower-sheen floors also don’t show wear and tear as much as high-sheen floors—an additional advantage that attracts active families with children and/or pets.
Floors that look timeworn
Seeking an authentic, character-filled appearance, a growing number of homeowners are choosing to have their floors wire-brushed, hand-scraped, or distressed to add texture that creates a “lived-in” look. The amount of texture can vary from just a little all the way up to deep scrapes and purposeful “damage” (e.g., nail holes). The goal in all cases is to make the floors look as if they’ve stood the test of time—like an antique piece of furniture.
Conclusion
The trends largely point toward a more casual look with hardwood flooring, but as the recent popularity of very dark flooring shows, not all trends move in lock step. Sheen is another example of mixed trends—while here in Wisconsin we’re seeing great interest in low-sheen flooring, along the East Coast high-sheen, blonde flooring is growing in popularity.
One thing that’s certain is that while hardwood floor trends will come and go, hardwood floors aren’t at all trendy. Hardwood floor preferences may change, but hardwood flooring has proven over centuries that it will always be in style.
