From the trend-watchers at independent market research firm, Market Insights Torcivia, and the National Wood Flooring Association, this look at what’s trending in the hardwood flooring marketplace.
- Mixed media – incorporate hardwood with other flooring options like stone, tile, carpet, or even metal to define different seating or functional areas within a large, open space
- Install wood floors in a non-linear format. Custom parquet patterns can achieve this look, but even traditional linear floors can accomplish the same goal by installing the linear pattern on a curve.
- Use multiple wood species – one species in the main field of the room, then introduce contrasting species incorporated as a border or other subtle design element in the room
- Gray stains and finishes – ranging from very subtle to very dark – are in. And gaining popularity on the West Coast, metallic finishes that result in a pronounced grain that shimmers softly in contrast to the rest of the wood.
With American hardwood species running the gamut of color, and because hardwood is a product that can adapt to many different decorating styles and décors, hardwood provides a degree of diversity, as well as long-term value, that cannot be matched by other flooring materials.
