Modern gray wood floor can make an instant statement to your house.
Flooring trends change throughout the years as homeowners acquire new tastes and technology allows a larger variety of flooring designs for their remodeling project. Medium brown tones struck the right note with homeowners. Flooring finishes ranging from ebony to driftwood became very popular. Another trend that picked up and could continue is allowing flooring imperfections such as the mineral streaks and knots to serve as part of the aesthetics and create a more natural feel. It was also a big year for faux flooring. Tiles that look like wood were especially in trend. 2024 is bound to bring with it new and exciting trends.
Trend #1. Fumed Wood Flooring – Stronger Color & Grain
The combination of white paint and wood for floor and ceiling is hard to beat in this kitchen.
Almost all types of wood flooring undergo some kind of staining to give them the desired final finish. Fumed wood flooring gets its rich color and grain without having to get any sort of staining. Instead, the wood is put through a process called fuming. This involves placing the wood in a chamber where airborne ammonia is then released. The wood reacts with the ammonia and undergoes a color change. The reaction does not always result in the exact same changes. The final patina achieved depends on a number of factors including the type of wood, the outside environment and the atmosphere in the chamber itself. So even among two similar pieces of wood, the resulting hues may vary. Generally, however, fuming gives the wood rich dark tones and enhances the natural grain of the wood. The final look is much more appealing and luxurious than what you get with stained wood flooring. Do not confuse fumed wood with that which has had liquid ammonia directly applied to it. Using liquid ammonia directly on the wood risks damaging the fiber and could weaken its structure. To manage expectations and safety concerns–do plenty of research if you plan to use fumed wood flooring.
Trend #2. Bleached & Blanched Woods
Nothing beats bleached wood if you want a clean look for your living room.
Not everyone likes the glossy brown stains of most wooden floors. For some, the softer white-washed look of a bleached floor is more their taste. This kind of flooring consists of wood that has undergone a bleaching process, also called blanching. This involves applying a chemical solution onto the surface of the wood to get rid of the “color”. By color, we mean the artificial dye or stain coating the wood. Blanching gives the wood an ashy white-washed look with the natural wood grain still being clearly visible from underneath. So you do not lose the charm and beauty of natural wood, it is just packaged in another style. Take a look at our home remodeling ideas page, which is full of our previous project pictures.
If you are planning a renovation, make sure you ask your contractor which option is better for you; bleaching your current wood flooring or replacing it with ready-made blanched flooring. Trying to give your current wood flooring the bleached look is often expensive and tedious work. The 2024 bleached and blanched trend is going to be especially popular seaside retreats and country/farmhouse style homes. Although we expect this trend will transcend all styles of homes since it is so breathtaking.
Trend #3. Distressed Wood & Concrete Tiles
Want the look, but also want durability? Go for concrete tiles like these.
The distressed floor style has been around for quite a while but has become even more popular just recently. Next year, expect to see more homeowners opt for that luxury aged look in their flooring. Distressed flooring undergoes artificial aging and styling processes that give it a slightly worn finish. It works best for spaces where a beautiful rustic look is desired. In preparing distressed wood flooring, various actions are taken depending on the degree and style of “distress” desired. The edges of each wood plank are hand scraped, swirl and kerf markings are added to imitate historic wood and the planks are brushed to remove glossing and give them a soft worn texture.
If wood flooring is not your cup of tea, you can also opt for the increasingly popular distressed concrete flooring. In 2024, the distressed concrete floor style will receive more attention as homeowners look for alternatives to traditional wood flooring. As with distressed wood, distressed concrete goes through artificial processes to minimize the highly polished look and produce an enhanced worn out patina. Distressed concrete flooring can be integrated into most types of decors but works best in industrial and contemporary home styles.
Trend #4. Natural And Earthy Toned Woods
Using natural and earthy-toned woods in interior design signifies a return to embracing the warmth, authenticity, and organic beauty of wood elements within living spaces.
Characterized by warm hues ranging from light oak to deep walnut, these natural wood tones evoke a sense of connection with nature while adding a cozy and inviting ambiance to interiors. Whether incorporated in flooring, furniture, cabinetry, or architectural details, such as ceiling beams or paneling, the use of these earthy-toned woods brings a harmonious and serene quality to rooms, creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with a desire for comfort and sustainability.
The trend towards natural and earthy-toned woods underscores a shift towards biophilic design principles, fostering a sense of tranquility and well-being within indoor environments. These wood tones not only complement a variety of design styles, from rustic to contemporary, but also offer versatility and timelessness, adding depth and character to spaces. By incorporating natural wood elements, homeowners can infuse their interiors with a sense of groundedness, warmth, and a connection to the natural world, fostering a serene and comforting environment within their homes.
Trend #5. Waterproof Vinyl
The flooring business has seen a revolution with the rise of waterproof vinyl flooring, which provides a long-lasting, adaptable, and visually pleasing alternative for both home and commercial areas.
Recognized for its durability and water resistance, waterproof vinyl flooring has developed to look like a variety of materials, including stone, tile, or hardwood, all the while offering better defense against moisture damage. Thanks to technological improvements, these vinyl planks or tiles are available in an extensive range of colors, textures, and patterns, providing accurate replicas of natural materials with the added advantages of long-lasting durability, easy maintenance, and scratch resistance. Homeowners looking for flooring solutions that can resist regular wear and moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or basements are catered to by this trend.
Waterproof vinyl flooring signifies a shift towards practicality and innovation in flooring solutions. Offering the charm of natural materials without their maintenance challenges, waterproof vinyl has gained popularity for its versatility, affordability, and ability to withstand moisture and spills. Its adaptability to diverse design aesthetics and high durability makes it a desirable choice for those seeking stylish yet resilient flooring options that combine aesthetic appeal with practical functionality in modern interior spaces.
Trend #6. Eco-Friendly Choices
Eco-friendly choices in interior design represents a transformative shift towards sustainability and responsible living within living spaces.
This movement encompasses a holistic approach that emphasizes selecting environmentally conscious materials, adopting energy-efficient solutions, and implementing sustainable practices. From utilizing recycled or upcycled materials to opting for low VOC paints and finishes, integrating energy-efficient appliances, and sourcing furnishings made from renewable resources, this trend embodies a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting healthier indoor environments. By embracing eco-friendly choices, designers and homeowners not only contribute to preserving natural resources but also create stylish, modern interiors that prioritize environmental sustainability and the well-being of both occupants and the planet.
This trend reflects a conscientious effort to merge aesthetics with ecological responsibility, underscoring the importance of sustainable design practices. By making mindful choices in material sourcing, energy consumption, and waste reduction, this trend aims to create living spaces that minimize environmental harm and maximize sustainability without compromising style or functionality. As this movement gains momentum, eco-friendly choices have become an integral part of contemporary interior design, inspiring a profound shift towards environmentally conscious living that encourages innovation, creativity, and a healthier, greener approach to designing and inhabiting spaces.
Trend #7. Checkerboard Floor Tiles In Bathrooms
Checkerboard floor tiles in bathrooms reflects a nostalgic yet contemporary design trend, reviving a classic pattern that exudes timeless charm and sophistication.
This style involves alternating tiles in contrasting colors, typically black and white, to create a visually striking and geometrically pleasing flooring design. The checkerboard pattern infuses bathrooms with a sense of elegance and character, offering a versatile aesthetic that complements various interior styles, from traditional to modern. Its clean lines and graphic appeal not only add visual interest but also contribute to an illusion of spaciousness, creating a dynamic yet balanced atmosphere within the bathroom space.
Checkerboard floor tiles in bathrooms represents a revival of a classic motif that adds a touch of retro flair while retaining a contemporary edge. This timeless pattern creates a sense of visual movement and depth, transforming bathroom floors into artistic canvases. By embracing this iconic design, homeowners can achieve a harmonious blend of vintage aesthetics and modern sensibilities, elevating the bathroom’s style quotient while infusing it with a sense of character and enduring appeal.
Trend #8. Brick Herringbone Tile
Brick herringbone tile brings a fusion of rustic charm and contemporary sophistication to interior design.
Herringbone patterns, traditionally associated with classic hardwood flooring, have now been reimagined in brick-shaped tiles arranged in a herringbone layout. This innovative design combines the timeless appeal of brick with the stylish geometry of the herringbone pattern, creating visually captivating surfaces for floors, walls, and backsplashes. The brick herringbone tiles, available in various colors and finishes, infuse spaces with textural depth and architectural interest, adding a sense of character and elegance to both modern and traditional interiors.
Brick herringbone tile offers a versatile and stylish solution for incorporating classic elements into contemporary design schemes. By utilizing this pattern, homeowners can achieve a blend of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication. The unique layout of brick herringbone tiles not only introduces a sense of visual intrigue and dynamism but also provides a stylish nod to historical architectural motifs, allowing for the creation of striking focal points that elevate the overall aesthetic appeal of interior spaces.
Trend#9. Inlays-Foyers
Inlays in foyers represents a meticulous and artistic approach to embellishing entryways, infusing them with elegance and visual intrigue.
Inlays involve the integration of intricate designs, patterns, or contrasting materials into the flooring of foyers, often using marquetry, wood, tile, or stone to create stunning decorative motifs. These inlays serve as captivating focal points upon entering a home, showcasing craftsmanship and adding a touch of luxury to the space. Whether incorporating geometric patterns, intricate mosaics, or personalized designs, foyer inlays offer an opportunity to make a grand statement, setting the tone for the interior decor while making a lasting impression.
Inlays in foyers exemplifies a desire for bespoke and eye-catching design elements that define the entry experience. These decorative flooring additions bring a sense of sophistication and individuality to homes, transforming foyers into welcoming spaces that reflect homeowners’ unique tastes and attention to detail. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, foyer inlays demonstrate an appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship and creative expression, allowing homeowners to customize their entryways and set the stage for the overall ambiance of the home.
Conclusion
The general feeling going into 2024 is that no one is satisfied anymore with traditional materials. Homeowners want flooring materials that have been given special treatment to make them unique in design and texture. Whether it is fumed wood, blanched flooring, textured tile or wood looking tiles; buyers are looking for new and exciting options. Fortunately, 2024 delivers on quality, variety, style and so much more. It will not disappoint.
