Ideas
10 Flooring Ideas That Are Currently on Trend
As the largest surface area of your home, flooring stands as a foundational element of style and functionality. So, when it comes to choosing the right flooring for your home, you want to make sure you’re considering all your options. We’ve put together 10 flooring ideas that the interior design industry is currently loving. And even though these ideas are on trend for 2024, they’re also bound to be a classic choice that will elevate your home for years to come. Intrigued? Let’s dive in!
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Image credit: Heartly | Dylan James
Learning Flooring Terminologies
Before we get started, it’s important to know common flooring terms so you feel equipped when making your decision. We’ve listed a few below:
Floating Floorboards
This installation technique involves floorboards that are not nailed or glued down. Instead, they lock together and 'float' over the underlay, allowing for expansion and contraction without buckling.
Flooring Underlay
Speaking of underlay, this is a layer placed between the floor covering and the subfloor, typically made from materials like foam or rubber, which enhances comfort, insulation, and longevity.
Hard Flooring
Hard flooring solutions are a type of flooring that includes a range of durable materials such as timber, stone, laminate, or vinyl. We take a closer look at the different options in the category below.
Select Grade/Classic Grade
This is the wood grading which indicates fewer knots, a more uniform colour, and a smoother finish for an elegant appearance.
Renovating your home? We have so many helpful guides for every space, from flooring to ideas for your kitchen splashback.
Image credit: Polina Radchenko Interiors | Cathy Schusler
Image credit: Polina Radchenko Interiors | Cathy Schusler
1. Timber Flooring
Timber flooring is a classic choice thanks to its durability and timeless appeal. It’s remained a favourite throughout the years, helping it to achieve that status of being both on-trend and the perfect choice for years to come. Plus, the range of timber options is extensive, meaning you can choose from so many different types of timber with various colours and finishes, so, there’s something to suit every style of project.
Mood board created by EJ Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board created by Maddy Jade Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
2. Engineered Flooring
Engineered flooring is one of the latest advancements in flooring options and one of the most popular choices. Made to look like hardwood flooring, engineered flooring is actually composed of a thin layer of hardwood attached to a high-quality plywood core. It offers the beauty of its opposing solid timber products but with added stability. You won’t see this aesthetic product going anywhere anytime soon.
Choosing the right flooring can be challenging, so it’s always good to do your research beforehand. Discover more about your options with Flooring Xtra’s guide to hard flooring.
Image credit: Hemma Interiors | Nat Spada
Image credit: Hemma Interiors | Nat Spada
3. Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is also another flooring solution that has recently evolved and works to mimic other flooring products. Think of it as achieving the timber look within your home, just at a different price. Laminate flooring is made from composite wood pressed together at high temperatures and finished with a photographic layer to mimic various textures. This technology makes it a popular choice for busy homes that still want a stylish look.
Image credit: Flooring Xtra
4. Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly over the years and now offers designs that closely replicate wood, stone, tiles and more. Vinyl flooring can be a cost-effective option that’s still durable and suitable for high foot traffic areas. These elements make it a stylish choice that won’t age or wear quickly, need we say more?
Mood board created by ABI Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board created by Arc and Arlo on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
5. Hybrid Flooring
Now that we’ve discussed both laminate and vinyl flooring options, it’s time to introduce you to hybrid flooring. Hybrid flooring combines the best attributes of both laminate and vinyl. It is 100% waterproof, making it ideal for homes in humid or variable climates, and features a tough top layer that resists scratches and stains.
Mood board created by Five Files Design Studio on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
6. Tiled Flooring
Tiles aren’t just for your splashbacks and walls, they also make a timeless flooring option for your home. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are incredibly durable and come in so many different styles, patterns, colours, and designs. Even though they're ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, due to their water-resistant properties, tiles can also be incredibly stylish throughout your main living areas.
7. Carpet
Carpet is such a classic option, we don’t think it will ever go out of style (at least we hope). From elegant loop piles to twist piles and plush solutions, carpet is perfect for creating a cosy environment and adding a touch of luxury to any space.
Image credit: @houseonesixtwo | Nat Spada
Image credit: @houseonesixtwo | Nat Spada
8. Polished Concrete Flooring
If you’re looking for a flooring solution that is unique, yet hassle-free, look no further than polished concrete. Polished concrete floors are sleek, industrial, and minimalistic. They are incredibly durable and low-maintenance, suitable for modern homes looking for a sophisticated edge. They add a timeless elegance to every space that we never tire of seeing.
Image credit: Zauss House | Brock Beazley Photography
9. Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a composite material poured in place or precast, which is used for floor and wall treatments. It consists of chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass and provides a unique, speckled aesthetic that is durable and timeless.
Mood board created by Shannah Lea on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
10. Rugs
And it wouldn’t be a flooring article without the mention of rugs. Rugs are not just accessories but can be central elements in defining your space’s character. With endless patterns, materials, and sizes, rugs offer an easy way to personalise a space and add comfort.
Looking for rug inspiration? Discover 12 living room rug ideas with solutions for every space.
When it comes to selecting the perfect flooring solution for your home, it’s good to consider not just the style and appearance but also the practicality in terms of maintenance and lifestyle compatibility. With such a variety of options, you can truly personalise your space while choosing something that’s bound to elevate your home for years to come. So, whether you’re renovating your entire home, or a room, or looking for inspiration for an upcoming project, we hope these ideas have you feeling inspired. Don’t forget to start creating your dream project using our mood board tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is best to use for flooring?
The “best” type of flooring entirely depends on your room’s purpose, your lifestyle, and of course, your budget. For high-traffic areas within your home, durability is key - we recommend hardwood, laminate, vinyl or tiles. For comfort, carpet is a great option, think cosy bedrooms and media rooms. In wet areas, like kitchens and bathrooms, we recommend tiles and vinyl flooring for a water-resistant, practical option.
What is the easiest floor to keep clean?
Vinyl and laminate flooring are among the easiest to maintain, as they require only regular sweeping and occasional mopping with mild detergent. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are also low maintenance; however, grout lines may require extra cleaning effort to prevent staining and mould growth.
What type of flooring lasts the longest?
Hardwood and ceramic tiles are renowned for their longevity and can last decades when properly maintained. Porcelain tiles are especially durable due to their density and are ideal for high-traffic areas within your home. Engineered hardwood is also a robust option as it combines the beauty of wood with increased resistance to moisture and wear.
Should floors be darker or lighter than the walls?
The choice between darker or lighter floors compared to walls depends completely on your personal preference and the aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. For example:
Darker floors can create a strong foundation and make furniture and décor pop if contrasted with lighter walls. They add an element of warmth and sophistication but on the other hand, they can also make spaces feel smaller.
Lighter floors can make a room appear larger and more open, especially when paired with lighter wall colours. They also tend to hide dust and small debris better than darker floors.
Ultimately, the decision should align with your aesthetic preferences and the specific characteristics of your space, such as room size, ceiling height, and natural light availability.
What colour floor makes a room look bigger?
Light-coloured floors are typically the best choice for making a room look bigger and more open. Shades such as light oak, pale grey, or white can reflect more light than darker colours, which helps to make spaces feel more expansive and airier. Additionally, using a uniform flooring colour throughout multiple areas or an open-plan space can create a seamless look that further enhances the perception of your space.
What are the floor colour trends of 2024?
In 2024, the trend in floor colours is leaning towards natural tones and warm neutrals. Earthy tones such as beige, light browns, warm greys, and soft whites are gaining popularity. These shades not only contribute to a calming and welcoming atmosphere but are also versatile enough to complement a variety of interior styles and colour schemes. Additionally, there is a rising interest in incorporating subtle, nature-inspired hues like blues and greens in more matte finishes, providing a fresh and contemporary look while maintaining a timeless appeal.
