HOUSE & HOME: Flooring trends for the home: ways to work with wood

In interior design, few elements exude the timeless elegance and warmth of real wood flooring. From the sleek lines of contemporary spaces to the ornate details of traditional interiors, real wood floors effortlessly enhance the ambience of any room. However, with advancements in technology and material innovation, the introduction of engineered wood floors has changed the way we think about hardwood flooring, making it straightforward to install and simple to care for.  Peter Keane, MD of The Natural Wood Floor Co, looks at the advantages and pattern options with real wood floors.

The appeal of real wood flooring

Real wood flooring stands as a hallmark of luxury, offering unparalleled beauty and sophistication. Its natural grains, textures, and hues create a sense of warmth and authenticity that synthetic materials often struggle to replicate. Whether it’s the rich tones of oak, the deep hues of walnut, or the timeless charm of maple, each wood species brings its own unique character to a space, allowing homeowners to customise their interiors to reflect their personal style.

Moreover, real wood flooring transcends design trends, making it a versatile choice that can adapt to evolving aesthetics. In modern homes, hardwood floors provide a sleek and minimalist backdrop, while in traditional settings, they add a sense of heritage and refinement. This adaptability makes real wood flooring a timeless investment that enhances the value and appeal of any property.

Just as when choosing a colour for walls, choosing the right shade of wood floor should be based on how large the room is, how much natural light it enjoys and on the overall décor. As a rule, smaller rooms benefit from lighter woods, while larger spaces can more comfortably accommodate darker tones such as walnut.

In smaller rooms, lighter woods can create an illusion of spaciousness, making compact areas appear larger and airier. They reflect light effectively, enhancing the brightness of the room and contributing to a sense of openness. Opting for lighter shades like oak or maple can effortlessly brighten up a small space, making it feel more inviting and expansive.

Conversely, in larger rooms blessed with ample natural light, darker tones of parquet flooring can be embraced with confidence. Rich and deep hues such as walnut or merbau can add a touch of sophistication and warmth, as darker woods bring a sense of depth and cosiness, anchoring the room with a sense of elegance and refinement. They also provide a striking contrast against lighter furnishings and decor elements

The evolution of engineered wood floors

While real wood flooring has long been coveted for its beauty, solid wood is not always practical for every environment. Areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, pose challenges for traditional hardwood floors, leading to concerns about warping and damage. Enter engineered wood flooring – a game-changer in the world of interior design.

Engineered wood floors offer the same natural beauty of solid hardwood but with added durability and stability. Constructed with multiple layers of hardwood Birch plywood backing, engineered boards are designed to withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity, making them suitable for a wide range of environments. The top layer consists of a veneer of precious hardwood, ensuring that the floor maintains its authentic appearance while providing enhanced resistance to wear and tear.

One of the key advantages of engineered wood flooring is its compatibility with underfloor heating systems, adding an extra layer of comfort and luxury to any space. Whether installed in a contemporary loft or a classic townhouse, engineered wood floors offer the perfect blend of style and functionality, making them a popular choice among homeowners and designers alike.

The resurgence of parquet flooring

Characterised by geometric patterns such as herringbone, basket weave, and chevron, parquet flooring adds a layer of sophistication to any room. While parquet floors were once synonymous with grandiose estates and stately manors, they have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, becoming a staple in luxury interiors.

The combination of colour, wood detailing and pattern make this a real statement floor. The style of laying pattern may depend on the size of the board, species, grade of wood, or the finished colour, but for an up-to-date look go large with 600 mm sized blocks and for something more traditional aged parquet blocks are great for adding extra character as they look like reclaimed blocks.

Away from patterns, extra-wide boards are now in fashion too. This look is beneficial in small and large spaces, creating a streamlined impression with fewer seams for a clean and cohesive look.

Maintenance and care

While real wood flooring adds timeless beauty to luxury interiors, proper maintenance is essential to preserve its pristine appearance. Routine care involves a combination of dry and damp cleaning methods to remove dirt and dust particles while protecting against scratches and wear. Additionally, annual maintenance, such as applying a concentrated polish, helps restore the floor’s lustre and prolong its lifespan, ensuring that it remains a cherished feature of the home for years to come.

For more information visit www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk.