Floor Trends: From Grays to the Next Color Wave

For many years gray floors have been the gold standard for new builds and renovations. And for good reason: the neutral tones of gray bring calmness and a sophistication to any space, plus they make connecting to other splashes of color in a room easy to accomplish.

The gray flooring phenomenon has even sparked a social media debate, plus above-the-fold reporting on the topic in this New York Times article.

And while gray floors continue to be a popular choice, there are new colors and finishes that are starting to gain traction that signal the emergence of exciting, fresh trends in flooring.

“While cool neutrals and grays have had their moment in recent years — and they are definitely still popular — there is a fast-growing appeal of warm neutrals,” says Jen Meska, director of merchandise and LL Flooring. So, if you’re looking for flooring without a touch of gray, here are a few emerging colors according to Meska.

Blonde Ambition

European white oak flooring is an excellent example of the trending warm neutrals that bring brightness and clean style. Meska calls out the Era Collection as an example that also presents on-trend wide planks.

“Wide plank flooring continues to grow in popularity, in addition to blonde European white oaks. LL’s Era Collection provides an example of both,” says Meska. “What’s more, this floor adds streamline to a space, with planks as long as eight feet.”

Going for Gold

Speaking of warmth, golden floors always bring look amazing and add the sweet honey hues. Meska says the Bellawood Artisan Golden White Oak as a wonderful choice. “This engineered hardwood presents a beautiful golden color to add warmth and sophistication.” 

Make it Matte 

Matte finishes continue to dominate across all hard surface categories, with light wire-brushing bringing additional texture and detail. According to Meska, “Matte finishes and light wire-brushing remain very popular among homeowners and Pros, and one great example is Bellawood Tarpon Bay White Oak Distressed Engineered Hardwood which has been incredibly popular since we introduced it last year.”

Shine On

While matte finishes still reign supreme, Meska says high-gloss varieties of hardwood, laminate, and tile have started popping up, suggesting that the more traditional look is making a modern comeback. That look is reflected in products like LL Flooring’s Dream Home Heard County Hickory High Gloss Laminate.

The best news? No matter if you embrace the gray or want to go a different way, there are many wonderful styles and looks to select from.

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An LL Style partner in this video is doing a completely solo build of a remote, 'off-the-grid' home, and allows you to follow each step that goes into turning a dirt lot into a stylish home. He chose Duravana hybrid resilient flooring for this home for its natural wood style and waterproof qualities. Check Jon out!