The variety of hardwood on offer in 2016 makes it today’s #1 kitchen flooring trend
Nothing beats the warmth of hardwood floors, particularly in the kitchen. Though durability and expense have always been sticking points against it, today the quality, variety and engineering of hardwood floors make those issues virtually obsolete.
But, what type should you choose to bring the warmth of hardwood into your kitchen?
Before selecting a hardwood floor is to consider your lifestyle and kitchen décor. (c) suziemcadam.com
Practical concerns like where your kitchen is located and the type of subflooring you have will naturally have an impact on your decision. In terms of design however, all you need to do before selecting a hardwood floor is to consider your lifestyle and kitchen décor. For example, keep in mind your kitchen’s traffic level. If little children and pets are on the scene, then a durable hardwood, or hardwood with a pronounced grain that hides dents and scratches, is in order. You should also consider your kitchen style. Hickory floors are beautiful, but are at odds in a Scandinavian mid-century modern kitchen, so mid-century modern flooring would probably be more appropriate. Here, a light wood, like maple with a blonde finish, looks outstanding. Hickory floors however, are resplendent in a traditional American kitchen with shaker cabinets.
If little children and pets are on the scene, then a durable hardwood, or hardwood with a pronounced grain that hides dents and scratches would do the work.
So, what are the 2016 hardwood trends?
In terms of stains, dark finishes continue to make an appearance in contemporary spaces. Ebony to true black stains are best when they are set off by white cabinetry and a classic dining set with white upholstered dining chairs. On the other side of the spectrum, cool grey and white hardwood floor stains are red hot in 2016. These colours light up a small or dark kitchen space in the same way that light tile does, but without the clinical feeling.
Hickory floors are beautiful, but are at odds in a Scandinavian mid-century modern kitchen. (c) nakedkitchens.com
Matte and satin finishes are also in high demand. Gone are the high-gloss or semi-gloss floors of the past in favour of finishes that give a more natural and casual look. Waterborne poly, oil, and wire brushing finishes mimic the look of granite and poured concrete worktop, and also suit the casual kitchens today’s homeowners want.
What exactly is wire brushing? This trendy finish is all over the place in 2016! It makes virtually any hardwood flooring type ideal for a rustic or shabby chic kitchen. By scraping off the softest portions of the wood, its grain is emphasized, giving floors more character.
In terms of structure, hardwood floors with plenty of character are what people want in 2016. Wide plank floors in particular. Hardwood floor planks that are between 8 centimetres and 15 centimetres wide makes a small space look larger and give a kitchen a modern and relaxed look.
With the range of styles and finishes on offer, it’s easier than ever to add the warmth of hardwood to your kitchen!
