We have the perfect way to share your personality while also improving the look and feel of your home: patterns. Patterned flooring is here to give you the functionality and impressive personal statements to make you feel like your house really gets you. The patterned floor trend is all about turning functional design into artwork. Your home should feel like a conversation piece, and you’re in charge of the discussion. 

Let’s dive into a brief guide to patterned flooring. We’ll explore the allure of patterned floors, from their rich history to the latest trends, and why they continue to be a sought-after choice in modern interiors. 

What Are Patterned Floors? 

Patterned floors are a distinctive style of flooring featuring repeated designs, motifs, or geometric arrangements for decorative effect. These patterns can be accomplished in one of two ways. First is to source flooring with the design printed onto the floor material itself, like floral or paisley pattern carpets. The other option, more common with hard surface floors, is to use otherwise “plain” floor products and arrange them in unique ways that add an extra visual element. Think wood planks arranged in a herringbone pattern, or two different shades of the same size tile laid out like a giant checkerboard. There’s a lot of range here—the floor designs can go from simple and clean to complex, ornate, and delightfully funky.

Types of Patterned Flooring 

There are a few main types of patterned flooring you should consider: 

1. Geometric Patterned Floors: Hexagons, squares, and circles, oh my! Geometric flooring patterns are often repeated in a specific order, with classic examples like chevron and herringbone patterns (popular in wood and luxury vinyl plank flooring). 

2. Encaustic and Ceramic Tiles: Tiles with patterns or designs inlaid into the surface, creating a detailed and colorful effect. People commonly use them in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. 

3. Inlaid Wood Patterns: This involves creating designs by embedding pieces of wood of different colors and grains into a wooden floor, forming decorative patterns. 

4. Carpet with Printed or Woven Patterns: Carpets can also have patterns woven into their fabric or printed on the surface, ranging from subtle textures to bold designs. 

So you have the gist of this gorgeous home design trend. Now, let’s dive into why you might want to try it out! 

Why Choose Patterned Floors? 

You’re sophisticated—”pinky finger out whilst holding your wine glass” levels of sophistication. Or you’re creative, with works of art already livening up your rooms and halls. Maybe you don’t fit into any of the well-known personality tags and just like simple elegance at your feet as you curl up to read on your couch. 

They come in various materials—hardwood, carpet, and tile—each offering a distinct look and feel, meaning they can find their place in any home style. Patterned hardwood floors, with their intricate designs and natural warmth can add a classic elegance that never goes out of style. On the other hand, patterned carpet offers a cozy and plush feel underfoot, with designs ranging from subtle textures to bold, statement-making patterns. Patterned tile flooring is where creativity knows no bounds. From encaustic tiles that blend historic artistry with modern design to ceramic and porcelain tiles in endless shapes and colors, these floors are a playground for the imagination.  

In general, patterned flooring provides a few benefits: 

Aesthetic Appeal: Patterned floors are visually appealing and can serve as a focal point in a room, adding character and uniqueness. 

Versatility: They can complement various interior design styles, from traditional to contemporary, and can be made from different materials to suit different needs. 

Unique Style: Patterned floors allow you to express your personal style and create a space that is truly your own. 

Durability: While this is not unique to patterned flooring options, today’s high-quality floor products are not only beautiful but also built to last. 

Patterned floors are a creative and stylish flooring option that can transform any space into a more dynamic and interesting environment. They provide an opportunity to make a unique design statement and elevate the overall look and feel of a home or commercial space. 

Patterned Flooring Trends 

When we talk about patterned flooring, the variety is endless. But let’s focus on three trending categories: bold, glam, and textured. 

Bold Patterned Flooring 

Bold pattern flooring is not for the weak of heart. You’re a color maniac, a bright inkblot in this often monochromatic world, a…well, you have an exciting and visually striking style that might not be common elsewhere, but fits your home like a glove. Bold patterns are primed to be one of the standout flooring trends of 2024, characterized by expressive and eye-catching designs. This trend includes a resurgence of classic patterns like herringbone, chevron, and modern geometric and encaustic tile designs. These works of art can be achieved using various materials, including hardwood, laminate, and luxury vinyl tiles. 

Why People Love Bold Patterned Flooring: 

• Visual Impact: The POP factor, of course! Bold patterns create a loud, fierce feature in any space, making a powerful statement and enhancing the room’s overall aesthetic. 
• Versatility: Whether it’s intricate geometric shapes or playful motifs, bold patterned flooring fits well in kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and living spaces. 
• Extreme Design Flexibility: With various styles and materials, homeowners can choose patterns that reflect their style and complement their home’s decor. 

Glam Patterned Flooring 

Glam patterned flooring is about infusing luxury and elegance into interior spaces. You are an early-20^th Century oil tycoon having new wood floors installed in your mansion. Well, maybe not that rich, but we can all dream. Glam embodies, in a tasteful way, the visual exuberance of eras like The Gilded Age. Think regal patterns and high-end materials and finishes, such as plush velvets, rough-hewn stone, natural materials, and sleek metallic finishes. Everything celebrates the details, even uber practical options like Berber carpet or scratch-resistant hardwood flooring. These elements create a tactile and visually dynamic environment that exudes sophistication and opulence, darling—without sacrificing function.

Why People Love Glam Patterned Flooring: 

• Luxurious Feel: Combining high-quality materials and intricate designs creates luxury and exclusivity. 
• Aesthetic Appeal: Glam patterned floors are visually stunning, adding a touch of elegance and glamour to any room. 
• Individualistic Style: This trend encourages a fearless approach to interior design, allowing for personalized and eclectic interiors that reflect the homeowner’s unique tastes. 

Textured Patterned Flooring 

Textured patterned flooring focuses on the appearance and feel of the surface, incorporating various textures like smooth, matte, glossy, engineered, and soft finishes. The textures can be achieved through different processes such as sawing, sanding, scraping, and brushing, especially on wood flooring. 

Why People Love Textured Patterned Flooring: 

• Enhanced Sensory Experience: Textures elevate the aesthetics of the décor, providing a more sophisticated and versatile look. 
• Practical Benefits: Textured flooring can be slip-resistant and add depth to the space, making it appear more inviting and warm. 
• Natural Look: Rough textures give a more natural or traditional feel, while smooth and reflective materials offer a modern touch. 

2024 is all about creating a harmonious blend of aesthetics, practicality, and personal expression. Whether drawn to the striking impact of bold patterns, the luxurious feel of glam patterns, or the natural appeal of textured patterns, flooring is not just a functional aspect of design but a statement piece that reflects the values and preferences of those who call a space home. 

Patterned Flooring from Empire Today® 

As flooring lovers, we embody the impact a beautiful floor can have on your space. That’s why we offer a wide range of products to help you create the patterned floors of your design dreams. Consider carpet emblazoned with elegant Damask or Moroccan patterns for your bedroom oasis. Or design a one-of-a-kind kitchen floor pattern with tiles or hardwood planks that are available in a spectrum of colors. Explore our full flooring selection and find the perfect patterned floor for your home design dreams. 

Get Personal With Patterned Flooring 

Patterned flooring is a trend that continues to evolve and inspire. Your home is a visual definition of yourself. Remember that your floor is not just a surface to walk on; it’s a canvas to express your style, taste, and creativity. Whether you’re renovating your home or simply looking for ways to refresh your space, consider a patterned floor’s impact on your overall home personality. With the variety of options available, there’s never been a better time to explore patterned flooring and discover how it can transform your space. 

The post Patterned Floors Let Your Unique Personality Show appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Dark and Moody Explained 

The dark and moody aesthetic has been growing in popularity in recent years for its ability to weave together a sense of coziness, luxury, and mystery within a space. Think exposed brick, vintage bookshelves filled with rare novels and unusual trinkets, and rugs of various patterns and textures layered in front of a crackling fireplace – you get the idea. 

Just like with any other interior design trend, your flooring choice can make all the difference in creating that perfect dark and moody atmosphere. A deep, richly colored floor lays the foundation for statement furniture pieces, eclectic art, and… But before we jump into flooring choices, let’s take a look at the various components of the moody aesthetic: 

• Deep colors – Darker, saturated colors are a hallmark of the moody aesthetic. Deep shades of green, plum, charcoal, navy, and burgundy are common among walls, window coverings, and furniture. 
• Dark floors: Dark wood or stone flooring is a classic choice for moody interiors. Darker flooring of any kind can add depth and richness and lays the groundwork for the gorgeous paint colors and decor that characterize a moody space. 
• Low lighting: Moody interiors tend to feature low or ambient lighting. Think table lamps, wall sconces, or even candles rather than a bright overhead light. That being said, rooms with large windows and lots of natural light can still take on a distinctly mysterious or romantic quality depending on the design choices. 
• Lots of texture: Texture is a huge part of the moody aesthetic and a fun way to add personalization to your space. In a dark and moody home or room you might see fabrics such as suede or velvet for upholstery, weathered or distressed finishes on furniture, flooring, and fixtures, decorative throw pillows and curtains, and of course a beautiful rug or two. 

Dark Night of the Soul 

Although the dark and moody trend has burst onto the interior design scene relatively recently, this aesthetic draws inspiration from several different historical design movements and periods. There’s the drama and dark woods of the Gothic Revival and Victorian periods (19^th Century), the bold contrasts of the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s, and even Modern Minimalism with its emphasis on clean lines and simple forms.  

What’s So Great About Dark and Moody Design, Anyway? 

Choosing a moody aesthetic for your interior design is a bold choice that has some major payoffs. Here are some of the things we love about this particular trend: 

• Ambiance – Moody interiors are typically designed around the idea of creating a cozy, intimate, and sometimes mysterious atmosphere. This type of space, with its dramatic lighting and varied textures, can also elicit an emotional response. It’s not uncommon to feel a sense of tranquility, sensuality, or introspection in a dark and moody space. 

• Timeless appeal – Interior design trends come and go, but moody aesthetics have an eternal feel. The classic combination of dark colors and rich textures helps this design trend stand the test of time.  

• Versatility – Although often associated with a specific style, such as Gothic or Victorian, the beauty of the moody aesthetic is it can be adapted to fit a variety of design styles.  

• Personal expression – The Moody design trend is perfect for those of us with a strong desire to express our unique personality and style through our living spaces. Dark flooring and/or walls make beautiful art or statement furniture pieces stand out 

Thinking Outside the (Design) Box 

It’s important to note that the moody aesthetic isn’t cut and dry. In fact, blending the quirky, cozy elements of moody design with contemporary design trends like brutalism or industrialism can yield unique and captivating living spaces. The dramatic and emotional aspects of both brutalism and industrialism, which highlight raw materials, neutral color palettes, and exposed structural elements, are further enhanced when integrated with moody design concepts. 

Transform Your Home with Dark and Moody Flooring 

Whether you’re going for the moody Manhattan loft feel, an ornate Gothic European castle look, or the overstuffed, dark academia vibe of the Hogwarts library, your choice of floors can have a huge impact on the overall feel of your space. Empire Today® carries a huge selection of dark wood floors to fit your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetics. 

Dark and Dreamy Flooring for Bedrooms 

The warm, enveloping atmosphere created by a moody aesthetic can be an ideal choice for bedrooms. Designing that cozy, dreamy retreat begins with the perfect floors. Picture a dark, plush carpet you can sink your feet into at the end of a long day. Or maybe a rich chocolate laminate wood floor, whose dark tones will help lure you into a deep slumber.

If you can’t imagine a dark and moody bedroom without equally dark and moody hardwood floors, consider the Empire®’s exclusive WhisperHOME engineered hardwood flooring. WhisperHOME flooring is the quietest wood flooring available, so you can get the classic look of hardwood without the classic sound of creaking floorboards. The unique installation technology also allows for better airflow under the planks, making it warmer underfoot so you can opt out of a rug if you choose. 

If Kitchens Had a Dark Side 

In case you haven’t heard already, all-white kitchens are on their way out. That being said, balance is key when it comes to designing a moody kitchen that isn’t too dark (we still need to see what we’re cooking, after all). Darker floors provide a strong, sophisticated contrast to light-colored cabinetry and countertops. Empire carries a wide variety of beautiful dark wood-look and stone-look flooring that’s durable, easy to clean, and in many cases fully waterproof. 

Adding a Touch of Nature  

If all this talk of dark flooring has you worried about designing a moody interior that’s a little too moody, we’ve got you covered. Adding some “earthy” elements to a room through your flooring, decor, or lighting choices can go a long way towards striking a balance between a warm and inviting atmosphere and an overall moody aesthetic.  

• If your walls and decor are on the darker side, consider a warmer-colored wood or wood-look flooring, or opt for a lighter colored stone-look luxury vinyl tile.  

• Make good use of natural light in your home by selecting darker colored floors for the room with the most light coming in through windows or doors, and vice versa. 

• Bring nature indoors by incorporating natural accents, such as potted plants, wooden furniture, or stone countertops. 

Stepping into Elegance with Dark and Moody Floors 

When you schedule an in-home consultation with Empire, a flooring consultant will bring samples right to your home. This allows you to see how different colors and materials will look in the distinct lighting of your space. The consultant will do all the measuring, and help you choose a product that aligns with your aesthetic, lifestyle, and budget. Your choice of flooring should be top of mind when it comes to turning your home into a dark and moody masterpiece, and we’re here to help you every step of the way! 

The post Mystique and Magic: The Allure of Dark and Moody Flooring  appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Like the classic tuxedo or the little black dress, there are some things that will always be in style. Traditional home style is still alive and well, with not only plenty of passionate designers advocating for its use, but also a sprawling selection of building materials, furnishings, and accessories on the market. So, if you’re feeling discouraged about wanting to stick with a more traditional home styling in your upcoming redesign, we’re here to support your decision.  In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at what traditional home style is, as well as identify some of the traditional flooring products available from Empire Today® and learn how they can integrate into your design plans. 

What is Traditional Home Design? 

To best define the idea of traditional flooring materials, let’s back up and take a quick look at traditional style in general—and that might be easiest to do by explaining what traditional style is not. The traditional style is generally considered to be one that does not bend to fleeting trends, isn’t about buying what the hottest new celebrity designer is selling, and eschews ideas like “fast fashion.” Yet, even without adopting the design du jour, traditional style doesn’t feel dated, regardless of its age. A pair of Levi’s 501s from the 90s could be considered traditional, while a pair of JNCO jeans from the same year would most definitely not. Green shag carpet from the 70s would not work in traditional home design, while a warm oak wood floor of the same vintage would.  

Traditional design is about honoring the best aesthetic traits of the past, without succumbing to the many fashion blunders that have come and gone. It often melds motifs from multiple eras without ever leaning too much on a singular influence. In a well-designed traditional home, your mid-century modern furniture can peacefully coexist with Victorian wall coverings and your Persian rug. 

Fans of traditional flooring and overall home design love the style because it can help set the tone of the entire home. Traditional home décor is a style that is often described in intangible, emotional ways. It evokes a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and an overall welcoming atmosphere. Think of any classic movie about a family of adults getting together for the holidays at their childhood home. That home’s design is usually not up to contemporary style standards, but at the same time, it’s rarely unappealing. It’s a cozy, inviting home. Homes that celebrate traditional style are homes meant to be lived in, in the truest sense.  

With all of that said, it’s important to stress that traditional design, and by extension traditional flooring, does not have to specifically include only old materials or accessories. New homes are being built or renovated every day with a style that would be considered traditional. Let’s take a look at some of the flooring products available at Empire® that can be used to create an inviting, traditional home. 

What Types of Flooring Fit into a Traditional Home Style? 

Classic hardwood is the most common example of a traditional home flooring product. Wood floors were first popularized in colonial America and, aside from a few misguided decades in the middle of last century when beautiful real wood floors were often covered with gaudy linoleum or shag carpet, have been a sought-after material ever since. It’s a material that meshes well with a wide range of aesthetics, fitting into a casual setting as easily as an elegant one. Perhaps most important, wood floors tend to be thought of as inviting. When the average person is asked to imagine a cozy, welcoming room, the odds are high that hardwood flooring will make an appearance. 

To further narrow down the style, you can expect to see lots of warm, medium-tone wood, like chestnut, honey maple, or early American. Traditional wood flooring welcomes large grain patterns and even embraces knotting and other irregularities. There’s a lot of overlap with rustic floor styles, though traditional flooring usually doesn’t go to the same extremes. It’s common to see materials with the slight patina of a well-loved home, but not the heavily weathered woods common to many rustic or farmhouse-style rooms.  

Carpeting can also play a role in a traditional home, although it tends to be used sparingly. A main floor done almost entirely in oak hardwood might lead into a family room finished in a cozy carpet. As with wood floors, traditional carpet style favors warm, rich colors, and surfaces that beckon guests to enter the room. A traditional home would likely use Berber or plush carpets as opposed to a more upscale product like pattern carpet. 

While not as common, tile floors and other stone-look flooring can also fit into a traditionally styled home. The best tile floors for a traditional home would be in neutral or earth-toned colors, without any trendy patterns. Stone can also be a smart choice since the look of classic marble flooring has rarely fallen out of favor. But because it can feel a bit pretentious, its use in a modern traditional home should be limited—perhaps only in the living room, while the rest of the house favors hardwood. This combo creates a nice marriage of the best historical styles, without feeling too stuffy. 

Of course, traditional style is not limited to just traditional natural materials since it’s possible to evoke the same feelings and honor past style traditions with today’s manmade products.  Most modern composite and engineered flooring types can so accurately mimic any aesthetic that even a high-tech flooring like luxury vinyl plank flooring can easily be used in traditional home design. Wood-look vinyl or laminate floors are an excellent way to enjoy the traditional aesthetic without overextending your budget. 

What are the pros and cons of traditional flooring design? 

As we’ve mentioned, traditional home design is built upon aesthetics that stand the test of time and which can easily be integrated with a diverse variety of home décor. This enduring quality is itself one of the great practical advantages of choosing a traditional flooring style.  

It’s always a gamble to suggest that any particular design style might increase the value of a home when reselling since personal tastes are so diverse. A minimalist, monochromatic interior might be the aesthetic of your dreams, but something so extreme can be off-putting to potential buyers. While most home shoppers expect to put some work into customizing their new homes, the prospect of a full-blown rehab can be dissuading. But because it embraces so many perennially popular style choices, a traditionally designed home is less likely to be a deal breaker to many buyers than something more avant-garde. Think about a beautiful oak floor that was first installed in the 1940s. It may be eight decades old, but as a shining example of traditional design, it probably won’t be seen as a negative for prospective buyers, even if it wasn’t on their wish list.  In fact, it might end up being a selling point that the buyers never expected.  

And it’s important to remember that traditional home design isn’t necessarily retro or stuck in any particular era. Rather, it reinterprets many elements of older styles to fit in with modern sensibilities. Or it picks the highlights of those eras, the products and materials that have stood the test of time and builds around those. That reverence for the past ends up making many traditional design schemes almost timeless.  

As a style defined largely by its widespread agreeability, it’s not easy to find any inherent cons to choosing traditional flooring. Most downsides will be largely based on individual preferences. If your personal style tends to live on the bleeding edge of what’s trendy, this may not be the flooring type for you.  

Flooring for traditional homes – where should I start? 

For most homeowners, a new floor is expected to last many years—regardless of style. So, when you begin the selection process, it’s important to consider what type of flooring you can see yourself living with for years, or perhaps decades. With products covered by some of the best warranties in the industry, we’re confident that Empire offers plenty of choices of hardwood, carpet, or tile to meet that need. 

Regardless of style aspirations, for most people, budget is a major factor in choosing new flooring. But being on a budget doesn’t have to be a disqualification for your dream designs. Contrary to popular belief, you can get floors that are beautiful, long-lasting, and not prohibitively expensive. The spectrum of styles available in sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl plank, or laminate puts traditional design within everyone’s reach.  

If you’re ready to take the first step towards your traditional home aspirations, we’re here to help. Empire’s in-home experience gives you the opportunity to see and feel an entire flooring store’s worth of products without ever leaving your home. With the help of a flooring professional, we’re confident you’ll find a product that matches your style dreams along with your budget.  

The post Give Your Home a Timeless Look with Traditional Flooring and Design appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Want to learn more about how that will manifest in new flooring trends? Keep on reading to get a taste of what we expect to be some of the most popular flooring in new homes and renovations in 2024.

So Long, Sterile. Say Hi to Character!

One of the overarching themes that will be running through most interior design and flooring trends is the embrace of surfaces that have more character than many of the leading products in recent years. Neutrals like grey and beige—and their suitably named sibling “greige”—have been among the top flavors so far this decade, but their reign looks to be ending. While we still expect them to be imminently popular, they’ll no longer be the obvious choice when compared to options with a literal personality.

So, what exactly does “character” mean and how will it be reflected in new flooring trends? Here are a few things that we expect to be popular in 2024.

Carpet with Warmer Tones and Bolder Patterns

In the carpet world, we will be seeing “less sterile, and more warm and livable looks,” according to April, our lead carpet buyer. Expect to see more flooring in “colors that are very earthy and natural, while pulling from a tranquil palate.” That should mean a return to the deep browns and strong tan tones that had fallen out of favor in recent years. Hues like this still offer much of the design flexibility of a plainer neutral, while still adding a cozy character to a home.

Consumers are also ready to embrace bolder patterns in their new carpet. While styles like the traditional pin dot pattern have long been popular in formal spaces, 2024 looks to be the year that more audacious visuals are embraced. Styles like chevron patterns or adventurous mixtures of colors add extra depth and personality without sacrificing comfort.

Natural Hard Surfaces Will Take Center Stage in 2024’s Flooring Trends

With rustic and farmhouse aesthetics among the top trends in recent years, natural surfaces have never really been unpopular. But in 2024, those styles will continue to evolve by embracing an even more natural, unpolished appearance. Glossy finishes will take a backseat while matte finishes come to the forefront. Natural wood will be a top pick in the wood-look floor sector, while wide-plank hardwood will continue to be hot.

In the tile world, natural stone looks will be a trending floor style. At Empire Today®, we expect this to be a great opportunity for stone-look flooring alternatives to shine. While the internet and other free resources make it easier for everyone to keep up with the hottest flooring trends, some of those trends will simply be out of reach for those on modest budgets. While slabs of slate or chunks of travertine may make your kitchen look like something out of a design magazine, those materials will also usually come at a price that reflects their prestige. However, the average consumer can still achieve a similar trendy aesthetic by opting for stone-look floors in the luxury vinyl tile or ceramic and porcelain tile product lines.

Move Over Minimalism, Make Way for Maximalism

The maximalist design movement has been picking up steam for a few years now. Some see it as a reaction to the general collective anxiety of the last few years, others simply as a way to make our living spaces cozier and more joyous. For so many, what used to be a place we spent only half of our day is now often a space we rarely leave. Whatever the reasoning, it means fewer people are concerned with a design that is specifically curated to impress visitors and instead are more interested in having their homes be fun and directly reflect their personalities. Many industry insiders expect 2024 to be the year that maximalist design crosses over to flooring trends.

This is seen in the growing embrace of bolder patterned carpets but will likely manifest itself more in the hard-surface world, where improvisation and creative installation methods are more easily achieved. Think of designs like hardwood laid in a herringbone pattern, a mix-and-match approach to tile floors, and an embrace of more artistic and colorful tile designs. Tile and wood floors’ versatility also means that maximalism can be applied in controlled doses, like a colorful ceramic tile backsplash in an otherwise conservative kitchen or a unique pattern of hardwood flooring integrated into a traditional wood floor installation.

Durability, Sustainability, and Eco-Friendliness

And of course, trends can include more than just aesthetics. We expect to see the continued growth of flooring trends that are not directly related to design, but instead practical and functional attributes.

The quest for environmentally-friendly materials continues to grow in all areas of modern life, and we’ll see that reflected in flooring trends—driven both by consumer desires and manufacturer’s initiatives. Empire® continually works with our suppliers to ensure that we can offer our customers the most sustainable and innovative flooring products. That can include carpets crafted using 30% less water than typical in the dying process, or wood-look floors made from increasing amounts of recycled materials.

Stemming in large part from the increased amount of activity the average home sees, overall durability and ease of maintenance continue to be important factors in our customers’ final flooring decisions. We expect our manufacturing partners to continue pushing the envelope in these areas, with innovations like anti-microbial carpet fibers or hard surface floors with improved coatings against scratches and wear.

Overwhelmed by Flooring Trends? We’re Here to Help

While the idea of DIYing your floors or other elements of your home’s interior can sound exciting at first, it’s not always a walk in the park. From coordinating the visual elements to ensuring you choose the most appropriate product for each room, shopping for flooring can sometimes feel like a dark art. And the actual flooring installation can be even more difficult. That’s why it’s so valuable to trust the pros. Empire’s FREE In-Home Estimate is a stress-free, no-obligation opportunity to be guided through the entire process. Contact us today to schedule yours, and you’ll be quickly on your way to taking part in the year’s hottest flooring trends.

The post Flooring Trends for 2024: The Year of Color and Character appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Neutral is a broad term that gets thrown around often when discussing style, especially in matters of the home. While it’s often taken to mean something completely lacking color or character, in interior design that’s not entirely true—the term is a little more nuanced. In design circles, it’s more accurate to think of a neutral home decor element as a particular visual component that might lack strong character. 

Instead of calling attention to itself with bold colors or strong patterns, neutral elements function better as supporting components of a cohesive design scheme. In the big picture, a neutral element’s lack of strong character actually becomes its strength. 

What are Some Neutral Design Elements? 

As mentioned above, elements that lend something to an overall aesthetic without commanding a viewer’s attention are usually considered to be neutral in their design. Neutral elements, whether walls, floors, or furnishings will typically lack color. Choices like beige carpet or gray walls, for instance, are good examples of neutral décor. 

However, a design piece can have some color and still be considered neutral. Close inspection of a cream-colored wall may reveal slight traces of yellow or green, while a neutral hardwood floor may tend ever so slightly towards a red or orange tinge. These latent hues are known as undertones and can help you build a cohesive look by utilizing color theory to match your floors to your walls and the other major design elements in your home. 

How does home flooring fit into this design philosophy?  

Of all common home renovation or redecoration projects, new flooring is typically the one you expect to get the longest life out of. Walls can get regularly repainted without too much stress, and you’ll likely replace major furnishings and appliances at least once in the time you own your home. But new flooring can last generations when properly cared for. As a result, it will usually be the one constant factor with which all other design components will need to mesh. Plus, it’s often the one element that spans multiple rooms—or even the entire house. That means your flooring is often both the literal and figurative foundation of your home’s aesthetic. And we’d say that makes it pretty important when you are trying to build a cohesive look.  

Your floor’s enduring, all-encompassing presence in your home makes a case for choosing a look that’s most likely to mesh well with a variety of furnishings, wall colors, and other design elements. And this is where neutral flooring becomes your best friend. 

While neutral flooring might not have a strong character of its own, it excels by letting the character of the surrounding design speak for itself. A smartly chosen neutral floor will help highlight your strongest design elements instead of competing with them. And it will be to do so while still looking good on its own—remember, neutral doesn’t mean completely devoid of flavor. 

What are some examples of neutral flooring? 

Homeowners have never had it better when it comes to shopping for home improvement products. That’s true for flooring, and especially for neutral flooring products. Years ago, a shopper who knew they wanted the look of a light-toned wood floor would be able to pick from—you guessed it—a handful of light-toned genuine hardwood products. Today, that neutral wood look can be replicated in engineered hardwood, laminate wood flooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and even porcelain or ceramic tile. They all present an almost identical aesthetic, but each offers something a little different when it comes to comfort, durability, affordability, and ease of cleanup. 

As we mentioned in the opening, being neutral doesn’t automatically mean that a particular element is simple, completely devoid of character, or even easy to choose. Picking an effective neutral floor can be just as difficult as choosing a flooring with a very bold design. 

Here are some of our favorite neutral flooring options: 

Gray, tan, or cream plush carpet 

Plush carpet is generally considered to be the most neutral of all carpet types, as far as physical characteristics go. With its cut-pile construction and perfectly uniform surface, it’s not as casual as a frieze or Berber carpet. But that same uniformity also keeps rooms from feeling as fancy as they often do with pattern carpet. 

Opt for a light gray, tan, or other neutral hue, and a room can easily adapt to your changing design goals as the years pass. Neutral-toned plush carpet is often the best choice for rooms where you know you’ll always prioritize comfort, but whose main purpose will evolve. This is a solid strategy for a room that may, for instance, spend a few years as a home office, then become the first baby’s nursery, then a toddler-age bedroom, and so on. 

White or off-white ceramic tiles 

White tile floors are a go-to for any of the home’s major “wet rooms,” including the kitchen and the bathroom. It’s a good idea to choose relatively neutral flooring in both of these rooms for a couple of reasons. First, they’re the two rooms whose floors you’ll want to keep the cleanest, and light, neutral flooring helps make that easier to do so.  

Additionally, these two rooms are also among the most common targets for home renovation projects. With ceramic and porcelain tile floors being such long-lasting surfaces, they often don’t need to be replaced even in an otherwise complete room revamp. This is especially true when you’ve chosen a neutral tile style, which is much less likely to clash with whatever new look the room gets during its next makeover.   

Natural or Light-Colored Hardwood Flooring 

Hardwood has long been a neutral flooring stalwart. It’s similar to a really nice pair of jeans in that it has rarely gone out of style and can be dressed up or down depending on the other components of the overall ensemble. Neutral hardwood floors will highlight the wood’s natural look instead of hiding it behind a strong stain color. Think of shades like honey, hickory, or white oak. 

Grey wood flooring has become one of the more popular shades in recent years. And though it’s not a natural wood color, it’s still a pretty safe long-term because of its neutrality. Trends come and go, but because grey wood is neutral, it’s less likely to stick out in the future even if a particular room built around the grey wood trend gets a full makeover. 

What are the downsides of neutral flooring? 

So far, neutral flooring sounds like the perfect option for nearly every home, right? But there’s gotta be a downside…right? Like most neutral home decor elements, neutral flooring doesn’t necessarily have any inherent disadvantages. But, as great as we think these products can be, we also know they won’t be the best flooring choice for everyone. Because, just like every other subjective choice, personal taste simply cannot be constrained by hard rules. Sure, neutral floors look great in a wide range of design schemes and don’t call much focus on themselves. But for some homeowners, that agreeableness is itself a downside—because they want their flooring to draw focus. 

If you’re someone who wants your flooring to be a statement piece itself, you’ll probably want to go bolder. No one says that your floors must play friendly with every other design element in your home.  Additionally, there are aesthetics where neutral simply isn’t the best choice; it doesn’t automatically make every scheme look better. Think about the quintessentially dark and moody study, walls covered in deep mahogany bookshelves filled with leather bound tomes, outfitted with an ornate desk and cordovan leather wing chairs. A room like that is deserving of a floor that matches—it’s no place for neutral shades. 

How to Shop for Flooring for a Neutral Home Décor Scheme 

Hopefully, this dissection of neutral flooring styles has helped you get a little bit closer to the ideal floors for your next renovation. Even if you already know that your home’s look will lean towards something bolder overall, understanding the basics of neutral home decor can be a benefit to all DIY decorators. As Pablo Picasso famously said: “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” A neutral design can be the foundation for limitless creative experimentation. 

Of course, we know that all of the eloquent descriptions and alluring photos on the internet simply can’t beat the benefit of seeing and touching a product in person—especially when you’re trying to make a decision that you might be living with for decades to come. And that’s where the Empire Today® In-Home Experience comes in. It’s just one of the many advantages that come with choosing Empire® for your new flooring installation. We bring hundreds of flooring samples directly to you, giving you the ability to see exactly how they’ll look in the very spot where they’ll end up being installed.  

The post Ins and Outs of Neutral Style: What is Neutral Home Décor? appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Picture this: You’ve just arrived home after a long day of work. You open the front door of your cozy yet spacious bungalow (or vintage farmhouse, or tidy cottage, or secluded cabin – your choice) and set down your keys and coat in the entryway. You head into the main living area, open concept, of course, where you’re greeted by the sight of the afternoon sun filtering through the gauzy curtains and casting a golden hue over the gorgeous, distressed wood flooring of your living room.  

You make your way into the kitchen to get dinner started, noticing that someone has spilled water on the floor. Not a problem, you think as you grab a towel to wipe it up. The vinyl plank floor looks nearly indistinguishable from the weathered hardwood you might find in a rural farmhouse kitchen, yet the product you chose is completely waterproof. A quick swipe of the towel and it’s good as new.  

After the evening’s activities are complete, you retire to your bedroom, a tranquil retreat awash in soft, muted tones. Although you’ve chosen to place an area rug near the bed as part of the decor, you reflect on how it’s not really necessary thanks to the comfortable and beautiful wood laminate you’ve chosen for the bedrooms.  

If this all sounds like heaven to you, you probably find yourself drawn to the timeless allure of rustic design. Rustic home flooring is the perfect choice to infuse your space with that warmth, character, and natural beauty that’s so appealing about the bygone days. 

At Empire Today® we absolutely adore rustic design, and we’re excited that it’s grown in popularity over the years. As we delve into the rustic flooring trend, we’ll explore the various styles, materials, and design possibilities that make this enduring aesthetic a true classic. 

Introduction to the Rustic Flooring Trend 

In an age where technology dominates nearly every aspect of our lives, it’s hardly surprising that more and more people are being drawn to the rugged appeal of rustic interior design, both for their homes and workplaces. The authenticity and connection to nature of rustic flooring can serve as a powerful counterbalance to our increasingly digital experience.  

The Timeless Appeal of Rustic Flooring 

Rustic interior design is deeply rooted in the unique pioneering history of the U.S. Early settlers brought very few belongings as they left larger cities to disperse throughout the rugged expanse of the wild west. When it came time to build and furnish their homesteads, these pioneers had no choice but to rely on local, natural materials. This resourcefulness not only shaped their living and working spaces, but also fostered a design aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the authenticity of the American frontier. 

Rustic flooring is so much more than just a trend; it’s truly a tribute to the skilled hands that have shaped our history! 

What is considered a Rustic Home? 

These days most of us aren’t chopping down trees to build our own cabins and furniture, but that doesn’t mean we can’t create the same atmosphere of natural, tasteful simplicity found in the rustic homes of yore. Understanding where rustic design elements originate can help define the overall aesthetic. 

• With no other materials or manufacturing available, wood was the primary material used for flooring and walls. The colors, lines, ridges, and knots of local hardwood contributed to the unique character of each building. 
• Natural light from windows and doorways was a requirement in the days before electricity and is a must-have in our modern world, where we spend so much of our time indoors. 
• Our foremothers and forefathers didn’t get their furniture and decor from factories, they designed and built everything they needed and wanted from scratch. That means not every edge was perfectly straight, smooth, rounded…you get the idea. These imperfect design elements, when used today, create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the typical modern home. 
• It would be a mistake to overlook the subtle ways in which “Mother Nature’s colors” give life to any home decor. In rustic design, you’re sure to find wood grains or stone, beiges, pale greens, or warmer shades of white, along with iron, pewter, or copper fixtures gleaming in all that natural light. 

Rustic Floors are Here to Stay 

When it comes to interior design, trends come and go (think the shag carpeting and avocado green appliances of the 1970s, or the beige walls, floral prints, and wicker furniture of the 1990s). One of the most exciting aspects of rustic flooring is that its beauty and simplicity transcends short-lived design trends. Rustic flooring compliments a huge variety of interior design styles and can be adapted to suit different aesthetics such as traditional, farmhouse, industrial, or contemporary, making it a much safer investment than those massive, wooden entertainment centers that dominated living rooms circa 2002! 

Incorporating Natural Aesthetics in Your Home 

Welcoming nature into our homes has never been more important than in today’s fast-paced world, where maintaining a connection with the great outdoors can be a real challenge. In fact, studies have shown that exposure to natural elements, such as wood, plants, and stone, can actually lower cortisol and increase feelings of relaxation – something most of us could use! Rustic flooring’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to invoke those feelings of peace and tranquility you get from an afternoon in the woods, without ever leaving your living room.  

Types of Rustic Flooring 

Unlike the pioneer days, when the only building materials available were whatever was growing nearby, we offer a wide variety of rustic floor products to choose from. Finding the perfect floors to fit any aesthetic, budget, and lifestyle has never been easier.  

Distressed Wood Flooring 

 Newer wood can take on those gorgeous, timeworn characteristics by using techniques such as hand-scraping. In hand-scraping, also known as hand-planing, a special tool is used to scrape the surface of the wood to create a more textured, stately appearance. Hand-scraped wood flooring is often used for restoration projects or rustic homes. 

Reclaimed Wood Flooring 

If sustainability is your main concern, look no further than reclaimed wood. Reclaimed wood is typically salvaged from older commercial buildings, vintage barns, or other demolished structures. Besides the fact that it’s an environmentally friendly flooring option, reclaimed wood is also prized for its unique and character-rich appearance. Whether it’s nail holes, knots, saw marks, or naturally weathered textures, each plank has a story of its own to tell. Reclaimed wood is typically more expensive than traditional new wood or engineered flooring due to the labor-intensive process of sourcing, salvaging, and preparing the wood. 

Wide Plank Flooring 

Wide plank floors are known for their stunning visual impact. The wider planks (typically around 5” or more) showcase the grain patterns, color variations, and subtle contrasts of the wood and can create a sense of spaciousness in a room. Wide plank flooring has historical roots and is often associated with American and European homes. Thanks to their more traditional look, wide plank flooring is a popular choice for anyone seeking to add a rustic element to their home. 

Stone-Look Flooring 

The earthy, textured appearance of stone-look floors aligns with rustic design’s emphasis on natural elements. Stone-look flooring is typically made from materials like porcelain or ceramic tile, luxury vinyl tile, or laminate that are engineered to replicate the texture, color, and veining patterns found in natural stone. Stone-look flooring is typically highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, and is relatively low maintenance and budget-friendly compared to natural stone. 

How to Choose the Best Rustic Flooring 

Selecting the ideal rustic flooring for your space is a process that goes beyond aesthetics alone. Finding the right product means striking that perfect balance between your design vision, practical needs, and the unique character of each flooring option. 

Define Your Style 

The sheer variety of rustic floor products on the market can make finding the perfect fit feel a bit overwhelming. Understanding your own personal style will help you narrow down your options and make the sometimes daunting task of selecting floors a more enjoyable experience. When you schedule an appointment with Empire, a flooring professional visits you in your home where they are better able to help you narrow down the choices. 

Consider Your Lifestyle 

Thinking about the function of the room or rooms where you plan to install your rustic flooring is key to finding the right fit. Do you have kids, pets, or both? Which rooms get the most traffic, and which might be exposed to topical moisture? Rest assured you will be able to find the perfect rustic floor product for every area of your home. 

Color, Pattern, and Finish 

Today’s rustic floor products are nothing if not versatile. Not only are there a variety of materials to choose from, the color palette of rustic flooring offered at Empire® ranges from rich, earthy tones like deep browns and warm reds, to lighter, more weathered hues such as soft grays.  

In terms of patterns, rustic floors can showcase diverse arrangements of planks or tiles. These patterns can be customized depending on the vibe you’re going for – whether it’s the classic farmhouse look, a contemporary loft, or a cozy cabin retreat.  

The finish of rustic floor products is yet another aspect that enhances their appeal. Matte finishes provide a subtle, understated elegance, while semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes offer a sleek, polished look. And of course, the popular distressed/hand-scraped finishes create that charming, weathered appearance and highlight the natural character of the wood. 

Maintaining Your Rustic Flooring

Rustic flooring is not only durable, it’s also relatively easy to maintain. As with any type of flooring, a little TLC in the form of regular cleaning and minimal maintenance will help keep it looking its best for years to come.  

Regular Cleaning and Care 

Cleaning your rustic flooring depends somewhat on the materials used to create the floor. However, these general rules apply to the care of most types of rustic flooring. 

• Dry cleaning: Sweep or vacuum the floor on a regular basis to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Be sure to use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to avoid scratching the surface. 
• Gentle mopping: For routine cleaning, use a damp (not soaking wet) mop or microfiber mop to clean the floor. Avoid excess water on hardwood floors, as it can damage wood and cause swelling. 
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or wax-based products on rustic flooring. Instead, opt for a pH-balanced, manufacturer-recommended floor cleaner specifically formulated for your type of floor. 
• Clean up spills immediately: This one is probably obvious, but letting spilled food or liquid sit on certain types of flooring for too long can cause staining and other damage. Use a soft, dry cloth or paper towel to blot up liquid spills. Sticky substances can be scraped off (gently!) with a plastic scraper. 
• Area rugs and mats: Don’t overlook the value of a strategically placed area rug or mat. Not only can they add a bit of extra warmth or pop of color to your overall decor, rugs or mats located in high-traffic areas can help trap dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto the floor. A win-win!  

Enhancing Your Home with Rustic Flooring 

The warmth, charm, and enduring quality of rustic flooring can be a soothing balm to those of us craving a tangible connection to the natural world. The choice to incorporate rustic flooring into your interior design also means that no matter how your tastes change in the years to come, your floors will never look out of date or at odds with whatever decor you choose. So, whether you’re into mid-century modern or intergalactic chic in the future, your rustic floors will always be there to support you in style. 

More Than Meets The Eye 

As we conclude our journey through the world of rustic flooring, it’s clear that this timeless choice is more than just a surface beneath our feet – it’s a statement of style, a testament to our eternal connection with nature, and a nod to the past. Whether you opt for the warmth of wide plank flooring, the inviting charm of distressed finishes, or the natural beauty of stone-look, the skilled flooring professionals at Empire Today can help guide you towards the choice that reflects your unique personality and the ambiance you wish to create. 

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