Trends - Empire Today Blog https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/tag/trends/ Flooring guides, tips, tricks, and trends! Fri, 12 Apr 2024 18:41:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 Patterned Floors Let Your Unique Personality Show https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/patterned-floors-let-your-unique-personality-show/ https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/patterned-floors-let-your-unique-personality-show/#respond Fri, 19 Jan 2024 19:31:45 +0000 https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/?p=23723 Designing and decorating a home has become something different in the modern age. We’ve become bigger homebodies who joke about celebrating when plans are canceled, prefer to have dinner and groceries delivered instead of battling crowds, and even get proud about our TV-bingeing streaks. Our homes have become our offices, our gyms, and our movie […]

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Designing and decorating a home has become something different in the modern age. We’ve become bigger homebodies who joke about celebrating when plans are canceled, prefer to have dinner and groceries delivered instead of battling crowds, and even get proud about our TV-bingeing streaks. Our homes have become our offices, our gyms, and our movie theaters. We’re not just designing homes to look ; we’re planning homes that need to take care of us, appeal to us, and show off the quirkiest parts of our personalities. We need the functionality of modern flooring, but also something more interesting than plain brown floors!  

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). 
  1. 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. 
  1. Inlaid Wood Patterns: This involves creating designs by embedding pieces of wood of different colors and grains into a wooden floor, forming decorative patterns. 
  1. 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! 

Complex patterns can be created even with simple floor tiles. This herringbone strip transforms a plain floor or backsplash into a work of art.

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-20th 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.

The damask-style pattern of this carpet lends an elegant, high-end feel to the bedroom.

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. 

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Mystique and Magic: The Allure of Dark and Moody Flooring  https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/the-allure-of-dark-and-moody-flooring/ https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/the-allure-of-dark-and-moody-flooring/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 23:56:01 +0000 https://www.empiretoday.com/blog/?p=23582 Moody is having a moment, and we aren’t talking about how you feel when you wake up on Monday morning and realize you’ve run out of coffee. The clean, bright, minimalist interiors that have dominated contemporary design for years have given rise to a rebellious offspring: the dark and moody interior design trend. Let’s explore […]

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Moody is having a moment, and we aren’t talking about how you feel when you wake up on Monday morning and realize you’ve run out of coffee. The clean, bright, minimalist interiors that have dominated contemporary design for years have given rise to a rebellious offspring: the dark and moody interior design trend. Let’s explore how this unique and captivating design style can transform your living space, starting with the alluring world of dark and moody flooring.  

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 (19th 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 

Dark and moody flooring can add an extra edge to an otherwise traditional design scheme.

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.

Dark floors can make a bedroom a calmer, more restful space.

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! 

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