Four flooring trends

Hardwood floors have evolved in recent years from utilitarian to new-world chic but they remain a classic, durable way to outfit the ground on which you walk. What’s out? Paneled wood floors are a thing of the past and rustic, distressed wood is becoming a popular way to give your home a unique look. While some DIY-ers like to distress floors on their own, you can also order a custom or reclaimed floor that is not intended to appear like new, but rather, resemble one that has seen many years of use.

If you prefer a modern look for your bathroom, concrete is becoming a more popular choice for small spaces that seek practical flooring options. Applying an acid stain to an interior concrete floor can be just as attractive as natural stone or ceramic tile,which have more traditionally been used in homes. Stained concrete is an edgy, DIY alternative to expensive flooring and works well in condos, foyers, kitches or bathrooms when you want to emulate the look of stone or marble floors.

Ceramic tile remains the most practical, popular choice for bathroom flooring. A recent move toward natural stone has brought an earthy vibe into the mainstream, which is in part due to the popularity of travertine, a natural stone with heavy texture and great depth. Granite and marble remain sold options but travertine lends a more rustic quality, typically in lighter earth tones for subtle design.

Not only is cork the guardian for your favorite wine, but it’s also revered as a flooring material – especially for kitchens, where we tend to spend a lot of time on our feet. According to the SexyKitchen.com, the cellular structure of cork is comprised of millions of air sacs essentially meaning 50% of this kitchen flooring material consists of air, which helps ease joint discomfort after a long day standing over a hot stove. Cork is an eco-friendlier option available in a seemingly endless variety of colors and patterns.