The Best Types of Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

When it comes to choosing the right flooring for your home, hardwood is often the preferred choice due to its durability, timeless appeal, and the value it adds to your property. However, with so many types of hardwood flooring available, making a decision can be daunting. This guide will help you navigate the best options, taking into account factors such as aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and cost.

1. Oak: The Classic Choice

Why Choose Oak?
Oak is one of the most popular choices for hardwood flooring in the United States, and for good reason. It is incredibly durable, resists wear and tear, and has a beautiful grain that can complement a variety of home styles.

Types:
Red Oak: Known for its warm tones and prominent grain patterns.
White Oak: Offers a more subtle, smoother grain and is slightly harder than red oak.

Pros:
Durable and long-lasting.
Available in a wide range of stains and finishes.
Readily available, making it more affordable.

Cons:
Red oak can sometimes have a pinkish hue that may not be to everyone’s taste.

2. Maple: The Sleek and Modern Option

Why Choose Maple?
Maple is valued for its clean, light appearance, making it an excellent choice for contemporary or minimalist interiors.

Pros:
Extremely hard and durable, even more so than oak.
Less porous, which means it’s more resistant to moisture and staining.
Light color can brighten up a room.

Cons:
Limited grain pattern may not appeal to those who prefer a more rustic look.
Can be challenging to stain evenly.

3. Hickory: The Rustic Favorite

Why Choose Hickory?
Hickory’s distinctive grain pattern and color variations make it ideal for rustic and country-style homes. It’s one of the hardest woods available, making it highly durable.

Pros:
Extremely hard and resilient.
Unique, bold grain patterns and color variations.
Excellent for high-traffic areas and families with pets.

Cons:
Can be more expensive due to its hardness.
Bold patterns may not suit all interior styles.

4. Walnut: The Elegant Choice

Why Choose Walnut?
Walnut is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Its rich, dark color and smooth, fine grain make it a favorite for high-end homes.

Pros:
Deep, rich color adds warmth and elegance to any room.
Smooth grain provides a sleek, refined look.
Moderately hard, making it durable yet comfortable underfoot.

Cons:
More susceptible to dents and scratches compared to harder woods.
Higher cost.

5. Cherry: The Warm and Rich Option

Why Choose Cherry?
Cherry wood is known for its beautiful, rich, reddish-brown color that deepens with age. It’s a softer wood, which means it can develop a unique patina over time.

Pros:
Warm, rich tones that deepen and improve with age.
Smooth, fine grain.
Adds a sense of luxury and warmth to any room.

Cons:
Softer and more prone to dents and scratches.
Can be more expensive.

6. Bamboo: The Eco-Friendly Alternative

Why Choose Bamboo?
While not technically hardwood, bamboo is a sustainable, eco-friendly option that offers the look and feel of traditional hardwood.

Pros:
Environmentally friendly and renewable resource.
Highly durable and hard.
Unique, modern aesthetic.

Cons:
Can be sensitive to moisture and humidity.
Limited color options.

Maintenance Tips for Hardwood Floors
Regardless of the type of hardwood you choose, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips to keep your floors looking their best:

Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface.
Use Rugs and Mats: Place rugs in high-traffic areas and mats at entrances to minimize wear and tear.
Control Humidity: Use a humidifier in dry climates and a dehumidifier in humid climates to prevent the wood from expanding or contracting.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use gentle cleaners specifically designed for hardwood floors.

Choosing the best hardwood flooring for your home depends on your personal style, the level of foot traffic, and your budget. Oak and maple are great all-around choices, while hickory and walnut offer unique aesthetics and durability. Cherry adds warmth and elegance, and bamboo provides an eco-friendly alternative. With proper care, any of these hardwoods can enhance the beauty and value of your home for years to come.

COMMON TYPES OF DAMAGE TO HARDWOOD FLOORS

Hardwood floors are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability and timeless appeal. However, even the sturdiest of hardwood floors can fall victim to various types of damage over time. Understanding the common types of flooring damage to hardwood floors can help homeowners take proactive measures to prevent and address these issues.

1. Scratches and Scuffs: One of the most common types of damage to hardwood floors is surface scratches and scuffs. These can occur from the regular wear and tear of foot traffic, moving furniture, or even pet claws. While these may seem like minor issues, they can detract from the overall appearance of the floor and lead to more significant damage if left untreated.

2. Water Damage: Hardwood floors are particularly susceptible to water damage, which can result from spills, leaks, or excessive humidity. Water can cause the wood to warp, swell, or even develop mold and mildew. It is crucial to address any water damage promptly to prevent further deterioration of the flooring.

3. Gouges and Dents: Heavy furniture, high heels, or dropped objects can cause gouges and dents in hardwood floors. These deep marks can be unsightly and compromise the integrity of the floor if not addressed.

4. Fading and Discoloration: Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause hardwood floors to fade and lose their original luster over time. Additionally, certain chemicals and cleaning products can lead to discoloration of the wood.

5. Warping and Cupping: Changes in humidity and moisture levels can cause hardwood floors to warp or cup, resulting in uneven surfaces and potential tripping hazards.

Preventative measures such as using furniture pads, area rugs, and promptly cleaning up spills can help minimize the risk of damage to hardwood floors. Additionally, regular maintenance such as refinishing and resealing can help restore the appearance and integrity of the flooring.

Understanding the common types of flooring damage to hardwood floors is essential for homeowners looking to preserve the beauty and longevity of their investment. By taking proactive measures and addressing issues promptly, homeowners can enjoy their hardwood floors for years to come.

BEST HARDWOOD FLOORING OPTIONS FOR YOUR OUTDOOR DECK

When it comes to outdoor deck flooring, hardwood is a popular choice due to its durability, natural beauty, and timeless appeal. However, not all hardwood flooring options are suitable for outdoor use. In this article, we will discuss the best hardwood flooring options for your outdoor deck.

Ipe Wood

Ipe wood, also known as Brazilian walnut, is one of the most popular choices for outdoor decking. It is extremely dense and durable, making it resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation. Ipe wood has a rich, dark brown color that can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. While it is on the pricier side, its longevity and low maintenance requirements make it a worthwhile investment.

Teak

Teak is another excellent hardwood flooring option for outdoor deck flooring. It is naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use. Teak also has a beautiful golden brown color that can weather to a silvery gray over time, giving your deck a rustic, aged look. Like ipe wood, teak is a long-lasting and low-maintenance option for outdoor decking.

Cedar

Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor deck flooring due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. While not as dense as ipe or teak, cedar is still a durable and attractive option for outdoor use. It has a warm, reddish-brown color that can complement a variety of outdoor design styles. Cedar is also more affordable than ipe or teak, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for hardwood flooring for their outdoor deck.

Mahogany

Mahogany is a luxurious hardwood option for outdoor deck flooring. It has a rich, reddish-brown color and a smooth, fine grain that can add a touch of sophistication to any outdoor space. While mahogany is not as dense as ipe or teak, it is still a durable and long-lasting option for outdoor use. It does require regular maintenance to preserve its color and finish, but many homeowners find the beauty of mahogany worth the extra effort.

In conclusion, hardwood flooring can be a beautiful and durable option for your outdoor deck. When choosing the best hardwood option for your deck, consider factors such as durability, resistance to moisture and insects, maintenance requirements, and budget. With the right hardwood flooring choice, you can create a stunning outdoor space that will stand the test of time.

Choosing the Best Carpet for a Home with Pets

Pet-friendly Flooring

If you live in one of the 85 million homes in the U.S. that have a pet, you know how important it is to take your pet into consideration when replacing your flooring. Carpet continues to be a popular flooring option in homes with pets because of its many desired traits. Regardless of the type of carpet that you select, you may appreciate the fact that it is soft under your feet. It adds colorful texture the home, and it buffers noises to promote a comfortable ambiance in active households. However, issues like pet stains, hair, and more can be serious challenges when carpeting covers your floor. These factors may transform a beautiful carpet into an eyesore. The good news is that some styles of carpeting are well-suited for homes with pets. When you know what to look for, you can take full advantage of the benefits of carpet without pet-related concerns.

Best Color of Carpet for Pets

You may assume that the best color of carpet for pets is the darkest color available, but this is not necessarily true. Light-colored pet hair will stand out on a dark rug. When selecting a color, try to settle on a color that will look great with your décor and that is closely matched to your pet’s fur color. To minimize the appearance of everything from stains to muddy paw prints, hair and more, look for carpeting with a tight pattern or an intricate design. Also, it may be easier to vacuum pet hair from a carpet that as a shorter, tighter pile.

Best Carpet to Resist Stains for Pets

The three main types of carpet are nylon, olefin and wool. Even the most well-behaved, potty-trained animals can have an accident from time to time. This type of mess can be combined with spots from an upset tummy and other issues. Among the three primary types of carpet available, nylon is often viewed as being a top pick for pet owners because it balances wear, cost and stain resistance. Because of the dying processes used, the color is embedded in the fibers to resist fading from wear as well. Nylon carpet is available in a wide range of styles, and some styles mimic the look of wool. However, if you prefer wool carpeting, you can apply a stain-resistant product to it to promote its continued longevity and appeal. Olefin shares some of the same stain-resistant properties as nylon, but its fibers could be damaged by pet nails. This can be prevented by keeping your pet’s nails trimmed neatly.

Top Carpet Styles to Consider

As you search for the right carpeting for your home, your pets are an important factor consider. However, you also need to find a material that is affordable for your budget. It should be easy to maintain and complementary to your décor. A great place to start your search is with nylon carpets that are both textured and multi-toned. You can also consider products that have specifically been created for homes with pets and that are pre-treated for stain resistance. Keep in mind that even carpets that are not pre-treated during the manufacturing process can be treated properly during the installation process. Your regular cleaning and maintenance efforts will also play a major role in the presence of stains and pet hair regardless of the type of carpeting that you select. The care requirements will vary by carpet material and type, so look for a material that is easy to maintain.

Contact Classic Floor Designs Today

It may initially seem as though your options for new carpeting are significantly limited because of your pets. However, you can expect to find at least a few beautiful possibilities that would look amazing in your home when you shop at Classic Floor Designs. Our experts are happy to help you explore the options that are within your price range and that meet all of your aesthetic preferences.

Best Flooring For a Flip Property

Flipping houses is hard work, but the return on investment on a flip property can be worth it. Houses that are ideal for flipping often have an outdated style with damaged materials and other cosmetic issues. Because many buyers prefer to purchase a home that is in move-in-ready condition, properties that are ideal for flipping may be undesirable to others. One of the more common ways that house flippers improve décor and value is by installing new flooring in most or all rooms of the home. This is because flooring has a dramatic impact on decor, ambiance and overall appeal. However, choosing the right materials for flooring and for all other improvement property projects will affect your return on investment.

Choosing a Suitable Property

The best time to think about the materials for a renovation project is before you finalize your purchase plans. Flipping is usually most cost-effective when the property only requires superficial or cosmetic enhancements. This includes replacing the flooring, painting the drywall, and tackling other similar projects. More significant efforts, such as replacing the roof, can dramatically increase cost and may reduce your overall return on investment. When you are touring potential homes to buy, you can also search for homes with materials that may be refinished rather than replaced. For example, refinishing a hardwood floor is often more cost-effective than installing a new hardwood floor.

Selecting the Right Materials for a Flip

Some of the most common types of flooring used when flipping a home are hardwood, carpet and tile. Everything from the color and style of the material to its cost and how easy it is to install should be taken into consideration. Because time is money when you are flipping a home, the immediate availability of the material should also receive your full attention. You also need to focus on the the décor of the home as well as the functionality of each room while selecting flooring. For example, installing carpeting in the kitchen or bathrooms may decrease the home’s appeal dramatically, and this could reduce your return on investment.

Optimizing Your Return on Investment on Your Property Flip

When selecting flooring and other materials for the renovation, your goal is to find the materials that offer the greatest financial return. This does not usually mean that you should install the most expensive materials that you can find. Everything from the appeal that a material has to a potential buyer to its ease of maintenance, its cost of installation and its impact on décor should be considered. Your goal is to choose a material that is desired by buyers and that is cost-effective to install.

Installing the Flooring Promptly

Whether you choose carpet, hardwood or other flooring materials, the installation time and cost must be taken into account. If you choose a material that you can install on your own, such as some types of hardwood or tile, you may save a small bundle on the total installation cost. This directly increases your return on investment. On the other hand, if the carpet or other types of flooring must be professionally installed, the total cost of the project increases. As a result, the return on investment decreases.

Finding Quality Materials with Competitive Prices

When you search for quality materials that bring true value to the home, everything from the cost of labor and materials to how coveted those materials are to prospective buyers should be reviewed collectively and comprehensively. Savings opportunities on different types of flooring materials will vary over time. With this in mind, you will need to conduct thorough research on current deals for different flooring types for each new project that you work on.

Installing new flooring in an older home with outdated style is a relatively fast and easy way to improve its ambiance and to erase years from its visible age. However, the right materials for the home as well as for the target buyer must be found, and these materials must be cost-effective to purchase and to install. You can begin exploring some of the wonderful possibilities available today for your next flipping project by browsing through online inventory.

Wool Area Rugs – Why We Love Them

After installing a beautiful hardwood floor in your home, you understandably want to dress up the floor with the perfect area rug. The right area rug can enhance the ambiance in your home by buffering sounds, infusing the space with color, and more. However, with so many types of area rugs for you to consider, how can you know which rug is a good fit for your home?

For many homeowners, a wool area rug is the perfect option. Wool is a natural material that has numerous exceptional benefits. In fact, once you get to know more about its attributes, you may be ready to start searching for a new wool rug for your space.

The Versatility and Durability of Wool Area Rugs

A typical synthetic fiber will bend approximately 100 times before it breaks. Synthetic materials are also prone to staining, and they often must be specially treated with chemicals to reduce the likelihood of staining from spills and other mishaps. In comparison, wool has natural properties that make it highly stain resistant. Furthermore, wool fibers can bend up to 20,000 before you notice signs of wear. With this in mind, you can expect your next wool area rug to provide you with many years of low-maintenance use.

A Flame-Resistant Area Rug

Many people do not realize that wool is a naturally flame-resistant material. While it can burn, the fire must be very hot. More than that, the fire may burn much slower than the synthetic fibers would burn. Because of this, a wool area rug can actually elevate your family’s safety in relation to fire risks.

A Sustainable and Recyclable Material

Wool is a natural and sustainable material. While sheep grow thick wool coats to keep them warm in the winter, the coat must be removed in the warmer months for their temperature control and overall care. When you are ready to get rid of the rug, you can do so without guilt. This is because the material can be recycled. If it is tossed out, it is a biodegradable material that will break down relatively quickly.

The Positive Impact on the Home Environment

As is the case with other types of area rugs, a wool area rug will buffer sounds that may otherwise echo in a home with hardwood floors. Wool area rugs have other benefits on the home environment. Wool can naturally absorb some of the humidity in the home if the humidity level creeps higher. When the humidity level is very low, the wool can release some of the moisture to moderate the indoor environment.

The Natural Beauty of Wool Area Rugs

Wool is only one of several natural materials that are used to produce area rugs. In addition to its many unique benefits already mentioned, however, wool stands apart from other natural materials in the area of style. Because of wool’s unique composition, it holds brilliant and bold colors beautifully. It is also available in neutral or muted hues that are common with other natural materials. Because of the wide range of color options, you can enjoy the beauty of wool area rugs while achieving your design goals for your home.

Contact Classic Floor Designs

A wool area rug is a true investment that can elevate your home’s style, enhance its ambiance and provide years of hassle-free use. Before you select your next area rug, take time to explore some of the beautiful area rugs on the market today. Our associates at Classic Floor Designs are happy to answer your questions about wool area rugs and about other flooring materials. Call our team today, or connect with us online for further assistance with your flooring needs.

Hardwood Flooring Patterns: A Guide

Hardwood Flooring Patterns

You love the idea of having hardwood floors in your home. But before your beautiful hardwood flooring can be installed, you must decide on the installation pattern. The pattern design selected will ultimately play a major role in the look of the finished project and the overall style in the room. There are six primary installation patterns that you should learn about before you finalize your decision. 

Straight

Through a straight installation design, the hardwood planks are installed either vertically or horizontally across the floor. Generally, they follow the direction of the longest wall in a smaller room or along the direction of the shortest wall in a larger room to take advantage of optical benefits. While this is a plain and common installation method, it continues to be popular because of its simplistic appeal. 

Diagonal  

If you prefer the long lines created by a straight design, a creative alternative is a diagonal installation method. The diagonal design generally runs at a 45-degree angle from the walls, but you can take creative license with the severity of the angle. Because of the precision needed to cut each board precisely, this design requires the skills of an experienced floor installer

Random 

The random design can be used in conjunction with straight or diagonal installation methods. While the straight and diagonal methods use boards with comparable dimensions, the random installation method uses boards with different lengths and widths. This results in a floor with fascinating personality.

Parquet Pattern


The parquet design may also be referred to as a brick design. It is appropriately named because the wood slats are cut into small pieces with equal lengths. These pieces are laid in a manner that visually creates square shapes. The flow of the slats alternates for a stunning and interesting visual effect.

Basket Weave 

A variation of the parquet design is the basket weave style. It incorporates small square pieces surrounded by longer wood planks. The unique design creates a woven look that is both sophisticated and interesting. This type of installation design generally looks best when wood with deep color variations is used. 

Chevron 

The chevron design is both classic and increasingly popular in modern décor. The wood planks are installed in a V-shaped pattern that zigzags across the room boldly. The overall look of the design can be adjusted by the number of boards used in each V-shaped angle and by the dimensions of the boards. 

Herringbone 

The herringbone design is visually similar to the chevron pattern with one significant difference. The boards in the chevron design have mitered edges. The herringbone’s boards are not mitered. Like the chevron design, the herringbone look is visually fascinating. However, it may be slightly easier to install because no mitering is required. 

Hardwood Flooring Style Selection Tips

With many beautiful design possibilities to consider for your upcoming floor installation project, how can you make the right decision for your space? While the overall look of the design is a matter of personal preference, you should keep in mind the shape of the room and the overall line of sight from common entryways. In addition, the installation recommendations from the manufacturer may reveal helpful insight. Your budget may also play a role in the design that you select. More complicated designs require more skill and time. Designs with more cuts may require the use of more materials. 

Are you eager to see a beautiful improvement to your home’s décor? At Classic Floor Designs, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. During an initial consultation, we can help you to review the beautiful hardwood materials that may work well with the look that you have in mind. To schedule a consultation with one of our designers, contact Classic Floor Designs today.

 

How to Remove Wine Stains from Flooring 

Few things can ruin a relaxing evening at home more quickly than a red wine spill. Red wine is well-known for causing permanent stains, so you may understandably believe that your floor is ruined after a mishap. However, whether your red wine spill is on carpet or wood flooring, you may be able to prevent permanent damage if you act quickly and use the right techniques.

Soak Up the Liquid Immediately

Regardless of the floor type, the most important first step is to soak up as much of the red wine as possible. Grab a roll of paper towels, and start blotting up the wine. Continue doing so with clean paper towels until all liquid has been absorbed. You should never scrub or even wipe the red wine. Doing so could cause the red wine to penetrate deeper into the material. This can make it more difficult to remove the stain.

If you are dealing with carpet stains, diluting the stain with clean water is helpful. Pouring a substantial amount of water on the stain can cause the damage to spread. To prevent this from happening, blot up as much of the liquid as possible. Then, add a small amount of clean water to the stain. Blot up the liquid again, and repeat this process until you cannot extract any more wine through the effort.

Strategies to Remove Wine Stains from Carpet

The specific composition of your carpet will affect which stain removal method is best for your situation. Because carpeting varies so dramatically, always consult with the manufacturer to get removal recommendations before you get started. If your carpet manufacturer does not have specific instructions for red wine stain removal, you can try a few different options depending on the supplies that you have on hand.

One option to remove red wine stains from carpet is to use a combination of detergent and white vinegar. Mix a few drops of a cleaning detergent with a cup of water. Apply this to the stain. Allow it to penetrate the stain for a few minutes. Then, blot the liquid. The next step for this process is to apply undiluted white vinegar to the stain. Cover the stain with a thick blanket of clean paper towels. Apply a book or something equally heavy on top of the paper towels so that they can absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Allow the vinegar and paper towels to remain in place overnight.

Another option to remove wine stains from carpet is to use a baking soda paste. Mix the baking soda and water together to create a thick paste. The amount needed will vary based on the size of your stain. Apply the paste thickly over the stain. Once the paste has completely dried, vacuum the remnants. If you notice any remaining discoloration from the red wine, use a stain removal product that is suitable for use with your carpet type.

Tips to Remove Red Wine Stains from Wood Floor

Red wine that remains on wood floor for more than a few minutes can cause staining as well. The stains may be more pronounced on light-colored floors. After you have thoroughly dried up as much of the wine as possible, clean the floor with Murphy’s soap or another oil soap. Mix the soap with water according to the instructions on the label. Scrub the stained area until the stain has been removed.

You can also try to remove red wine stains from your wood floor using mineral oil and baking soda. Using these supplies, make a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain. After it has thoroughly dried out, use a clean cloth to remove the debris. If these efforts do not work, the floor may need to be refinished.

Contact the Professionals

At Classic Floor Designs, we want our customers to enjoy their home’s flooring. While red wine stains can be removed from carpet and wood floors in many cases, there are instances when replacing the floor is a better strategy. Contact Classic Floor Designs today to explore the many beautiful possibilities available for your home.

What’s the Difference between Berber, Frieze, and Plush carpeting?

Deciding between Berber, Frieze and plush carpet for your upcoming carpet installation project is not an easy feat. These are all beautiful styles with extensive benefits and undeniable appeal. However, they have unique benefits that you need to understand before you select a gorgeous material that is a good fit for your expectations and lifestyle at home.

Exciting Variations in Carpet Styles

Wool and nylon are popular materials used to make many types of luxury carpets today. The material used to make your carpet can impact stain resistance, wear and other factors. In addition to the differences in materials, there are variations in the thickness of the pile, if the loops are cut or intact and more. These and other variations affect everything from the look and feel of the carpeting to its longevity, its ability to hide dirt and more. Because the more popular styles of carpeting in homes today are Berber, Frieze and plush, a detailed review of these options is the next step in your search for new carpet for your home.

Berber Carpet

Berber carpet has a unique look thanks to its closed-loop design. The loops have a tight weave, and this makes Berber carpet highly durable against wear from foot traffic. The design also has reduced absorbency. Because of this, you will have more time to clean spills before they are set in the carpet. The loops also may feel soft and cushy underneath your bare feet.

Berber carpet does have some disadvantages. For example, the closed loops can snag easily, and this damage creates a frayed, worn look. Generally, Berber carpet is not practical for homes with children or pets for this reason.

Frieze Carpet

Frieze carpet, on the other hand, has an open-loop design. The tufts are wound tighter than with the traditional plush carpet that you may be familiar with, and the piles are cut to create an ultra-soft surface. The unique design of Frieze carpet results in the fibers laying in a haphazard fashion rather than straight up. As a result, Frieze carpet is ideal for rooms with heavy foot traffic. The carpet shows minimal signs of wear, and it also will not show vacuum marks. Because of these factors, the flooring may look clean and well-maintained for a longer period of time.

Plush Carpet

Like Frieze, plush carpet has open loops. The pile is available in a wide range of heights, and this impacts the overall softness of the material underneath your feet. An important difference between plush and Frieze carpet is that plush carpet is sheared evenly during the manufacturing process. All of the piles are one height and stand erect. As a result, plush carpet will show foot and vacuum marks more easily. Nonetheless, plush carpet can be durable in high-traffic areas when a quality material is selected.

Choosing Carpet for Your Home

Most styles of carpet may look gorgeous in your home immediately after installation, but you want your carpet to continue enhancing the ambiance for many years to come. While color and style are undeniably important factors to consider when choosing new carpet, think about the type of traffic that the specific area of your home will receive. Will the carpet be exposed to mild foot traffic or heavy pet traffic? Are spills and stains likely? After defining these factors, narrow down the options based on your budget and style preferences.

Learn More about the Beautiful Carpet Options Today

At Classic Floor Designs, we are your full solution for quality home flooring. The many carpet styles available for you to explore in our current inventory include Frieze, Berber, plush, and many more. Contact Classic Floor Designs by calling (202) 872-9860, or connect with us online for more information about the beautiful flooring options available for your home.

2021 Home Design Trends

Today’s homes multi-task as offices, school rooms, and play areas. The latest home design trends aim to support these functions while still delivering fabulous style. Top 2021 trends in design cover the gamut from hardwood floors to lighting. If you’re spending more time at home, you’ll love this list of ideas for updating and refreshing your space.  

Go Luxe With Navy Blue

In the past, designers used black accent walls, furnishings, and fixtures to lend glamour and sophistication to a living area. In 2021, navy blue is the new black for interior designs. Navy appears softer than black and coordinates with many colors without looking too harsh.  

Navy blue enhances both contemporary and traditional living rooms. You’ll find the color splashed on accent walls with paint or pretty wallpaper prints. Get a thoroughly modern living room makeover with chairs and sofas that are upholstered in this velvety, rich color. 

Brighten Rooms With Light Floors

You can’t broach the subject of interior design without challenging your flooring choices. If you love modern elements for your home, our designers recommend lighter flooring options. Light-colored floors work well with Scandinavian-style furnishings and fixtures. They also give industrial living areas a more spacious and bright look. 

When creating modern interior designs, hard floors take center stage. You’ll see sealed concrete and natural stone tile floors throughout 2021’s modern homes. Hardwood flooring is a classic option that never goes out of style, and it has a wide appeal with both homeowners and home shoppers. Some hot hardwood species to consider for 2021 include white oak, birch, and ivory maple. 

Modern Rustic Design Combos

If you and your spouse bicker about the benefits of modern over rustic interior design, 2021 can be a game changer for your relationship and your home’s look. Home design experts mix modern and rustic furnishings and fixtures for distinctive design combinations in 2021. There are several ways that you can get the look without making your home a total construction site. 

If your spouse won and you’re starting with a completely modern living area, add some rustic elements to the space such as a sliding barn door, rough-hewn wood sconces, or a hand-made, glass-topped wooden table. Many modern spaces rely on bright, white walls as a backdrop for minimalist drama. By adding elements of dark, natural wood, you give the space a pleasant surprise with color contrasts and texture mixes.

Completely rustic spaces benefit from modern touches as well. The best way to pull off this look is by introducing sleek, natural elements into the space. Consider incorporating things such as stainless steel countertops, shiny metal-framed side tables, and lots of glass.    

Get Glowing With Hidden Lighting

Lighting is the unsung hero of great interior design. With the right lights, you can make a space appear larger or smaller than it really is. You can also create a warm, elegant ambiance for a space, which is desired in both modern and traditional designs. Hidden lights top the list of 2021 trends in home lighting.  

Hidden lighting goes beyond the standard recessed lights of the past. You’ll often see diffused, soft light coming from above a fixture or from its side, but you can’t see the source of the light. Hidden lights such as positional luminaries and multi-level lighting are found integrated into ceilings, walls, and floors. 

Bring Indoor Comforts Outdoors

Our current pandemic situation makes a comfortable outdoor living area a must-have part of any interior design in 2021. Even if you don’t have the space or the budget for a complete outdoor living room, you can still enjoy the trend with a few decorative, weather-proof chairs, comfortable textiles, and some paint. Consider painting your porch a soothing color that you would see in an interior room such as slate blue or one that’s found in nature such as forest green. Adorn chairs with cheerful-looking cushions, lay out some textured throw rugs, and grab a cup of your favorite herbal tea for a delightful getaway without getting away.   

Improve Productivity With More Storage Cabinets

If you’re working from home and/or home-schooling children, your quality of life can be affected if you’re not organized. A top 2021 trend in home design is adding more storage cabinets in your living and work spaces. By installing storage cabinets that match your room’s decor, you’ll declutter, reclaim space, improve your concentration, and increase your room’s aesthetic appeal.   

Indulge in Sustainable Minimalism

Two of interior designers’ top loves have come together to form a leading home design trend for 2021. Minimalism in furniture, fixtures, and architectural design isn’t going anywhere in 2021. However, it’ll have a sustainable twist. You’ll find light fixtures with simple lines that are made of recycled materials. Cork and bamboo floors are set to be favorite options for those who want to incorporate sustainable minimalism design elements into their homes in 2021. 

Conclusion

Quality flooring is the foundation of every distinctive interior design. Whether you’re the parent of a toddler who needs soft carpet for her first steps or you’re a senior who has a passion for exotic hardwood floors, Classic Floor Designs delivers on quality, style, and function. Call us today at 202-872-9860 to schedule your free design consultation