Of all the design decisions you have to make, it’s easy to—literally—overlook your floors, but choosing the best color and material for your spaces can have a big impact on your home’s overall aesthetic. Whether you favor carpet or hardwood, tile or vinyl, consider giving your hardest-working surfaces a refresh with one of these five trends.
You can’t go wrong with traditional 12-by-12-inch tile for an undeniably classic look, but as manufacturing processes have transformed, “people are requesting larger sizes in tile, 24-by-24 to 24-by-48,” says Lori Anderson of Rubble Tile. Not only do large-format tiles require less grout—meaning they’re easier to maintain and keep clean—but they can also make a space look larger.
Gray tones popped onto the tile scene a couple years ago, and while that colorway isn’t going anywhere, “we are seeing more of the warm tones making a comeback,” such as greige and taupe, says Anderson. This warming trend applies to hardwoods as well, as homeowners opt for stains with red and yellow undertones.
It seems that everyone is jumping on the green bandwagon as of late, and the flooring industry is no exception. Eco-friendly materials like non-toxic cork and corn sugar carpet fibers have become sustainable choices in recent years, but perhaps the most popular is reclaimed wood (you can thank shows like Fixer Upper for that). “Reclaimed wood flooring allows you to bring a level of warmth, as well as unique beauty into your home,” proclaims Manomin Resawn Timbers. “Each piece of reclaimed wood has a story, and by using recycled wood in your home, you can help add more chapters to their tales.”
Carpet isn’t typically thought of as a trendy choice when it comes to flooring, but carpet tiles are redefining the category. The “bland and beige” reputation has been replaced by playful patterns and bold colors that you can mix and match to create a completely custom look. Many come with a peel-and-stick adhesive backing, making installation a breeze. Plus, if you tire of the design—or a tile gets stained—they are easy to pull up and replace.
Homeowners looking to add some “wow” to their floors can’t go wrong with graphic patterns, particularly in starkly contrasted black and white, says Anderson. In materials ranging from porcelain to ceramic to cement, these designs—damask, quatrefoil, and Greek key, to name a few—add flair and personality, while maintaining a sophisticated look.
By Taylor Hugo
Taylor Hugo (taylorhugo.com) is a freelance writer and editor who has experience creating content for regional and national magazines, small businesses and Fortune 500 companies, and everything in between. After spending most of her life in Minnesota, she recently relocated to Colorado, where you’ll find her hiking the Rocky Mountains and decorating her first home that she shares with her husband and dog.
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Spring is the ideal time for a fresh start — especially when it comes to your home. Whether it’s through thoughtful decluttering or permanent design changes, transforming your home can be a powerful step toward creating a streamlined sanctuary that supports your overall health and wellbeing.
“Keeping your home clutter-free and organized creates a peaceful and functional space, reducing stress and making daily tasks easier,” says Kari Campbell, founder and principal designer at Kari Campbell Interiors. “Plus, it saves time when you know exactly where to find what you need. It’s all about creating a space that feels good to live in.”
Here, Twin Cities home professionals offer their tips to transform your space — and your mind.
