If you’re designing a room, color is probably at the forefront of all your decision-making. How will this piece match the walls? Do these shades complement each other? Even beyond paint colors and décor, however, you must consider the color of the very foundation of the room: your flooring. The good news is that beautiful, durable hardwood flooring comes in nearly endless colors and shades. However, sorting through all the great options to find your perfect match can be a daunting task. Never fear—we break the process down with these three tips for choosing a hardwood floor color to create the room of your dreams.
Consider the Size of the Space
The first rule of thumb is to look at the size of your room. You may already know that light colors are the way to go if you want to make a small space feel bigger. The same holds true for your flooring. Lighter-colored hardwood can open a space, making it feel brighter, fresher, and larger than it really is. Darker hardwood, though rich in color, can swallow up a room and cause it to feel even smaller than it already is—especially if there’s little natural light in the space.
Consider Your Theme and Atmosphere
Of course, your desired style is also a major influence on the color of your floors. Make sure you take your wall color, furniture, and the style of the rest of your home into account. If your house has a modern style, consider pairing a darker grey engineered hardwood with lighter walls, cabinets, and furniture. For a cozy, rustic atmosphere, nearly any hardwood option with red undertones will work.
Consider the Lighting
Different types of lighting will change how your hardwood floors look. Before you settle on a color, make sure you look at it under both artificial and natural light. You want to make sure you enjoy the color when it’s sunny, when it’s cloudy, and when you have the lamp on at night. Also, keep in mind that sunlight can cause hardwood to fade over time. If your room sees a lot of natural light, make sure you have a plan to protect your wood with a UV-resistant finish, window treatments, or area rugs.
With these tips for choosing a hardwood floor color in hand, you can find a beautiful flooring option that suits your home and tastes perfectly. Use samples, weigh your options carefully, and design a room that will add value and beauty to your home for years to come.