A Fresh Look at What’s Trending Underfoot

Thinking about new flooring?

Installation involves a lot of decisions and, depending on the project, can require a significant investment.

Here’s what’s out, what’s trending — and what’s timeless.

1. Cool-grey floors are no longer the default design choice they were a decade ago. That doesn’t mean grey has disappeared; greige and soft neutral greys can still work in the right setting. But the direction is clearly toward warmer, more natural flooring: soft oak, muted honey, natural brown, mid-tone wood and calm white oak tones. These colours pair easily with a wide range of interiors, including white kitchens, wood cabinetry, black hardware, cream walls, stone countertops, natural fabrics and modern furniture.

2. Wide planks remain popular, particularly in engineered hardwood and vinyl flooring, offering a more modern and substantial look. But while homeowners often notice width first, longer planks are gaining favour because they create fewer visual breaks. They’re especially well-suited to open-concept main floors, living rooms and dining rooms, hallways, master bedrooms and homes with long sightlines.

3. Engineered hardwood remains one of the strongest flooring choices, but what has changed is the wood aesthetic homeowners are choosing: cleaner grades, wider planks, longer boards, natural oak tones, matte or low-sheen finishes, higher-quality veneer construction and controlled colour variation.

4. Patterned floors, especially herringbone and chevron, continue to attract attention. These floors work especially well in entryways, dining rooms and feature areas.

5. Matte, low-sheen, brushed and textured finishes are more popular than glossy ones, which tend to show scratches, dust and imperfections more easily.