Trends in Colours and Finishes for Wood Floors in 2016

Anyone putting up a new home or commercial building would be interested to know about the trends of construction and decoration for the year 2016. This extends to wooden flooring as well.

Anyone putting up a new home or commercial building would be interested to know about the trends of construction and decoration for the year 2016. This extends to wooden flooring as well. Just as everything else, wood flooring trends also change almost every year though there are some timeless ideas which stay in vogue season after season.

Some of the new trends almost seem to merge into each other while others seem to be direct opposites; for instance, both dark and light tones being in vogue at the same time. However, as with all other trends, these also need to be applied based on one's own preferences and requirements rather than blindly following what is trending.

Here are some of the trends in hardwood flooring for this year:

When it comes to colours, both dark and light shades are in. While there is heavy demand for cooler and brownish tones, reddish and warmer tones seem to be witnessing a slowdown. The most popular dark shades appear to be ebony, espresso (a 50/50 blend of ebony/jacobean), jacobean and dark walnut. A shade called 'true ebony' has recently joined the market which is darker than any other hue. This has been introduced to cater to the growing customer preference for darker shades of hardwood.

The second most popular choice for wood flooring is natural or blond. Some of the plus points of this colour are that it lends a larger, airier and more casual look to the space while also being less expensive than the darker tones.

Another colour which has achieved almost cult status, especially among the trendier and higher end of the market, is grey. It has become extremely popular in all its varying shades as well as a blend slightly tinged with shades of brown. The colour may be a little expensive, but looks very elegant and suits most interiors.

White is also a popular choice and is seen more combined with tones of grey. It would look stunning used alongside ebony; for instance, one room with a white floor and the other with black. However, all stains look different on different woods, so it's up to the customer to decide what they really want.

Next come the finishes. This year would see matte and satin finishes taking top spot while the most glossy finishes are pushed out to take a backseat. This trend has come about as a result of the increased popularity of oiled floors, water borne poly and wire-brushed finishes as well as the honed look presented by granite and poured concrete countertops.

Those who prefer a more weathered and authentic look in their wood flooring, for example, a "cottage look", could opt for wire-brushed wood which uses wire bristles to open and enhance the wood grain. It adds subtle texture to the wood while still giving a smooth surface. It's a little expensive but helps hide dirt and imperfections more while adding a lot more 'character' to the floor.

For those in Dubai who are interested in learning a little more about the wood flooring trends for 2016, in order to renovate their homes or install a wooden floor in their house which is in the process of being built, one of the best options would be to consult Nordic Homeworx, a leader in wood flooring whether it comes to normal wooden floors or parquet flooring in Dubai.