Flooring Style Guide - Perfect Pairings from Nordic to Industrial

Wood flooring sets the foundational style. Choosing the right color and style supercharges the overall design.

• Nordic/Scandinavian:

  • Core: Bright, natural, minimalist.

  • Flooring: Light tones are key! Light grey oak, white oak natural, pale yellow. Fine, straight grain or subtle texture. Matte or natural oil/wax finish. Wide planks enhance the look.

  • Avoid: Dark colors, high gloss, bold cathedral figuring.

• Japanese Wabi-Sabi / Natural:

  • Core: Zen, warm, austere, natural.

  • Flooring: Warm, natural wood tones like light golden oak, teak, birch. Clear, natural grain, not overpowering. Matte finish is best, showcasing the wood's true texture.

  • Avoid: Cool greys and artificially red tones.

• Modern Minimalist:

  • Core: Clean lines, neutral tones, texture.

  • Flooring: Broad color range from light grey to charcoal, light tan to dark chocolate. Clean, flowing grain. Matte or semi-matte sheen, emphasizing texture over reflection. Large format/long wide planks work well.

  • Avoid: Ornate parquet and heavily distressed finishes.

• Industrial:

  • Core: Raw, rustic, edgy, reclaimed feel.

  • Flooring: Dark tones (espresso, black walnut) or planks with heavy character (knots, mineral streaks, reclaimed/recycled look. Hand-scraped, brushed finishes highlight texture and age.

  • Avoid: Smooth, shiny, "new-looking" floors in bright colors.

• American Traditional / French Country:

  • Core: Cozy, substantial, historical.

  • Flooring: Classic reddish tones (cherry), brown-reds, honey tones. Wide planks with cathedral grain (classic American red oak) fit well. Herringbone or chevron patterns add luxurious, vintage flair.

  • Avoid: Ultra-modern light greys and very narrow strips.

General Rule: Light colors expand space (good for small rooms). Dark colors are grounding (good for large spaces). Use dark floors cautiously in low-light rooms.