Contemporary Flooring Styles: Finding Your Perfect Match

When it comes to interior design styles, trends change frequently and can sometimes leave us all confused about what is “in” today and what has just gone from trendy to kitschy. It’s not always easy to keep up! Thankfully, contemporary style is a blend of what is old and new, which creates a unique look that fits in with today’s relaxed style without having to redecorate every time the trends change.

Contemporary Style vs. Modern Style

While very similar, there are differences between modern design and contemporary design. Modern style refers to a certain time in history, such as mid-century modern, which was the style of the 1950’s- 60’s. Contemporary style, on the other hand, is always evolving and borrows from multiple eras to create a more versatile space. They are easy to confuse, because both styles can incorporate natural materials like stone, wood and leather and metal, to create sleek lines. Contemporary styles also include organic accents, like plants or baskets, and a mix of textures, like silk or woven rugs, but not too much; contemporary styling tends to be minimalistic.

Hardwood or Engineered Wood Floors

When choosing a flooring for your contemporary home, look for functional flooring that incorporates neutral palettes and simplicity. A natural choice would be hardwood flooring. If you are fortunate enough to already have hardwoods, be grateful if they are in good shape or consider refinishing them. If not, you can have limitless finish options professionally installed, if your budget allows. If not, you can choose from a variety of more affordable engineered flooring options. These are made from a thin layer of real hardwood over a core of plywood, which gives the look of traditional hardwood flooring without the hassle and cost. As an added bonus, most engineered floors use modern tongue and groove technology, making them easier to DIY, if you are handy and have basic power tools.

Laminate & Luxury Vinyl

Another great option that won’t break the bank is laminate flooring. Similar in technology to engineered floors, laminates are made of an image layer and wear layer over a core and click together with tongue and groove. Available in a variety of style options, you can find laminates that resemble wood or tile. Although not all options are waterproof, they all hold up well to the wear and tear of life and are easy to DIY. Luxury vinyl, in either tile or plank format, is a resilient flooring option that can mimic tile or wood flooring. It is waterproof, making it suitable to use throughout your living space and rooms that experience moisture. Luxury vinyl even offers DIY potential if you have prior installation experience and can be found in many design options to fit your contemporary decor. We love using a patterned installation layout such as chevron or herringbone to enhance realism in the finished floor!

Carpet or Rugs

There is no arguing that carpet adds coziness to living spaces. If you choose one with a neutral tone, it can fit in nicely with a contemporary style. If you have another floor that is already working well for you, consider using area rugs to bring in different textures and add interest, such as one made of a natural fiber like jute.

Whatever option you choose, there is a contemporary floor that will fit your lifestyle, decor, and budget. If you need some help making that final choice, visit our professional design staff at Echo Flooring Gallery. We can help you review your options, order materials, and set you up with professionals who can help get your contemporary floors installed. You’ll have the look you want in no time!