By Pam Garnett
Showroom Director, Carlisle Wide Plank Floors
Consumers are increasingly thinking not only about the aesthetics inside their homes, but also about their health and overall well-being. These homeowners are looking at their residences as a place of refuge from hectic daily lives, and are drawn to spaces that bring a sense of comfort, peacefulness, and security.
To create a calming retreat, homeowners are incorporating elements such as natural light, decluttering their living spaces, and bringing a connection to nature inside the home. It’s all about feeling completely “at home.”
Color Psychology in Interior Design
Color is a significant contributor to the mood of a home, and – as people seek to create more soothing spaces – neutrals will continue to play prominently in interior design. While gray and “greige” tones are still popular, the trend is toward warmer finishes that impart a cozy, welcoming feel. Accordingly, the classic ‘neutral palette’ has expanded to incorporate rich tans, camels and browns.
To inject a sense of warmth into the home, many homeowners are also turning to natural materials such as wood for their interior surfaces and flooring, and are opting for artisan-crafted products over mass-produced versions.
Wood Flooring Trend: Wide Planks
One trend that has been growing, in particular, is wide plank hardwood flooring. Wide plank floors are typically sourced from old-growth forests in the Northern United States and handcrafted from the heartwood of the tree, which is tight-grained. As a result, the timber is harder and stronger than the wood from less mature trees.
In addition to offering a timeless aesthetic and long-term durability, wide plank wood floors tend to make spaces appear and feel larger. They have fewer seams, which helps to open up a space while highlighting the natural beauty of the wood grain. The authentic wood details and board-to-board variations within the planks create a very clean-lined, organic look that invites a sense of calm.
And, although wide plank flooring is often perceived to be more modern in style, it is also available in transitional and traditional styles – making it well-suited for a range of decor preferences.
Wood Flooring Finishes and Textures
While hardwood floors are available in a variety of finishes and textures, increasingly, homeowners are opting for smooth face flooring in subtle matte finishes. Carlisle Wide Plank Flooring recently debuted the Tranquil Collection, which features a layered, low matte finish in warmer tones. The flooring has the patina of a naturally “aged” material, bringing a timeless quality to a space.
A home should be a sanctuary and provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of the busyness of life. From furnishings to accessories to flooring, investing in beautiful, handcrafted products that stand the test of time will go a long way in creating the perfect ‘home, sweet home.’
Pam Garnett is showroom director for Carlisle Wide Plank Floors, located in Dallas at The International on Turtle Creek Design Center.
