2025 Hardwood Floor Trends & Predictions for 2026

Hardwood floors never really go out of style -- but how they're finished, colored, and installed definitely changes with the times. The focus this year has been natural, elevated looks that blends craftsmanship with comfort.

Below we will break down 2025 hardwood floor trends -- what’s in, what’s fading, what will never really go out of style, and a few predictions for 2026.

Whats In (2025):

• Wide and long planks

  Big boards give rooms a calm, expansive look, reduce visual seams, and highlight beautiful grain. Wide European oak in longer lengths is especially popular for open-plan homes

• Warm, honey-toned, and natural wood colors

  After years of grey and ultra-cool palettes, buyers and designers are leaning into warmer browns, blondes, and greige that read as cozy and timeless while still modern. These tones pair well with earth-toned textiles and black metal accents.

• Textured, handcrafted finishes

  Wire-brushed, hand-scraped and lightly distressed surfaces are trending — they add depth, hide wear, and give floors character that feels curated over time. Texture is a tactile design choice as much as a visual one.

• Low sheen (satin) or matte finishes

  Matte (or low-sheen satin) finishes remain preferred for their natural look and their practicality — they show dust and scratches less than glossy floors and photograph well for listings.

• Patterns and engineered visual interest

  Classic patterns (herringbone, chevron) and newer geometric/stenciled treatments are enjoying renewed interest — often used as feature zones (entryways, dining areas) to add architectural flair. Engineered plank patterns make these looks more accessible.

Whats Fading Out:

• Ultra gloss finishes

  Shiny, lacquered floors that show every mark are falling out of favor. Low sheen is the practical, modern choice.

• Overly grey, cold color palettes

  While greys aren’t dead, the all-grey floor trend has softened in favor of warmer, more organic hues.

• Narrow strip floors

  While still appropriate in period homes, narrow strips are no longer the default for contemporary projects; wide planks are simply more in demand.

Whats Timeless:

• Quality species + a natural finish

  White oak (rift or quarter-sawn for stability and grain) remains a go-to for longevity and resale.

• Proper installation and finish selection for the home's light and traffic patterns

  Design trends change; quality craftsmanship doesn’t. Invest in the right substrate prep, acclimation, and finish system. (Industry consensus.)

2026 Predictions:

• Warm, rich tones outshine cool grays

• Patterned, textured, mixed-material and statement floors

• Wide, long planks will continue to dominate

• Low-sheen, satin or matte finishes

• Sustainable materials, low-VOC finishes

• Custom, wire-brushed or hand-scraped floors

Practical Tips for Homeowners to Keep In Mind:

• If resale is a priority, choose warm neutrals in wide planks with a matte or low-sheen finish — broadly appealing and modern without being trendy.

• Use patterned or darker wood strategically (entryways, stair landings, inset borders) to create visual zones without committing the whole house.

Ready to elevate your space?

Whether you're going for a timeless classic or a 2025 trend with staying power, Heritage Hardwood can help bring your vision to life -- Reach out for a quote or design consult today!