The Most Popular Flooring in New Homes in Australia in 2023
When it comes to choosing flooring for your new home, it’s important to consider both functionality and aesthetics. With countless flooring options available, it can be overwhelming. However, taking into account the latest trends and popular choices can give you an idea of what would suit your home best. Today, we’ll delve into the most popular flooring choices for new homes in Australia in 2023.
The Timber Look
Timber or timber-look flooring is as popular as ever, and it’s not hard to see why. The natural warmth and character of solid timber or engineered timber floors add a timeless charm to any home.
Additionally, with technological advances, there are now many options for timber-look flooring that are more durable and affordable than traditional wood floors. These include laminate, hybrid and vinyl plank flooring.
Timber Flooring
Hardwood is a tried and true classic flooring option that never goes out of style, and in 2023 and beyond, we can expect to see more homeowners embracing the beauty of natural timber. Timber floors are not only beloved for their beautiful, natural aesthetic but also for their ability to stand the test of time. This type of flooring looks elegant and also adds value to your home. It’s available in different colours and finishes, ranging from light to dark, and can bring warmth to any room. Solid timber flooring can be expensive, but it’s a worthy investment that can last for years with proper maintenance.
There are several types of timber to choose from, ranging in thickness, colour and finishes. One of the latest trends in natural timber flooring is the use of bold, dark flooring colours. Rich, dark brown and black timber floors are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in modern, minimalist homes. These colours provide a striking contrast to lighter walls and furniture, creating a dramatic effect.
Another trend in timber flooring is the use of wide planks. Wide planks create a more modern, contemporary look and can make a small room appear larger. They also show off the beauty of the wood grain, adding character and warmth.
Engineered Timber Flooring
Engineered timber flooring comprises multiple layers, with the top and bottom layers made of genuine hardwood that sandwich a middle composite layer, similar to plywood. Compared to solid timber flooring, the engineered version is generally more cost-effective and has better scratch resistance. This makes it an ideal choice for households with kids or pets.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury Vinyl, commonly known as LVT or LVP, has become a popular flooring choice in recent years among homeowners in Australia. Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of styles, colours, and patterns, which can mimic natural materials like timber and stone. It is highly durable and low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and living room. It’s waterproof, scratch-resistant, and can withstand any spillage or stains, which makes it perfect for families with young children. Timber-look vinyl flooring is a budget-friendly option that is easy to install and maintain.
Hybrid Flooring
Hybrid Flooring has been gaining popularity in recent years, and this trend is set to continue into 2024. It is a type of flooring that combines the best features of both laminate and vinyl flooring. Hybrid flooring is durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant, making it an excellent option for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Hybrid flooring has the advantage of being easy to install. It doesn’t require sanding, staining, or sealing like traditional hardwood flooring.
Hybrid flooring is available in a wide range of colours and patterns. In 2023, homeowners are opting for bold flooring choices in new homes. Thanks to its versatility, hybrid flooring is an excellent option for those who want to create a unique look and feel in their living space.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a highly versatile option suitable for any room in your home. Laminate is a popular choice for people who want the look of timber floors without the high price tag. Laminate flooring is composed of several layers. Typically, it has a photorealistic paper layer coated with a tough melamine top layer to create a smooth and polished appearance while preventing wear. Laminate timber is the most popular design type in this category of flooring. In recent years, laminate flooring has become more realistic, with textures and finishes that resemble a real timber grain.
The process of installing laminate flooring is relatively straightforward, and it is highly resistant to scratches and stains. Additionally, it can endure spills and stains, making it a practical choice for busy households.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Flooring for a New Home
Appearance
When planning the interior design of your new build, it is crucial to consider your flooring options carefully. Your flooring choice can significantly impact the look and feel of your space. If you are unsure about how to choose a floor colour, start by determining the style you want to achieve. For a modern and moody look, opt for darker flooring. If you want a coastal vibe, light or sandy-coloured timber work well. While dark or red timbers can bring a country-style home to life. Researching and creating a mood board to explore your options and get visual inspiration for your desired style is advisable.
Location
It’s common to have different types of materials in different rooms, as each type of flooring serves a specific purpose. Select a flooring material that best suits the needs of the room you are designing.
- Kitchen – Kitchen flooring should be easy to clean for hygiene purposes. It should also be durable and water-resistant.
- Bathroom – Flooring for bathrooms should be slip-proof and waterproof. Employ a professional to install bathroom floors to ensure the waterproofing is done correctly to extend the life of your floors.
- Bedroom – Carpet used to be a popular bedroom flooring choice due to its warmth, insulation, and comfort. Due to allergies and difficulty in thorough cleaning, timber and timber-look floors have become the go-to choice. In bedrooms, timber floors are often paired with a stylish rug for warmth and comfort.
Traffic
It is important to choose durable flooring for high-traffic areas in your home. Areas such as the living room, kitchen, and hallways experience a lot of foot traffic. Opt for scratch-resistant or waterproof flooring options in these areas to ensure longevity.
Budget
When it comes to flooring, the budget is often the deciding factor for most people. Some types of flooring can be expensive, while others are more affordable. If you are on a tight budget but still want to have a particular type of flooring, consider using it in specific rooms and opting for cheaper options in other areas of the house. In terms of cost, solid timber is usually the most expensive option, while vinyl, hybrid, and laminate are the most affordable options.
There you have it – the most popular flooring in new homes in Australia in 2023. When choosing the right flooring for your new home, it’s essential to consider both style and practicality. It’s also important to remember to clean and maintain your floors according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Consult with a professional flooring expert from Back to Timber to ensure you make an informed decision about your new floors.
Check out Preference Floors‘ Heritage Grey variant, adding an extra charm and character in this St. Ives home
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