Hardwood is perhaps one of the most versatile materials available and has long been a popular flooring choice for residential and commercial spaces. With dozens of different looks available, Steve Grimwood, Managing Director of flooring and finishes specialist, Osmo UK, lists what flooring trends to look out for this year and explains what wood finishes are best to use.
Vintage is vogue
2016 is about adding character and personality to any room. Reclaimed flooring that shows signs of age are appearing a lot more in flooring projects and are becoming more desired and valued by homeowners.
With its distinctive markings and characteristics, it is important to protect the wood to ensure its longevity. As an organic matter, wooden flooring needs nourishment to guarantee it stays in the best possible condition, both aesthetically and structurally. A high-quality clear matt finish will complement and protect the woods properties without disrupting the wood’s natural balance or beauty. This will ensure that the wood continues to breathe and respond well to environmental conditions, removing any possibility of cracking or and blistering. Oil and wax finishes are a great option, as the finish penetrates deeply into the wood to create a micro-porous finish. This allows the wood to breathe, moisture to evaporate and ensures a flawless finish both upon application and for many years to come.
Be bold with colour
Tired or dull rooms can be transformed quickly by adding a hint of colour or vibrancy. Futuristic glamour, including golds and silvers, as well as contrasting colours are all in vogue this year. Whether it is a simple tint to change the shade of the wood, or a complete overhaul by adding a bold colour tone – changing the colour or finish of a floor can be a quick-fix and instant way of improving the appearance of a room. Not only does this offer visual enhancement, but it also improves the natural characteristics of the wood by applying additional protection.
On the other end of the colour spectrum, a light-wash is increasing in popularity as an upcoming flooring trend within UK homes. A pale finish can give an enhanced impression of space – essential at a time when space, especially in London, is sparse.
Safe and stylish
Depending on the location of the floor, safety needs to be considered when specifying the finish. Like any hard-flooring material, wood can become slippery when wet, resulting in a slip hazard.
The UK offers a wide selection of anti-slip finishes that can be applied to various flooring surfaces to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Applying a coat of an anti-slip finish increases the slip resistance of frequently maintained flooring areas. The surface retains its natural appearance while the fine structure particles in the finish prevent it from becoming slippery.
Alongside the makeover and anti-slip properties, these finishes will also provide added durability to the flooring, protecting the floor from everyday elements, including scuffs, stains and water damage.