What is my design style?
When it comes to design (as with most things in life), it’s usually pretty easy to recognize what you don’t like. That pink shag carpet from the seventies certainly isn’t for you. But the more challenging question is, what would you put in its place?
When starting to pick out flooring for your new home or renovation, you may find yourself getting overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. To help simplify the process, start by determining your overall design style. More than likely, your tastes will not fit into one specific design box. But by exploring some popular design styles before shopping, you’ll gain confidence in knowing what you love (and what you don’t).
Start by browsing your favourite design websites, magazines and instagram pages. Gather photos that you love, and notice how the flooring ties in with the overall design. Flooring is one of the most impactful design elements in any space, so be sure you choose a floor that suits the overall style you want to create in your home. A warm, rustic floor with plenty of knots may catch your eye in a showroom, but not suit the bright, airy Scandinavian style that you have fallen in love with.
Get inspired by the following five design styles, showcasing beautiful engineered hardwoods from BOEN.
Bohemian
Key Elements:
soft, woven textures
layering with rugs, blankets, pillows, etc.
mixing patterns & colours
rich earth tones & jewel tones
unique & personalized accessories
maximalism
natural elements such as grasses & plants
mixed metals
Design Tip:
Experiment with a unique floor layout such as chevron to create an additional layer of texture and visual interest in your space.
The Floor:
Modern Rustic
Key Elements:
neutral colour palette with pops of colour
painted stone & wood elements
open floor plan
exposed structural elements (ie. beams, brick)
comfort & warmth
vintage furniture & decor
natural textiles like linen and cotton
live-edge wood
Design Tip:
Flooring with knots and wire brushing adds character, and will give your space an inviting, lived-in feeling.
The Floor:
Japandi
Key Elements:
light, neutral colour palette
minimal, curated decor
clean lines
natural elements like stone, cork & wood
low profile furniture
natural light & real plants
integrated function & form
sustainably sourced materials
Design Tip:
Choose a light, wide plank hardwood to create a sense of visual calmness. Natural or washed stains are ideal choices.
The Floor:
Industrial
Key Elements:
blacks, greys & other neutrals
exposed architectural elements, such as brick
natural materials like concrete and leather
high ceilings & open floor plans
reclaimed materials
clean lines and squared edges
metal lighting fixtures & decor
large, abstract wall art
Design Tip:
Create a bold statement with your hardwood flooring by choosing a dark, cool-toned stain.
The Floor:
Traditional
Key Elements:
bright whites & soft pastels
symmetry (ie. a pair of matching end tables)
crown moulding & wainscotting
area rugs and layered draperies
traditional patterns such as paisley & stripes
marbled and mosaic tiles
antique furniture & lighting
wallpaper
Design Tip:
Opt for narrower boards & warm stains, and consider a traditional layout such as herringbone.
The Floor:
