Starting with the Basics: Kitchen Layout and Foundation

The layout of your kitchen is the backbone of any remodel. For a small kitchen, the layout is even more crucial because every inch counts. Whether you’re reimagining a galley kitchen or a U-shaped setup, the first step is to consider how you move around the space. Remember, practicality is just as important as style when it comes to your kitchen (whether you consider yourself a home chef or not). Does the current layout work for you, or do you often find yourself bumping into cabinets and countertops?

Typical Small Kitchen Layouts:

1. Galley Kitchen: This layout is ideal for narrow spaces. With counters and cabinets running along two parallel walls, you’ve got a streamlined space that’s perfect for one-cook kitchens. Consider installing floating shelves to keep things light and open.
2. L-Shaped Kitchen: If you’ve got a corner to work with, the L-shaped layout is a great way to maximize both counter space and cabinet space. It also opens up the room for a small kitchen island or dining area, making it a great layout for entertaining.
3. U-Shaped Kitchen: This is perfect for a compact kitchen with a bit more room to play with. A U-shaped kitchen maximizes storage and counter space, allowing for a more efficient workflow. Just be careful not to crowd the space too much.

Small Kitchen Design Ideas: Keeping Things Light and Bright

When working with a small kitchen, one of the best design ideas is to keep things light and bright. This doesn’t just mean the color of your walls, but also your cabinets, countertops, flooring, and even appliances.

• White Cabinets: White reflects light, making your small kitchen feel larger. Opt for white or light-colored cabinets to create a spacious and airy feel. You can even add glass-front doors to your upper cabinets to really open up your space.
• Light Countertops: Light-colored countertops can help maintain a sense of continuity in your small kitchen, blending seamlessly with your cabinets and walls.
• Light-Colored Flooring: Just like your cabinets and countertops, opting for light-colored flooring can significantly enhance the sense of space in a small kitchen. Whether you choose light wood tones, pale tiles, or soft-hued LVT, these flooring options help to bounce light around the room, making your space feel larger. 

But don’t think that light colors mean you have to skimp on personality. Adding pops of color through accessories, artwork, or even your cabinet hardware can keep the space feeling fresh, fun, and uniquely your own.

Kitchen Storage Solutions: Small but Mighty

Storage is the name of the game when it comes to small kitchen remodel ideas. With limited space, it’s essential to get creative with your kitchen storage. Here are a few small kitchen ideas to maximize your cabinet space and keep your countertops clutter-free:

• Pull-Out Pantry: If you have a narrow space next to your fridge or between cabinets, a pull-out pantry can be a lifesaver. It’s perfect for storing canned goods, spices, and other pantry items without taking up too much room.
• Vertical Storage: Think beyond eye level. Use the full height of your kitchen by installing tall cabinets or stacking floating shelves. This not only maximizes storage but also draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller.
• Corner Cabinets: Don’t let corner cabinets become black holes. Install lazy Susans or pull-out trays to make every inch accessible.
• Under-Cabinet Storage: The space under your cabinets is prime real estate for additional storage. Consider installing hooks for mugs, magnetic strips for knives, or even a slim spice rack.

The Heart of the Kitchen: Cabinets and Countertops

Cabinets and countertops are arguably the most critical elements of any kitchen remodel, and this is especially true in a small kitchen. Here’s how to choose the right options for your space:

Cabinetry:

• Open Shelving: If your kitchen feels cramped, consider swapping out upper cabinets for open shelving. This can make the space feel more open and less confined, plus it’s a great way to show off your favorite dishes!
• Slim Cabinets: Not all cabinets have to be deep. Consider slim cabinets for storing smaller items like spices, baking sheets, or cutting boards.
• Two-Tone Cabinets: Want to add some visual interest? Go for two-tone cabinets. Keep the upper cabinets light and the lower cabinets a darker color to ground the space.

Countertops:

• Quartz Countertops: Quartz is durable, low-maintenance, and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It’s a great option for small kitchens where every surface needs to work double-time.
• Butcher Block: For a warm, natural look, butcher block countertops are a fantastic choice. They add texture and warmth, making your small kitchen feel cozy and inviting.
• Countertop Extensions: If you’re tight on counter space, consider a countertop extension. This could be a small pull-out section or an overhanging breakfast bar that provides extra space when needed but tucks away when not in use.

Kitchen Flooring: The Foundation of Your Culinary Space

In a small kitchen remodel, the right flooring can transform the entire space. It’s not just about looks—kitchen flooring must withstand spills, foot traffic, and the occasional dropped dish. That’s why choosing the right option is absolutely crucial.

• Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): Luxury vinyl tile is a top choice for small kitchens due to its durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. It mimics natural materials like wood or stone without the hefty price tag or upkeep, making it ideal for busy kitchens.
• Tile Flooring: Tile flooring remains a timeless option, known for its durability and versatility. The selection of tile flooring at Empire Today® includes classic ceramics and porcelains, offering countless styles to suit any kitchen design.
• Laminate Flooring: For budget-conscious remodels, laminate flooring offers style without the splurge. With its realistic wood looks and scratch-resistant surface, laminate is both affordable and practical.
• Hardwood Flooring: Nothing beats the warmth and elegance of hardwood flooring. While it requires more care, its timeless appeal makes it a worthwhile investment. If you’re interested in a more durable option, consider opting for wood-look vinyl instead.

Selecting the right flooring sets the stage for your kitchen’s look and feel. Whether you choose LVT, tile, laminate, or hardwood, your floor will lay the foundation for a space that’s both beautiful and functional.

Small Kitchen Makeover: Details That Matter

Sometimes, it’s the small details that make the biggest difference in a kitchen makeover. Here are some design ideas that can elevate your small kitchen from functional to fabulous:

• Lighting: Good lighting is crucial in a small kitchen. Consider under-cabinet lighting to brighten up your countertops.
• Cabinet Hardware: Don’t underestimate the power of new cabinet hardware. Swapping out old knobs and pulls for something more modern can instantly update the look of your kitchen.
• Backsplash: A statement backsplash can be the focal point of your small kitchen. Whether you choose classic subway tile, bold geometric patterns, or something in between, your backsplash is a great place to add a touch of personality.

Kitchen Remodel Inspiration: Where to Start

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all these small kitchen remodeling ideas, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Starting a kitchen remodel can be daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process much smoother.

1. Set a Budget: Before you start picking out new cabinets and countertops, set a realistic budget. This will guide your decisions and help you prioritize where to splurge and where to save.
2. Gather Inspiration: Look for small kitchen design ideas online, in magazines, or even by visiting home improvement stores. Pay attention to what catches your eye and how you can incorporate those elements into your space.
3. Hire an Interior Designer: If you’re not confident in your design skills, consider hiring an interior designer. They can help you make the most of your small kitchen and ensure that your design ideas are both functional and stylish.
4. Plan Your Layout: Take measurements of your kitchen space and sketch out different layouts. Think about how you use your kitchen and what changes would make it more efficient.
5. Choose Your Materials: Once you’ve got a plan in place, start choosing your materials. Cabinets, countertops, flooring, and lighting all need to work together, so keep your overall design vision in mind as you make selections.

The Joy of a Small Kitchen Renovation

Remodeling a small kitchen might come with its challenges, but it also offers unique opportunities to create a space that’s perfectly tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dreaming about more cabinet space or simply looking to brighten up your kitchen design with modern flooring, these small kitchen remodel ideas can help turn your vision into reality.

Remember, the key to a successful small kitchen remodel is to make every inch count. With thoughtful design, smart storage solutions, and a bit of creativity, your small kitchen can become the heart of your home—no matter its size. 

Empire® makes it incredibly easy to find the perfect flooring for your kitchen, offering a wide selection and personalized service to guide you every step of the way. Schedule an in-Home appointment today to start transforming your space with flooring that’s tailored to your unique needs.

The post A Guide to Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas: Transforming Tiny Spaces into Dream Kitchens appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

We have the perfect way to share your personality while also improving the look and feel of your home: patterns. Patterned flooring is here to give you the functionality and impressive personal statements to make you feel like your house really gets you. The patterned floor trend is all about turning functional design into artwork. Your home should feel like a conversation piece, and you’re in charge of the discussion. 

Let’s dive into a brief guide to patterned flooring. We’ll explore the allure of patterned floors, from their rich history to the latest trends, and why they continue to be a sought-after choice in modern interiors. 

What Are Patterned Floors? 

Patterned floors are a distinctive style of flooring featuring repeated designs, motifs, or geometric arrangements for decorative effect. These patterns can be accomplished in one of two ways. First is to source flooring with the design printed onto the floor material itself, like floral or paisley pattern carpets. The other option, more common with hard surface floors, is to use otherwise “plain” floor products and arrange them in unique ways that add an extra visual element. Think wood planks arranged in a herringbone pattern, or two different shades of the same size tile laid out like a giant checkerboard. There’s a lot of range here—the floor designs can go from simple and clean to complex, ornate, and delightfully funky.

Types of Patterned Flooring 

There are a few main types of patterned flooring you should consider: 

1. Geometric Patterned Floors: Hexagons, squares, and circles, oh my! Geometric flooring patterns are often repeated in a specific order, with classic examples like chevron and herringbone patterns (popular in wood and luxury vinyl plank flooring). 

2. Encaustic and Ceramic Tiles: Tiles with patterns or designs inlaid into the surface, creating a detailed and colorful effect. People commonly use them in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. 

3. Inlaid Wood Patterns: This involves creating designs by embedding pieces of wood of different colors and grains into a wooden floor, forming decorative patterns. 

4. Carpet with Printed or Woven Patterns: Carpets can also have patterns woven into their fabric or printed on the surface, ranging from subtle textures to bold designs. 

So you have the gist of this gorgeous home design trend. Now, let’s dive into why you might want to try it out! 

Why Choose Patterned Floors? 

You’re sophisticated—”pinky finger out whilst holding your wine glass” levels of sophistication. Or you’re creative, with works of art already livening up your rooms and halls. Maybe you don’t fit into any of the well-known personality tags and just like simple elegance at your feet as you curl up to read on your couch. 

They come in various materials—hardwood, carpet, and tile—each offering a distinct look and feel, meaning they can find their place in any home style. Patterned hardwood floors, with their intricate designs and natural warmth can add a classic elegance that never goes out of style. On the other hand, patterned carpet offers a cozy and plush feel underfoot, with designs ranging from subtle textures to bold, statement-making patterns. Patterned tile flooring is where creativity knows no bounds. From encaustic tiles that blend historic artistry with modern design to ceramic and porcelain tiles in endless shapes and colors, these floors are a playground for the imagination.  

In general, patterned flooring provides a few benefits: 

Aesthetic Appeal: Patterned floors are visually appealing and can serve as a focal point in a room, adding character and uniqueness. 

Versatility: They can complement various interior design styles, from traditional to contemporary, and can be made from different materials to suit different needs. 

Unique Style: Patterned floors allow you to express your personal style and create a space that is truly your own. 

Durability: While this is not unique to patterned flooring options, today’s high-quality floor products are not only beautiful but also built to last. 

Patterned floors are a creative and stylish flooring option that can transform any space into a more dynamic and interesting environment. They provide an opportunity to make a unique design statement and elevate the overall look and feel of a home or commercial space. 

Patterned Flooring Trends 

When we talk about patterned flooring, the variety is endless. But let’s focus on three trending categories: bold, glam, and textured. 

Bold Patterned Flooring 

Bold pattern flooring is not for the weak of heart. You’re a color maniac, a bright inkblot in this often monochromatic world, a…well, you have an exciting and visually striking style that might not be common elsewhere, but fits your home like a glove. Bold patterns are primed to be one of the standout flooring trends of 2024, characterized by expressive and eye-catching designs. This trend includes a resurgence of classic patterns like herringbone, chevron, and modern geometric and encaustic tile designs. These works of art can be achieved using various materials, including hardwood, laminate, and luxury vinyl tiles. 

Why People Love Bold Patterned Flooring: 

• Visual Impact: The POP factor, of course! Bold patterns create a loud, fierce feature in any space, making a powerful statement and enhancing the room’s overall aesthetic. 
• Versatility: Whether it’s intricate geometric shapes or playful motifs, bold patterned flooring fits well in kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and living spaces. 
• Extreme Design Flexibility: With various styles and materials, homeowners can choose patterns that reflect their style and complement their home’s decor. 

Glam Patterned Flooring 

Glam patterned flooring is about infusing luxury and elegance into interior spaces. You are an early-20^th Century oil tycoon having new wood floors installed in your mansion. Well, maybe not that rich, but we can all dream. Glam embodies, in a tasteful way, the visual exuberance of eras like The Gilded Age. Think regal patterns and high-end materials and finishes, such as plush velvets, rough-hewn stone, natural materials, and sleek metallic finishes. Everything celebrates the details, even uber practical options like Berber carpet or scratch-resistant hardwood flooring. These elements create a tactile and visually dynamic environment that exudes sophistication and opulence, darling—without sacrificing function.

Why People Love Glam Patterned Flooring: 

• Luxurious Feel: Combining high-quality materials and intricate designs creates luxury and exclusivity. 
• Aesthetic Appeal: Glam patterned floors are visually stunning, adding a touch of elegance and glamour to any room. 
• Individualistic Style: This trend encourages a fearless approach to interior design, allowing for personalized and eclectic interiors that reflect the homeowner’s unique tastes. 

Textured Patterned Flooring 

Textured patterned flooring focuses on the appearance and feel of the surface, incorporating various textures like smooth, matte, glossy, engineered, and soft finishes. The textures can be achieved through different processes such as sawing, sanding, scraping, and brushing, especially on wood flooring. 

Why People Love Textured Patterned Flooring: 

• Enhanced Sensory Experience: Textures elevate the aesthetics of the décor, providing a more sophisticated and versatile look. 
• Practical Benefits: Textured flooring can be slip-resistant and add depth to the space, making it appear more inviting and warm. 
• Natural Look: Rough textures give a more natural or traditional feel, while smooth and reflective materials offer a modern touch. 

2024 is all about creating a harmonious blend of aesthetics, practicality, and personal expression. Whether drawn to the striking impact of bold patterns, the luxurious feel of glam patterns, or the natural appeal of textured patterns, flooring is not just a functional aspect of design but a statement piece that reflects the values and preferences of those who call a space home. 

Patterned Flooring from Empire Today® 

As flooring lovers, we embody the impact a beautiful floor can have on your space. That’s why we offer a wide range of products to help you create the patterned floors of your design dreams. Consider carpet emblazoned with elegant Damask or Moroccan patterns for your bedroom oasis. Or design a one-of-a-kind kitchen floor pattern with tiles or hardwood planks that are available in a spectrum of colors. Explore our full flooring selection and find the perfect patterned floor for your home design dreams. 

Get Personal With Patterned Flooring 

Patterned flooring is a trend that continues to evolve and inspire. Your home is a visual definition of yourself. Remember that your floor is not just a surface to walk on; it’s a canvas to express your style, taste, and creativity. Whether you’re renovating your home or simply looking for ways to refresh your space, consider a patterned floor’s impact on your overall home personality. With the variety of options available, there’s never been a better time to explore patterned flooring and discover how it can transform your space. 

The post Patterned Floors Let Your Unique Personality Show appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Dark and Moody Explained 

The dark and moody aesthetic has been growing in popularity in recent years for its ability to weave together a sense of coziness, luxury, and mystery within a space. Think exposed brick, vintage bookshelves filled with rare novels and unusual trinkets, and rugs of various patterns and textures layered in front of a crackling fireplace – you get the idea. 

Just like with any other interior design trend, your flooring choice can make all the difference in creating that perfect dark and moody atmosphere. A deep, richly colored floor lays the foundation for statement furniture pieces, eclectic art, and… But before we jump into flooring choices, let’s take a look at the various components of the moody aesthetic: 

• Deep colors – Darker, saturated colors are a hallmark of the moody aesthetic. Deep shades of green, plum, charcoal, navy, and burgundy are common among walls, window coverings, and furniture. 
• Dark floors: Dark wood or stone flooring is a classic choice for moody interiors. Darker flooring of any kind can add depth and richness and lays the groundwork for the gorgeous paint colors and decor that characterize a moody space. 
• Low lighting: Moody interiors tend to feature low or ambient lighting. Think table lamps, wall sconces, or even candles rather than a bright overhead light. That being said, rooms with large windows and lots of natural light can still take on a distinctly mysterious or romantic quality depending on the design choices. 
• Lots of texture: Texture is a huge part of the moody aesthetic and a fun way to add personalization to your space. In a dark and moody home or room you might see fabrics such as suede or velvet for upholstery, weathered or distressed finishes on furniture, flooring, and fixtures, decorative throw pillows and curtains, and of course a beautiful rug or two. 

Dark Night of the Soul 

Although the dark and moody trend has burst onto the interior design scene relatively recently, this aesthetic draws inspiration from several different historical design movements and periods. There’s the drama and dark woods of the Gothic Revival and Victorian periods (19^th Century), the bold contrasts of the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s, and even Modern Minimalism with its emphasis on clean lines and simple forms.  

What’s So Great About Dark and Moody Design, Anyway? 

Choosing a moody aesthetic for your interior design is a bold choice that has some major payoffs. Here are some of the things we love about this particular trend: 

• Ambiance – Moody interiors are typically designed around the idea of creating a cozy, intimate, and sometimes mysterious atmosphere. This type of space, with its dramatic lighting and varied textures, can also elicit an emotional response. It’s not uncommon to feel a sense of tranquility, sensuality, or introspection in a dark and moody space. 

• Timeless appeal – Interior design trends come and go, but moody aesthetics have an eternal feel. The classic combination of dark colors and rich textures helps this design trend stand the test of time.  

• Versatility – Although often associated with a specific style, such as Gothic or Victorian, the beauty of the moody aesthetic is it can be adapted to fit a variety of design styles.  

• Personal expression – The Moody design trend is perfect for those of us with a strong desire to express our unique personality and style through our living spaces. Dark flooring and/or walls make beautiful art or statement furniture pieces stand out 

Thinking Outside the (Design) Box 

It’s important to note that the moody aesthetic isn’t cut and dry. In fact, blending the quirky, cozy elements of moody design with contemporary design trends like brutalism or industrialism can yield unique and captivating living spaces. The dramatic and emotional aspects of both brutalism and industrialism, which highlight raw materials, neutral color palettes, and exposed structural elements, are further enhanced when integrated with moody design concepts. 

Transform Your Home with Dark and Moody Flooring 

Whether you’re going for the moody Manhattan loft feel, an ornate Gothic European castle look, or the overstuffed, dark academia vibe of the Hogwarts library, your choice of floors can have a huge impact on the overall feel of your space. Empire Today® carries a huge selection of dark wood floors to fit your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetics. 

Dark and Dreamy Flooring for Bedrooms 

The warm, enveloping atmosphere created by a moody aesthetic can be an ideal choice for bedrooms. Designing that cozy, dreamy retreat begins with the perfect floors. Picture a dark, plush carpet you can sink your feet into at the end of a long day. Or maybe a rich chocolate laminate wood floor, whose dark tones will help lure you into a deep slumber.

If you can’t imagine a dark and moody bedroom without equally dark and moody hardwood floors, consider the Empire®’s exclusive WhisperHOME engineered hardwood flooring. WhisperHOME flooring is the quietest wood flooring available, so you can get the classic look of hardwood without the classic sound of creaking floorboards. The unique installation technology also allows for better airflow under the planks, making it warmer underfoot so you can opt out of a rug if you choose. 

If Kitchens Had a Dark Side 

In case you haven’t heard already, all-white kitchens are on their way out. That being said, balance is key when it comes to designing a moody kitchen that isn’t too dark (we still need to see what we’re cooking, after all). Darker floors provide a strong, sophisticated contrast to light-colored cabinetry and countertops. Empire carries a wide variety of beautiful dark wood-look and stone-look flooring that’s durable, easy to clean, and in many cases fully waterproof. 

Adding a Touch of Nature  

If all this talk of dark flooring has you worried about designing a moody interior that’s a little too moody, we’ve got you covered. Adding some “earthy” elements to a room through your flooring, decor, or lighting choices can go a long way towards striking a balance between a warm and inviting atmosphere and an overall moody aesthetic.  

• If your walls and decor are on the darker side, consider a warmer-colored wood or wood-look flooring, or opt for a lighter colored stone-look luxury vinyl tile.  

• Make good use of natural light in your home by selecting darker colored floors for the room with the most light coming in through windows or doors, and vice versa. 

• Bring nature indoors by incorporating natural accents, such as potted plants, wooden furniture, or stone countertops. 

Stepping into Elegance with Dark and Moody Floors 

When you schedule an in-home consultation with Empire, a flooring consultant will bring samples right to your home. This allows you to see how different colors and materials will look in the distinct lighting of your space. The consultant will do all the measuring, and help you choose a product that aligns with your aesthetic, lifestyle, and budget. Your choice of flooring should be top of mind when it comes to turning your home into a dark and moody masterpiece, and we’re here to help you every step of the way! 

The post Mystique and Magic: The Allure of Dark and Moody Flooring  appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Making a small room appear larger might sound like a job that only the TARDIS can achieve, but it’s really as simple as taking advantage of some tricks of optics and the way the human brain perceives things. Just like common optical illusions, smart design can utilize color and lines to make objects and rooms appear larger or smaller than they actually are. Taking advantage of some of these simple tricks when you get new floors installed can result in marked differences in the apparent roominess of your home.

Fewer Seams in a Room Make a Room Seem Larger

Tile and hardwood flooring (or any type of wood-look flooring) present various possibilities for using simple illusions to give the appearance of a larger room. If you’re deciding on new tile or wood flooring for a room that feels cramped, one very popular suggestion is to choose the largest size of either product that still meets your needs. So, for hardwood, consider wide-plank wood flooring, which would be any wood-look product whose individual planks are seven inches or wider. When choosing tile, something in a large format—longer than 15 inches on the long side—is recommended.

The larger and longer the tile or wood plank used in a room, the fewer seams there will be across the total floor. That lack of busyness gives the impression of a larger continuous surface, making a room feel more spacious.

Proper Hardwood Orientation Can Lengthen a Room

Another consideration is the orientation of your wood planks in relation to the dimensions of your room. By having your wood flooring installed parallel to the longest wall in a particular room, the leading lines of the floor draw your attention to that dimension, emphasizing its length.

On the flip side, it’s not recommended to use busy hardwood patterns in a smaller room. That means no complex borders or decorative inlays, and you might even want to stay away from herringbone and other elaborate hardwood floor installation styles.

Choose the Same Product for Every Room on a Floor

It’s common practice in many renovations to have the floors in every room in a home replaced all at once. If a plan like this is on your horizon, there are a few design tricks that you can use to help give the appearance of more space throughout the home.

First, consider using the same flooring in all of the rooms. This consistent look reduces the contrast between each room, creating a uniformity that gives the illusion of a larger continuous space.

Extending that same flooring to the shared hallways can further increase this illusion. And if taking this tactic, you may, in some cases, be able to omit the threshold strips that are typically used in doorways to cover the seam where two different flooring types meet. Going without a threshold will further add to the illusion of one larger continuous space.

Choose Light Colored Floors

One common idea that runs through nearly all facets of interior design is the concept that lighter colors tend to make a room feel larger. Surfaces finished in whites, yellows, and pastels reflect light and create an airiness that can increase the apparent spaciousness of a room.  While this theory is often used to determine paint shades, it’s equally applicable to the color of your floors. When redoing a small bedroom or office, consider options like a cream carpet or a light wood-look floor to keep it from feeling too cramped.

Keep the Floor Clutter to a Minimum

While this is not directly related to the specific flooring products you choose, it’s a helpful tip that can actually be achieved at no cost. Keep as much of your floor open and as visible as possible. Ever stood around in an empty apartment after you’ve packed everything up before a move? The space probably looked significantly larger than it did when it was packed with furniture, plants, and knick-knacks. Every significant item you leave resting on your floor ends up being a double-whammy. It physically reduces the available space in any room, and it also makes a room look and feel smaller. Next time you consider filling an empty space along your wall with something, just for the sake of placing something there, think about how it might make the room feel more crowded.

Choosing new flooring can be a long, stressful process. Add in some more complex design theories like the ideas listed above, and it can feel like a dark art. At Empire Today®, we understand that difficulty, and we are here to help. If you’re just starting out on your floor shopping journey, check out our Room Visualizer to get a better idea of how a particular floor will look in any room in your home. Or, simply schedule your no-obligation in-home estimate, and a flooring professional will visit you with a full assortment of products from Empire®, letting you see and feel them in the comfort of your own home.

The post How to Make a Small Room Look Bigger with Flooring appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Not Matching Flooring Type to Your Overall Needs

Aesthetics will almost always be a top criteria when shopping for new flooring, but it’s important to not let your style desires overwhelm your practical needs. Durability and maintenance requirements should always be top considerations when selecting the types of flooring for the common rooms in your home. And, of course, adhering to a budget is a major part of the equation. Each of these factors carries a different significance to each shopper, and to maximize your long-term happiness with your new floors, it’s critical to find the products that check all the boxes on your list. Here are some common scenarios flooring sales professionals see:

• Hardwood and high traffic: You may have your heart set on genuine hardwood floors, but you need to be realistic about whether they are a good match for your home. Have pets or active kids who run though the house in their soccer cleats? A laminate flooring for a wood look with added scratch resistance or engineered hardwood to handle potential scratches and scuffs will likely be a better option, without giving up your style goals.
• Carpet in heavy traffic areas: As a way to save some money, you may be considering carpet for a heavily trafficked den or hallway. But even the most durable, stain-resistant carpet can quickly begin to show wear in extra-busy households. Instead, you may be able to find an affordable laminate or vinyl plank that fits your style wants and can better handle the traffic.
• Tile in large spaces: You might be in love with the easy maintenance of porcelain or ceramic tile in a large living space, but that tile can make the space noisier and colder than you’d like. Depending on your durability needs, the right carpet or a vinyl plank floor may be a better option.

Bottom line: consider your needs both from durability and style standpoints, then weave in budget realities, too. There’s likely a perfect type of flooring for your unique situation, but sometimes it’s easy easy to overlook it by focusing on a single aesthetic characteristic you’ve fallen in love with.

Flooring Mismatches

If you’re choosing new flooring for just one room, you’ll want to consider the existing floors that will be staying in the home. Generally speaking, most interior designers will caution against installing too many different types of flooring in a home—especially in adjacent rooms. For example, if you have a tile foyer that connects to a hardwood-floored hallway, which in turn leads to a den whose floor is done in a plush carpet, the overall space might have a patchwork look. Not only can this undermine an otherwise beautiful, cohesive design scheme. mismatches like this can often be a turn-off to prospective homebuyers. Two different types of carpet butting up to each other is another situation that interior designers might caution against.

While interior design is all about personal taste and bending the rules, there are always common guidelines that are worth sticking to. In general, a smaller home should have fewer types of flooring installed throughout its space to keep things looking well thought out. In fact, sticking with one dominant floor throughout most of the home may even help make a small rooms look bigger. This suggestion mainly applies to each level of a home, as different stories offer a natural separation between flooring types.

Forgetting About Tomorrow

We know it’s easy to get caught up in the vision you have for your home today, but it’s also important to consider tomorrow’s needs—especially if you’re shopping for your forever home. A child or a new pet a few years down the line could drastically change your flooring needs, and going back to the flooring drawing board in a couple years is something you’ll want to avoid. If any major life changes are on the horizon, even years down the line, they’re worth thinking about when floor shopping now.

Choosing Trendy When It Doesn’t Work

Sometimes the hottest flooring trends of the day just don’t fit your situation. You should never feel like the current popular option is the right floor choice for your home. More and more interior design today is transitional, merging traditional and contemporary elements. Contemporary design trends are always changing, but you’ll find many classic flooring options never really go out of style, even if they do slightly decline in popularity. These stalwart styles could be exactly what your home needs.

Attempting DIY Flooring When You Really Can’t Handle It

Flooring installation is best left to experienced professionals, for a variety of reasons. In addition to having honed their installation skills through in-depth training and constant practice, pros need to be up to date on building codes and other industry best practices that you might not find in a DIY book or blog. If you decide to give it a go on your own, you take on all of the responsibility for any installation errors. While some mistakes may only be visual, others can result in floors that are dangerous or more prone to premature wear.

For most homeowners, the cost of hiring a flooring installer is worth the added peace of mind in knowing the installation has been done by a licensed professional who carries the appropriate insurance and qualifications to perform the work.

Considering new flooring for your home and want to make sure you avoid the mistakes common to first-time shoppers and do-it-yourselfers? Schedule a FREE In-Home Estimate today.

The post Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Floors appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Like the classic tuxedo or the little black dress, there are some things that will always be in style. Traditional home style is still alive and well, with not only plenty of passionate designers advocating for its use, but also a sprawling selection of building materials, furnishings, and accessories on the market. So, if you’re feeling discouraged about wanting to stick with a more traditional home styling in your upcoming redesign, we’re here to support your decision.  In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at what traditional home style is, as well as identify some of the traditional flooring products available from Empire Today® and learn how they can integrate into your design plans. 

What is Traditional Home Design? 

To best define the idea of traditional flooring materials, let’s back up and take a quick look at traditional style in general—and that might be easiest to do by explaining what traditional style is not. The traditional style is generally considered to be one that does not bend to fleeting trends, isn’t about buying what the hottest new celebrity designer is selling, and eschews ideas like “fast fashion.” Yet, even without adopting the design du jour, traditional style doesn’t feel dated, regardless of its age. A pair of Levi’s 501s from the 90s could be considered traditional, while a pair of JNCO jeans from the same year would most definitely not. Green shag carpet from the 70s would not work in traditional home design, while a warm oak wood floor of the same vintage would.  

Traditional design is about honoring the best aesthetic traits of the past, without succumbing to the many fashion blunders that have come and gone. It often melds motifs from multiple eras without ever leaning too much on a singular influence. In a well-designed traditional home, your mid-century modern furniture can peacefully coexist with Victorian wall coverings and your Persian rug. 

Fans of traditional flooring and overall home design love the style because it can help set the tone of the entire home. Traditional home décor is a style that is often described in intangible, emotional ways. It evokes a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and an overall welcoming atmosphere. Think of any classic movie about a family of adults getting together for the holidays at their childhood home. That home’s design is usually not up to contemporary style standards, but at the same time, it’s rarely unappealing. It’s a cozy, inviting home. Homes that celebrate traditional style are homes meant to be lived in, in the truest sense.  

With all of that said, it’s important to stress that traditional design, and by extension traditional flooring, does not have to specifically include only old materials or accessories. New homes are being built or renovated every day with a style that would be considered traditional. Let’s take a look at some of the flooring products available at Empire® that can be used to create an inviting, traditional home. 

What Types of Flooring Fit into a Traditional Home Style? 

Classic hardwood is the most common example of a traditional home flooring product. Wood floors were first popularized in colonial America and, aside from a few misguided decades in the middle of last century when beautiful real wood floors were often covered with gaudy linoleum or shag carpet, have been a sought-after material ever since. It’s a material that meshes well with a wide range of aesthetics, fitting into a casual setting as easily as an elegant one. Perhaps most important, wood floors tend to be thought of as inviting. When the average person is asked to imagine a cozy, welcoming room, the odds are high that hardwood flooring will make an appearance. 

To further narrow down the style, you can expect to see lots of warm, medium-tone wood, like chestnut, honey maple, or early American. Traditional wood flooring welcomes large grain patterns and even embraces knotting and other irregularities. There’s a lot of overlap with rustic floor styles, though traditional flooring usually doesn’t go to the same extremes. It’s common to see materials with the slight patina of a well-loved home, but not the heavily weathered woods common to many rustic or farmhouse-style rooms.  

Carpeting can also play a role in a traditional home, although it tends to be used sparingly. A main floor done almost entirely in oak hardwood might lead into a family room finished in a cozy carpet. As with wood floors, traditional carpet style favors warm, rich colors, and surfaces that beckon guests to enter the room. A traditional home would likely use Berber or plush carpets as opposed to a more upscale product like pattern carpet. 

While not as common, tile floors and other stone-look flooring can also fit into a traditionally styled home. The best tile floors for a traditional home would be in neutral or earth-toned colors, without any trendy patterns. Stone can also be a smart choice since the look of classic marble flooring has rarely fallen out of favor. But because it can feel a bit pretentious, its use in a modern traditional home should be limited—perhaps only in the living room, while the rest of the house favors hardwood. This combo creates a nice marriage of the best historical styles, without feeling too stuffy. 

Of course, traditional style is not limited to just traditional natural materials since it’s possible to evoke the same feelings and honor past style traditions with today’s manmade products.  Most modern composite and engineered flooring types can so accurately mimic any aesthetic that even a high-tech flooring like luxury vinyl plank flooring can easily be used in traditional home design. Wood-look vinyl or laminate floors are an excellent way to enjoy the traditional aesthetic without overextending your budget. 

What are the pros and cons of traditional flooring design? 

As we’ve mentioned, traditional home design is built upon aesthetics that stand the test of time and which can easily be integrated with a diverse variety of home décor. This enduring quality is itself one of the great practical advantages of choosing a traditional flooring style.  

It’s always a gamble to suggest that any particular design style might increase the value of a home when reselling since personal tastes are so diverse. A minimalist, monochromatic interior might be the aesthetic of your dreams, but something so extreme can be off-putting to potential buyers. While most home shoppers expect to put some work into customizing their new homes, the prospect of a full-blown rehab can be dissuading. But because it embraces so many perennially popular style choices, a traditionally designed home is less likely to be a deal breaker to many buyers than something more avant-garde. Think about a beautiful oak floor that was first installed in the 1940s. It may be eight decades old, but as a shining example of traditional design, it probably won’t be seen as a negative for prospective buyers, even if it wasn’t on their wish list.  In fact, it might end up being a selling point that the buyers never expected.  

And it’s important to remember that traditional home design isn’t necessarily retro or stuck in any particular era. Rather, it reinterprets many elements of older styles to fit in with modern sensibilities. Or it picks the highlights of those eras, the products and materials that have stood the test of time and builds around those. That reverence for the past ends up making many traditional design schemes almost timeless.  

As a style defined largely by its widespread agreeability, it’s not easy to find any inherent cons to choosing traditional flooring. Most downsides will be largely based on individual preferences. If your personal style tends to live on the bleeding edge of what’s trendy, this may not be the flooring type for you.  

Flooring for traditional homes – where should I start? 

For most homeowners, a new floor is expected to last many years—regardless of style. So, when you begin the selection process, it’s important to consider what type of flooring you can see yourself living with for years, or perhaps decades. With products covered by some of the best warranties in the industry, we’re confident that Empire offers plenty of choices of hardwood, carpet, or tile to meet that need. 

Regardless of style aspirations, for most people, budget is a major factor in choosing new flooring. But being on a budget doesn’t have to be a disqualification for your dream designs. Contrary to popular belief, you can get floors that are beautiful, long-lasting, and not prohibitively expensive. The spectrum of styles available in sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl plank, or laminate puts traditional design within everyone’s reach.  

If you’re ready to take the first step towards your traditional home aspirations, we’re here to help. Empire’s in-home experience gives you the opportunity to see and feel an entire flooring store’s worth of products without ever leaving your home. With the help of a flooring professional, we’re confident you’ll find a product that matches your style dreams along with your budget.  

The post Give Your Home a Timeless Look with Traditional Flooring and Design appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Want to learn more about how that will manifest in new flooring trends? Keep on reading to get a taste of what we expect to be some of the most popular flooring in new homes and renovations in 2024.

So Long, Sterile. Say Hi to Character!

One of the overarching themes that will be running through most interior design and flooring trends is the embrace of surfaces that have more character than many of the leading products in recent years. Neutrals like grey and beige—and their suitably named sibling “greige”—have been among the top flavors so far this decade, but their reign looks to be ending. While we still expect them to be imminently popular, they’ll no longer be the obvious choice when compared to options with a literal personality.

So, what exactly does “character” mean and how will it be reflected in new flooring trends? Here are a few things that we expect to be popular in 2024.

Carpet with Warmer Tones and Bolder Patterns

In the carpet world, we will be seeing “less sterile, and more warm and livable looks,” according to April, our lead carpet buyer. Expect to see more flooring in “colors that are very earthy and natural, while pulling from a tranquil palate.” That should mean a return to the deep browns and strong tan tones that had fallen out of favor in recent years. Hues like this still offer much of the design flexibility of a plainer neutral, while still adding a cozy character to a home.

Consumers are also ready to embrace bolder patterns in their new carpet. While styles like the traditional pin dot pattern have long been popular in formal spaces, 2024 looks to be the year that more audacious visuals are embraced. Styles like chevron patterns or adventurous mixtures of colors add extra depth and personality without sacrificing comfort.

Natural Hard Surfaces Will Take Center Stage in 2024’s Flooring Trends

With rustic and farmhouse aesthetics among the top trends in recent years, natural surfaces have never really been unpopular. But in 2024, those styles will continue to evolve by embracing an even more natural, unpolished appearance. Glossy finishes will take a backseat while matte finishes come to the forefront. Natural wood will be a top pick in the wood-look floor sector, while wide-plank hardwood will continue to be hot.

In the tile world, natural stone looks will be a trending floor style. At Empire Today®, we expect this to be a great opportunity for stone-look flooring alternatives to shine. While the internet and other free resources make it easier for everyone to keep up with the hottest flooring trends, some of those trends will simply be out of reach for those on modest budgets. While slabs of slate or chunks of travertine may make your kitchen look like something out of a design magazine, those materials will also usually come at a price that reflects their prestige. However, the average consumer can still achieve a similar trendy aesthetic by opting for stone-look floors in the luxury vinyl tile or ceramic and porcelain tile product lines.

Move Over Minimalism, Make Way for Maximalism

The maximalist design movement has been picking up steam for a few years now. Some see it as a reaction to the general collective anxiety of the last few years, others simply as a way to make our living spaces cozier and more joyous. For so many, what used to be a place we spent only half of our day is now often a space we rarely leave. Whatever the reasoning, it means fewer people are concerned with a design that is specifically curated to impress visitors and instead are more interested in having their homes be fun and directly reflect their personalities. Many industry insiders expect 2024 to be the year that maximalist design crosses over to flooring trends.

This is seen in the growing embrace of bolder patterned carpets but will likely manifest itself more in the hard-surface world, where improvisation and creative installation methods are more easily achieved. Think of designs like hardwood laid in a herringbone pattern, a mix-and-match approach to tile floors, and an embrace of more artistic and colorful tile designs. Tile and wood floors’ versatility also means that maximalism can be applied in controlled doses, like a colorful ceramic tile backsplash in an otherwise conservative kitchen or a unique pattern of hardwood flooring integrated into a traditional wood floor installation.

Durability, Sustainability, and Eco-Friendliness

And of course, trends can include more than just aesthetics. We expect to see the continued growth of flooring trends that are not directly related to design, but instead practical and functional attributes.

The quest for environmentally-friendly materials continues to grow in all areas of modern life, and we’ll see that reflected in flooring trends—driven both by consumer desires and manufacturer’s initiatives. Empire® continually works with our suppliers to ensure that we can offer our customers the most sustainable and innovative flooring products. That can include carpets crafted using 30% less water than typical in the dying process, or wood-look floors made from increasing amounts of recycled materials.

Stemming in large part from the increased amount of activity the average home sees, overall durability and ease of maintenance continue to be important factors in our customers’ final flooring decisions. We expect our manufacturing partners to continue pushing the envelope in these areas, with innovations like anti-microbial carpet fibers or hard surface floors with improved coatings against scratches and wear.

Overwhelmed by Flooring Trends? We’re Here to Help

While the idea of DIYing your floors or other elements of your home’s interior can sound exciting at first, it’s not always a walk in the park. From coordinating the visual elements to ensuring you choose the most appropriate product for each room, shopping for flooring can sometimes feel like a dark art. And the actual flooring installation can be even more difficult. That’s why it’s so valuable to trust the pros. Empire’s FREE In-Home Estimate is a stress-free, no-obligation opportunity to be guided through the entire process. Contact us today to schedule yours, and you’ll be quickly on your way to taking part in the year’s hottest flooring trends.

The post Flooring Trends for 2024: The Year of Color and Character appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Whether you prefer sticking to tradition or chasing the latest trends, affordable flooring is not as hard to find as you might think. Here’s where to start based on what look you want to achieve. 

Get Realistic Wood-Look Floors Without the Cost of Hardwood

For many years now, hardwood floors have been the fan favorite when it comes to sophisticated flooring. Nothing classes up a room like the clean look of white oak or the richness of a cherry wood floor. But, of course, that upscale aesthetic usually comes with a price tag to match. What many homeowners don’t know is that they can get a designer look without the designer price, thanks to modern affordable flooring options that accurately mimic the look of real wood. 

Laminate Wood

Though it’s not a solid hardwood, laminate flooring is made in large part from wood materials, lending it a real wood feel when you touch or walk on it. The photorealistic surface gives it the high-end look of real hardwood, while a robust wear layer and dense backing provide impressive durability. That trio of features makes it an impressive replacement for real wood, and because it’s easy and inexpensive to manufacture, it’s still quite an affordable flooring option. 

Vinyl Plank

Vinyl flooring is another wood-look floor option that has taken the design world by storm in recent years. What was once a last resort flooring consideration only talked about in hushed voices has now become an affordable flooring product at the forefront of the industry, thanks to advancements in design that have greatly improved its look and feel. Like laminate, vinyl plank flooring is not only resistant to scratches and stains, but is also highly water-resistant—and in many cases completely waterproof. Vinyl plank presents another more affordable flooring choice when compared to hardwood, while still providing a realistic wood look and texture.  

Porcelain Tile

When you think of wood flooring alternatives, tile is probably not the first product that comes to mind. But today’s modern wood-look tile can give you the style you’re after—plus the high resistance to moisture and mold that tile is known for—while still being more affordable than most real hardwood floors. Similar to laminate and vinyl plank flooring, wood-look tile uses a highly realistic wood grain image to simulate the look of hardwood. But below that is the durable ceramic or porcelain tile that has been used in homes for ages.  

And don’t think that tile should be restricted only to rooms that deal with heavy moisture, like the bathroom and kitchen. With a variety of stylish and functional options, wood-look tile can fit well in just about any area of your home.   

Modern Trends in Affordable Flooring

A common question that comes up when considering the affordable option of many stylish products is something along the lines of “Okay, but does it actually look nice?” Essentially, many people equate affordability with a low-quality product and a compromise in style, and they fear that any affordable floors in their budget will look dated before they’re even installed. But we are here to say unequivocally that yes, you can get beautiful, affordable flooring in all of the same on-trend styles as today’s high-end products. Here are a few trends you can use to modernize your home at a lower cost than hardwood. 

Add Space to the Room with Wide Planks

If you have a small room that you wish looked larger, it’s a good idea to go big with your planks. In addition to giving your home an authentic, rural aesthetic, wider wood planks are often chosen because they create the illusion of a bigger space. However, this sought-after look comes with a price; in the category of genuine hardwood flooring, the wide plank products tend to be the most expensive. But thankfully, those on the hunt for a more affordable flooring option can find the wide plank style in laminate, laminate vinyl plank, and even tile flooring. 

Get a More Natural Look with Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood is popular for both its eco-friendliness as well as its unique character. There’s no denying the natural, warm look and feel that the material can give your home. And although you might think that a flooring material has to be made from wood to get the distressed wood look, you can duplicate that character in a non-wood material. Finding affordable rustic flooring is easier than you think—the style can be found in both vinyl plank and wood laminate products. 

Bring a Sophisticated Touch with a Matte Finish

While glossy finishes on wood and tile are perennially popular, matte and satin have become increasingly sought-after finishes. Not only does a matte finish give a sophisticated touch to your home, it makes it easier to maintain a tidy look. Dents, scratches, and dust don’t appear as readily on a matte finish as they do on a glossy floor. Easy maintenance and style create a perfect combination for functional flooring. 

Get Distinctive Flooring with Pattern Carpet

While it might not be as popular as it was in the 70s and 80s, carpet is still a classic, practical choice for many rooms in your home. With its soft and warm touch, it’s a perfect way to add comfort to a bedroom or living room while still being stylish. One of today’s most popular styles of carpet is pattern carpet. Constructed with a combination of cut and looped fibers, it uses variations in the fiber structure to create visual patterns. Pattern carpets are a popular affordable choice for living rooms, studies, and other rooms that demand a certain level of sophistication when the budget doesn’t allow for a genuine hardwood floor. 

Choose Trending Tones

Whether you go with carpet or a hard surface, the visual tone of your flooring can make a huge difference in your overall design scheme. Choosing an affordable floor product won’t limit you on this front—you can find all of today’s hottest hues in budget-friendly options.  

Dark and Moody Tones

Dark floors give a chic and edgy look to your home but usually come at a cost. The style is often achieved with fine hardwood or stone flooring materials, but plenty of affordable options exist. Look for a dark wood laminate floor or a luxury vinyl tile that mimics marble. 

Neutrals: Grey and Greige

A color everyone seems to love lately is gray, and it appears to be here to stay. Its popularity is thanks mostly to its ability to match almost any interior design scheme imaginable, while still helping make rooms feel brighter. Because it’s such a popular choice, multiple gray options are available in every category of affordable flooring. Greige is another neutral flooring “must have” that has come to the forefront in recent years. A mix of grey and beige, this tone makes it easy to coordinate your flooring with other décor and gives your home a modern touch. 

At the end of the day, modern style does not have to come with a big price tag. You can get most of today’s hottest design trends for your home even if you’re on a tight budget. Floors tend to take up a massive chunk of the average renovation budget, and by shopping wisely and choosing affordable flooring alternatives to high-priced products, you can save a pretty penny. Feeling overwhelmed by all of the available options? Start updating your home by contacting Empire Today®. Schedule a Free In-Home Estimate to start shopping for modern, affordable flooring for your home. 

The post Modernize Your Home with Affordable Flooring appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

The “modern” design trend, in particular, has gained immense popularity in recent years for its ability to seamlessly blend form and function. As a crucial element of any room, flooring takes center stage when it comes to achieving the modern aesthetic. At Empire Today^®, we love everything about the modern flooring trend, and we’re excited to walk you through the latest innovations, materials, and design elements that are reshaping the way we think about flooring in the 21^st century! 

Modern Flooring Style 101 

It’s no secret that the choice of flooring can make or break the character and functionality of a home, especially where the modern design aesthetic is concerned. Fortunately, materials science has caught up to the desire for beautiful, durable, and affordable modern flooring, providing a huge variety of options that not only meet, but often exceed the expectations of today’s design-savvy homeowners.  

Before we delve into the types of modern floors (one of our favorite topics!), let’s take a look at the history and various elements of the modern design trend. 

What Exactly is a Modern Home, Anyway? 

If you’ve ever been inside a modern home, or if you’re lucky enough to live in one yourself, you’ve likely experienced the feeling of calm serenity bestowed by the open floor plans, sleek lines, functional shapes, and abundance of natural light. Here’s a more detailed look at the various elements that make up the modern home design trend: 

• Open floor plan – Modern homes often feature open floor plans that merge the kitchen, dining area, and living space into one cohesive expanse. 
• Minimalism – Modern design does away with the dusty knicknacks and display cases of bygone years. This trend is characterized by clean lines and a minimalist approach to decor. 

• Neutral color palette – Neutral colors create a calming, zen-like atmosphere in a modern home, serving as a backdrop for unique flooring patterns, and carefully-chosen, bold accent pieces, and furnishings. 
• Natural light – Modern homes frequently feature large windows, sliding glass doors, or other methods to maximize natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. 
• Functional furniture – You will probably never find a matching set of overstuffed recliners featuring built-in cupholders in a modern-design home. Modern pieces typically have clean, geometric, or rounded shapes and are designed to maximize both usability and comfort. 
• Connection to nature – Whether it’s the use of natural materials in furnishings or decor, or a seamless connection between outdoor and indoor living spaces, modern design often includes some type of tribute to Mother Nature. 
• Sustainability – Many modern homes prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly features, such as energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and the use of recycled or sustainable materials whenever possible.  

Modern vs. Contemporary style  

Simplicity and functionality are the cornerstones of modern design. In a typical modern home, you’re more likely to find an open floor plan and light colored, neutral walls and flooring. The decor may be sparse, with an emphasis on natural materials like wood, stone, or exposed brick, blending with modern lines and shapes to create a bold design statement.  

Contemporary homes, on the other hand, are designed and built based on whatever the current architectural trends reflect. Because trends and aesthetics are ever-changing, there is no “one size fits all definition” for contemporary design. 

Modern Design Roots 

The roots of modern design span not only many centuries but also vastly different cultures. Because of the diversity in its origins, modern design encompasses a wide range of design subsets, each with its own unique characteristics and influences.  

• Scandinavian/Scandi – Scandinavian (also called Scandi) design gained international recognition in the mid-20^th century and continues to be a prominent aesthetic today. It focuses on clean lines, uncluttered spaces, neutral/earthy tones, and highly functional furniture and kitchens. The Scandanavian word “hygge” is often used to refer to the feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being, which is the goal when designing a Scandi interior. 
• Japandi – This serene approach to interior design combines the best of both Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. Japandi favors simplicity, practicality, a sense of spaciousness and flow between rooms, and a heavy connection to natural materials with a spotlight on their imperfections.  
• Bauhaus – Founded in Germany in 1919, the revolutionary Bauhaus design school aimed to create a new approach to design education by bridging the gap between art and industry. Bauhaus design places a strong emphasis on functionality, simplicity, and abstraction and has an enduring influence on the modern design aesthetic. 
• Mid-Century Modern – This American design aesthetic, characterized by its blend of form and function, minimalism, and unique materials used, was heavily influenced by the Bauhaus movement. The period of economic growth following World War II, along with advances in materials and manufacturing, allowed designers to create innovative and iconic furniture pieces that became synonymous with the mid-century modern style. 

The Wild World of Modern Flooring 

In the early days of the modern design trend, flooring choices were a bit limited. Oak or maple hardwood has always been favored for its classic simplicity, along with uniquely mid-century materials like linoleum or terrazzo (originally used as a low-cost flooring for homes and public buildings in 15^th century Italy , and was favored in mid-century modern homes during the middle of the 20^th century). Concrete could also be left exposed in a home or building and polished up to create a clean, industrial look that fit with the modern aesthetic. 

The perfect modern floors should provide a clean, neutral backdrop for your signature furniture and decor (or be a focal point in and of themselves) and look great in natural light, while also being durable and easy to care for. Fortunately for today’s homeowners, this can be achieved within almost any budgetary constraints thanks to the plethora of flooring options available at Empire®. 

Modern Flooring Materials 

The modern design aesthetic has the advantage of being able to harmonize with almost any type of flooring. With the wide assortment of flooring products on the market today, making that minimalist dream a reality has never been easier. 

• Wood and wood-look – When it comes to creating that sleek, clean, uncluttered feel of a modern home, look no further than wood floors. Whether traditional hardwood is your jam, or you prefer one of the many wood-look products, such as laminate or vinyl plank, Empire has got you covered. 

• Tile and stone-look – Natural stone surfaces lend a high-end look to any space, but concerns over comfort, complicated installation, and affordability can make them off-limits for many homeowners. Fortunately, advancements in the design and manufacturing of stone-look vinyl or tile products provide the elegance of natural stone without the issues that accompany the real thing. 
• Carpet – Never underestimate the impact an incredible carpet can have on the look and feel of a modern living area or bedroom. Empire carries a wide selection of carpeting that can enhance the feeling of spaciousness, warmth, and “hygge” the modern homeowner is looking for.  

Neutrals and Beyond 

Pale neutrals like greige (a combination of grey and beige) may be synonymous with modern design, but in reality we are allowed to be as neutral or as bold as we like while still fitting within the modern aesthetic. A light or neutral colored floor provides the perfect backdrop for that bright, vibrant area rug or bold, statement furniture pieces, while a beautiful dark or patterned floor can become a gorgeous statement piece in its own right. 

Texture and Patterns 

Modern design often incorporates contrast or texture to add visual interest. For example:  

• A sleek, dark wood floor against light walls or the use of textured tiles can create a dynamic visual effect. 
• Choosing a wide plank floor can create fewer seams overall, which adds to the feeling of spaciousness and simplicity, especially in smaller spaces. 
• The use of natural or natural-looking flooring materials, such as wood, wood-look, and stone-look, are beloved ways to add the element of texture and character to a modern space. 

Open Concept Flooring Solutions 

One of the simplest and most effective ways to achieve an open concept feel, regardless of how your home was designed, is by using a consistent flooring material throughout the entire space. Whether it’s hardwood, laminate, tile, or another material, a seamless transition between rooms creates a cohesive and unifying look. Strategically placed area rugs are a great way to define separate living areas within an open concept room while also adding a bit of texture and color. 

Selecting Your Modern Floors 

Functionality is just as important as form when it comes to modern aesthetics, and this goes for floors, too. The decision requires taking a variety of factors, such as durability, beauty, and ease of maintenance, into consideration. We’ve outlined some questions to ask yourself as you embark on this journey. 

• How should your floors compliment your lifestyle? Kids, pets, climate, and which room(s) the floor will be featured in all play a major role in selecting the perfect floors. 
• How well does the floor complement the overall color scheme and design elements of your space? 
• Do you want the floor to stand alone as a stunning conversation piece or be an elegant backdrop to your unique fixtures and decor? 

When you book an appointment with Empire, a flooring consultant will come to your home and help you find the perfect floor by taking your lifestyle, budget, and personal aesthetic into consideration. 

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips 

Keeping your flooring investment looking its best is paramount to maintaining that clean, modern look. Regular sweeping or vacuuming (only a soft bristle broom or vacuum with a hard floor setting for anything other than carpet) lays the groundwork for a sparkling home. Doormats placed at entrances not only look great, they can help prevent dirt and debris from being tracked inside.  

Different flooring types may require specific cleaning products, so be sure to check the manufacturer recommendations. In general, avoid using any type of harsh or abrasive chemical cleaner, and avoid using excessive amounts of water. 

To further protect your new floors, consider investing in Empire’s Service Plan, which covers damage such as scratches,stains, and warping (above and beyond the individual product warranties).  

Less Is More 

The allure of modern interior design lies in its ability to capture the essence of contemporary living. When it comes to achieving the combination of simplicity, functionality, elegance, and sophistication that is the goal of the modern aesthetic, your choice of flooring can make all the difference. 

At Empire, we are firm believers that the foundation of every great space starts from the ground up. We are dedicated to guiding you through the exciting world of modern flooring possibilities and helping to ensure that your home not only meets but exceeds your expectations for years to come.  

The post Modern Flooring: Where Form Meets Function appeared first on Empire Today Blog.

Neutral is a broad term that gets thrown around often when discussing style, especially in matters of the home. While it’s often taken to mean something completely lacking color or character, in interior design that’s not entirely true—the term is a little more nuanced. In design circles, it’s more accurate to think of a neutral home decor element as a particular visual component that might lack strong character. 

Instead of calling attention to itself with bold colors or strong patterns, neutral elements function better as supporting components of a cohesive design scheme. In the big picture, a neutral element’s lack of strong character actually becomes its strength. 

What are Some Neutral Design Elements? 

As mentioned above, elements that lend something to an overall aesthetic without commanding a viewer’s attention are usually considered to be neutral in their design. Neutral elements, whether walls, floors, or furnishings will typically lack color. Choices like beige carpet or gray walls, for instance, are good examples of neutral décor. 

However, a design piece can have some color and still be considered neutral. Close inspection of a cream-colored wall may reveal slight traces of yellow or green, while a neutral hardwood floor may tend ever so slightly towards a red or orange tinge. These latent hues are known as undertones and can help you build a cohesive look by utilizing color theory to match your floors to your walls and the other major design elements in your home. 

How does home flooring fit into this design philosophy?  

Of all common home renovation or redecoration projects, new flooring is typically the one you expect to get the longest life out of. Walls can get regularly repainted without too much stress, and you’ll likely replace major furnishings and appliances at least once in the time you own your home. But new flooring can last generations when properly cared for. As a result, it will usually be the one constant factor with which all other design components will need to mesh. Plus, it’s often the one element that spans multiple rooms—or even the entire house. That means your flooring is often both the literal and figurative foundation of your home’s aesthetic. And we’d say that makes it pretty important when you are trying to build a cohesive look.  

Your floor’s enduring, all-encompassing presence in your home makes a case for choosing a look that’s most likely to mesh well with a variety of furnishings, wall colors, and other design elements. And this is where neutral flooring becomes your best friend. 

While neutral flooring might not have a strong character of its own, it excels by letting the character of the surrounding design speak for itself. A smartly chosen neutral floor will help highlight your strongest design elements instead of competing with them. And it will be to do so while still looking good on its own—remember, neutral doesn’t mean completely devoid of flavor. 

What are some examples of neutral flooring? 

Homeowners have never had it better when it comes to shopping for home improvement products. That’s true for flooring, and especially for neutral flooring products. Years ago, a shopper who knew they wanted the look of a light-toned wood floor would be able to pick from—you guessed it—a handful of light-toned genuine hardwood products. Today, that neutral wood look can be replicated in engineered hardwood, laminate wood flooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and even porcelain or ceramic tile. They all present an almost identical aesthetic, but each offers something a little different when it comes to comfort, durability, affordability, and ease of cleanup. 

As we mentioned in the opening, being neutral doesn’t automatically mean that a particular element is simple, completely devoid of character, or even easy to choose. Picking an effective neutral floor can be just as difficult as choosing a flooring with a very bold design. 

Here are some of our favorite neutral flooring options: 

Gray, tan, or cream plush carpet 

Plush carpet is generally considered to be the most neutral of all carpet types, as far as physical characteristics go. With its cut-pile construction and perfectly uniform surface, it’s not as casual as a frieze or Berber carpet. But that same uniformity also keeps rooms from feeling as fancy as they often do with pattern carpet. 

Opt for a light gray, tan, or other neutral hue, and a room can easily adapt to your changing design goals as the years pass. Neutral-toned plush carpet is often the best choice for rooms where you know you’ll always prioritize comfort, but whose main purpose will evolve. This is a solid strategy for a room that may, for instance, spend a few years as a home office, then become the first baby’s nursery, then a toddler-age bedroom, and so on. 

White or off-white ceramic tiles 

White tile floors are a go-to for any of the home’s major “wet rooms,” including the kitchen and the bathroom. It’s a good idea to choose relatively neutral flooring in both of these rooms for a couple of reasons. First, they’re the two rooms whose floors you’ll want to keep the cleanest, and light, neutral flooring helps make that easier to do so.  

Additionally, these two rooms are also among the most common targets for home renovation projects. With ceramic and porcelain tile floors being such long-lasting surfaces, they often don’t need to be replaced even in an otherwise complete room revamp. This is especially true when you’ve chosen a neutral tile style, which is much less likely to clash with whatever new look the room gets during its next makeover.   

Natural or Light-Colored Hardwood Flooring 

Hardwood has long been a neutral flooring stalwart. It’s similar to a really nice pair of jeans in that it has rarely gone out of style and can be dressed up or down depending on the other components of the overall ensemble. Neutral hardwood floors will highlight the wood’s natural look instead of hiding it behind a strong stain color. Think of shades like honey, hickory, or white oak. 

Grey wood flooring has become one of the more popular shades in recent years. And though it’s not a natural wood color, it’s still a pretty safe long-term because of its neutrality. Trends come and go, but because grey wood is neutral, it’s less likely to stick out in the future even if a particular room built around the grey wood trend gets a full makeover. 

What are the downsides of neutral flooring? 

So far, neutral flooring sounds like the perfect option for nearly every home, right? But there’s gotta be a downside…right? Like most neutral home decor elements, neutral flooring doesn’t necessarily have any inherent disadvantages. But, as great as we think these products can be, we also know they won’t be the best flooring choice for everyone. Because, just like every other subjective choice, personal taste simply cannot be constrained by hard rules. Sure, neutral floors look great in a wide range of design schemes and don’t call much focus on themselves. But for some homeowners, that agreeableness is itself a downside—because they want their flooring to draw focus. 

If you’re someone who wants your flooring to be a statement piece itself, you’ll probably want to go bolder. No one says that your floors must play friendly with every other design element in your home.  Additionally, there are aesthetics where neutral simply isn’t the best choice; it doesn’t automatically make every scheme look better. Think about the quintessentially dark and moody study, walls covered in deep mahogany bookshelves filled with leather bound tomes, outfitted with an ornate desk and cordovan leather wing chairs. A room like that is deserving of a floor that matches—it’s no place for neutral shades. 

How to Shop for Flooring for a Neutral Home Décor Scheme 

Hopefully, this dissection of neutral flooring styles has helped you get a little bit closer to the ideal floors for your next renovation. Even if you already know that your home’s look will lean towards something bolder overall, understanding the basics of neutral home decor can be a benefit to all DIY decorators. As Pablo Picasso famously said: “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” A neutral design can be the foundation for limitless creative experimentation. 

Of course, we know that all of the eloquent descriptions and alluring photos on the internet simply can’t beat the benefit of seeing and touching a product in person—especially when you’re trying to make a decision that you might be living with for decades to come. And that’s where the Empire Today® In-Home Experience comes in. It’s just one of the many advantages that come with choosing Empire® for your new flooring installation. We bring hundreds of flooring samples directly to you, giving you the ability to see exactly how they’ll look in the very spot where they’ll end up being installed.  

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