Hardwood flooring is a classic choice that lasts a lifetime and enhances a kitchen or almost any living space. Other materials try to mimic it, but hardwood manufacturers respond with even more options to retain the edge. It's hard to beat hardwood for warmth, durability, and a timeless look. The finish can be changed over the years for a different feel, and investing in hardwood floors typically adds value to a home. We compare hardwood with other flooring options in our flooring guide.

Colors

Blonde woods like white oak, maple, ash, and bamboo work in many designs. Light shades make a space feel airier, are easier to keep clean, and go with most color schemes.

Natural wood follows close behind, with cooler tones leading. Water-borne polyurethane is ideal because it doesn't have the yellow tint of oil-borne polyurethane, has lower VOCs, dries quickly, and doesn't smell as strong. The slightly higher price tag is worth it for these reasons.

Gray and greige flooring shades have been a steady direction. Depending on width and finish, gray hardwood can read contemporary or classic. Blending with brown gives the warmer shade of greige, which works well in family spaces.

Whitewash is a Californian style that's gone mainstream, in a more subtle form than years past. Lighter wood gets a tinted sealant and layers of water-borne polyurethane for a stylish, durable result. High-variation hardwood is a mix of planks in original condition, with all the wood's character; usually in the same color group, with a statement pop here and there.

Textures

Smooth wood is a classic option, but texture is making a real impact. Wire-brushed wood has an enhanced grain for a vintage look. Hand-scraped wood has deep, unique scrapes on each plank (worth checking if you're getting machine-scraped or genuinely hand-scraped if authenticity matters). Distressed wood has burns, holes, and scrapes added to natural knots for an aged look.

Finishes

Flat, natural finishes are more popular than high-gloss floors and are also lower maintenance and more durable. Satin still gives a slight shine but shows fewer imperfections than gloss. Matte is currently popular but needs top-quality hardwood for a richer look. Oil is the dullest finish and is less durable or water-resistant than water-based polyurethane.

Patterns

Herringbone looks stunning in hardwood and lends elegance. Angled flooring lays planks diagonally for a contemporary feel but costs more in labor and materials. Longer and wider planks suit larger interiors. Mixed plank widths are also popular.

Materials

The most popular hardwood flooring choices right now are eco-friendly. Bamboo is durable and comes in a range of colors and styles. Reclaimed hardwood comes from places like barns or old dance floors and is naturally distressed and vintage. Engineered hardwood is durable and waterproof, perfect for kitchens or bathrooms; available in any style, color, and texture, and usually more affordable. Cork is back in the mix: not as durable as other hardwoods, but sustainable and very comfortable underfoot.

Talk through hardwood with a designer

If you're considering hardwood for your kitchen or another space and want to talk through options, we'd love to talk.

Schedule a showroom visit at our 5,000 square foot showroom in Norwell. No pressure, just a real conversation about your home.

Transitions Kitchens, Baths & Remodeling
433 Washington St, Norwell, MA
(781) 871-0881