With so many options on the market, "how to choose laminate flooring" is a question on many homeowners' mind.
Navigating the vast range of laminate flooring colours and designs can feel like a daunting task, especially when you're trying to find the perfect match for your existing décor. With so many options on the market, "how to choose laminate flooring" is a question on many homeowners' mind.
At Best4Flooring, we offer an impressive selection of different styles of laminate flooring to suit any taste or interior design. Our range includes the timeless elegance of herringbone, the funky flair of retro, and the classic appeal of wood effect and stone effects. No matter your preference, we have a laminate flooring style that will seamlessly blend with your home décor laminate flooring vision.
To help you make the right decision, we have compiled our best tips and tricks to ensure your home looks stunning from floor to ceiling. We will explore topics such as "how to choose laminate flooring colour" and the best laminate flooring options for various rooms and design preferences. You can also check out our useful guides, such as How to clean laminate flooring.
Laminate Flooring Checklist
To choose the best laminate flooring for your living space, focus on the following:
- The colour of the walls
- Overall colour scheme
- Accent colours in the room
- Patterns used in existing décor
- The amount of natural light in the room
- Level of foot traffic it will be exposed to
Choosing the Right Laminate
Ready to choose the right laminate for your home? Here’s a brief guide to help you choose the best laminate to complement your existing décor.
Choosing laminate for rooms with plenty of natural light
When it comes to rooms with abundant natural light, lighter shades and subtle designs work wonders in enhancing the bright and airy atmosphere. Opting for colours like light oak, grey, or whitewashed wood effect can complement the sunlit space, making it feel more expansive and welcoming.
A design like herringbone adds a touch of sophistication without overpowering the room. Take the Berry Alloc Chateau laminate flooring Texas light, for example. By choosing a laminate that reflects and distributes light evenly, you can create a harmonious and inviting ambience that highlights your décor and furnishings.
Choosing laminate for rooms with limited natural light
In spaces with limited natural light, selecting a laminate flooring with a lighter shade or a slight gloss finish can help brighten the room. Warm tones like honey oak, light maple, or pale grey can create an inviting atmosphere while also making the area appear larger.
Avoid dark colours, as they can make the room feel confined. To add visual interest, consider a subtle wood or stone effect that blends well with your existing decor without overwhelming the space. The New Forest Pale Oak Laminate Herringbone flooring is a great option for rooms with minimal natural lighting.
Choosing laminate for rooms with coloured or patterned walls
When working with coloured or patterned walls, it's crucial to choose a laminate flooring that complements and balances the overall design. Opt for neutral or muted shades that won't compete with the wall's bold statement.
A wood effect in a natural tone, such as light oak or ash, can provide a harmonious base that allows the walls to take centre stage. To maintain cohesion, consider a simpler flooring design that won't clash with the wall patterns, ensuring a visually appealing and well-coordinated space. A floor like the Quick-Step Capture Soft Patina Oak is a great way to achieve this look.
Choosing laminate for rooms with bright and bold furniture
When selecting laminate flooring for rooms featuring vibrant and bold furniture, it's essential to create a harmonious balance between the floor and the statement pieces in the space. Opt for neutral or subdued shades, such as light oak, grey, or beige, which will provide a versatile backdrop and allow your furniture to take centre stage.
To further enhance your room's aesthetic, consider choosing a laminate design with minimal texture or pattern, ensuring that the flooring complements, rather than competes, with the furniture. A good example is the Quick-Step Eligna Venice Oak Light which features a light, simple, yet elegant design.
Choosing laminate for small box rooms
In small box rooms, the right laminate flooring can make a significant difference in creating a sense of space and comfort. Lighter shades, such as pale oak or white-washed wood effect, can help to reflect light and give the illusion of a larger area. Additionally, selecting a design with narrower planks or a simple pattern can create a sense of continuity and flow, further enhancing the room's spaciousness. A herringbone pattern like the Berry Alloc Chateau Java Light Grey will help to give any small room a more spacious design. A Handscraped design will give the room a rustic and luxurious feel.
Avoid using dark laminate, as this can make the room feel more confined.
Choosing laminate for open plan living areas
For open plan living areas, you have two options. You can choose a laminate floor that runs throughout the different zones while complementing the overall décor. Or you can give each space a contrasting look.
To add visual interest and dimension, consider a design like herringbone, wide plank, or a subtle wood effect, which can create a sense of flow and cohesion throughout the space. When choosing the right laminate, consider factors such as durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring that your flooring is well-suited for the high-traffic and versatile nature of open plan living areas.
Choosing laminate for open plan living areas
For open plan living areas, you have two options. You can choose a laminate floor that runs throughout the different zones while complementing the overall décor. Or you can give each space a contrasting look.
To add visual interest and dimension, consider a design like herringbone, wide plank, or a subtle wood effect, which can create a sense of flow and cohesion throughout the space. When choosing the right laminate, consider factors such as durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring that your flooring is well-suited for the high-traffic and versatile nature of open plan living areas.
Where Should Laminate Flooring Be Avoided?
While laminate flooring is a versatile and cost-effective option for many areas of the home, there are certain situations where it may not be the most practical choice. Bathrooms and other high-humidity environments, such as utility rooms, can pose challenges for laminate flooring. The moisture in these spaces can seep into the laminate, causing it to warp, swell, or even develop mould and mildew over time.
In high-humidity environments, alternative flooring options are better suited for both durability and aesthetics. One popular choice is vinyl flooring, which is water-resistant, easy to maintain, and available in various styles and designs. It can convincingly mimic the look of wood, stone, or ceramic, giving you the desired appearance without the risk of water damage. Why not explore our full catalogue of luxury vinyl to find the perfect bathroom flooring? We also have an excellent guide comparing LVT vs Laminate Flooring.
There are different types of laminate flooring available, and waterproof options are available. However, generally laminate is better suited to low-moisture areas.
Browse our selection of laminate flooring to find the perfect match for your home. If you need additional help choosing the right style, check out these 5 style tips shared by interior designers.
