3 Flooring Styles for a Modern Look

Wide plank floors and modern interior design go hand in hand, but that was not always the case. For a time, wide plank floors were more associated with terms like “rustic,” “country,” and “pine.” Carlisle has reformed all those “non-believers” with a stunning showcase of wide plank floor designs perfect for today’s modern home.

If you are looking for inspiration for your next project, we’ll introduce you to three of our most popular species when a modern look is what you have in mind.

White Oak

White Oak is commonly mentioned in the flooring industry, but a Carlisle White Oak floor is anything but common-looking. It could be the perfect floor when finding the right design for a modern look. Carlisle White Oak flooring is highly versatile, allowing you to choose your desired style, grade, and color.

Custom White Oak | M. Gooden Design | Photographer Parrish Ruiz de Velasco | ID#10391

When considering the style of your White Oak floor, the first choice you’ll need to make is whether to use Plainsawn or Quartersawn White Oak. The most noticeable difference between the two is the appearance of the grain lines.

Once you’ve chosen the style of White Oak flooring you want, you can select the color. Luckily, there are dozens of colors for the right look. White Oak works exceptionally well with various finishes, from urban gray to sleek black to crisp white and everything in between.

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Hickory

Hickory flooring’s popularity is soaring in today’s market. One standout choice is Carlisle Hickory flooring, crafted mainly from wood sourced in the north, where trees take their time to grow. This slower growth results in a beautiful blend of darker heartwood and lighter sapwood, creating a more consistent look. Hickory is versatile and takes stains well if you want a modern vibe. Opt for a darker stain to achieve that sleek, contemporary style.

While some might think other types of wood offer similar aesthetics, Hickory’s unique grain and durability are hard to beat. It adds character to any room and stands up well to the wear and tear of daily life. So, if you’re considering new flooring, Hickory is worth a serious look. What’s your take? Would you go for a darker or lighter finish?

Alluvium | Earthen Collection | ID# 11743

Walnut

If you’re searching for a flooring option that exudes formal sophistication, look no further than the timeless charm of Walnut. Known for its rich, dark color, Walnut may not offer the same variety in staining as lighter woods like Hickory or White Oak, but that’s part of its appeal. The deep, natural tones create an undeniable presence in any space. Carlisle Walnut flooring stands out with its distinctive, regal appearance, making it perfect for modern decor that craves a touch of elegance. While lightening Walnut can be tricky, darkening this wood opens up more styling possibilities. You could deepen its hue for an even richer, more formal look, elevating the ambiance of any room.

Custom Walnut | Murdough Design | Photographer Chuck Choi | ID#11421

Choosing the right flooring can transform any space into a modern marvel. White Oak, Hickory, and Walnut each bring their flair. White Oak offers a clean, timeless look with its light hues and subtle grain, perfect for any contemporary setting. Hickory stands out with its strong character and wide color range, from creamy whites to rich browns, adding depth and texture. Walnut, with its dark and rich tones, lends an air of elegance and warmth to your home. Each option has its perks, whether it’s the color variance, texture, or finish. When picking the perfect floor, consider the mood you want to create and how each style can enhance it.

Like the modern style?  Here are some projects from our gallery for more design inspiration:

Sincerity Flooring Adds Warmth to Modern Home in Zionsville Village

NYC Architect Selects Brushed White Oak for Modern Home in Tribeca

Modern Australian Design With a Beachy Vibe in California Home

Light White Oak Flooring in NYC Designers West Village Home

White Oak in Chicago Waldorf Astoria

Header Photo: Awaking Sun | ID# 12556