Dark wood floors are incredibly sophisticated and chic. Whether you’re seeking a classic, contemporary or rustic space, dark wood floors are one thing that will go with virtually all tastes in design.
And how about the thought that dark walls tend to make a space feel smaller? Does the same apply to the floor?
Not at all! In fact, dark wood floors, when paired with light-hued walls, can make a room feel open. All while keeping the ambiance nice and stylish.
Keep reading to learn all about dark wood floors—including how to style them within any room of your home 🤎
Why Use Dark Wood Floors?
We’d assume the aesthetic of dark wood floors is enough to lure someone into upgrading their home with them. But if you’re looking for something more than visual aesthetics, we’ve got you covered with the top 5 reasons:
Dark wood floors offer so much versatility in styling. You can pair them well with any type of interior design style and so many furniture selections (keep reading to learn more).
They add warmth and elegance to the space. This is especially useful for areas you want to make cozy and inviting.
Investing in wood floors can increase the value of your home. This is because they’re highly sought after for their longevity as well as charm.
Dark floors are more forgiving, as they can hide wear and tear well. This includes dents and dirt.
Some wooden floors go out of style, but dark wood is one type of flooring that is timeless. It’s here to stay for years!
How to Decorate with Dark Wood Floors
You know the benefits of dark wood floors and have decided to get them installed. Perfect! But how can you decorate around them so you can maximize their visual appeal? We’ve got a few simple tricks for you to keep in mind, and you’ll be on your way to create home decor that wows everyone.
Create Contrast
A contrast between light and dark will take your interior a long way. If you’re opting for dark wood flooring, we recommend choosing light colors for the walls. Think beige, taupe, and ivory. Doing so not only creates visual interest, but also opens up the space. If you’re feeling a little funky and want to create a focal wall, a pale blue or green will do the trick. That is, it’ll add personality without overpowering the space or making it feel cramped.
Choose Light Furniture Colors
Product: Sanjay Ottoman
Price: $399
Shop: The Citizenry
What color furniture with dark wood floors is a common question—simply follow the rule above and you’re good to go! After the walls, the furniture typically takes up the second largest chunk of visual estate in any room. So, that’s another opportunity for you to create contrast.
Opt for white, cream, or light wood pieces to create a beautiful contrast. This also prevents the room from feeling heavy. But, don’t be afraid of texture! Woven furniture or pieces with light upholstery can add visual interest, even if you keep the palette toned down. We especially love a large, textured ottoman (see in the image above) in the center of your sofa setting—positioned perfectly over a dark wood floor.
Add an Area Rug
Product: Leilani Damask Ivory Washable Rug
Price: $179.99
Shop: My Magic Carpet
Area rugs are like superheroes for living rooms with dark wood floors. They don’t just like good; they actually transform the entire space. For one, they add a cozy layer and make the room feel more inviting (underfoot, too!). The different textures available, from plush to woven, further enhance this effect.
Plus, strategically placing an area rug helps define your seating area. This creates a more organized and cohesive look. And beyond aesthetics, area rugs act as shields for your dark wood floors. They protect against scratches, wear, and tear, keeping those floors looking their best for longer.
Let There Be Light
Lighting is crucial when decorating with dark floors. You can maximize natural light by keeping windows uncluttered and using sheer curtains. When the sun goes down, layering artificial light with floor lamps, table lamps, and sconces will keep the space from appearing dim. Let the light shine on those dark beauties and watch them make a design statement!
Leverage the Power of Patterns
Dark wood flooring is stunning, sure, but the sophisticated drama of patterns really takes the prize. We’re talking dark chevron and herringbone flooring stealing the show in your living room.
The angular lines of chevron and the timeless design of herringbone add this dynamic element to your space. You’d be surprised to see how this designer-quality flooring can make the focal point of the room, too. Plus, the way these patterns flow can trick the eye makes your space feel bigger (essentially adding square footage without needing a sledgehammer).
Incorporate Natural Materials
Product: Giantex 4 Tier Plant Stand Indoor
Price: $70
Shop: Giantex
Natural elements are important for any interior, but especially for those with dark floors. Houseplants and lighter toned wooden furniture add this touch of warmth and further complement the wooden floor. This connects your space with the outdoors.
We especially love adding plants with fancy plant stands, giving them a whole new look! Plus, it lets plant parents add plenty of pots in a single spot without feeling overwhelming.
Opt for Light Window Treatments
Price: $29.99
Shop: Half Price Drapes
To maintain a bright and airy feel, you want to opt for lighter-colored blinds or curtains. Whites, creams, and beiges are classic choices. But one of our all-time favorites are sheers—offering a touch of elegance while maximizing natural light. They still keep privacy intact, though!
Another good choice would be woven wooden blinds. Think bamboo or Roman shades, adding natural warmth. This beautifully complements dark wooden floors. And if you love luxury, consider linen or silk curtains with a subtle sheen to complement those dark floors.
Accessorize Carefully
Furniture and window treatments do lay the groundwork, but the accessories will also bring your dark wood floors to life.
Strategically place mirrors in the room to reflect light and make the space feel bigger as well as brighter. You can lean a large mirror against a wall or hang one strategically opposite a window. Doing so helps maximize the light’s impact.
Don’t underestimate the power of metallic accents! Gold, silver, or bronze add a touch of glamour that complements the richness of dark wood floors. Think a statement lamp with a metallic base, a cluster of metallic picture frames, or even a sculptural metallic object. (Too much metallic may overwhelm the space, though, so remember that a little will go a long way).
Think outside the box; Interesting throw pillows in rich textures, a sculptural vase filled with greenery, or a collection of framed artwork can all add personality and visual interest.
Final Words
Dark wood floors sure are a hot choice in interior design… and to make the most of them, all you need is a few tips and tricks 😉 At the end of the day, it’s all about choosing what makes you happy—and what truly reflects who you are 🤍