The Living Room Upgrade That Is Actually Making Your Home Look Worse

Flooring sets the tone for your interior design style and plays an essential role in the functionality of your living space. Choosing the type of floor you want is the first design choice you should make when renovating your home, but keep in mind that some can make your home look dated. This can include distinct flooring. Installing flooring that has patterns, are accented, or have alternating colors may seem like an interesting idea, until you have to live with the finished product.

Distinct flooring has a variety of examples. Alternating colors and patterns are often done with tiles, such as a checkerboard or harlequin tile design, which is a checkerboard pattern turned to the side to create a diamond pattern. Other distinct flooring can include striped patterns for tiles in alternating colors, herringbone, and chevron patterns or wood planks in alternating colors to create a rustic look. While some unique floors can be trendy, distinct floors can make the space look cluttered and feel smaller.

Distinct living room floors can make your home look less appealing, especially in smaller rooms. High variation flooring can be too busy and overwhelming. High contrast floors make the space feel tiny. Designs in tiles, alternating colors, and accent floors can also result in a lack of cohesion, compared to using the same flooring throughout the space.

Installing distinct floors, such as striped, herringbone patterns, or checkerboard designs is more challenging and complicated than neutral floors. The floor needs to be carefully planned, and everything must be even and installed perfectly to create the desired effect. Mistakes during installation and uneven cuts will stand out more in a room with a distinct floor. The labor-intensive installation may take longer and cost more than a typical flooring installation.

If you are planning to sell your home in the next few years, bold colors or patterns in the floors likely won't bring a good return on investment. Flooring is a major aspect of your interior design and your choice of flooring can have an impact on your home's resale value. Similar to how patterned carpet flooring can set you back when selling, checkerboard tiles, striped flooring, and other distinct flooring may be unappealing to buyers.

Investing in timeless flooring materials, such as natural stone or wood, over the latest fad is a better long-term decision since trends can quickly change. The bold or unique floor getting attention this year could become outdated next year. Keep in mind that flooring isn't something that you can easily change if you get bored or tired of the design. The floors you install now will last for many years, so select something that will stand the test of time.

One of the easiest ways to make your home look more unified is to use the same flooring in multiple living spaces. Wood, tile, or stone flooring in a neutral tone provides a versatile foundation for your living room. You can use area rugs, furniture, and décor to bring color and texture into the space. These elements are easiest to swap out when you are ready to create a whole new look without tearing up the floors.