Trends come and go—sometimes in the blink of a Pinterest scroll. One year it’s all about bold geometric tiles and high-contrast patterns, the next we’re leaning into muted tones and natural textures. But when it comes to flooring, this isn't just about chasing the latest look—it's about making a decision that quite literally lays the groundwork in your home for years to come.
In 2025, the shifts in flooring design preferences are subtle but significant. We’re seeing a gentle pivot from 2024’s more maximalist choices—think colorful palettes, heavy patterning, and bold statements—toward styles that are a little more grounded, versatile, and enduring.
Adam Vester, senior director of design of Mohawk, one of today’s leaders in flooring, declares, “The future of flooring will be all about warmth, natural aesthetics, and timeless, well-crafted materials.” That doesn’t mean boring; it means smart. Because your floors aren’t just a background feature—they’re the base layer of every room’s story.
This year’s biggest flooring trends blend longevity with style. There’s a resurgence of checkerboard tile (yes, black and white is back in a big way), the return of wall-to-wall carpeting with a luxe twist, and the ongoing obsession with biophilic design—hello, cork, stone, and sustainable wood. We’re also seeing a move toward wide planks, warm tones, and hard-working materials like luxury vinyl plank that offer the beauty of natural wood without the maintenance headaches.
“Practicality is an important factor as well because flooring must meet the needs of the homeowner’s lifestyle. Things like quality, durability, and ease of cleaning are must-haves when it comes to choosing a flooring,” adds Hannah Nelson, manager of product management at Mohawk.
Whether you're building from scratch or giving your space a glow-up, choosing a flooring style that works for your lifestyle—and lasts through the many seasons of design—is key. These eight trends are more than just fleeting favorites; they’re investments in the look and feel of your home for the long haul.
Checkered Revival
Whether done in marble or ceramic, checkerboard floors lend instant character and a timeless sophistication that says, “I read shelter magazines for fun.” And as a shelter magazine editor, I can confirm that black-and-white tile floors are being seen more frequently throughout the design world. They’re so much more than kitchen nostalgia—they're making a high-contrast impact in foyers, bathrooms, and even living spaces. They’re also incredibly photogenic. In other words, your floor is about to become the main character.
Want the look without redoing your floors? Designer Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design suggests “giving new life to existing flooring” with paint as a “creative, budget-friendly, and sustainable way to refresh a space and add character.”
The Carpet Comeback
Carpet has re-entered the chat with major texture and pattern moments, especially in the form of cut and loop pile designs. According to Russ DeLozier, president of The Carpet and Rug Institute, “carpet appears to be experiencing a long-anticipated resurgence in popularity.” Think of it as wall-to-wall luxury that feels just as good as it looks. Beyond the cozy factor, today's carpets offer serious sound insulation and warmth—a dream for anyone who hates cold morning toes.
And with the latest easy-to-clean technology, carpet is even a great option for pet owners. “We’re seeing pet-friendly carpet emerge as its own category, providing consumers with waterproof backings, odor- and snag-resistance, and even warranties against pet messes,” notes DeLozier. Don’t call it a comeback...okay, actually, do.
Living With Nature
Floors, like so many other aspects of the home, are getting the green memo. Sustainable materials like cork, natural stone, and responsibly sourced hardwoods are becoming go-tos for the eco-conscious home.
“We’re sourcing responsibly, opting for FSC-certified or reclaimed woods and low-VOC finishes that highlight the natural beauty of materials like European oak,” notes interior designer Elizabeth Ego of Agape Design Group. “Clients today want the elegance of classic craftsmanship, but with a conscience. There’s a deeper appreciation for where materials come from and how they’re made, and that’s shaping a new era of luxury—one that’s both beautiful and mindful.” These elements bring in organic texture and grounding energy (literally), all while treading lightly on the planet.
The Power Tile Play
Large-format tiles are having a moment, and they’re not just for ultra-modern spaces anymore. With fewer grout lines and a seamless appearance, these tiles make any room feel expansive and effortlessly elegant. Whether matte, glossy, or stone-look, laid in a pattern or streamlined, big tiles are making big impressions.
Vinyl, Reimagined
Once dismissed as the underdog of flooring, LVPs (luxury vinyl planks) are now the MVP. Today’s luxury vinyl options mimic hardwood so well, even seasoned designers have to do a double-take.
“Hyperrealistic grain patterns, along with natural lowlights and subtle color variations, will provide the next level of realism, closely mimicking the beauty of natural wood but with the added benefits of modern manufacturing techniques,” says Vester. Durable, water-resistant, and easier on the budget than natural wood, LVP proves you can have it all.